Author: john@provenroi.com
The automotive industry is currently experiencing a significant era of consolidation, largely driven by the rise of electric vehicles. This trend has been building up for some time, with notable mergers like Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group forming Stellantis a few years ago. However, the recent announcement of Honda and Nissan entering into merger talks has truly rung the bell for the next phase of consolidation in the industry. The Honda-Nissan merger is a significant development that sheds light on the future direction of the automotive business. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore a business…
Rolls-Royce has always been known for the quietness of its luxury cars, with names like Phantom, Ghost, and Spectre. So, introducing a near-silent electric powertrain seems like a natural progression. One of the companies leading this trend is U.K.-based Evice, offering electric conversions for classic cars. Their first project, a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow sedan known as XP1, is a prototype for a conversion package for both the Silver Shadow and Corniche convertible, set to be available to customers in Spring 2026. The prototype features a 77-kWh battery pack with an estimated range of over 200 miles and an 800-volt electrical…
Subaru’s Solterra EV to Get Significant Price Cut in 2025 Subaru is set to release the 2025 Solterra, their sole electric vehicle in the U.S., with a much more affordable price tag. The new model will be up to $7,000 cheaper depending on the trim level, making it a more attractive option for eco-conscious consumers. The upcoming 2025 Subaru Solterra will see a significant price reduction compared to the outgoing model. Despite no new features being added, the price cut is a welcome change for potential buyers. The new model year introduces a top-of-the-line trim level called the Touring Onyx…
One possibility is that Tesla is working on a larger robotaxi, potentially a bus or shuttle, that could accommodate more passengers. This would align with von Holzhausen’s comments about future vehicles that could take multiple passengers. A larger robotaxi could cater to groups of people traveling together, such as families or coworkers, and would fill the gap left by the two-seater Cybercab. Another option could be a modular robotaxi platform that allows for different configurations based on passenger needs. Tesla could develop a base platform that can be easily customized to accommodate different numbers of passengers, making it a versatile…
This Cobra kit car EV conversion is truly a sight to behold. With a powertrain and battery pack sourced from a Tesla Plaid, this vehicle packs a punch with over 1,000 horsepower. The combination of power and reduced weight, at 1,450 pounds lighter than a Model S Plaid, results in acceleration that can induce whiplash. The custom controller developed by Ingenext allows the three-motor powertrain to function seamlessly in the Cobra. The result is not only impressive but also a bit intimidating. The acceleration is so intense that even with slick tires, the all-wheel-drive system struggles to put all the…
General Motors Recalls 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EVs Due to Quiet Pedestrian Warning Systems General Motors is recalling certain 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EVs because their federally mandated pedestrian warning systems may not be loud enough. The recall includes 7,606 vehicles, which may have incorrect software and thus not produce warning sounds at sufficient volume to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 141, according to the NHTSA. So-called “quiet car” rules that require electric vehicles and hybrids to emit warning noises at low speeds were first proposed in 2010 over concerns that a lack of engine noise would make…
Buzz”> US-Spec 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz After successfully navigating through several charging stops, the team finally reached their destination after a total of eight charging stops. The trip took much longer than anticipated due to the charging issues and the winter storm conditions, but they made it. Despite the challenges, they were impressed with the comfort and interior of the ID.Buzz, as well as its handling on the road. While the Volkswagen ID.Buzz may not have the longest range compared to some other electric vehicles on the market, it’s important to consider all aspects of a road trip, including charging infrastructure,…
The automotive industry was abuzz with speculation when news of a potential merger between Honda and Nissan surfaced. The question on everyone’s mind was, “Why?” Nissan’s financial struggles were well-known, but for Honda to consider a merger with its competitor was unexpected. However, recent reports suggest that Honda’s interest in Nissan could be a strategic move to prevent a hostile takeover. The latest installment of Critical Materials brings us updates on the potential merger between Honda and Nissan. Talks of a merger between the two automotive giants are rumored to enter the negotiation phase as early as next week. This…
The Tesla Cybertruck Recalled Again for TPMS Issue The Tesla Cybertruck is facing another recall, this time due to a problem with its tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The issue involves the TPMS light not staying on, which can prevent drivers from receiving warnings about low tire pressure. This latest recall affects a total of 694,304 vehicles, including the 2024 Cybertruck, as well as 2017-2025 Tesla Model 3 sedans and 2020-2025 Tesla Model Y SUVs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that a software update inadvertently reset the TPMS warning light, causing it not to reappear after the…
Tesla has recently announced a safety issue affecting nearly 700,000 of its vehicles, including certain Model 3s, Model Ys, and the 2024 Cybertruck. The problem lies with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which was not keeping the alert visible between trips when the vehicle was turned off or in sleep mode. This noncompliance with U.S. federal safety regulations posed a potential risk of accidents, as drivers may not be aware of tire issues. Fortunately, Tesla detected the issue during routine testing in November 2024 and promptly released a free software update on November 12, 2024, to address the issue.…