BMW has unveiled a new exhibition called “The Electric AI Canvas” at the Art Basel event. This exhibition is an extension of “The Ultimate AI Masterpiece” and is notable for being the first time a virtual artwork has been transformed into a physical art experience. The main feature of the exhibition is the BMW i5, which serves as a dynamic canvas for generative art. It showcases works by contemporary artists and will run until June 18, 2023.
BMW collaborated with Nathan Shipley from Goodby, Silverstein & Partners, and Gary Yeh from ArtDrunk to develop custom AI-generated animations for this project. These animations were created using AI models trained on a curated dataset of works by contemporary artists. The models were initially trained using over 50,000 images spanning 900 years of art history. The AI then generates new abstract animations influenced by classical and contemporary art styles, which are projected onto the BMW i5.
Aehra, an Italian EV startup that specializes in ultra-premium electric cars, has unveiled the exterior design of its upcoming second model, the Sedan. The concept version of the Aehra Sedan was showcased at the Milano Monza Motor Show. This sedan is built on the same electric vehicle platform as the Aehra SUV, which was introduced last year. Both models were developed in parallel, and the resemblance is apparent when comparing them side by side.
The Aehra Sedan shares the same design language and body treatment as the Aehra SUV, but it has a lower stance with distinctive front and rear ends. Notable features include a sleek side profile with a smooth uninterrupted line and hidden door handles, an aggressive front end with stylish headlights and an aerodynamic sculpted bumper that incorporates active cooling elements, and a tapered rear end with sharp LED taillights. The upward-opening double-falcon doors and the aerodynamically optimized digital side mirrors are also eye-catching highlights.
While Aehra has kept the interior of the Sedan under wraps for now, it is expected to be similar to the high-tech cabin of the SUV. The SUV’s interior boasts a wide retractable screen that spans the width of the windshield and partially retracts into the dashboard.
Electric vehicles have come a long way since their inception, evolving from being an ecological statement in the car niche to becoming a feasible personal mobility option. While Tesla’s efforts have been crucial to the current state of electric mobility, other automakers, such as General Motors with its GM EV1, have also played a significant role. Despite its short lifespan, the GM EV1 had a significant impact on today’s electric mobility scene. Introduced in 1996, this “plug-in” car was a two-seater electric vehicle with a futuristic design aimed at reducing pollution and promoting renewable energy sources like electricity. It boasted upgraded technology that allowed for a 140-mile range on a single charge, setting new global standards in vehicle engineering.
Unfortunately, the GM EV1 was discontinued in the late 1990s due to high production costs and lack of consumer interest. However, its accomplishments continue to hold relevance in EV history, as it touched on several key themes. The EV1 spurred research and development efforts in electric vehicles, exploring how technology can improve performance efficiency and how market forces can strengthen sustainability in electric mobility. As new technologies shape our lifestyles, there is much to learn from the influence of the GM EV1 on automotive electric mobility and charging infrastructure standards, despite its premature discontinuation.
In the early 1990s, General Motors, being a dominant car manufacturer, recognized the growing concerns surrounding climate change and made significant progress towards innovation. In 1990, they debuted the Impact, a two-seater sportster at the LA Auto Show. This was the predecessor of the EV1 and marked the initial efforts across the industry to limit harmful emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Drawing inspiration from legacy models like the SunRaycer, GM’s team leveraged their technical and design expertise to develop a highly influential electric vehicle that would shape the EV industry.
Following the success of the Impact, a group of talented GM engineers and designers embarked on an ambitious adventure with sustainability as their driving force. They aimed to develop an electric vehicle that was ecologically benign, efficient, and ahead of its time. In 1994, GM launched the PrEView program, lending 50 hand-built Impact electric cars to drivers for one to two weeks in exchange for valuable feedback used for further development of the EV1. The original Impact vehicles were eventually destroyed, but their design served as the foundation for the GM EV1. Notably, this was General Motors’ first car branded with their company nameplate instead of a subsidiary marque.
The concept of electric cars has been around since the 1830s, but General Motors became the first to introduce a consumer-ready electric car in 1996, 14 years before the Nissan Leaf. The GM EV1, as it was officially called, was the result of years of research and development. It featured innovative elements such as regenerative braking and a robust powertrain system for long-lasting performance and extended range capabilities. The launch of the GM EV1 marked a significant milestone for General Motors and propelled the advancement of electric vehicles by delivering an impressive range of up to 140 miles per charge cycle. Its range, efficiency, and performance set new standards and inspired other automakers to invest in electric vehicle research and development. The EV1’s cutting-edge technology and futuristic design also sparked interest among consumers and the industry, providing insights into the potential breakthroughs in electric mobility.
The EV1’s Legacy Paved Way For A Lot Of Technologies
GM
Photo of GM EV10’s interior
The GM EV1, despite its short existence, left a lasting legacy in the electric vehicle industry. It challenged preconceived notions about electric vehicles and showcased that they could offer more than just eco-friendly transportation. The EV1 demonstrated impressive performance and futuristic design, breaking barriers and revealing the immense potential of electric mobility. By capturing public attention and generating interest, the EV1 played a crucial role in shifting perceptions and driving the wider acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles. Its technological advancements also set a precedent for subsequent electric vehicle models, driving innovation in battery technology, powertrain efficiency, and regenerative braking. The knowledge gained from developing the EV1’s components propelled the EV industry forward, leading to further breakthroughs in electric vehicle performance and range. The influence of the EV1 extended beyond General Motors, inspiring other automakers to invest in EV research and development, fostering competition, and promoting continuous improvement.
The story of the EV1 also offers valuable lessons for the EV industry. Its discontinuation highlighted the importance of cultivating consumer demand, investing in charging infrastructure, and addressing concerns related to cost and range anxiety. These lessons have guided the industry in making electric vehicles more accessible, convenient, and economically viable. Today, we see the impact of these lessons as EVs gain widespread popularity and automakers strive to create a sustainable transportation future. Thus, the legacy of the EV1 serves as an inspiration for a new generation of electric vehicles from established automakers and startups, symbolizing the pioneering spirit, innovation, and dedication that continue to drive the EV industry forward. The EV1’s influence can be observed in the diverse and rapidly expanding range of electric vehicles today, as well as the ongoing efforts to improve charging infrastructure and battery technology in the pursuit of a sustainable transportation future.
Although General Motors is not entirely abandoning internal combustion, their early commitment to environmentally friendly transportation made significant progress with the introduction of the iconic GM EV1 nearly thirty years ago. This initiative propelled the electro-mobility aspect of the automobile industry toward discovering innovative measures for more environmentally friendly vehicles worldwide. Despite its premature termination, the GM EV1 taught valuable lessons that continue to impact the way corporations view green technologies today. As we move towards a more sustainable future, we must acknowledge the trailblazing contributions of vehicles like the GM EV1, which have sparked innovation and propelled the industry forward.
The world of transportation has been revolutionized with the introduction of electric vehicles. Mass production and technological innovation have enabled automakers like BMW to build more efficient, powerful, and luxurious cars. BMW’s commitment to making luxurious performance cars has been clear since its first production model. Indeed, nearly a century later, this commitment continues with its all-electric lineup of vehicles. The German automaker recently released the electric 2024 BMW i5 sedan with plenty of new and old features. At first glance, it looks like any other five-series from BMW’s iconic lineup. However, beneath its stylish exterior lies incredible electrified power and cutting-edge technologies that rivals can hardly match. From long battery range to intuitive interior design, there are plenty of good things about the BMW i5. The BMW i5 has plenty to offer luxury car buyers, but with all the positive buzz surrounding it, some drawbacks could still be improved. Before you buy BMW i5 electric sedan, here are the pros and cons you need to consider before taking your sedan for a spin.
A silver 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 driving down the road, front-facing
One of the greatest benefits of going electric is the elimination of fossil fuels from daily commutes. It also reduces costs over time because electricity is much cheaper than gas. Likely no surprise here, but the biggest selling point for the BMW i5 is its all-electric efficiency. With so many options, like varying motor sizes and extra sporty features, the technology provides ample potential for a dynamic driving experience without sacrificing performance. The BMW i5 electric sedan comes with two drivetrains – the eDrive 40, which offers 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the M60 xDrive ups the power to 590 horsepower and 586 pound-feet, granting you access to unprecedented speed and agility compared to other EVs.
No matter which powertrain you choose, one thing is for certain—the 2024 BMW i5 is extremely efficient. Each version offers Sport Boost mode that unlocks extra torque for short bursts of speed and acceleration. If performance is your priority, then the M60 xDrive model should pique your interest. M60 xDrive owners will benefit from a Sport Boost Mode, which temporarily boosts up to 605 pound-feet torque. This setup gives the BMW i5 electric supercar high acceleration levels with just the push of a button. Plus, with advanced active roll stabilization, rear steering design, and efficient brakes, the i5 ups the ante for cornering and handling. The i5 BMW can achieve a good range of up to 295 miles on a single charge for the eDrive40 model and 256 miles for the M60 xDrive. This amount of impressive range means fewer trips to the charging station. On top of that, drivers will benefit from fast-charging technology. The i5 can recharge 10–80 percent in 30 minutes thanks to its 11 kW Level 2 AC plugs and 205 kW Level 3 DC fast chargers.
Shot of the 2024 BMW i5’s interior showcasing the dash
The days of having an ugly EV stuck out amongst your everyday cars are gone, thanks to the sleek design of the BMW i5. Unlike its competitors, the car appears surprisingly discreet while retaining a hint of luxury to remind people of its presence. There’s something timelessly appealing, perhaps influenced by the iconic three-series at play. The large panoramic roof is particularly appealing, which reveals almost the entire surface. Featuring BMW Operating System 8.5, the Curved Display provides an integrated 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster plus a 14.9-inch infotainment display screen in one pane of glass, collectively working together seamlessly, providing an intuitive and user-friendly experience. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also make support connectivity possible, wireless device charging ensures you’ll have power when needed, and gesture controls give you innovative options to interact with your car. Heated seats and ambient lighting provide an extra touch of luxury in the BMW i5.
Furthermore, the Harman Kardon sound system ensures riders can be immersed in various soundscapes, from roaring pulses to vivid fluxes, for added enjoyment during each drive. Moreover, safety comes first on the list of priorities, and the BMW i5 electric sedan does not disappoint. As standard, the car comes fitted with a full suite of technologies like front collision mitigation with a left-turn warning, rear cross-traffic warning with brake intervention, lane keep assist with active blind-spot detection, and autonomous lane changes with eye activation. Those who feel daring can opt for the Driving Assistance Professional package, which unlocks hands-free driving up to 85 mph.
It Isn’t Cheap In The Top-of-the-line Performance Spec
BMW
A red BMW i5 M60 xDrive cruising on the road
Even though BMW i5 price tag is decent, shelling out $67,795 for the eDrive40 model or $86,095 for the AWD M60 xDrive variant may be too pricey for some. This BMW i5 price isn’t exactly pocket change unless you’ve got rather deep pockets, and it makes the car a less desirable purchase option for those looking within mid-range budgets. Factor in regular maintenance, such as brake pads and tires, and reduced resale value due to diminishing battery capacity over time, and things start to add up quickly. Moreover, adding optional upgrades and packages will push the price to more steep levels. As mentioned, the BMW i5 offers pretty good range capability, but compared to its competitors, the Air, it seems to come out short. Tesla’s Model 3 has a higher range rating of 333 miles, and the Lucid Air easily surpasses 400 miles with an estimated range of 406 miles. While these numbers might not make too much difference to everyday commuters, it’s worth noting for those frequent long-distance travelers as it may be a turn-off to them. Alongside range, the maximum charge rate must be considered part of quick road trip planning.
While the i5 reaches its peak rate of 205 kW relatively quickly, it falls behind other rivals, such as the Lucid Air rate of 300 kW (the second-fastest charging EV on the market). Although the infotainment inside the i5 is aesthetically pleasing and feature-rich, it struggles with usability issues because of its overly complex user interface. Without tactile buttons and knobs, the user interface becomes overly dependent on large touchscreen controls. The simultaneous use of haptic feedback and touchscreen technology can become overwhelmingly complex in day-to-day use. Though it’s worth lauding the automaker’s efforts to keep the car modern, BMW may need to rethink how this setup fairs in success later. Operating the navigation, audio, and climate settings simultaneously requires too much effort and thought– something less tech-savvy customers may struggle with. Fans of wagons will, unfortunately, remain curious until BMW decides to bring this popular body style back to American shores. Only overseas markets get to rock with the stylish high-roofed station wagon variant.
Rear three-quarter shot of the 2024 BMW i5 M60 xDrive
The BMW i5 represents an innovative step into the world of electric cars and undeniably brings a new level of excitement into the industry. Considering all the points above, the BMW i5 sedan proves to be an innovative and capable vehicle. Undoubtedly, the BMW i5 is a luxurious, high-performance electric sedan that promises to be a formidable competitor in the EV market. With its advanced technology, beautiful interior design, and powerful performance, the BMW i5 checks all the boxes for luxury cars. However, prospective buyers must remember that this still presents no small financial commitment and carries several shortcomings relative to its nearest competing models. Considering all the pros and cons of the BMW i5 before investing in it is ultimately important. Even so, the i5 BMW is a well-rounded choice if you want a premium, reliable, practical all-electric EV. And judging from the pros and cons presented above, the German brand truly means business in delivering an affordable and efficient choice for anyone willing to invest their hard-earned money into it.
Vauxhall has released pricing and specification details for the Astra Electric hatchback
The Astra Electric will be available in two trim lines: GS and Ultimate
The 54kWh battery achieves a WLTP combined range of 258 miles
All Astra Electric models come with an 11kW on-board charger
The Astra Electric features the advanced technology suite, Intelli-Drive 2.0
The interior of the Astra Electric has been redesigned and features the Pure Panel Pro infotainment system
The Astra Electric can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes using rapid charging
Astra Sports Tourer Electric will join the lineup later in 2023
Finance options start from £259pm with a 0% PCP over three years
Customers who order by the end of July will receive a £500 test drive incentive
Vauxhall has unveiled the prices for the new Astra Electric, the latest addition to its fully electric car range. The Astra Electric will be offered in two trim levels, the sporty GS and the top-of-the-range Ultimate, with prices starting at £39,995 on the road. Order books are now open and deliveries are expected to begin later this summer.
The Astra Electric is equipped with Vauxhall’s next-generation 54kWh lithium-ion battery, which provides an improved performance and a range of up to 258 miles (WLTP). It also features Vauxhall’s most advanced technology suite, Intelli-Drive 2.0, which includes semi-autonomous lane change and intelligent speed adaption.
Later this year, Vauxhall will expand its electric lineup with the introduction of the Astra Sports Tourer Electric. With these new additions, Vauxhall will offer a total of six fully electric models in its passenger car range, in addition to its existing fully electric Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) lineup. Vauxhall aims to become an electric-only manufacturer by 2028, seven years ahead of the UK Government’s targets.
The Astra Electric showcases Vauxhall’s Bold and Pure design language, featuring the Vauxhall Vizor front end with LED headlights and sensors. The interior boasts the Pure Panel Pro infotainment system, with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch central display. The Astra Electric also introduces Intelli-Drive 2.0, Vauxhall’s latest driver assistance package, which includes features such as Advanced Intelligent Speed Adaption and semi-automated lane change assist.
The Astra Electric is powered by a 115kW (156hp) electric motor and a 54kWh battery. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds and has a top speed of 106mph. The Astra Electric comes with an 11kW on-board charger as standard, allowing for a full charge from empty in 5 hours and 45 minutes using a public charger. It also supports rapid charging of up to 100kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in just 30 minutes.
Vauxhall offers a range of finance options for the Astra Electric, including a 0% three-year Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) route with monthly payments starting from £259. Customers who place their orders by the end of July will also receive a £500 test drive incentive. Vauxhall’s ‘Plug & Go’ offer allows customers to spread the cost of a home wallbox across the length of their vehicle finance agreement, making the switch to electric more accessible.
Land Energy, an electric motorcycle start-up based in Cleveland, Ohio, has seen significant growth in recent years. The company was founded by Scott Colosimo, who previously co-founded Cleveland Cycle Werks, and has now doubled its workforce. The electric bike project called Falcon, which Colosimo started, helped him realize his interest in electrification. Consequently, he started Land Energy to manufacture and assemble electric motorcycles in Cleveland. In 2022, Land Energy launched its flagship bike, the District, and in January 2023, it released the District Scrambler.
According to Chris Davis, Land Energy’s production manager, the team has grown from five or six to fourteen people in just four months. The company has also increased production to building three bikes a week from one bike a month and plans to produce thirty bikes a month in the next few months. Land Energy offers its customers a range of options on its website, such as different battery capacities, paint colors, and wheel types.
The price of the base model of Land Energy’s electric motorcycles starts at $7,800 for the District Scrambler and $8,200 for the District. Depending on the customers’ preferences, the cost can escalate with additional features such as more massive battery setups and accessories such as bash guards, rear racks, and top boxes.
Colosimo originally founded Cleveland Cycle Werks, which started as a small business in Ohio in 2009. Today, Cleveland Cycle Works has partnerships all over the world, including in the UK, Switzerland, Poland, India, and Vietnam. Its mission is to make affordable yet stylish motorcycles for everyone.
Land Energy currently has a 60,000-square foot plant in Cleveland and aims to manufacture 15,000 units a year in the factory. It intends to perform final assembly in Cleveland, capitalizing on the city’s rich manufacturing history. Land Energy’s growth plans will create new manufacturing jobs and help revitalize Cleveland.
2022 was an excellent year for the automotive industry. It saw new leaps and bounds for electric and hybrid cars. Some cars had new tech like wireless charging, voice activation, and even air purification systems. And while 2022 was great for new features, the year was not so kind to American car manufacturers. 2022 Consumer Reports had mostly Asian manufacturers in the top spots (Think, Toyota, Honda, and Mazda). Only Lincoln made the top 10, with Buick in the 11th spot.
But just because a car didn’t make it in the top 10 doesn’t mean that it’s not reliable. New technology can be the culprit for a car not being on the list, not necessarily mechanical maladies. So if you’re worrying that your car isn’t in the top 10, don’t fret. There are still many things to love about American cars.
Updated on June 14, 2023: Since 2022 is gone and half of 2023 has been swept under the rug, we have decided to refresh and update this list of reliable American cars. The original 2022 models have been left, so you know what vehicle to look for in a slightly used car. However, we have added some of the top 2023 American models to give you some extra choices.
Three-quarters shot of a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Hybrid charging
Jeep has never really been high on reliability lists. In 2022, they ranked 23 out of 24 car manufacturers, almost putting them dead last. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokeeis the highest on Jeep’s list of reliable cars. The Jeep Grand Cherokee 2022 has been redesigned with better fuel economy, a more luxurious cabin, and more refinement. This car is a great midsize SUV that is predicted to last a long time, but you might be better off with some of its other competitors, such as KIA, Hyundai, or Honda, given Jeep’s overall reliability record.
142022 GMC Yukon: 73/100
GMC
Front and side view of a 2022 GMC Yukon Denali
Placing just two spots above Jeep at 21 out of 24 car manufacturers is GMC. GMC is another one of those companies with average reliability over the years, but the 2022 GMC Yukonis one of GMC’s more reliable cars. This three-row SUV is quiet, comfy, and has excellent towing capacity (7,500 – 7,900 pounds). The newly redesigned independent rear suspension offers a smoother ride and better handling. When maintained, it is predicted to last 200,000 to 250,000 miles, making it a decent choice if you’re looking to buy a new SUV or if you need something to haul your boat and motorcycle around.
132022 Tesla Model Y: 73/100
Tesla
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2022 Tesla Model Y
Tesla has always been at the cutting edge when it comes to new technology in its cars, but they are the relatively new kid on the block and have some things to figure out. The 2022 Tesla Model Y is no exception to this rule. Tesla came in at 19 out of 24 manufacturers, which isn’t the best. Most of the problems come from paint, weatherstripping, rear-hatchback, and its climate system. Many people who buy these cars are thrilled with them, but you can expect to pay more in overall maintenance costs due to new technology. Overall, it is one of the few fully electric vehicles on the market right now, and that alone can save you money in the long term.
Front and side view of a 2022 Ram 1500 Longhorn Limited
Placing much higher on Consumer Reports’ list is the 2022 Ram 1500. Ram placed at 16 out of 24 manufacturers, making it a more reliable option than the GMC Yukon. And obviously, this is a truck on a list of cars, but the high-ranking American cars are slim on Consumer Reports lists, so we elected to include it. The 2022 Ram 1500 dropped pounds to improve fuel economy and add more passenger room. It can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles depending on your use. And with an average annual repair cost of $691, it won’t break the bank for quite some time.
112022 Ford Maverick 78/100
Ford
Front three-quarter shot of a light blue 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid speeding in a free highway
Ah, yes, another truck on our list of cars. Unfortunately, the highest-ranking car on Consumer Reports for Ford was a truck. Go figure. Ford ranked 18 out of 24 car manufacturers, putting two spots below RAM. These trucks can last for up to 14 years and 200,000 miles, making them a good choice if you want a truck that will last a long time and has a lot of power. It even has a hybrid option that gives it decent MPG at 42 in the city and 33 on the highway. Outscoring every pickup in its class, the 2022 Ford Maverick is a small truck that can be bought on a budget and can withstand time for years to come.
10Cadillac XT5 2022: 79/100
Cadillac ranked in between Ram and Ford at 17 out of 24 manufacturers. With a nice mix of luxury and reliability, the 2022 Cadillac XT5 is at the top of Cadillac’s most reliable cars for the year. Consumer Reports placed it in its top 10 most reliable cars of the year, with a reliability rating of 89 out of 100. And while it doesn’t have the same appeal or drivability as one of Cadillac’s sedans, it is still a sleeper in terms of comfort and reliability. You won’t get Mercedes-level luxury, but you’ll get a pretty standard SUV that will last you for years to come with proper care and maintenance.
A front 3/4 action shot of a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse
Chevy ranked 20 out of 24 car manufacturers, according to Consumer Reports. The most reliable car out of Chevy’s lineup is the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse. It is a three-row crossover that gives the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot a run for their money. Consumer Reports gave it a reliability rating of 82 out of 100, making it one of the more reliable cars on this list. It is predicted to last 12 to 17 years and upwards of 200,000 miles. On the road, the 2022 Chevy Traverse offers a smooth ride that you won’t complain about but won’t brag about, either.
82022 Chrysler 300: 83/100
Chrysler
Side view of a Chrysler 300s
Chrysler wasn’t included in 2022’s Consumer Reports since it was acquired by Stellantis in 2021, so we’ll take its 2021 information and see where it ranks. In 2021, Chrysler ranked 12 out of 28 manufacturers. That makes Chrysler, in general, pretty reliable. And one of the most reliable Chrysler cars is the 2022 Chrysler 300. Chrysler’s flagship luxury sedan offers plenty of room and comfort for your average buyer. Reports state that the 2022 Chrysler 300 can last up to 200,000 with minimal repairs needed. This makes it a great choice if you’re looking for luxury and reliability.
72022 Buick Encore: 84/100
Buick
2022 Buick Encore GX parked in front of a building
Coming in at the second-highest spot on the list is Buick. Buick ranked 11 out of 24 manufacturers for 2022. And coming in as one of Buick’s most reliable cars is the 2022 Buick Encore. The 2022 Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV that is a size smaller than the Toyota RAV4 or the Honda CR-V. The 2022 Buick Encore is expected to reach 200,000 miles with regular maintenance and is predicted to be reliable for many years. This car is meant to blend luxury with a small carbon footprint. This car is perfect for a small SUV that is easy on gas and the eyes.
The 2022 Lincoln Corsair came in at 10 out of 24 manufacturers, with a reliability rating of 87 out of 100. The Corsair has plenty of standard features, a silky smooth ride, and a base 250 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with upgradable options for more power. This is a luxury vehicle, though, which means it comes with new technology that could be prone to breaking down. With a predicted 10-year price of $11,000 in regular maintenance fees, this car could put you back more than others on this list. Either way, if you bought one, it could be a solid choice.
52023 Chrysler 300: 77/100
Chrysler
Shot of the 2023 Chrysler 300s’ rear
The 2023 Chrysler 300 has been improved upon from the previous years (maybe not as much as the 2021 model), giving it the top place for an American car on the list of large cars, ranking number 2/4 overall. The 300 has long been one of those luxury cars that families across the nation have gone to for cross-country trips, which they still do, but with the addition of the smaller 3.6-liter V-6, it is now a very reliable in-town daily driver. One that will not break the bank when it comes to guzzling fuel.
42023 Tesla Model S: 78/100
Tesla
Three-quarter view of the Tesla Model S
Based upon the statistics over the last couple of years, ranking number 4 out of 15 in the luxury compact car segment is a good feat for an American car. Tesla is a company that has grown to success within a couple of years and will continue to grow as long as they offer reliable and safe models. The 2023 Tesla Model S features an electric motor for the front axle, and one for the back, to help accelerate the car from 0 to 60 in under two and a half seconds. The best part; the Tesla Model S has a range of up to 405 miles on a single charge.
A yellow Ford Maverick being driven on a country road
It seems like the same models are repeatedly on the list printed out by Consumer Reports every year unless there has been a significant facelift. The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid shows this by again appearing as the number one American small pickup in overall score ratings by Consumer Reports. The Hybrid Maverick Hybrid came in number 1 out of 12 in the compact truck segment, featuring a 2.5-liter engine combined with an electric motor to create a front-wheel-drive truck that produces up to 191 horsepower.
22023 Lincoln Corsair: 84/100
Lincoln
Front 3/4 view of a white 2023 Lincoln Corsair
The 2023 Lincoln Corsair is not as common as the Lincoln Aviator or Navigator, but the data shows that it is a much better buy if you can handle having a compact SUV because it was able to gain a ranking of 5 out of 37. The Corsair has a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine or a plug-in hybrid with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional for an added cost.
12023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette: 87/100
Mecum Auctions
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette 3LT Convertible
Not much can be said about the Chevrolet Corvette that you do not already know. If you don’t, you have some significant reading to do. The one thing that may not be common knowledge is that out of all the American vehicles on the market, the Corvette has one of the best overall rankings from the people at Consumer Reports. The C8 also topped the list for the most satisfying car of the year. It received an overall ranking of 87 out of 100, achieving number 1 out of 24 sports cars that they tested. So, what could possibly be better than a fire-breathing sports car that can shoot 0 to 60 in under 3.0 seconds while still giving you the ride expected out of a top-notch sports car?
California-based electric vehicle start-up Telo is taking on the conventional pickup truck with its compact and highly efficient electric truck, the Telo MT1. The Mini Cooper SE-sized electric truck comes with the same practicality of a mid-size truck like the Toyota Tacoma but with a smaller footprint. Priced at around $50,000, the Telo MT1 is claimed to be the world’s most efficient electric truck on the market.
Telo was founded by CEO Jason Marks, an expert in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) who holds LiDAR patents, and CTO Forrest North, who was part of the early team that developed the Tesla Roadster and holds 15 patents in electric vehicle batteries and charging. To create the Telo MT1, the company sought the expertise of designer Yves Behar, who has worked with top brands such as Samsung, L’Oreal, Prada, and Puma, to oversee the design.
The Telo MT1’s key feature is its compact size. It is only 152 inches long, the same as a Mini Cooper SE, 73 inches wide, and 66 inches tall, comparable to the Audi Q4 e-tron. The electric truck utilizes a skateboard chassis design to maximize practicality and eliminates excess spaces. Most of the body and some of the chassis components are made from carbon-fiber-reinforced-plastic (CFRP), making them cheaper to acquire.
The Telo MT1’s electric-powered drivetrain eliminates the need for a long hood, which is an essential design element in traditional pickup trucks. Instead, it comes with a flat front that has a skidplate and a raked windshield. Overall, the Telo MT1 is a game-changing electric truck that provides impressive performance in a compact and efficient package.
One of the biggest complaints about electric cars is their long charging times that cannot compare with refuelling speeds of gasoline-powered vehicles. Nyobolt, a British firm that produces ultra-fast-charging batteries, claims it has revolutionized battery technology and developed a battery pack that can fully charge in less than six minutes. The concept EV sports car boasts a 35-kilowatt-hour battery pack that can cover a range of approximately 155 miles (250 kilometers) on a single charge. Although the weight of the sports car has not been officially disclosed, Nyobolt hinted that it is closer to one tonne than two, indicating that the car weighs less than 3,307 pounds (1,500 kilograms).
Kia has emerged as a key player in the electric vehicle market with models such as the EV6 and Niro EV. However, the brand is looking to invest a colossal sum of $18 billion (along with Hyundai) to become an exclusive EV brand within this decade. Kia has claimed that its plug-in hybrids are also competitive, but an executive for the Australian market has admitted that the technology is not receiving a lot of enthusiasm from potential customers.
In a recent interview with CarExpert, Dean Norbiato, the Marketing General Manager for Kia Australia, revealed that plug-in hybrids are challenging to sell due to their complex nature, and most of the customers don’t understand it. He also accepted that PHEV technology has reached a dead end.
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