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  • 12/05/23 - 2024 BMW i4 Adds xDrive40 Variant, Automakers’ data privacy practices “are unacceptable” says US senator, Why don’t EVs have standard diagnostic ports?

12/05/23 - 2024 BMW i4 Adds xDrive40 Variant, Automakers’ data privacy practices “are unacceptable” says US senator, Why don’t EVs have standard diagnostic ports?

12/04/2023 -GM. Rev up your day with the latest automotive news and insights delivered to your inbox in our exclusive newsletter! In today’s email:

  • 🚗 Car reveal/review: 2024 BMW i4 Adds xDrive40 Variant, Toyota Sport Crossover EV made with BYD to launch in 2025, LIVAQ EQUAD unveiled ‘most capable electric ATV ever'

  • 🏭 Industry trend: Automakers’ data privacy practices “are unacceptable”, says US senator

  • 🤖 Auto Tech: Motional Sees a Need for Humans in the Robotaxi Future

  • ⚡ EV: Why don’t EVs have standard diagnostic ports? Are EVs and Plug-In Hybrids Less Reliable than Gas-Powered Vehicles?

  • 🙌 Tips/advices: 

  • 😄 Fun read: Toyota's Calty Design Research Studio Reveals Never-Before-Seen Concepts, Nerd Out Over This BMW S65 V8 Engine Assembly Walkthrough

2024 BMW i4 | Cars.com

BMW introduces a new xDrive40 version to its 2024 i4 lineup, offering four variants: eDrive35, eDrive40, xDrive40, and M50 xDrive. The eDrive35 has a rear-drive, single motor setup, while others feature a larger 81-kWh battery pack. The M50 xDrive is the most powerful, with 536 hp and 586 pounds-feet of torque. Standard safety features include forward collision warning and parking assistance, with optional advanced driver aids.

Toyota Sport Crossover EV concept | Electrek

Toyota unveils its electric Sport Crossover concept, co-developed with BYD, in Europe. Set to launch in 2025, it aims to attract first-time EV buyers with a stylish alternative to SUVs. The concept promises an active, iconic style and personal space for younger buyers. The Sport Crossover will compete with Hyundai's IONIQ 6 in the fastback EV segment. Toyota aims for carbon neutrality by 2040 with innovations in batteries and manufacturing.

LIVAD EQUAD electric ATV | Electrek

Michigan-based LIVAQ introduces the EQUAD, claiming it's the "most capable electric ATV" with a 67 mph top speed and 170-mile range. Priced at $28,600, its features include wireless home charging, repurposed carbon fiber panels, and four-link rear suspension.

U.S. Senator Edward Markey expresses concern about automakers' data privacy practices, referencing a scathing report by the Mozilla Foundation. Markey's letters to 14 car companies, including BMW, Ford, Tesla, and Toyota, address issues like excessive data collection and potential misuse of biometric data. He sets a deadline of December 21 for responses, emphasizing the need for improved privacy safeguards in the automotive industry.

Motional, an autonomous vehicle developer, deems Remote Vehicle Assistance (RVA) agents crucial for aiding robotaxis in challenging scenarios. RVA agents don't drive but provide guidance, aiming to reduce reliance as the software improves. The goal is a seamless intervention to ensure passenger confidence. However, achieving cost parity with human gig economy drivers remains a complex challenge for the robotaxi industry.

Starting in 2026, California's Advanced Clean Cars II protocol mandates a diagnostics standard for EVs, hydrogen fuel cells, and plug-in hybrids, similar to OBD-II for internal combustion engines. This standardization aims to simplify troubleshooting, mirroring the original OBD-II's role. While this will likely spread across the US, startups may face additional challenges. Honda supports the effort, stating they are working to meet CARB ACC2 requirements for future EV models.

Consumer Reports' survey shows electric vehicles (EVs) faced 80% more issues than traditional vehicles from 2021 to 2023, primarily related to battery, charging, and fitment problems. These "growing pains" in EV construction may impact buyer reservations. Despite the slowdown in EV sales growth, the survey notes Tesla's improved reliability, ranking 14th out of 30 brands in 2023. It emphasizes ongoing evolution in the EV market, expecting increased reliability as manufacturers refine technologies.

This article discusses Toyota's hidden concept cars from its California-based Calty Design Research Studio. The revealed images showcase unique creations, including the 1989 Future High Performance Concept with a pop-up engine, the NYC Concept designed for crowded spaces, the sleek X86D shooting brake, a compact early EV design, and the intriguing Baby Lunar Cruiser, an electric vehicle controlled via joysticks and featuring alternative cabin designs.

This article shows a therapeutic hour-plus video of rebuilding the BMW S65 V8 engine from the E92 M3. The host meticulously assembles the engine, addressing the S65's known reliability issues like rod bearing failures. The video serves as an instructive guide for engine rebuilding enthusiasts, offering step-by-step insights. While the E92 M3's V8 can be challenging to own, the rebuild showcases the engine's brilliance with fresh components, providing a satisfying journey for viewers.

And.. that’s a wrap