03/08/24 - Rivian unveils R2 electric SUV 🚗, Tesla Reinvent Production Lines with Model 2 🏭, Ferrari's Adaptive Rear Spoiler 🔧

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: 

  • Rivian unveils R2 electric SUV: surprises with cheaper price

  • Rivian surprises with R3 and R3X electric SUVs

  • 2024 Honda Prologue Starts Under $40k With Tax Credit

• 🏭 Industry trend: Tesla to Reinvent Production Lines with Model 2, Tesla Cybertruck Embarrasses Itself In Tug Of War With Silverado HD, Stellantis Dive Into $6 Billion Investment in Brazil To Introduce Hybrid-Flex Vehicles

• 🔧 Parts/upgrade:Ferrari Applies S-Duct Design To Adaptive Rear Spoiler

Rivian unveils R2 electric SUV: surprises with cheaper price (6 mins read)

Rivian reveals the R2 electric SUV, boasting over 300 miles of range, sub-3-second 0-60 mph acceleration, and a spacious front trunk. It incorporates innovative features like a roll-down rear window for larger cargo, aerodynamic rear quarter windows, and dual gloveboxes. Additionally, it introduces hands-free and attention-free highway driving, enabled by level 3 self-driving technology. With a starting price of $45,000, production is set for the first half of 2026. Read more.

Rivian surprises with R3 and R3X electric SUVs (3 mins read)

Rivian's R3, unveiled alongside the R2, offers a sportier variant, R3X. It's slightly smaller and cheaper, with over 300 miles range and 0-60mph in 3 seconds. Launching after R2, international release follows North America. Features include new 4695 cylindrical battery cells, enhanced autonomy, and a lifting rear gate window. Pricing is yet to be revealed. Read more.

2024 Honda Prologue Starts Under $40k With Tax Credit (3 mins read)

Honda's MY2024 Prologue qualifies for a $7,500 tax credit, reducing its entry-level price to $39,900, with dual-motor variants starting at $42,900. Even the top-tier Elite Dual Motor AWD model sees a $7,500 discount, priced at $50,400. All MY2024 Prologues qualify for leasing incentives, with examples built after Feb 26, 2024, eligible for the tax credit. Read more.

Tesla to Reinvent Production Lines with Model 2 (2 mins read)

Tesla's upcoming Model 2, priced at $25,000, will introduce a revolutionary production method called "unboxing," targeting a 50% cost reduction and 40% smaller manufacturing footprint. This approach involves assembling sub-assemblies that converge at the end, facilitated by Tesla's "megacast" platform. Giga Texas in Austin will pioneer this method, incorporating Cybertruck technology, 4680 batteries, and rare earth metal-free motors. Read more.

Tesla Cybertruck Embarrasses Itself In Tug Of War With Silverado HD (3 mins read)

Tesla's Cybertruck, hyped for its tug-of-war abilities, disappoints as it shuts down during a real-life challenge against a Silverado HD. Despite attempts to disable safety features, the Cybertruck fails to pull. This incident adds to previous instances of Tesla's misleading claims, tarnishing its credibility. The saga highlights the Cybertruck's polarizing nature, suggesting it doesn't need deceptive tactics to appeal to buyers. Read more.

Stellantis and other Automotive Giants Dive Into $6 Billion Investment in Brazil Over 5 Years To Introduce Hybrid-Flex Vehicles (1 mins read)

Stellantis plans to invest $6 billion in Brazil between 2025-2030, focusing on new products and hybrid-flex vehicles. The decision follows talks with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, aligning with government industrial initiatives. CEO Carlos Tavares highlights integrating electrification in flex-fuel models. Stellantis joins major automakers like GM and Toyota, underlining Brazil's significance in the global automotive sector. Read more.

Ferrari Applies S-Duct Design To Adaptive Rear Spoiler (3 mins read)

Ferrari introduces a patented rear spoiler design combining wing and spoiler functionalities. The system enhances downforce and reduces drag, akin to the 488 Pista's S-duct but in reverse. Blades adjust orientation for high-downforce or low-drag settings, minimizing energy usage. Potential application to front of cars too. This innovation may debut in one of Ferrari's three 2024 launches, offering a cleaner design compared to previous models. Read more.