It is also possible that Mercedes could bring another manufacturer on board in order to enjoy a lower combined fleet average and avoid EU-imposed fines. Fiat Chrysler and Tesla signed a similar agreement in April, which allows FCA to count Tesla’s EV-only models as part of its fleet, thereby lowering its average CO2 output. Mercedes is one of a number of manufacturers being forced to consider drastic line-up reshuffles to meet the quotas. Despite the recent launch of its EQC electric SUV – and the imminent arrival of the cheaper EQA – the maker cannot rely on its relatively low-volume EV sales to offset the environmental impact of its conventionally fuelled cars. Max Warburton told the FT that if the industry sold the same mix of vehicles in 2021 as it did last year, car makers would face €25bn (£21.2bn) in
Origin: Report: Mercedes could restrict 75% of AMG range in 2020
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CUSMA trade deal could keep auto jobs in Canada, but car prices could rise
Workers are seen at the FCA Windsor Assembly Plant on Oct. 5, 2018 in Windsor.JEFF KOWALSKY / AFP/Getty Images A new trade deal between Canada, Mexico and the United States has taken a major step toward implementation, and it looks like it could be good news for the auto industry.The agreement which the Canadian government calls CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) but which the U.S., unsurprisingly, refers to as the USMCA will replace NAFTA (the North American Free Trade Agreement), which has been around since 1994.All three countries had tentatively agreed on the deal in 2018 but wanted several amendments, including on automotive rules of origin.The two American political parties have finally agreed on the terms, while Chrystia Freeland, Canadas Deputy Prime Minister, signed on to the amendments yesterday. Mexico has also stated it is satisfied with the new agreement.The CUSMA deal now has to be ratified by all three countries, which could potentially happen as early as the end of 2019. In the U.S., General Motors and Ford issued statements approving the deal, as did the president of Canadas Unifor auto workers union, who told Automotive News Canada that it could level the playing field between Canada and Mexico.Among the agreements rules are a requirement that 70 per cent of the aluminum used in North American-built cars be of North American origin. The amount of domestic steel is also mandated, and the amendment tightens up the definition of exactly what constitutes North American steel.Under NAFTA, 62.5 per cent of a cars components had to be made in North America in order to move duty-free between the three countries. Under the new agreement, that will rise to 75 per cent by 2023. The deal also prevents the U.S. from imposing future tariffs on specified numbers of Canadian- and Mexican-built auto parts.At least 30 per cent of a vehicle must be made by workers who earn more than US$16 per hour, and Mexican workers will have the right to demand fair pay and freely form unions. An inter-agency committee will be put in place to inspect factories suspected of having poor working conditions an amendment to the original deals provision for U.S. officials to enter and inspect Mexican facilities, which Mexico opposed.Its expected this agreement will keep more auto jobs in Canada and the U.S., rather than seeing them moved to Mexico. However, some experts say this could cause car prices to rise and to reduce the number of smaller vehicles available to buyers, since many of these are currently made in
Origin: CUSMA trade deal could keep auto jobs in Canada, but car prices could rise
Report: Most British drivers could feasibly swap to an electric car
Most UK drivers could make the switch to an electric car with no impact on their motoring lifestyle, according to the results of a new survey carried out by Peugeot. Research found that British drivers will travel an average of 79 miles over the Christmas period (often one of the longest drives of the year) – a distance well within the capabilities of the majority of mainstream electric vehicles. Peugeot said that more than a third of respondents said they would be “comfortable doing all of their Christmas travels between 23 December and 2 January” in an electric vehicle, despite the fact that EVs currently make up just 1.4% of the UK car market. The results also show that two thirds of drivers will make at least one stop during their Christmas journeys, during which an EV’s battery could be considerably topped up by a motorway rapid charge point – with which most new electric vehicles are compatible. Aside from the feasibility of ownership, Peugeot said that swapping into an electric vehicle would save the average motorist from emitting nearly 1.6 tonnes of CO2 over Christmas. The manufacturer has just launched its e-208 electric supermini in the UK; it offers a claimed range of 217 miles and is available to order from
Origin: Report: Most British drivers could feasibly swap to an electric car
Dodge’s next-gen Journey could be built in Italy, not Mexico: report
2020 Dodge Journey CrossroadFCA Weve been promised an updated Dodge Journey for a while, but the next-generation one could reportedly be even more car than we expected: built in Italy, ready for a V8 and rear-wheel-drive.Well believe it when we see it, but thats the scoop currently being served up by a number of sources. Autoblog reports the next-generation Journey could arrive in 2022, be around the size of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, have only two rows of seats and borrow styling cues from the Dodge Charger.It would use the Stelvios 2.0-litre four-cylinder, making 280 horsepower and 306 lb.-ft. of torque, but be available in a Scat Pack edition with a Hemi V8. All engines would likely carry an eight-speed automatic. That rumoured rear-wheel-drive would no doubt also complement an all-wheel-drive variant. If so, that’ll be a far cry from the current Journey, which has been slowly winding down. Its available V6 and all-wheel option are no longer available, just a 2.4-L four-cylinder making 172 horsepower, fed only to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic. Only two trims are available, and Dodges biggest draw has been that its likely the cheapest three-row minivan/crossover in Canada.Beefing up a Dodge with Alfa underpinnings wouldnt be a surprise, because FCA has been gradually shifting its brand focus Chrysler is the family-vehicle brand, while Dodge is all about performance, and the current Journey is the very square peg that doesnt fit into that round hole. But Dodge also only has one SUV in its lineup, the Durango, and thats not enough at a time when other automakers have them in every possible shape and size.The Journeys currently made in Mexico, and switching production to Italy would fill empty space in the factories there, as well as free up room in North America to build more trucks. And the Journeys already familiar with Europe, where its sold as the Fiat Freemont and those are folks who would likely prefer a newer and hotter version of it,
Origin: Dodge’s next-gen Journey could be built in Italy, not Mexico: report
Nissan recalls newer cars, SUVs over braking defect that could pose fire risk
2019 Nissan Murano PlatinumBrian Harper Nissan is recalling close to 400,000 cars and SUVs in the U.S. over a brake system issue that could also lead to a fire, reports Reuters.About 394,025 vehicles are covered by the recall, specifically Nissan Murano SUVs from model years 2015 to 2018; Maxima sedans from 2016 to 2018; and Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 utilities from 2017 to 2019.In affected vehicles, the braking system may leak brake fluid; if it drips onto a nearby internal circuit board, in rare instances that could cause a short circuit and maybe a fire, the automaker said early November.Drivers will see a warning message on the vehicles dashboard before such an electrical short occurs, but the hazard remains if that warning is ignored. Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by Nissan early December; the company is already working on a
Origin: Nissan recalls newer cars, SUVs over braking defect that could pose fire risk
New Ford tech could use your sweaty butt to adjust the A/C
Dont have the time or mental wherewithal to extend a digit and switch on that switch for heated (or cooled) seats? This may be your lucky day, if a new patent from Ford is any indication.According to reports, the Blue Oval has been issued a patent for moisture-sensing seat technology, one which deploys sensors underneath liquid-permeable seat upholstery to detect wetness or dampness.Before you go there, this doesnt seem to be intended to solve a problem created by an infants leaky diaper.The patent application talks about the very practical problem of a seat being dampened by a spilled water bottle and then being excluded from use in ride-share applications, for example. If a network of sensors pick up on the problem before the driver does, the seat heater can be turned on automatically to dry the seat for the next rider. There is also mention in the patent about the system further incorporating a lighting device for illuminating the seat with a light colour indicative of a wet-seat condition. Your author could have used this technology on many occasions before clambering aboard knackered taxicabs after a nights partying on George Street in Newfoundland.Yes, its also possible for this system to detect your sweaty posterior and automatically turn on the seats ventilated system. To paraphrase Forrest Gump, thats all we have to say about that.Heated and cooled seats are one of the best inventions since the wheel, permitting a comfortable space no matter the ambient temperature. Tied in with the cars remote starting system, it is now possible to sit oneself on the black leather seat of a car left to perish in the hot Arizona sun without losing several layers of skin. Here in Canada, heated seats help to prevent frozen giblets on an icy-cold winter morning.Would you want your car seats responding to the temperature of your backside? Sound off in the comment section
Origin: New Ford tech could use your sweaty butt to adjust the A/C
New virtual Jaguar concept could preview future EVs
Jaguar has revealed a new model designed for the Gran Turismo videogame, which could offer a glimpse of its future electric sports car design. The Vision Gran Turismo Coupé concept is the latest addition to the virtual motorsport title, and will be available for players to download from the end of December. Jaguar has expressed no intent to bring it to production in real life, however. The concept is said to have been “designed and developed from the ground up, taking inspiration from the brand’s incredible racing lineage,” with the brand’s historic C-Type and D-Type racers listed as styling influences. The coupé’s powertrain, while not taken from any one real model, is based on that featured in the firm’s I-Type and I-Pace electric racers. The virtual model packs a combined 1006bhp and 885lb ft from three high-output electric motors, one driving the front axle and two at the rear, which is enough to push it from 0-62mph in under two seconds, and on to a top speed of over 200mph. There has been no indication of a hypothetical range figure. In terms of its design, the concept takes clear inspiration from the current F-Type, with visual references to previous Jaguar concepts, including the 2013 C-X75 supercar. It is constructed using a range of experimental lightweight materials, with a carbonfibre monocoque tub at its core helping to achieve a 1400kg kerbweight and near-50:50 weight distribution. The concept’s roofline is low to the ground, and a swooping rear deck and domed glass cabin feature for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. An active rear wing is said to “optimise energy efficiency while generating the perfect amount of downforce”. Further retro-inspired design touches include a vintage-style grille that features Jaguar’s ‘Leaper’ mascot, and twin rear charging sockets as a reference to the first-generation XJ saloon. The retro-modern theme continues inside, where Gran Turismo players can make use of an on-board artificial intelligence system called Kitt-E, which uses hologram technology to display three-dimensional maps and telemetry. Augmented reality digital glass can alert the driver to unseen dangers, while a transparent information cluster allows for a clearer view of the road ahead. Jaguar design director Julian Thomson said: “This project has been completely led by our young designers and represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for them to create a vehicle steeped in our incredible heritage but pushing the boundaries of future design. “The team have done an incredible job in creating something which is clearly identifiable as a Jaguar, inspired – but not constrained – by our iconic
Origin: New virtual Jaguar concept could preview future EVs
Subaru’s redesigned Levorg could hint at the upcoming WRX
2021 Subaru LevorgGraeme Fletcher / Driving What is it?The Subaru Levorg is a performance-oriented wagon thats just a prototype at this point, but sitting on stage at the Tokyo Motor Show, it sure looks ready to go. Hopefully, the Star Trek-like name will disappear before it makes it to market, although some say the name resonates with Trekkies.Why does it matter?The companys new global architecture, which underpins the current Impreza and Forester, is the basis for the new wagon. Key among the new Levorgs attributes is the next generation of Subarus EyeSight technology it has a new stereo camera system with a wider viewing angle, and four radars to pick up on a potential collision. It also uses a new high-definition mapping system and a GPS locator to allow semi-autonomous driving. Also new is a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder Boxer engine. No mention of power output, but think back to the just-launched 2020 Outback and its 2.4L turbo-four, and you have two-thirds of that engines displacement. This should mean around 175 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque in the Levorg, which should make it pretty brisk when compared to the current Imprezas 152-horsepower naturally-aspirated engine.When is it coming?The production version of the Levorg goes on sale in the Japanese market in the second half of 2020. No word on a Canadian launch date; given the outgoing Levorg wasnt sold here, we wouldnt hold our breath but there is some hope.Check out all of our latest auto show coverageShould you buy it?The outgoing Levorg was, in a way, a WRX wagon. Given its compact dimensions, 2020 release date, and the fact that the WRX is currently the oldest model in Subarus lineup, the latest Levorg could be a subtle tease of the next-gen WRX. Its certainly sharper and swankier-looking than the current
Origin: Subaru’s redesigned Levorg could hint at the upcoming WRX
Lexus could expand line-up with smaller cars
Lexus could expand its line-up and make smaller cars in the future because of market changes sparked by the growing popularity of SUVs. Speaking at the Tokyo motor show, the firm’s executive vice-president, Koji Saro, said there was evidence that well-executed smaller cars could be sold for higher prices, because of shifts in how customers perceive value. In particular, SUVs are more profitable than same-sized hatchbacks because they are perceived to be bigger due to their raised ride height. “Smaller doesn’t always mean cheaper now, so trends are changing,” said Sato. “I can’t say clearly that it is something we will do, but we are looking at all vehicle opportunities.” Such an SUV would sit below the recently launched Lexus UX crossover, with a likely starting price well below £30,000. However, Sato hinted that part of the appeal of creating smaller cars was that buyers are increasingly willing to raise the transaction price by buying options. “What customers want is individuality,” he said. Sato also vowed that Lexus would keep making distinctive cars, including convertibles and F-branded models powered by high-performance, non-electrified engines. “We must cater for people who enjoy their driving,” he
Origin: Lexus could expand line-up with smaller cars
SUV demand could negate environmental benefit of EVs, study suggests
2019 Nissan KicksNissan With federal elections on the horizon, the issue of climate change is top of mind for many Canadians. Well, here’s a bit of news for those climate change activists driving SUVs. A new analysis performed by the International Energy Agency (IEA) suggests that environmental progress made by the shift to electric vehicles may be offset by the rising demand for SUVs. Commentary on the study notes even with major automakers projecting a tenfold increase in annual EV sales by 2030, and a general slackening of sales of internal-combustion-engine vehicles, the rise of SUVs alone, which consume on average a quarter more energy than smaller cars, is enough to cancel out the benefits of the other shifts. For perspective, there were over 200 million SUVs on the planet in 2018; in 2010, there were only 35 million. That means, over those eight years, SUVs accounted for some 60 per cent of the increase in the world’s cars.The author calls this move a “silent structural change,” claiming the SUV sector was the second-largest contributor to all CO2 emissions from 2010-2018. Better than the power sector, but worse than iron, steel, trucks or aviation. “If consumers’ appetite for SUVs continues to grow at a similar pace seen in the last decade, SUVs would add nearly 2 million barrels a day in global oil demand by 2040, offsetting the savings from nearly 150 million electric cars,” says the study.Kind of puts a new perspective on your Toyota 4Runner, doesn’t
Origin: SUV demand could negate environmental benefit of EVs, study suggests
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