12/20/23 - McLaren GTS Debuts With Potent Twin-Turbo V8, Lamborghini Developing Active Camber And Toe System, GM and Ford EV Owners Can Access Tesla's Supercharger Network Starting February 2024

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• 🚗 Car reveal/review: 

  • McLaren GTS Debuts With Potent Twin-Turbo V8

  • What’s New: 2024 Lexus RZ

• 🏭 Industry trend: Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Scout Motors brands to implement the NACS in future electric vehicles, GM and Ford EV Owners Can Access Tesla's Supercharger Network Starting February 2024

• 🤖 Auto Tech: Mercedes-Benz receives approvals for turquoise-colored automated driving marker lights, How Robotics Is Essential To Making Electric Vehicles More Affordable, TomTom, Microsoft Join Forces to Introduce Generative AI Into Vehicles

• 🔧 Parts/upgrade: Lamborghini Developing Active Camber And Toe System

McLaren GTS Debuts With Potent Twin-Turbo V8 (3 mins read)

McLaren unveils the GTS, a refreshed GT with a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine producing 626 hp, 465 lb-ft torque. Featuring exterior updates, carbon-fiber customization, and optional Sports Exhaust, it boasts a 0-62 mph time of 3.2 seconds, reaching 124 mph in 8.9 seconds. Performance highlights include adaptive suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a quick nose-lift system. The recycled carbon fiber contributes to a 22-pound weight reduction, enhancing the power-to-weight ratio. With 420 liters of trunk space, new interior options, and technological features, the McLaren GTS is available to order, with a global showroom arrival in 2024.

What’s New: 2024 Lexus RZ (13 mins read)

The 2024 Lexus RZ receives updates, introducing the RZ 300e with FWD, offering a range of up to 266 miles. The RZ 450e features all-wheel drive, a 71.4 kWh battery, and a total system horsepower of 308, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds with a range of 220 miles. Both models use the e-TNGA platform, emphasizing a low center of gravity. The RZ, available in Premium and Luxury grades, boasts innovative technology, safety features, and a minimalist interior.

Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Scout Motors brands to implement the NACS in future electric vehicles (9 mins read)

Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and Scout Motors plan to adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for their future products in North America starting in 2025. The goal is to enable existing customers with Combined Charging System (CCS) ports to access the Tesla Supercharger network, potentially expanding charging access to over 15,000 Superchargers. Electrify America aims to offer the NACS connector at charging stations by 2025, supporting open standards and interoperability. Specifics on integrating the Tesla standard into models will follow closer to the 2025 launch.

GM, Ford EV Owners Can Access Tesla's Supercharger Network Starting February 2024 (5 mins read)

Tesla plans to grant GM and Ford EV owners access to its Supercharger network from February 2024, with adapters facilitating compatibility. The rollout begins in 2024, integrating technology into new EVs by 2025. Tesla aims to gradually open Superchargers to various automakers, supporting a broader EV industry. Tesla's strategic initiatives reinforce its commitment to efficient fast-charging networks and global EV leadership.

Mercedes-Benz receives approvals for turquoise-colored automated driving marker lights (4 mins read)

Mercedes-Benz is the first carmaker to secure permits in California and Nevada for special turquoise marker lights on automated driving vehicles. The permits allow testing in California for two years and apply to 2026 production vehicles in Nevada. The lights enhance public acceptance, convey the automated system's status, and aid law enforcement. Initially integrated into DRIVE PILOT testing vehicles, the turquoise color aims for visibility and differentiation from existing lights.

How Robotics Is Essential To Making Electric Vehicles More Affordable (8 mins read)

ABB's advanced robotics, like cobots and Vision AI-enabled Autonomous Mobile Robots, target reducing EV manufacturing costs and enhancing production flexibility. The technology enables adaptable and standardized production cells, aiding the transition to EVs on existing lines. ABB's PixelPaint, a robot arm with over 1,000 nozzles for precise paint delivery on car bodies, enhances sustainability. The focus is on providing traditional automakers with flexibility for a smooth transition to EVs amid market dynamics and sustainability demands.

TomTom, Microsoft Join Forces to Introduce Generative AI Into Vehicles (6 mins read)

TomTom and Microsoft collaborate to launch an AI-driven automotive assistant for natural voice interactions in navigation and vehicle commands. The solution integrates with Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, enhancing infotainment and offering car manufacturers a customizable interface. The partnership, evolving since 2016, focuses on generative AI-powered automotive tools, aiming to provide unique cockpit experiences for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Lamborghini Developing Active Camber And Toe System (5 mins read)

Lamborghini is testing an adaptive technology adjusting camber and toe settings on the move, enhancing cornering and straight-line performance. The system, in a Huracán prototype, allows up to 25% more cornering force. While promising, challenges include system complexity and potential servicing fees. Lamborghini aims to redefine suspension systems for track-focused drivers seeking adjustability.