02/26/24 - Kimera EVO38 Debuts, Toyota Broaden Audiences With 4-Door GR86 🚗, Remote unlocking of cars post-ownership isn't uncommon 💡

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: 

  • Kimera EVO38 Debuts With Lancia 037 Styling, 600 HP, And Sequential Manual Transmission

  • Toyota Targets Wider Audience With 4-Door GR86

  • NEOS Automotive unveils its first 4x4 EV

  • BYD launches Dolphin EV priced at $14K sparking price war

• 🏭 Industry trend: Legacy Automakers Beware: Cheaper Chinese EVs Could Make You Obsolete

• 💡 Tips: Someone Just Told Me They Can Remotely Unlock The Doors To A Car They No Longer Own, And It Turns Out It's Not Uncommon

• 😄 Fun read: Here’s what we know after 3 days of F1 preseason testing

Kimera EVO38 Debuts With Lancia 037 Styling, 600 HP, And Sequential Manual Transmission (4 mins read)

Kimera Automobili unveils the EVO38, successor to the Lancia 037 EVO37, featuring 600 hp from a 2.1-liter turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive with driver-controlled differentials, and a six-speed manual gearbox. With only 38 units planned, it weighs around 2,420 lbs, retains the iconic '80s styling with modern touches, and debuts at the Geneva International Motor Show from 26 Feb-3 Mar. Read more.

Toyota Targets Wider Audience With 4-Door GR86 (3 mins read)

The second-gen Toyota GR86, launched late 2021, boasts 10% more power than its predecessor. Around 11,000 units sold in 2023 in the U.S. A 2-door version to launch in 2025, followed by a 4-door variant a year later, powered by a 300hp 1.6L turbocharged engine with hybrid option. Toyota will utilize its own platform, departing from Subaru partnership. Automatic gearbox confirmed, while manual transmission details awaited. Read more.

INEOS Automotive unveils its first 4x4 EV, but also uses the moment to romanticize gas cars (6 mins read)

INEOS unveiled its first EV, the Fusilier, during a London livestream. Available in BEV and range extender options, it emphasizes versatility beyond electric. Founded in 2017 by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS Automotive aims for high-performance 4x4s. No battery specifics provided. Likely built by Magna Steyr, sales start post-fall with more powertrain details forthcoming. Criticism arose for the emphasis on ICEs during the EV launch. Read more.

BYD launches new Dolphin EV priced at $14K sparking price war (4 mins read)

BYD launches the Dolphin Honor Edition, its cheapest EV starting at $13,900. Sales soared in 2023, with 367,419 Dolphins sold. New model retains design with added features, including wireless charging. Variants offer up to 323 mi range with LFP battery options. BYD declared a price war on gas cars, and plans to expand in Mexico. Read more.

Legacy Automakers Beware: Cheaper Chinese EVs Could Make You Obsolete (7 mins read)

Legacy automakers face challenges as EV prices remain higher than ICE vehicles, limiting sales. Despite technological advancements, affordability remains a barrier. Chinese brands like BYD offer competitive pricing, with the 2024 Dolphin costing $14,500. Battery costs are decreasing, signaling future affordability. However, legacy automakers' hesitance may open doors for Chinese EVs in global markets. Read more.

Someone Just Told Me They Can Remotely Unlock The Doors To A Car They No Longer Own, And It Turns Out It's Not Uncommon (7 mins read)

When purchasing a used car, it's essential to consider security beyond physical keys. Many modern vehicles offer smartphone apps for remote functions like unlocking or starting. However, these apps may retain connectivity even after ownership changes. This means previous owners could still access or control the car remotely. While responsibility falls on individuals to clear these connections, it's often overlooked by sellers and dealerships, posing security risks and potential inconveniences for buyers. Read more.

Here’s what we know after three days of Formula 1 preseason testing (5 mins read)

Formula 1's preseason testing began at Bahrain International Circuit ahead of a 24-race calendar. Unlike previous eras, modern testing is limited and streamed, offering insights into teams' strategies. Lap times are unreliable indicators. Technical regulations remain stable, but teams innovate with new car designs. Notable changes include pullrod suspensions and exposed carbon fiber bodywork for weight reduction. Read more.