12/27/23 - 9 Cars You Won’t See In 2024, Toyota launches Bozhi 4X electric SUV in China starting $25K, Toyota's Daihatsu Shuts All Plants After Admitting 30-Year Safety Test Fraud

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: 

  • Toyota launches Bozhi 4X electric SUV in China, starting $25K

  • First Images Of HWA's Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evo II Restomod Look Mega

• 🏭 Industry trend: 9 Cars You Won’t See In 2024, Toyota's Daihatsu Shuts All Plants After Admitting 30-Year Safety Test Fraud

• ⚡ EV: EV fast-charging networks face a challenging 2024

• 😄 Fun read: How Much Faster Can Speedway Racing Really Get?

Toyota launches Bozhi 4X electric SUV in China, starting at $25K (3 mins read)

GAC-Toyota launches the Bozhi 4X, an upgraded bZ4X electric SUV, in China with a starting price of around $25,000 (179,800 yuan). Launched on November 17, it features a 66.7 kWh battery, up to 615 km range, 12.3-inch navigation, and safety tech. Toyota's joint venture aims to compete in China's growing EV market amid struggles, with models priced to tackle rivals like BYD and Tesla. The Bozhi 4X comes in four trims, offering various features, including four-wheel drive options and smart connectivity. Read more.

First Images Of HWA's Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evo II Restomod Look Mega (3 mins read)

HWA, founded by AMG's Hans Werner Aufrecht, unveils the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evo II restomod, named HWA EVO. Priced at €714,000 (plus VAT), around $786,000, with 100 units planned for delivery by the end of 2025. Technical specs include modern powertrain, chassis, and safety features. The tribute model retains the iconic flared arches, widebody treatment, and distinctive styling of the original 190E 2.5-16 Evo II. HWA, known for racing Mercedes, brings decades of expertise to this unique project. Read more.

9 Cars You Won’t See In 2024 (8 mins read)

This article discusses several cars that won't be returning in 2024. The Dodge Challenger's future is uncertain despite the sedan having a confirmed successor. The Chrysler 300, Audi TT, Audi R8, Chevrolet Bolt, Fiat 500X, Kia Stinger, Mazda MX-30, and Nissan Maxima are also among the models bidding farewell. The reasons vary from production cessation to evolving market strategies. Read more.

Toyota's Daihatsu Shuts All Plants After Admitting 30-Year Safety Test Fraud (3 mins read)

Daihatsu, Toyota's subsidiary, closes all four plants until end-January due to a 30-year safety test fraud, risking 9,000 jobs. Daihatsu admitted to manipulating safety tests on 64 models, with 24 bearing Toyota branding. While products are not deemed unsafe, the scandal raises concerns about testing and erodes Toyota's hard-earned reputation. Daihatsu plans to assist suppliers during the shutdown, impacting 10% of Toyota's annual sales. The fraud, revealed in April, involves collision, airbag, and speed tests, echoing industry growth pressures and drawing parallels to the Volkswagen emission scandal. Read more.

EV fast-charging networks face a challenging 2024 (2 mins read)

In 2024, several electric vehicle charging companies face a challenge as automakers, including Ford, GM, Rivian, Volvo, Mercedes, and Nissan, adopt Tesla’s Supercharger network. Ford's agreement allows EVs access to 12,000 Superchargers, impacting the charging landscape. The shift to Tesla’s North American Charging Standard plug raises questions about the future of non-Tesla networks. Read more. Read more.

How Much Faster Can Speedway Racing Really Get? That’s a People Problem (3 mins read)

This article explores how NASCAR are approaching the limits of human endurance in speedway racing. Delve into XKCD's "What If" series, where former NASA engineer Randall Munroe discusses the physics, speed, and challenges drivers face. Are these race cars already pushing human anatomy to its limit? Read more.