12/19/23 - Disgraced Nikola founder Trevor Milton gets 4-year sentence for lying about EVs, Acura Opens Reservations for All-Electric 2024 ZDX Performance SUV, When And How Should I Clay Bar My Car?

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• 🚗 Car reveal/review: 

  • Acura Opens Reservations for All-Electric 2024 ZDX Performance SUV

  • Hyundai N Vision 74 Will be Built, Sold In Low Numbers

  • Mini Countryman C Entry-Level Crossover Revealed With Budget-Minded Style

• 🏭 Industry trend: Disgraced Nikola founder Trevor Milton gets 4-year sentence for lying about EVs

• 🤖 Auto Tech: Mercedes-Benz Reveals Hyper-Personized AI-Powered User Experience for CES 2024

• ⚡ EV: Which Electric Cars Are Still Eligible for the Federal Tax Credit?

• 💡 Tips: When And How Should I Clay Bar My Car?

• 😄 Fun read: Nissan’s Variable Compression Too Good To Be True?

Acura Opens Reservations for All-Electric 2024 ZDX Performance SUV (2 mins read)

Acura opens reservations for the 2024 ZDX, its first all-electric model, and ZDX Type S. Deliveries start early 2024, with the A-Spec beginning around $60,000 for rear-wheel drive. The more powerful dual-motor ZDX Type S, with all-wheel drive and 500 hp, starts around $70,000.

Hyundai N Vision 74 Reportedly Will be Built, Sold In Low Numbers (3 mins read)

Hyundai reportedly plans to produce a limited run of 100 units of the N Vision 74 concept, inspired by the 1974 Hyundai Pony Coupe. The production model, expected in 2026, will offer 800 horsepower from a rear-drive hybrid powertrain featuring a hydrogen fuel cell and electric motors. Seventy units will be available to the public, with the remaining 30 reserved for racing purposes.

Mini Countryman C Entry-Level Crossover Revealed With Budget-Minded Style (3 mins read)

Mini introduces the entry-level gas version, the Countryman C, with a three-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 170 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with mild-hybrid tech, it reaches 62 mph in 8.3 seconds. Design features LED lighting, 17 to 21-inch wheels, and a spacious interior with 51.5 ft3 of cargo space. Trim options include Essential, Classic, Favoured, and JCW. Pricing is undisclosed, expected to be below $38,900.

Disgraced Nikola founder Trevor Milton gets 4-year sentence for lying about EVs (5 mins read)

Founder and former CEO of Nikola, Trevor Milton, sentenced to four years in prison for securities and wire fraud. Accused of misleading investors with false claims about emission-free trucks. Prosecutors sought an 11-year sentence and $5 million fine. Nikola's stock plummeted amid fraud allegations, Milton resigned, and stock dropped 99%. The report estimates an 81% chance of Nikola going bankrupt with recent setback includes recalling battery-electric trucks after fire risk probe.

Mercedes-Benz Reveals Hyper-Personized AI-Powered User Experience for CES 2024 (2 mins read)

Mercedes-Benz introduces the AI-powered MBUX Virtual Assistant at CES 2024, transforming the digital passenger experience with visual interactions. The system, beyond 'Hey Mercedes,' features high-res graphics and offers hyper-personalized interactions. The Concept CLA Class and electric G-Class prototype highlight the brand's electric future. CES 2024 showcases Mercedes' commitment to digital luxury.

Which Electric Cars Are Still Eligible for the $7,500 Federal Tax Credit? (7 mins read)

This article discusses the revamped federal tax credit for electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids. The updated program sets new criteria for qualification, including a minimum battery size, price caps, and manufacturing requirements. The law splits the credit into two components based on battery production and materials sourcing. It also introduces income limits for claiming the credit. The article covers eligibility details, claiming procedures, and the inclusion of used EVs in the tax credit, along with separate provisions for leased EVs.

When And How Should I Clay Bar My Car? (4 mins read)

The article highlights the role of clay bars in enhancing car paint by removing stubborn contaminants. It recommends washing the car first, then using a clay bar with lubricant in a back-and-forth motion. The process ensures a smooth surface, ideal for applying protective coatings. Claying too often is cautioned, suggesting a biannual frequency for optimal paint care.

The Nissan Variable Compression Ratio Engine Everyone Got Excited About Was Maybe Too Good To Be True (6 mins read)

Nissan's variable compression ratio engines, such as the KR15DDT and KR20DDET, face NHTSA investigation for mechanical failures. The complex design involves a diamond-shaped link, electric motor, and gear reduction drive to adjust compression ratio. Elevated failure rates are reported in 2021-2023 Nissan Rogue (KR15DDT), 2019-2021 Nissan Altima, and 2019-2021 Infiniti QX50 (KR20DDET). Rogue and Altima recalls may impact Nissan significantly, with potential engine-related issues and disappointing fuel economy in VC-Turbo four-banger models.