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  • 11/21/23 - Cute Japanese electric kei van heading to the US in 2025, Driving Dystopia: Judge Dismisses Automotive Privacy Lawsuit, From Old Car to Cash: A Guide to California’s Cash for Clunkers Initiative

11/21/23 - Cute Japanese electric kei van heading to the US in 2025, Driving Dystopia: Judge Dismisses Automotive Privacy Lawsuit, From Old Car to Cash: A Guide to California’s Cash for Clunkers Initiative

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  • 🚗 Car reveal/review: Cute Japanese electric kei van heading to the US in 2025, New Lexus HZ Coming With HZ300e, HZ450e, And HZ550e Trims, The Italdesign Aztec Is The Futuristic Road-Legal Concept Car That You Can Buy

  • 🏭 Industry trend: Driving Dystopia: Judge Dismisses Automotive Privacy Lawsuit, Cruise Co-Founder Kyle Vogt Resigns as CEO Amid Executive Shake-up

  • 🙌 Tips/advices: From Old Car to Cash: A Guide to California’s Cash for Clunkers Initiative

  • 😄 Fun read: The Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix Redeemed Itself on Race Day

HW Electro’s Puzzle | New Atlas

Japanese EV manufacturer HW Electro unveiled the Puzzle, an electric kei van designed for disaster relief. The boxy minivan features external power outlets, USB ports, a crowbar, and a first aid kit. With seating for two, a digital dash, touchscreen infotainment, and a sliding control interface, the Puzzle is set for US availability from 2025. Drivetrain details are yet to be disclosed, but it features photovoltaic panels and a mobile app for battery status. The prototype prioritizes inner-city package delivery solutions with side and rear access doors and a reported 350 kg load capacity.

New Lexus HZ | CarBuzz

Lexus is hinting at a new electric vehicle, likely named HZ300e, HZ450e, and HZ550e, based on recent trademark filings. The "e" suggests full electric power, possibly with hydrogen fuel cell technology. Models may vary in performance, with the HZ550e likely being a high-performance flagship. The HZ might align with the LF-ZL Concept. Official details are still pending from Lexus.

Italdesign Aztec | The Utopian

The rare Italdesign Aztec, a futuristic barchetta, is up for sale at the Bonhams 'On The Grid' Abu Dhabi auction on November 25. With separated cockpits, a telecom system, a rally computer, and an asymmetrical steering wheel, this road-legal production car, based on a Giorgetto Giugiaro design, is listed for $180,000 to $220,000. Constructed with aluminum, carbon fiber, and Kevlar, it features a 2.2-liter turbocharged five from an Audi 200, all-wheel drive, and various integrated systems, including a hydraulic jacking system and air compressor, operated by a keypad.

A federal judge in Seattle refused to reexamine class action lawsuits against Ford, Honda, General Motors, Toyota, and Volkswagen, alleging violations of Washington State's privacy laws. The suits claim that on-board infotainment systems recorded private text messages and call logs. Despite evidence, the judge stated the allegations weren't severe enough under the Washington Privacy Act. The issue highlights widespread data harvesting in modern automobiles, surpassing smartphone privacy concerns. While the Washington cases were dismissed, public awareness and consumer advocacy groups may pave the way for change, challenging data ownership rights in the growing industry worth billions annually.

Cruise, a GM division, faces a leadership shakeup as CEO Kyle Vogt resigns amid safety concerns and investigations into the US fleet. The move follows a self-driving taxi incident, resulting in a pedestrian injury and halting US testing. Vogt acknowledged the challenges, taking responsibility for the situation. The California DMV suspended Cruise's operations, requiring a human driver and citing regulatory misrepresentation. Cruise aims to rebuild trust and enhance safety.

California's Cash for Clunkers program, part of the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), promotes economic and environmental goals. It encourages retiring older, less efficient vehicles for financial benefits when purchasing eco-friendly models. Participants save money, reduce carbon footprints, and gain modern safety features. Eligibility involves meeting age and efficiency criteria, with a straightforward process: verify eligibility, select a new vehicle, trade in at an authorized dealership, scrap the old vehicle, claim incentives, and finalize the purchase.

The inaugural 2023 Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix faced challenges, including a poorly installed manhole cover damaging cars and police evacuating grandstands during rescheduled practice. Despite this, Sunday's race featured numerous passes, and Max Verstappen's victory brought positive reviews. The event redeemed itself, contrasting with concerns about the Miami Grand Prix's lackluster races. Las Vegas' success could overshadow Miami if it consistently delivers thrilling races.

And.. that’s a wrap