Lawmakers to Question Ford, GM, and Stellantis Executives About Pricing, Regulations, EV Policies, and Trade Issues 9 hours ago by Stephen Rivers The CEOs of Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis are set to testify before Congress in January. The hearing will concentrate on pricing, regulations, EV policies, and trade discussions. Senator Ted Cruz describes the session as a necessary reality check regarding affordability standards. For the first time in nearly two decades, the leaders of Ford, GM, and Stellantis will convene before Congress. The Senate Commerce Committee has summoned Ford's Jim Farley, GM's Mary Barra, and Stellantis' Antonio Filosa to provide testimony on January 14, in a prominent hearing examining the automotive industry's perspective on federal transportation policy and vehicle affordability. The discussion will also address the challenging transition to electrification, a topic that continues to generate division among policymakers and automakers alike. Tesla's VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has been invited to contribute his insights on this subject. More: Lawmakers Seek Explanations From Hertz Regarding AI Rental Damage System The last time the CEOs of these three Detroit automakers appeared together on Capitol Hill was in late 2008, during the financial crisis, bailout discussions, and a time when the industry’s future appeared quite uncertain. The current pressure points may differ, but they remain equally significant. Why Bring Them Together Now? Senator Ted Cruz, who is leading the hearing, has dubbed it “Pedal to the Policy: The Views of the American Auto Industry on the Upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization.” According to reports from the Union-Bulletin, the hearing will address fuel economy and emissions mandates, tariffs, federal EV policies, new vehicle pricing, and how automakers intend to navigate the coming decade. Cruz characterizes the gathering as a long-overdue assessment of affordability. “The average price of a car has more than doubled over the past ten years,” stated Cruz, attributing this surge to “burdensome government-mandated technologies and extreme environmental regulations.” What’s Driving Up Costs? It’s evident that the average transaction price (ATP) for new vehicles is significantly elevated at present. Data from Cox Automotive indicates that it surpassed $50,000 in September. A decade prior, that number was in the low $30,000s. Analysts suggest that various factors, not limited to regulation, contribute to this trend. Inflation, tariffs, premium trims, and an increased number of EVs on the market all play a role. Additionally: EVs Now Move Faster Than Gas Cars in the Used Market Republicans assert that earlier policy changes, such as the repeal of federal EV mandates and CAFE targets under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, are steps toward reducing prices. However, Cruz contends that lawmakers need to take further action. This discussion occurs at a crucial time for the U.S. automotive landscape. The debate arises as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is approaching renewal or renegotiation by July 1. If it is not renewed, the consequences could lead to increased vehicle costs, regardless of any new legislation.

Lawmakers to Question Ford, GM, and Stellantis Executives About Pricing, Regulations, EV Policies, and Trade Issues 9 hours ago by Stephen Rivers The CEOs of Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis are set to testify before Congress in January. The hearing will concentrate on pricing, regulations, EV policies, and trade discussions. Senator Ted Cruz describes the session as a necessary reality check regarding affordability standards. For the first time in nearly two decades, the leaders of Ford, GM, and Stellantis will convene before Congress. The Senate Commerce Committee has summoned Ford's Jim Farley, GM's Mary Barra, and Stellantis' Antonio Filosa to provide testimony on January 14, in a prominent hearing examining the automotive industry's perspective on federal transportation policy and vehicle affordability. The discussion will also address the challenging transition to electrification, a topic that continues to generate division among policymakers and automakers alike. Tesla's VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has been invited to contribute his insights on this subject. More: Lawmakers Seek Explanations From Hertz Regarding AI Rental Damage System The last time the CEOs of these three Detroit automakers appeared together on Capitol Hill was in late 2008, during the financial crisis, bailout discussions, and a time when the industry’s future appeared quite uncertain. The current pressure points may differ, but they remain equally significant. Why Bring Them Together Now? Senator Ted Cruz, who is leading the hearing, has dubbed it “Pedal to the Policy: The Views of the American Auto Industry on the Upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization.” According to reports from the Union-Bulletin, the hearing will address fuel economy and emissions mandates, tariffs, federal EV policies, new vehicle pricing, and how automakers intend to navigate the coming decade. Cruz characterizes the gathering as a long-overdue assessment of affordability. “The average price of a car has more than doubled over the past ten years,” stated Cruz, attributing this surge to “burdensome government-mandated technologies and extreme environmental regulations.” What’s Driving Up Costs? It’s evident that the average transaction price (ATP) for new vehicles is significantly elevated at present. Data from Cox Automotive indicates that it surpassed $50,000 in September. A decade prior, that number was in the low $30,000s. Analysts suggest that various factors, not limited to regulation, contribute to this trend. Inflation, tariffs, premium trims, and an increased number of EVs on the market all play a role. Additionally: EVs Now Move Faster Than Gas Cars in the Used Market Republicans assert that earlier policy changes, such as the repeal of federal EV mandates and CAFE targets under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, are steps toward reducing prices. However, Cruz contends that lawmakers need to take further action. This discussion occurs at a crucial time for the U.S. automotive landscape. The debate arises as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is approaching renewal or renegotiation by July 1. If it is not renewed, the consequences could lead to increased vehicle costs, regardless of any new legislation.

      A viral video featuring a Robotaxi safety driver who appeared to be sleeping while on duty in California has sparked renewed discussions about the safety protocols for autonomous vehicles.

      The incident captured included footage of the safety driver seemingly dozing off during a ride in the Bay Area. It was noted that Tesla does not possess the necessary permits in California to run fully driverless Robotaxis. A witness reported that the driver fell asleep on at least three occasions.

      Tesla's introduction of its Robotaxi service has faced numerous challenges since its much-anticipated launch in Austin, Texas, in June. Elon Musk had claimed that by the end of the year, half of the U.S. populace would access the service, but this goal appears increasingly doubtful, especially following the emergence of videos showing safety drivers sleeping on the job.

      The recently shared clip on Reddit depicts the driver dozing at the wheel, his head lowered as the Tesla approached an intersection in the Bay Area. He is only startled awake by a warning sound from the vehicle’s monitoring system.

      To be fair, it can be quite easy to doze off in such a setting, with the soothing hum of an electric vehicle. Nevertheless, that is precisely the driver’s responsibility.

      According to the Reddit user who posted the video, the safety driver fell asleep multiple times during the journey. Though he reported the incident via the Robotaxi app, he received no response, leading him to share the video online.

      The situation raises concerns about the necessity of safety drivers. In California, the presence of safety drivers is crucial, as Tesla lacks the authorization to operate without one. Unlike in Texas, where a completely driverless operation is allowed with a monitor in the passenger seat, California mandates that all Robotaxis have a safety driver at the helm.

      Additionally, another Reddit commenter claimed to have experienced a similar situation with the same driver, stating he was dozing throughout a one-hour ride from Temescal to San Francisco.

Lawmakers to Question Ford, GM, and Stellantis Executives About Pricing, Regulations, EV Policies, and Trade Issues 9 hours ago by Stephen Rivers The CEOs of Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis are set to testify before Congress in January. The hearing will concentrate on pricing, regulations, EV policies, and trade discussions. Senator Ted Cruz describes the session as a necessary reality check regarding affordability standards. For the first time in nearly two decades, the leaders of Ford, GM, and Stellantis will convene before Congress. The Senate Commerce Committee has summoned Ford's Jim Farley, GM's Mary Barra, and Stellantis' Antonio Filosa to provide testimony on January 14, in a prominent hearing examining the automotive industry's perspective on federal transportation policy and vehicle affordability. The discussion will also address the challenging transition to electrification, a topic that continues to generate division among policymakers and automakers alike. Tesla's VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has been invited to contribute his insights on this subject. More: Lawmakers Seek Explanations From Hertz Regarding AI Rental Damage System The last time the CEOs of these three Detroit automakers appeared together on Capitol Hill was in late 2008, during the financial crisis, bailout discussions, and a time when the industry’s future appeared quite uncertain. The current pressure points may differ, but they remain equally significant. Why Bring Them Together Now? Senator Ted Cruz, who is leading the hearing, has dubbed it “Pedal to the Policy: The Views of the American Auto Industry on the Upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization.” According to reports from the Union-Bulletin, the hearing will address fuel economy and emissions mandates, tariffs, federal EV policies, new vehicle pricing, and how automakers intend to navigate the coming decade. Cruz characterizes the gathering as a long-overdue assessment of affordability. “The average price of a car has more than doubled over the past ten years,” stated Cruz, attributing this surge to “burdensome government-mandated technologies and extreme environmental regulations.” What’s Driving Up Costs? It’s evident that the average transaction price (ATP) for new vehicles is significantly elevated at present. Data from Cox Automotive indicates that it surpassed $50,000 in September. A decade prior, that number was in the low $30,000s. Analysts suggest that various factors, not limited to regulation, contribute to this trend. Inflation, tariffs, premium trims, and an increased number of EVs on the market all play a role. Additionally: EVs Now Move Faster Than Gas Cars in the Used Market Republicans assert that earlier policy changes, such as the repeal of federal EV mandates and CAFE targets under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, are steps toward reducing prices. However, Cruz contends that lawmakers need to take further action. This discussion occurs at a crucial time for the U.S. automotive landscape. The debate arises as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is approaching renewal or renegotiation by July 1. If it is not renewed, the consequences could lead to increased vehicle costs, regardless of any new legislation. Lawmakers to Question Ford, GM, and Stellantis Executives About Pricing, Regulations, EV Policies, and Trade Issues 9 hours ago by Stephen Rivers The CEOs of Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis are set to testify before Congress in January. The hearing will concentrate on pricing, regulations, EV policies, and trade discussions. Senator Ted Cruz describes the session as a necessary reality check regarding affordability standards. For the first time in nearly two decades, the leaders of Ford, GM, and Stellantis will convene before Congress. The Senate Commerce Committee has summoned Ford's Jim Farley, GM's Mary Barra, and Stellantis' Antonio Filosa to provide testimony on January 14, in a prominent hearing examining the automotive industry's perspective on federal transportation policy and vehicle affordability. The discussion will also address the challenging transition to electrification, a topic that continues to generate division among policymakers and automakers alike. Tesla's VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has been invited to contribute his insights on this subject. More: Lawmakers Seek Explanations From Hertz Regarding AI Rental Damage System The last time the CEOs of these three Detroit automakers appeared together on Capitol Hill was in late 2008, during the financial crisis, bailout discussions, and a time when the industry’s future appeared quite uncertain. The current pressure points may differ, but they remain equally significant. Why Bring Them Together Now? Senator Ted Cruz, who is leading the hearing, has dubbed it “Pedal to the Policy: The Views of the American Auto Industry on the Upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization.” According to reports from the Union-Bulletin, the hearing will address fuel economy and emissions mandates, tariffs, federal EV policies, new vehicle pricing, and how automakers intend to navigate the coming decade. Cruz characterizes the gathering as a long-overdue assessment of affordability. “The average price of a car has more than doubled over the past ten years,” stated Cruz, attributing this surge to “burdensome government-mandated technologies and extreme environmental regulations.” What’s Driving Up Costs? It’s evident that the average transaction price (ATP) for new vehicles is significantly elevated at present. Data from Cox Automotive indicates that it surpassed $50,000 in September. A decade prior, that number was in the low $30,000s. Analysts suggest that various factors, not limited to regulation, contribute to this trend. Inflation, tariffs, premium trims, and an increased number of EVs on the market all play a role. Additionally: EVs Now Move Faster Than Gas Cars in the Used Market Republicans assert that earlier policy changes, such as the repeal of federal EV mandates and CAFE targets under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, are steps toward reducing prices. However, Cruz contends that lawmakers need to take further action. This discussion occurs at a crucial time for the U.S. automotive landscape. The debate arises as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is approaching renewal or renegotiation by July 1. If it is not renewed, the consequences could lead to increased vehicle costs, regardless of any new legislation.

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CEOs of the Detroit Three to Appear Before Congress for the First Time in Decades Due to Rising Car Prices | Carscoops CEOs of the Detroit Three to Appear Before Congress for the First Time in Decades Due to Rising Car Prices | Carscoops Lawmakers will interrogate the leaders of Ford, GM, and Stellantis regarding pricing, regulations, electric vehicle policy, and trade matters. Stellantis The latest in car news and reviews, no nonsense. Subscribe to our free daily newsletter for the most important stories delivered to you every weekday. With the new Recon, Jeep seeks to introduce some Wrangler-like versatility to electric SUVs. While you can indeed remove the doors, one of the subtler yet still innovative features reflecting this spirit can be seen in the interior trim. Upon inspecting the door pockets, you'll notice robust elastic straps designed to hold items, secured to the door with Torx bolts. This hardware serves a purpose beyond aesthetics—it is actually removable. In fact, Jeep embraces any rearrangements you decide to make or what you place there in replacement. When asked about his favorite feature of the Recon’s design, Ryan Nagode, Vice President and Head of Interior Design for Stellantis North America, highlighted this aspect. “I appreciate the accessory straps we incorporated into the doors and center console,” Nagode stated to The Drive during the SUV's launch event. “You can remove them, switch from criss-cross to straight straps, allowing individuals to have fun creating their own systems and accessories. For instance, they could design a unique holder for their favorite water bottle.” Stellantis The ability to modify the straps is impressive, and a closer look at the center console reveals the same bolts, albeit without any elastic. However, Nagode envisions that more innovative owners will 3D print custom accessories and attach them using these mounting points. “The flexibility exists,” he remarked, for users to either reconfigure what's available or personalize the space. This concept was naturally inspired by the Wrangler. “We observe the Jeep lineup—particularly the Wrangler over the years, which has been heavily accessorized. It's one of our most customizable vehicles,” Nagode commented. While the community should easily be able to take charge of their own customization, when asked if Mopar would provide any accessories for that space, the interior design chief was hopeful. “I think this will give us the opportunity to have fun in the years ahead,” he suggested. Got a tip? Email us at [email protected] Stellantis The latest in car news and reviews, no nonsense. Subscribe to our free daily newsletter for the most important stories delivered to you every weekday. With the new Recon, Jeep seeks to introduce some Wrangler-like versatility to electric SUVs. While you can indeed remove the doors, one of the subtler yet still innovative features reflecting this spirit can be seen in the interior trim. Upon inspecting the door pockets, you'll notice robust elastic straps designed to hold items, secured to the door with Torx bolts. This hardware serves a purpose beyond aesthetics—it is actually removable. In fact, Jeep embraces any rearrangements you decide to make or what you place there in replacement. When asked about his favorite feature of the Recon’s design, Ryan Nagode, Vice President and Head of Interior Design for Stellantis North America, highlighted this aspect. “I appreciate the accessory straps we incorporated into the doors and center console,” Nagode stated to The Drive during the SUV's launch event. “You can remove them, switch from criss-cross to straight straps, allowing individuals to have fun creating their own systems and accessories. For instance, they could design a unique holder for their favorite water bottle.” Stellantis The ability to modify the straps is impressive, and a closer look at the center console reveals the same bolts, albeit without any elastic. However, Nagode envisions that more innovative owners will 3D print custom accessories and attach them using these mounting points. “The flexibility exists,” he remarked, for users to either reconfigure what's available or personalize the space. This concept was naturally inspired by the Wrangler. “We observe the Jeep lineup—particularly the Wrangler over the years, which has been heavily accessorized. It's one of our most customizable vehicles,” Nagode commented. While the community should easily be able to take charge of their own customization, when asked if Mopar would provide any accessories for that space, the interior design chief was hopeful. “I think this will give us the opportunity to have fun in the years ahead,” he suggested. Got a tip? Email us at [email protected] Milwaukee tools, batteries, and accessories are currently available at discounted prices for Black Friday on Walmart's website. The Interior of the Jeep Recon Was Designed for Customization. The Interior of the Jeep Recon Was Designed for Customization. The Jeep Recon features actual bolts and straps within the interior that can be rearranged or taken out, allowing you to attach your own accessories. For only $99, you can purchase a $200, 280-piece Husky mechanic tool set during The Home Depot's Early Black Friday Sale. For only $99, you can purchase a $200, 280-piece Husky mechanic tool set during The Home Depot's Early Black Friday Sale. This early Black Friday offer cuts 50% off the Husky 280-Piece Mechanics Tool Set. You can grab $200 worth of tools for only $99, but hurry, this is while supplies last. New Nissan Navara Relies on Mitsubishi to Compete with Hilux and Ranger | Carscoops New Nissan Navara Relies on Mitsubishi to Compete with Hilux and Ranger | Carscoops Nissan aims to persuade us that the new Navara is more than merely a Mitsubishi Triton with a different exterior. Bollinger Motors Has Ceased Paying Its Invoices. Bollinger Motors Has Ceased Paying Its Invoices. Various sources suggest that the electric commercial truck company based in Michigan is falling apart.

Lawmakers to Question Ford, GM, and Stellantis Executives About Pricing, Regulations, EV Policies, and Trade Issues 9 hours ago by Stephen Rivers The CEOs of Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis are set to testify before Congress in January. The hearing will concentrate on pricing, regulations, EV policies, and trade discussions. Senator Ted Cruz describes the session as a necessary reality check regarding affordability standards. For the first time in nearly two decades, the leaders of Ford, GM, and Stellantis will convene before Congress. The Senate Commerce Committee has summoned Ford's Jim Farley, GM's Mary Barra, and Stellantis' Antonio Filosa to provide testimony on January 14, in a prominent hearing examining the automotive industry's perspective on federal transportation policy and vehicle affordability. The discussion will also address the challenging transition to electrification, a topic that continues to generate division among policymakers and automakers alike. Tesla's VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has been invited to contribute his insights on this subject. More: Lawmakers Seek Explanations From Hertz Regarding AI Rental Damage System The last time the CEOs of these three Detroit automakers appeared together on Capitol Hill was in late 2008, during the financial crisis, bailout discussions, and a time when the industry’s future appeared quite uncertain. The current pressure points may differ, but they remain equally significant. Why Bring Them Together Now? Senator Ted Cruz, who is leading the hearing, has dubbed it “Pedal to the Policy: The Views of the American Auto Industry on the Upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization.” According to reports from the Union-Bulletin, the hearing will address fuel economy and emissions mandates, tariffs, federal EV policies, new vehicle pricing, and how automakers intend to navigate the coming decade. Cruz characterizes the gathering as a long-overdue assessment of affordability. “The average price of a car has more than doubled over the past ten years,” stated Cruz, attributing this surge to “burdensome government-mandated technologies and extreme environmental regulations.” What’s Driving Up Costs? It’s evident that the average transaction price (ATP) for new vehicles is significantly elevated at present. Data from Cox Automotive indicates that it surpassed $50,000 in September. A decade prior, that number was in the low $30,000s. Analysts suggest that various factors, not limited to regulation, contribute to this trend. Inflation, tariffs, premium trims, and an increased number of EVs on the market all play a role. Additionally: EVs Now Move Faster Than Gas Cars in the Used Market Republicans assert that earlier policy changes, such as the repeal of federal EV mandates and CAFE targets under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, are steps toward reducing prices. However, Cruz contends that lawmakers need to take further action. This discussion occurs at a crucial time for the U.S. automotive landscape. The debate arises as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is approaching renewal or renegotiation by July 1. If it is not renewed, the consequences could lead to increased vehicle costs, regardless of any new legislation.

A viral video featuring a Robotaxi safety driver who seemed to be sleeping in California has sparked renewed discussion about the safety practices for autonomous vehicles.