In April, a white Tesla Model S was caught on camera emitting smoke, before catching fire.@ShanghaiJayin / Twitter A catastrophic fire in a Tesla Model S last April was caused by a single battery module inside the vehicle, according to the automaker, which has revised its settings for better protection.On April 21, a Tesla parked in an underground garage in Shanghai spontaneously burst into flames. The incident was captured by security cameras and later shared on Twitter.According to Automotive News, Tesla posted on its Weibo social media channel in China that its investigative team conducted a probe and analysis of the battery, software, manufacturing data and vehicle history. The investigation concluded that there was no system defect, and the fire was caused by a single battery module located at the front of the vehicle. A module is made up of several battery cells joined together. Panasonic supplies Teslas cells but not its modules.The automaker said it sent over-the-air software updates to Model S and Model X vehicles to revise the charging and thermal management settings to help further protect the battery and improve battery longevity.NIO, a Chinese electric-car manufacturer competing with Tesla, has had three vehicle fires in China. One of them occurred at a NIO repair facility not long after the Tesla incident. Earlier this week, NIO posted on Weibo that it may have issues with some of its battery modules, and will recall 4,803
Origin: Tesla updates its cars in wake of Shanghai battery fire
updates
The new 2020 Audi Q7 packs visual and technical updates
With big SUVs having become the cash cows of auto manufacturers around the world, any full-sheet redesign is now approached with the same amount of caution one would afford a lump of plutonium that has just shown up in your lettuce crisper.For the next model year, the Audi Q7 finds itself the recipient of several high-profile changes and more than a few subtle ones.Leading the way is an exterior design that marches lock-step with the rest of Audis lineup. Some accuse the German automaker of simply producing different lengths of the same sausage but it is a methodology that works.Instantly recognizable and instantly desirable for a wide swath of the population the new Q7 bears the Audi corporate octagon-shaped grille bookended by a pair of expressive headlights. Those peepers will be HD Matrix LEDs with frickin’ lasers in some models across the pond, but it is not yet clear if that tech will make it to Canada.It should have a dose of Audi handling, too. All-wheel steering is optionally available, allowing the rear wheels turn by up to 5 degrees in the opposite direction at low speed, which increases agility. On the highway these wheels steer slightly in the same direction to promote stability.In its home market, diesel engines will be paired with a mild hybrid system but we dont know if there are any powertrain changes in the pipe for customers in this country.Currently, the Q7 packs a supercharged V6 making 329 horsepower, but it is worth noting that this new cars close cousin, the Q8, deploys a turbocharged V6 with direct injection and an eight-speed Tiptronic.As for the interior, one could make a case that Ingolstadt is on the verge of trading its four rings for four hexagons, as the shape appears everywhere. The tablet-style screen is gone, replaced by twin integrated touch-sensitive interfaces similar to whats shown up in the A6 and other Audis.Expect the new Q7 to appear on dealer lots towards the end of this
Origin: The new 2020 Audi Q7 packs visual and technical updates
BMW rolls out over-the-air updates in certain markets
Earlier this week, BMW dipped a tentative toe into some new technological waters. Following in the footsteps of Tesla, it rolled out an over-the-air software update to some vehicles in Europe, remotely endowing them with the company’s new Intelligent Personal Assistant. Just like an Amazon or Google speaker pod which can be summoned by uttering a certain phrase, the assistant wakes to the sound of “Hey, BMW.” Once activated, the digital co-pilot can perform any number of vehicle functions, from adjusting the cabin temperature to fiddling with the radio. The system goes a step further, making the promise that it’ll understand commands such as “I’m tired,” responding with adjustments to the tunes and ventilation air flow in an effort to keep all hands alert. No word on if a giant comedy glove emerges from the dashboard and slaps the driver across their brow. Luddites point to OTA upgrades as yet another example of daddy government or big business poking their noses into the private lives of citizens without asking. However, gearheads who are slightly more switched on to the ways of the world opine that these automatic updates keep a car’s infotainment system fully upgraded over the life of the car. If one was available to improve the prehistoric system in my old Ram pickup, I would have surely jumped at the opportunity. The additional functions of BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant, whose acronym is hilariously shared with a popular type of beer, can be activated for models like the new X5, 3 Series and 8 Series fitted with OS 7.0 from the introduction of Remote Software Upgrade. Allegedly, the Z4 is slated to receive the tech as well, which should make for interesting driver-to-car conversations when the top is down on a windy day. Future upgrades will regularly expand and improve the system’s skills thanks to software adaptations or function extensions. The exact timing of these updates will vary by
Origin: BMW rolls out over-the-air updates in certain markets
Tesla updates software after parked car caught fire in Hong Kong
Tesla is rolling out a software update for two of its electric vehicles, including the flagship Model S, to beef up battery safety as part of a probe into a vehicle fire in Hong Kong. The over-the-air updates will revise the charge and thermal-management settings for the Model S and X, Tesla said in a statement. The company said it’s acting “out of an abundance of caution,” insisting the vehicles are 10 times less likely to experience a blaze than their gas-fueled equivalents. A Tesla Model S suddenly caught fire in a parking lot at San Po Kong Plaza on May 12, the Hong Kong Economic Times reported. Hong Kong’s Fire Services Department has confirmed it’s investigating a fire, without identifying the make of the car. Recent vehicle fires have raised concern over the safety of electric vehicles in China, the top market. In 2018, the country recorded at least 40 fire-related incidents involving new-energy vehicles, which includes pure battery electric, hybrid plug-in and fuel-cell vehicles, according to the State Administration for Market Regulation. In its statement, Tesla said it had a team in Hong Kong to support its customer and establish the facts. “While our investigation with authorities is ongoing, we have found that only a few battery modules were affected and the majority of the battery pack is undamaged,” Tesla said. NIO, a Tesla rival, said last month one of its ES8 electric vehicles caught fire in the northwestern Chinese city of Xi’an while being repaired. Tesla earlier confirmed it was examining an incident in Shanghai after a car bearing the company’s logo was shown in an April social media video emitting smoke before bursting into
Origin: Tesla updates software after parked car caught fire in Hong Kong
Hyundai updates Ioniq range
Hyundai updates Ioniq range The new Ioniq Electric can travel 182 miles on a charge Hyundai has launched an updated version of its Ioniq, with improvements across the Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, and Electric models – in particular the latter. The Ioniq Electric now features a significantly larger battery capacity, up to 38.3 kWh from the out-going model’s 28 kWh. This allows Hyundai to quote a range of 182 miles – an expected figure based on WLTP regulations. The on-board charger has also been improved from 6.6 kW to 7.2 kW, and it is capable of charging at 100 kW on a CCS DC rapid charger. A key new feature is the addition of Hyundai Blue Link, the company’s connected vehicle system that allows drivers to remotely start and stop the car, lock/unlock it, and pre-condition the Ioniq from a smartphone app. Battery charge updates can also be viewed and scheduled, bringing the Ioniq Electric in line with connected systems from rival models. An improved interior features a new 10.25-inch infotainment system available over the standard 7-inch unit, a modified centre console, and different interior trim colours liven up the cabin. A comprehensive suite of safety systems is also included, and the Ioniq Electric can be driven on a single pedal, thanks to Smart Regenerative Braking. This uses the same system as that found in the Kona Electric.
Origin: Hyundai updates Ioniq range
Updates to Tesla Model S and X ranges
Updates to Tesla Model S and X ranges Improvements to driving range, performance, and refinement are claimed Tesla has rolled out a series of upgrades for its Model S and Model X ranges, which include an increase in range by more than 10%, improved power and torque figures, and new adaptive suspension. Newly built models in the saloon and SUV line-up now see an estimated WLTP range of up to 375 miles for the Model S Long Range, and 315 miles for the Model X Long Range. The 100 kWh batter for both models remains the same as before, with the increase in range coming from a new drivetrain design. The revised electric motors also increase power and torque available to the driver, improving acceleration, though these new figures are not currently available. Faster charging capabilities have been added, increasing the charging speeds to up to 200 kW on the latest V3 Superchargers, and 145 kW on the current V2 Superchargers. Improvements enable customers to recharge up to 50% faster according to Tesla. The new fully adaptive suspension has been designed to provide an ‘ultra-cushioned’ feel when cruising at motorway speeds, and added responsiveness when in dynamic mode. A predictive model has been designed in-house to anticipate how the damping adjusts, based on road, speed, and other driver & vehicle inputs. Tesla has improved the levelling systems to keep the car low when at speed, reducing aerodynamic drag. The suspension system can receive over-the-air updates, meaning the system can be improved further in future. Other improvements have seen new wheel bearings and tyres fitted to increase range and refinement, while Tesla is bringing back an entry level Standard Range model, which starts the Model S line-up at £72,550, and the Model X Standard Range model starts at £76,550 – both including the UK Plug-in Car Grant. The former has an estimated WLTP range of 280 miles on a single, and the latter at 230 miles. Existing Model S and Model X customers who are looking to buy a new Performance version of either model will be offered the Ludicrous Mode upgrade free of charge. The revisions are already being added to models on the production line, with new orders benefiting from the upgrades.
Origin: Updates to Tesla Model S and X ranges
New York show 2019 notes: news, updates and oddities
The New York motor show might not be the biggest on the global calendar, but its location means that it always attracts some of the car industry’s leading names. You can check out all the new launches from the show here. Meanwhile, Autocar has been on the ground to check out all the new cars on display, chat to the industry experts in attendance – and find out what’s really happening on the show stands. Here, our reporters empty their notebooks to bring you the behind-the-scenes info from the New York show. Nissan downsizing Stepping into the NY show, you’re instantly greeted by one of the biggest trends of recent years – downsizing. Whether we’re talking powertrains or vehicle dimensions, Nissan’s stand was the perfect example of the downsizing we so often see these days. The 370Z 50th Anniversary model sits alongside its forebear, the Datsun 240Z. Unsurprisingly, the latter looks positively dinky by comparison. The birthplace of the Speedster There’s no better place for Porsche to launch its 991 swansong, the 911 Speedster, than New York. The original 356 Speedster was created at the request of New York dealer Max Hoffman, who wanted a ‘stripped-down’ version of the 356 to sell on the West Coast. The new machine uses the same 4.0-litre flat six as the current 911 GT3 but is heavily modified with a revised fuel system, different revs and more. It’s a lot of work for just 1948 examples, so there’s every chance this unit will make its way into more mainstream models… This electric start-up rose to prominence only last year (despite being around for a decade). Its stand, featuring its R1S SUV and R1T pick-up, took pride of place alongside prominent car makers such as Audi and Mercedes. Its presence is likely to be a statement of intent as much as anything else but shows how serious founder RJ Scaringe is. He told Autocar earlier this year that he believes he has now found a niche with Rivian, and can build something different and lasting. New York is new home for Genesis Genesis is still finding its feet in America, having launched as a stand-alone brand four years ago. Brand boss Manfred Fitzgerald said, at the unveiling of its Mint Concept, that New York had become Genesis’s “second home” and is where it chooses to premiere concepts year after year. The Mint Concept – probably the best-looking car at this year’s show, in my opinion – is perfectly suited to New York. It’s not confirmed for production but Genesis says it doesn’t create concepts without having an interest in making a fully fledged car. We can but hope. Merc-AMG B-Class, anyone? The Mercedes-AMG range now spans an incredible number of models, but boss Tobias Moers can namecheck one Merc model that doesn’t have an AMG version – the B-Class. Meanwhile, he confirmed that the new GLS luxury seven-seater will get an AMG model in time. On show here is the revised GLC 63 and new CLA 35. So which 2019 model is Moers most excited about? The new A45 hot hatch. He says it’s dramatically improved in terms of driving dynamics. Kia’s SUV focus Kia America’s COO, Brit Michael Cole, told us that traditionally the maker has been well known for its saloons in the US. Given that trucks and SUVs now account for 70% of vehicle sales there, that’s a perception it’s trying to change. The recently launched Telluride, a Ford Explorer rival, is helping that cause for the brand. Meanwhile, we’re more excited for the special-edition Stinger with a drift mode… Keep on truckin’ It’d be easy to miss the trucks and mods hall if you weren’t careful. Here, you’re reminded of the sheer hulk of many vehicles on US roads. Personal favourites included the Ram 2500 Power Wagon with a mere 6.4-litre V8 and 429lb ft of torque, and the bright orange Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. Away from the trucks in the deepest, darkest corners of the show were some interesting modified and classic cars. Here are our top three, just because…
Origin: New York show 2019 notes: news, updates and oddities
New York motor show 2019 notes: news, updates and oddities
The New York motor show might not be the biggest on the global calendar, but its location mens that it always attracts from of the biggest names in the car industry. You can check out all the new launches from the show here. Meanwhile, Autocar has been on the ground to check out all the new cars that are on display, chat to the industry experts in attendance – and to find out what’s really happening on the show stands. Here, our reporters empty their notebooks to bring you the behind-the-scenes info from the New York show. Nissan downsizing Stepping into the NY show, you’re instantly greeted by one of the biggest trends of recent years – downsizing. Whether we’re talking powertrains or vehicle dimensions, Nissan’s stand was the perfect example of the downsizing we so often see these days. The 370Z 50th Anniversary model sits alongside its forebear, the Datsun 240Z. Unsurprisingly, the latter looks positively dinky by comparison. The birthplace of the Speedster There’s no better place for Porsche to launch its 991 swansong, the 911 Speedster, than New York. The original 356 Speedster was created at the request of New York dealer Max Hoffman who wanted a ‘stripped-down’ version of the 356 to sell on the West Coast. The new machines uses the same 4.0-litre flat six as the current 911 GT3 but is heavily modified with a revised fuel system, different revs and more. It’s a lot of work for just 1948 examples, so there’s every chance this unit will make its way into more mainstream models… This Electric start-up only rose to prominence last year (despite being around for a decade). Its stand, featuring its R1S SUV and R1T pick-up, took pride of place alongside prominent car makers such as Audi and Mercedes. Its presence is likely a statement of intent as much as anything else, but shows how serious founder RJ Scaringe is. He told Autocar earlier this year that he believes he has now found a niche with Rivian, and can build something different and lasting. New York is new home for Genesis Genesis is still finding its feet in America, having launched as a stand-alone brand four years ago. Brand boss Manfred Fitzgerald said, at the unveil of its Mint Concept, that New York had become Genesis’s “second home” and is where it chooses to premiere concepts year after year. The Mint Concept – probably the best looking car this year’s show in my opinion – is perfectly suited to New York. It’s not confirmed for production but Genesis says it doesn’t create concepts without having an interest in making it a fully fledged car. We can but hope. Merc-AMG B-Class, anyone? The Mercedes-AMG range now spans an incredible number of models, but boss Tobias Moers can namecheck one Merc model that doesn’t have an AMG version – the B-Class! Meanwhile, he confirmed that the new GLS luxury seven-seater will get an AMG model in time. On show here is the revised GLC63 and new CLA35. So which 2019 model is Moers most excited about? The new A45 hot hatch. He says it’s dramatically improved in terms of driving dynamics. Kia’s SUV focus Kia America’s COO, Brit Michael Cole, told us that traditionally the maker has been well known for its saloons in America. Given that trucks and SUVs now account for 70% of vehicle sales in the US, that’s a perception it’s trying to change. The recently launched Telluride, a Ford Explorer rival, is helping that cause for the brand. Meanwhile, we’re more excited for the special-edition Stinger with a drift mode… Keep on truckin’ It’d be easy to miss the trucks and mods hall if you weren’t careful. Here, you’re reminded of the sheer hulk of many vehicles on US roads. Personal favourites included the Ram 2500 Power Wagon with a mere 6.4-litre V8 and 429lb ft of torque and the bright orange Jeep Gladiator Rubicon.
Origin: New York motor show 2019 notes: news, updates and oddities
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