03/01/24 - Rolls-Royce Arcadia Droptail Is A One-Off Roadster🚗, Ford EVs gain access to Tesla Superchargers starting today 🏭, SRI develops AI powered “Tyre Aerodynamic Simulation" 🤖

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: 

  • Rolls-Royce Arcadia Droptail Is A One-Off Roadster Inspired By Yachting

  • Jaguar C-X75 finally made street-legal thanks to Callum

  • All-new 550hp Maserati GranCabrio announced

• 🏭 Industry trend: Ford EVs gain access to Tesla Superchargers starting today, Biden administration will investigate national security risks posed by Chinese-made ‘smart cars’

• 🤖 Auto Tech: Red Lights Cost Us Billions But Connected Cars Offer a Solution, SRI develops AI powered “Tyre Aerodynamic Simulation" , Volvo Cars’ industry-first connected safety technology can now alert drivers of accidents ahead

Rolls-Royce Arcadia Droptail Is A One-Off Roadster Inspired By Yachting (8 mins read)

Rolls-Royce unveils the Arcadia Droptail, a bespoke two-seat roadster, in Singapore. Each of the four Droptails shares a V12 engine but boasts unique design elements, tailored over a four-year process. Costing approximately $30 million, it features Santos Straight Grain wood veneer, intricate clockwork, and protective coatings for international use. The car embodies precision and individuality, with a focus on detail and customization. Read more.

Jaguar C-X75 finally made street-legal thanks to Callum (3 mins read)

The Jaguar C-X75, a street-legal version of the iconic concept, emerges in the UK, modified by Callum from a stunt car used in "Spectre." It now features a supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 engine. Originally conceived with a hybrid setup, the C-X75's production was halted due to economic challenges. Read more.

All-new 550hp Maserati GranCabrio announced (4 mins read)

Maserati introduces the GranCabrio in 550hp Trofeo spec, aiming for luxury and speed. The convertible, boasting a V6 engine, offers 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 196mph. With a swift 14-second soft top operation, it promises comfort and style. Pricing details are pending, but it's expected to compete among elite convertible sports cars, hitting the roads soon. Read more.

Ford EVs gain access to Tesla Superchargers starting today (4 mins read)

Ford EVs now compatible with Tesla Supercharger network, using J3400 plug standard. Adapter offered free for Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning owners until June 30, then priced at $230. Compatible with newer Tesla chargers up to 250 kW. Future EV models expected to integrate J3400 ports by model year 2026. Read more.

Biden administration will investigate national security risks posed by Chinese-made ‘smart cars’ (4 mins read)

The Biden administration launches an investigation into Chinese-made "smart cars" over national security concerns regarding data collection and potential espionage. While no ban is proposed, tariffs and new regulations are considered. The probe aims to address risks posed by connected vehicles and safeguard US privacy and security. Read more.

Red Lights Cost Us Billions, But Connected Cars Offer a Solution (6 mins read)

University of Michigan engineers devise a cost-effective method, using connected car data, to optimize traffic light timings, reducing delays and emissions. Traditional traffic studies are costly and outdated. The new system, tested in Birmingham, Michigan, decreases travel times by 20% and reduces the need to stop at traffic lights by 30%. The scalable approach promises improved traffic flow and environmental benefits. Read more.

SRI develops AI powered “Tyre Aerodynamic Simulation" to minimise air resistance to maximise range for its next-generation EV tyres (4 mins read)

Sumitomo Rubber Industries, parent company of Falken Tyre, develops "Tyre Aerodynamic Simulation" using AI to optimize EV tyre design, aiming to reduce air resistance and enhance range. With EVs, air resistance becomes more significant, comprising 34-37% of energy loss. The simulation, validated in wind tunnel tests, improves tyre performance, aligning with Sumitomo's Circular Economy Concept for sustainable tire development. Read more.

Volvo Cars’ industry-first connected safety technology can now alert drivers of accidents ahead (3 mins read)

Volvo introduces "Accident Ahead Alert" using real-time data from traffic management centers to warn drivers of accidents. Available in Europe, starting from Denmark, it aims to enhance road safety by alerting drivers of accidents a few hundred meters ahead. Volvo's connected safety tech, launched in 2016, continues to evolve, promoting data sharing among road authorities and car manufacturers for safer roads. Read more.