Hyundai Seeks Success with the Electric Staria Van Where the VW ID Buzz Did Not: TDS

      Alex Tapley

      The latest car news and reviews, no nonsense

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      Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.

      TDS is concise and straightforward, compiling the most recent automotive headlines from around the world in one location. Each story is summarized in one sentence with a link for those wanting more details.

      🚨 A quick note: this morning, we’ll unveil a redesigned homepage. I recognize that the current design is only a year and a half old, but things are changing rapidly in these unpredictable times. More importantly, this redesign aims to highlight more content at the top of the page for your convenience. Why is this important? It means less scrolling and easier navigation for you. The redesign will maintain a familiar feel with the same menu layout and color scheme. Your feedback is encouraged, and we will keep adjusting it as we move forward. Today marks the initial version of the design, with additional refinements already underway. Feel free to share your thoughts at [email protected].

      My first cup of coffee is gone, and I'm certainly ready for another, so let's dive in.

      🚘 What I’m driving: I spent the weekend in the Polestar 4 and realized that while I’m not fond of the absence of a rear window and reliance on a rearview camera stream, including an actual rear window would have severely limited visibility.

      ⭐️ Hyundai introduced an electric version of its futuristic Staria van in Europe, featuring a rapid 800-volt electrical architecture that allows it to charge from 10-80% in just 20 minutes, unlike the VW ID Buzz. It remains uncertain if the Staria EV will be available in the U.S., but Hyundai did promote its unveiling on its U.S. media site, which is somewhat unusual for a European launch.

      👨‍💼 Lucid’s interim CEO, Marc Winterhoff, stated that automakers need to better communicate the technological advantages of EVs along with the packaging benefits to consumers.

      🪦 Speculation regarding the demise of the Genesis G70 may have been exaggerated, as a new report suggests the company might give the sport sedan an additional facelift.

      ⛽️ Chinese automaker GWM showcased two gas-powered eight-cylinder engines at CES in Las Vegas, including a 2.0-liter flat-eight designed for motorcycles and a 4.0-liter V8.

      🪽 An Alfa Romeo Giulia featuring an impressive wing inspired by hydrofoils from racing sailboats was unveiled.

      🧱 Lego has introduced two new Bugatti kits as part of its Speed Champions collection.

      💸 Waymo is offering $20 to $40 to individuals who will close car doors.

      🖼️ GM’s new headquarters in Detroit has opened, and its design is said to pay tribute to its heritage while incorporating modern amenities within a midcentury modern aesthetic.

      🏎️ Hans Herrmann, Porsche’s first Le Mans champion, passed away at the age of 97.

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