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Here’s How Much A 1-Year Old Kia EV6 Is Worth Today

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Concerns concerning long-term electric vehicle (EV) possession have lately surfaced as quite a few research suggesting their fast depreciation have lately popped up. Due to considerations corresponding to long-term battery prices, the charging infrastructure, in addition to EV tech nonetheless being in its infancy, an EV 5 years from now will likely be considerably totally different from an EV in 2024.

Basically, you may consider EVs right now as what smartphones have been again in 2007 when the primary iPhone got here out. EV know-how is quickly evolving, in comparison with a automotive with an inner combustion engine (ICE), which is just about close to its peak. We still have to reach solid-state battery mass production–which is supposedly thought of the holy grail of battery evolution. At the identical time, not all EVs are created equal, and a few are extra fascinating than others. As a outcome, whereas EVs, typically, have decrease resale values than ICE vehicles, there are some EVs with first rate resale values and others that you simply’re higher off shopping for a barely used one.

Recently, we discovered that the EVs with the best resale values are ones made by Tesla, however what if you’d like an EV that is not from that model? Perhaps an EV from Kia is what you aspire to own–specifically, the award-winning EV6. Sharing the identical mechanical elements because the Hyundai Ioniq 5, how is an EV6 when it comes to resale worth after a 12 months of possession? Based on what number of awards and the way well-received the automotive is, it must be fascinating within the used automotive market, proper?

Red Color Kia EV6

Related

10 Things You Should Know About The 2024 Kia EV6

The EV6’s mixture of energy, vary, versatility, and superior options make it a top-tier alternative.

In order to provide the latest and correct info attainable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from Kia and different authoritative sources, together with iSeeCars and Ars Technica.

Don’t Buy An EV6 Brand New

Unfortunately, regardless of profitable so many awards and being well-received by the purchasers who purchased one, the resale values for the Kia EV6 aren’t that good. In reality, it could’t hold its value as well as any Tesla EV for that matter. As a outcome, that is a kind of few vehicles which can be higher to purchase barely used (one-year-old vehicles, as labeled by iSeeCars) versus going the brand-new route.

Prepare To Lose As Much As 33.3-percent In A Year

silver 2022 Kia EV6
Kia

According to this iSeeCars data of vehicle resale values after a year of ownership, the Kia EV6 loses as a lot as 33.3 p.c of its authentic worth. That’s greater than double the trade common of 12.8 p.c depreciation. Don’t go considering that the Ioniq 5 fares higher, both, as a result of it’s anticipated to lose 32.9 p.c of its authentic worth after a 12 months.

EVs, sadly, make up about half of the highest 10 vehicles that lose most of their worth after a 12 months of possession. It’s a mirrored image of what number of would-be house owners of a used automotive are cautious about long-term EV possession. We’ve talked about prior to now that the majority of those that purchased new EVs have been early adopters, however the purchaser demographic within the used automotive market is much less adventurous in exploring new know-how. These individuals put worth above all else and are much less desirous to have their life modified to adapt to the charging and infrastructure necessities of proudly owning an EV.

There’s An EV With A Far Worse Resale Value

If it is any comfort, there’s an EV whose resale worth is much worse than the Kia EV6’s. That’s the Mercedes-Benz EQS, which additionally occurs to have the absolute worst one-year depreciation among all new cars. Imagine dropping almost half the worth of your six-figure luxurious EV, making the EQS extra of a legal responsibility versus a automotive you’d aspire to personal.

The Nissan Leaf, whereas being one of the inexpensive EVs when model new, is healthier purchased as barely used. Well, with an antiquated ChaDeMo cost port and EV know-how from the mid-2010s, the Leaf is just about the iPhone 6 of the EV world in 2024.

Model

% Difference Used Over New

$ Difference Used Over New

Used Price

1

Mercedes-Benz EQS

-47.8%

-$65,143

$71,231

2

Nissan Lead

-45.7%

-$15,786

$18,756

3

Jaguar F-Pace

-35.4%

-$28,555

$52,010

4

Alfa Romeo Giulia

-33.4%

-$16,297

$32,467

5

Kia EV6

-33.3%

-$18,081

$36,243

6

Hyundai Ioniq 5

-32.9%

-$16,805

$34,303

7

Volkswagen ID.4

-32.9%

-$15,609

$31,870

8

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

-32.3%

-$17,495

$36,630

9

Nissan Murano

-32.0%

-$13,842

$29,458

10

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

-31.5%

-$45,781

$99,598

Overall Average

-12.8%

-$5,778

$39,328

(Data collected from iSeeCars)

Silver Kia EV6

Related

The Real Differences Between The Kia EV6 And Hyundai Ioniq 5

When it involves selecting between two of the perfect bought EVs, it is the small particulars that make all of the distinction

The Challenge For EV6 Owners

2023 Kia EV6 scenic shot
Kia

The Kia EV6’s resale worth is not excellent news for present house owners, however is sweet information for many who aspire to personal a used one. There are main elements contributing to EV6 resale values being not so good as Tesla’s, that are on high of long-term possession considerations and charging infrastructure hurdles. As extra analysis has been carried out to create this text, the tanking of EV costs typically might be attributed to 2 issues.

EV Sales Slowdown Means More Inventory

Tesla Gigafactory Texas
Tesla

At this level, you have most likely already heard concerning the EV gross sales slowdown that the United States is presently experiencing. While this would possibly not essentially imply fewer EV gross sales this 12 months, that tempo of development goes to be a lot slower in 2024 than in previous years. As a outcome, there is more inventory of both new and used EVs on dealership lots.

Value-seeking consumers within the used automotive market additionally do not wish to change their life-style, which is why the electrified car of alternative nowadays, whether or not new or used, is the hybrid electrical car. This is why hybrids have the best resale value among all cars nowadays, and Toyota is the biggest beneficiary of this hybrid car growth within the United States. There is one more reason why EV resale values are tanking, and that is due to the actions of 1 man whose selections have affected the complete EV trade within the United States.

Tesla’s Price War Isn’t Good For EV Resale Values

Tesla_Dealership
KKPCW

Since the beginning of 2023, Tesla has initiated a worth conflict of kinds within the EV trade. This is why we have seen vehicles like the Model 3 reach near price parity with an ICE automotive, and the Model X seeing its brand-new price drop by as a lot as $41,000 for the reason that begin of 2023 so as to be eligible for the $7,500 Federal Tax Credit offered by the Inflation Reduction Act.

Because of Elon Musk’s aggressive worth cuts, EV resale values have dropped in current months. These worth cuts have led would-be-used EV consumers into Tesla showrooms when these worth cuts have been freshly carried out. However, those that have purchased a Tesla after the worth cuts are set to expertise the least depreciation. Combine this with the EV gross sales slowdown of 2024, you have bought the right recipe for used EVs to quickly depreciate.

2022 Kia EV6 GT

Related

Kia EV6 GT: Bringing Performance To Mainstream EVs

Fully dedicated to the event of its new EVs, Kia brings us this highly effective marvel, competitively priced and fiercely difficult different e-SUVs.

But, That Doesn’t Mean That The EV6 Isn’t Good

Blue Kia EV6
Kia 

Despite these elements affecting EV resale values, the EV6 is certainly not a nasty EV. It’s merely on account of exterior elements which can be past the management of the consumers and even Kia’s executives themselves which have led to the EV6 and different EVs dropping their values at a sooner charge. If you are shopping for a used EV6, you will be glad to know that you simply’re getting your self right into a extremely succesful and trendy EV that has a lot to supply, particularly at its present market worth.

A Stylish And Distinct Design

Kia EV6 Dashboard showing the carbon fiber trim
Kia

The Kia EV6 is offered from the base Wind trim, all the way in which to the potent GT model. Whatever trim you select, although, the EV6 has a rakish and fashionable exterior that blurs the traces between hatchback and crossover SUV (it’s labeled because the latter, although). The dynamic exterior design is complemented by an inside that appears simply as fashionable and is full of loads of helpful tech options. All fashions get two 12.3-inch screens, smartphone mirroring options, a luxurious inside, and premium facilities that vary from ambient LED lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and power-adjustable entrance seats with air flow, simply to call just a few.

More Than Just Transportation

Kia EV6 V2L
Kia

The Kia EV6 can be an electrical crossover SUV that gives both loads of vary or loads of efficiency. Unfortunately, not each, as a result of the EV6 GT, with its 577-horsepower dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) setup, is simply in a position to journey as much as 218 miles in line with the EPA. So whereas its 0-60 mph time of three.4 seconds is fast, its battery drains simply as shortly. For most vary, follow any of the Long Range rear-wheel drive (RWD) fashions that provide as much as 310 miles of EPA-estimated vary. Its 225-horsepower single-motor structure might take 7.2 seconds to hit 60 mph, however you will be touring additional between prices.

Finally, Kia touts its EV6’s 800-volt architecture (for the Long Range and GT fashions) that the Ioniq 5 additionally makes use of. Thanks to the bi-directional charging functionality of its E-GMP platform, the EV6 can act as an exterior energy supply to energy your home throughout an influence outage, and even present electrical power if you wish to go tenting. Additionally, that 800-volt structure permits for as much as 350 kW of DC fast charging, which implies that the 77.4 kWh battery might be charged from 10 to 80 p.c in lower than 20 minutes, assuming you could possibly discover a DC quick charger that is succesful to ship that quantity of juice.

Technology

The Biggest Strengths And Weaknesses Of America’s M1126 Stryker

While the Stryker is a confirmed automobile with quite a few successes in a number of theaters of warfare, it does have some weaknesses. There’s a tradeoff when an armored automobile is not outfitted with the thickest attainable armor. This allows maneuverability whereas buying and selling survivability, which is why you must by no means take a Stryker to a tank combat — they’re outclassed in firepower and armor, so they’re prone to all types of tank weapons.

Another drawback with the Stryker is frequent for armored automobiles — it is a rollover danger. When an armored automobile rolls over, there are quite a few hazards to the folks inside. They turn out to be indefensible targets, however greater than that, they will take a beating by means of the rollover and have problem extricating themselves from the automobile. Strykers have a excessive middle of gravity and floor clearance, so rollovers can occur out and in of fight, relying on driving situations.

Many Strykers rolled over in Iraq and Afghanistan as drivers tried to keep away from IEDs. Since IEDs can appear to be absolutely anything, drivers would swerve the automobile to keep away from trash on the aspect of the highway, whether or not it was harmful or not. Since IEDs have been the deadliest hazard in Iraq, this was a typical drawback. Fortunately, ample coaching and preparedness scale back the chance. While the Stryker has some points, its versatility out and in of fight makes it an efficient automobile that may stay operational within the stock for the foreseeable future.

Motorsport

Legendary Lamborghini Designer Marcello Gandini Has Died

Marcello Gandini, legendary designer answerable for quite a few Italian vehicles, has died, in response to RaiNews, Italy’s state-owned information outlet. He was 85 years outdated.

Gandini was best-known for his work with Lamborghini, the place he was answerable for designing poster vehicles just like the Miura, the Countach, and the Diablo. He was additionally the designer behind icons just like the Lancia Stratos, the Bugatti EB110, and the Fiat X1/9.

The Turin-born designer created his most well-known designs whereas working at Italian design home Bertone from the mid-Nineteen Sixties till 1980, penning the strains for vehicles just like the Alfa Romeo Montreal, the Maserati Khamsin, the unique Volkswagen Polo, and the Ferrari 308 GT4.

Gandini branched out and away from Bertone later in his profession, working independently with automakers like Citroën to develop the favored BX and Renault to design the now-iconic 5 Turbo hatchback. Other notable Gandini designs embrace the unique BMW 5 Series, the Lamborghini Espada, and the Cizeta-Moroder V16T.

P90349888_highRes_bmw-garmisch-05-2019
P90349882_highRes_bmw-garmisch-05-2019
P90351571_highRes_bmw-garmisch-05-2019

Even later in life Gandini continued to pursue design. He labored with TaTa Motors in 2017 to create the TaMo Racemo, a sportscar idea proven on the Geneva Motor Show. He additionally concerned himself within the industrial and furnishings design areas. In January, Gandini was awarded an honorary diploma in mechanical engineering by the Polytechnic Institute of Turin. 

A funeral chapel is being organized in Gandini’s Almese design studio, set to be held Thursday from 3:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., and Friday 10:00 A.M to 12:00 P.M. native time, in response to RaiNews. The funeral itself is anticipated to be held on Friday night or Saturday.

 
Motorsport

Porsche Macan EV Gets Augmented-Reality HUD And Up To Three Screens

The all-electric Porsche Macan is coming. We’ve seen numerous prototypes out and about during the last 12 months, and we have even driven the performance SUV, albeit in preproduction kind with the sprint coated up. Now, we lastly get to see the Macan EV’s cabin absolutely uncovered.

The inside reveal comes amid a slathering of techno-speak on the electrical Macan’s platform and powertrain, a lot of which stays conveniently imprecise. We already know concerning the twin motor structure that can generate “approximately” 600 horsepower with assist from a lithium-ion battery pack of “around 100 kWh.” We know concerning the rear-wheel steering, which turns reverse the entrance wheels under 50 mph for higher maneuverability and parallel above that threshold for extra stability.

Porsche Macan (2024): steering wheel with driving mode switch, instrument display and touchscreen
Porsche Macan (2024): The Cockpit

As for the inside, we caught a glimpse of the screen-heavy structure in spy pictures however now we are able to verify as much as three screens, plus the non-compulsory heads-up show infused with augmented actuality. That system turns the windshield right into a type of fourth display, displaying options like flip arrows or distances to automobiles in entrance. Looking by means of the glass, the projected photos seem to embody an area reaching over 30 ft in entrance, stretching 87 inches. Porsche says it is one the most important heads-up shows at present out there.

Not non-compulsory is the 12.6-inch curved digital show for the motive force. The middle infotainment display is 10.9 inches and operates in full HD, and an non-compulsory passenger show additionally measures 10.9 inches. The non-compulsory display permits the passenger to function a number of automobile techniques that may in any other case require the motive force to cease, reminiscent of sure navigation options or video streaming.

Porsche Macan 2024 electric pre-production prototype - Photo
Porsche Macan 2024 electric pre-production prototype - Photo
Porsche Macan (2024)

And there’s lots to mess around with. The Macan’s system is Android-based and might be up to date by means of the Porsche App Centre with a plethora of packages like Spotify, YouTube, and even WebEx. There are additionally video games, the Home Assistant smartphone app, and month-to-month map updates that ought to preserve the nav system buzzing. If, nevertheless, you favor Android Auto or Apple CarPlay to Porsche’s in-house programming, that is nonetheless out there right here. The Macan will even add Apple’s map or Google Maps to the motive force show as a part of the mixing.

There’s nonetheless extra to return relating to the Macan EV’s cabin. We nonetheless have but to set our eyes on the remainder of the inside, which means there’s nonetheless questions on issues like seating and cupboard space. Porsche says the Macan could have a launch date in early 2024, so we can’t have to attend for much longer for more information. 

BMW

Pure racetrack DNA: The new centrelock wheels from the BMW M Performance Parts program.

Munich. The BMW M Performance Parts program offers retrofit products that not only enhance various current BMW models but also bring a touch of motorsport feeling to the high-performance sports cars of the BMW M GmbH. One such example of technology directly transferred from the racetrack to the road is the centrelock wheels, which are available for selected high-performance automobiles. These lightweight forged wheels are outstanding highlights in the BMW M Performance Parts range, featuring a design and functionality optimized for performance.

The centrelock wheels, equipped with optimized weight and technology adapted from motorsport, emphasize the high-performance character of the vehicles they are fitted on. These wheels are particularly significant in the special edition BMW 3.0 CSL, which is part of the specifically tuned racetrack performance chassis technology and sold in a limited edition of 50 units to mark the 50th anniversary of BMW M GmbH. Currently, BMW M Performance centrelock wheels are available for the BMW M2, BMW M3 Touring Competition with M xDrive, BMW M3 Sedan, BMW M4 Coupe, and BMW M4 Convertible in the Original BMW Accessories program.

BMW M Performance centrelock wheel: Wheel change like the pros.

The centrelock wheels were initially developed for motorsport to enable fast wheel changes and short pit stops. Unlike conventional wheels, each wheel is attached to the wheel hub with only one central screw instead of the usual five. The installation of the central locks ensures an extremely solid connection by applying a torque of 930 Nm. This technology not only facilitates quick wheel changes but also reduces rotating masses and enhances the exclusive appearance through a distinctive design in the hub area.

The M Performance centrelock wheels are available as a combined set with 19-inch wheels for the front axle and 20-inch wheels for the rear axle. These lightweight forged wheels in Y-spoke design, finished in Jet Black matte color, are adorned with milled M Performance lettering and come equipped with tires in dimensions 275/35 ZR19 for the front and 285/30 ZR20 for the rear.

Individual motorsport characteristics for exterior and interior.

In addition to the centrelock wheels, the BMW M Performance Parts program offers other products designed based on the development expertise and over five decades of motorsport experience of the BMW M GmbH. This diverse range includes retrofit options in the areas of suspension, drivetrain, aerodynamics, and cockpit, allowing for a performance-oriented customization and delivering a racetrack feeling in everyday traffic. Options such as the M Performance suspension with height-adjustable spring perches and the M Performance sport brake system are available to enhance the dynamics and agility of BMW M cars.

Furthermore, the athletic appearance of BMW M cars can be further enhanced with model-specific carbon components made mostly of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and sealed with clear lacquer for a high-quality finish. Model-specific options such as the M Performance front attachment carbon, the M Performance rear diffuser, or the M Performance side sill insert carbon contribute to giving the vehicle a characterful racing style.

The BMW M Performance Parts also bring their uncompromising quality and special aesthetics into the interior of the vehicle. High-quality carbon and Alcantara elements convey the motorsport genes of BMW M into the cockpit. M Performance knee pads with an Alcantara surface offer improved grip during dynamic cornering. The M Performance steering wheel Pro and the M Performance armrest Alcantara provide optimal conditions for an intense driving experience.

Official fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures were determined based on the prescribed measurement procedure in accordance with European Regulation (EC) 2007/715 in the version applicable. Where a range is shown, the WLTP figures take into account the impact of any optional extras.

Only official figures based on the WLTP procedure are available for new models that have been type tested since 01.01.2021. In addition, according to EU Regulation 2022/195, the NEDC values will no longer be included in the EC certificates of conformity as of 01.01.2023. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: ‘Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen’ (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

Please contact for any inquiries:

Press and Public Relations

Martin Schleypen, Product Communications BMW M Automobiles

Telefon: +49-89-382-37889

E-Mail: Martin.Schleypen@bmwgroup.com

Alexandra Landers, Head of Product Communications BMW

Telefon: +49-89-382-30871

E-Mail: Alexandra.Landers@bmw.de

Internet: www.press.bmwgroup.com

E-Mail: presse@bmw.de

Desktops, Laptops

How To Install MacOS Sonoma On Your Mac (And Which New Features You’ll Get)

If you’re wondering why you should update your Mac to macOS Sonoma, it’s because of the multitude of new features and improvements that Apple has added to its operating system. These enhancements range from better gaming performance with Game Mode to improved personalization and design options like desktop widgets and slow-motion screensavers.

Among the notable changes in this update are more accurate autocorrect fixes, in-line text predictions, Sensitive Content warnings in Messages (including select non-Apple messaging apps), a security feature called Lockdown Mode for high-risk users, optimizations to screen sharing, faster automatic switching for AirPods users, and a Presenter Overlay feature that allows users to share both their screen and webcam video simultaneously.

For users with unique accessibility needs, Apple has expanded its Accessibility features. This includes Personal Voice for users who have difficulty speaking, which is integrated with the Live Speech feature. Additionally, deaf users can now use Made for iPhone hearing devices with their Mac computer.

News

Why Nissan Should Launch The Hardbody Pickup Truck As An EV

The EV revolution has brought numerous innovations and surprises. It has also seen the return of gas-powered veterans as electric powertrains take over the market. In line with upcoming regulations and pending laws, it is the smartest decision for manufacturers to maintain the legacy of their successful models. This is why we believe Nissan should turn the Hardbody into an electric vehicle (EV). The Hardbody is making a comeback in 2024 with an internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrain as a tribute to its iconic predecessor from the 1980s and 1990s.

In September 2023, Nissan teased the return of the 2024 Hardbody styling on the new Frontier. The production model shares many similarities with the Project Hardbody concept displayed at the 2022 Chicago auto show. The Hardbody package will only be available on the SV Crew Cab 4×4 variant of the Frontier.

We believe that Nissan, in its pursuit of full carbon neutrality by 2050 and full electrification in key markets by 2030, should consider launching an electric version of the Hardbody. Currently, electric pickup trucks have limited range and face challenges in harsh weather conditions. This presents an opportunity for Nissan to enter the electric pickup truck market by equipping the Frontier Hardbody with a new powertrain. With good marketing and an adequate range, the electric Hardbody could rival popular offerings in the market.

Nissan is in need of a successful EV as it currently has limited offerings in the electric segment. The Nissan Leaf, for example, has a low range, and the Nissan Ariya is average compared to competitors. By transforming the Frontier into an EV, Nissan can showcase improved performance and compete with brands like Rivian and Tesla in the electric pickup truck market. Additionally, the Frontier Hardbody could serve as a platform to showcase Nissan’s solid-state battery technology, offering increased range and durability ideal for off-roading.

The Hardbody has a rich history as an off-roading legend, known for its unique design and powerful engine. By launching an electric version, Nissan can preserve its legacy while providing unparalleled specs and performance. It is crucial for Nissan to strike a balance and avoid overly modernizing the Hardbody’s design, preserving its ruggedness and appeal.

Motorsport

2024 Mini Cooper EV Fully Revealed As Urban Three-Door Hatchback

The all-new electric Mini Cooper, which has been the subject of numerous leaks and official information over the past six months, has finally been fully revealed by the BMW-owned British brand.

The zero-emissions three-door hatch, officially named Mini Cooper, will make its public debut at IAA 2023 in Munich on September 5. It will be available in two versions: Mini Cooper E and Mini Cooper SE.

The base version of the Mini Cooper EV features a front-mounted electric motor that generates 181 horsepower (135 kilowatts) and 213 pound-feet (290 Newton-meters) of torque. This allows the battery-powered hatch to accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 7.3 seconds.


Motorsport

Watch Audi R8 GT Drag Race R8 Spyder With AWD, RWD R8 Coupe

Audi has produced multiple versions of its R8 supercar since its launch in 2007. The R8 has been available as a coupe and convertible, with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. A new video showcases three different versions of the R8 – the GT, the R8 Performance Quattro Spyder, and the R8 Performance RWD – competing against each other to determine how their distinctions play out on the track.

All three R8 supercars share the same 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, although their output differs. The R8 GT generates 620 horsepower and 418 pound-feet (565 Newton-meters) of torque. The R8 Performance Spyder also generates the aforementioned horsepower, but with more torque at 427 lb-ft (580 Nm).


Motorsport

Federal Government Pushes for More Seat Belt Warning Systems in Vehicles

In the pursuit of road safety, seat belts have consistently played a crucial role in protecting lives. These simple yet lifesaving devices have evolved over time and have proven to be instrumental in reducing injuries and preventing fatalities. Recognizing their significance, the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is proposing a new rule that would make seat belt use warning systems mandatory.

Despite widespread awareness of the importance of seat belts, there is still a pressing need to increase usage. To tackle this challenge, the NHTSA is proposing a rule that would require advanced seat belt warning systems in passenger cars, trucks, most buses, and multipurpose passenger vehicles with a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or less. This rule goes beyond the existing seat belt warning system by mandating visual and audible alerts not just for the driver’s seat but also for other seating positions.

The statistics are alarming: in 2021, nearly 43,000 lives were lost on US roads, with half of those fatalities occurring in unbelted vehicles. If implemented, the proposed rule could serve as a powerful measure to counter this grim reality. By enhancing seat belt warning systems, the goal of the NHTSA is to foster a culture of safety and responsibility, urging individuals to always buckle up for their own protection.

It is important to emphasize that seat belts have a proven track record of reducing the risk of fatality and injury. The NHTSA estimates that the proposed requirements could prevent approximately 300 non-fatal injuries and over 100 fatalities each year. While seat belt usage rates have improved significantly over the past decade, there is still room for improvement, especially for rear-seat passengers who consistently have lower usage rates compared to front-seat occupants.

Just recently, the NHTSA introduced another significant proposition by requiring automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems in passenger vehicles. Building on this progress, the agency’s vision extends to include heavy-duty trucks and buses, which have a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding 10,000 pounds. This expansion could have a tremendous impact, estimated to save 155 lives annually and prevent 8,814 injuries. This technology-driven approach aims to address the high number of rear-end crashes, targeting over 19,000 incidents involving heavy-duty vehicles every year.