#2016 Tesla Model S Rear

[victroia21]

The End of a Legacy: Why the FIATA Failed.

The Fiat 124 Spider also known as the FIATA (because it shares its underpinnings with the Mazda Miata) officially stopped production. Yes, I know, I hate to break it to you but there is now one less sports car on the market with a manual transmission. A car that once existed for twenty years from 1966 to 1985, failed to last more than four years this time around. The Fiat Spider shared its class with the Alfa Romeo Spider (pictured above) which lasted from 1966 to 1994. So why did the 124 Spider with such strong pedigree fail to continue the legacy of its Italian ancestors ? The fact of the matter is, the 124 Spider never had a fighting chance.

The Alfa Romeo and Fiat 124 Spider debuted in the mid 60’s with innovative design and technology. Both were rear wheel drive roadsters designed by Italian carrozzeria Pininfarina. They were ahead of their time with standard Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) engines. The combination of performance and styling made the Spiders standout as an affordable alternative to gas guzzling American muscle cars. The production run lasted so long because improvements were made with every generation. The engine size continued to grow resulting in more power while remaining efficient. By the mid 80’s, Fiat decided to discontinue the Spider. Shortly after purchasing Alfa Romeo, Fiat began to focus solely on its roadster from their newly acquired company. Once the 90’s hit, Alfa Romeo redesigned the Spider’s body for the fourth time in its twenty-eight years of existence. While the new and improved 4th generation design helped with sales of the Spider, it was no match for the new kid on the block. The (NA) Mazda MX-5, aka the Miata. The Japanese roadster was more efficient, reliable and cheaper than the Alfa Romeo. Sales began to slow down for the Spider and eventually Alfa Romeo stopped production in the U.S after 1994.

Fast forward twenty-two years and Fiat introduces an all new 124 Spider at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto show. Looking to capitalize on the Spider’s previous success, Fiat completely reinvented the vehicle. It was originally planned to be an Alfa Romeo, but because Alfa is Fiat’s luxury brand they decided to brand the affordable Spider as a Fiat. It shared the same assembly line in Japan with the car that drove it out of business two decades earlier. The only key differences between the 124 Spider and the Mazda Miata was it’s styling, suspension and engine. The FIATA had a 1.4 liter turbo motor rated at 160 Horsepower and the Miata a naturally aspirated 2.0 rated at 155 HP. After three years of production, the Miata improved its engine in 2019 by increasing performance to produce 181 HP. The FIATA on the other hand was always equipped with its laggy, turbo 1.4 liter engine. A motor that may meet efficiency standards in Italy but doesn’t provide the thrill you expect from a rear wheel drive, two seater roadster. The 124 Spider Abarth is just as underwhelming. The Abarth featured in this article comes with some badging differences, a quad exhaust and four more horsepower. The Fiat 500 Abarth was a real difference compared to the standard 500. The exhaust note sounded like it came out of a Ferrari. On the 124 Abarth it sounds decent, but not nearly as tuned as the 500.

The FIATA had remained the same for all four years, while the more reliable Miata improved. The Mazda has once again terminated its roadster rival. But it didn’t do it by just creating a better performing engine during its shared production run. The Miata brand remains champion of the roadsters because of its history. The Miata’s production run is now going on thirty plus years, surpassing that of the Spider. It’s forever been known for being the only reliable and affordable sports car on the market. It has evolved in this space and has remained relevant due to its positive consumer reports. Fiat on the other hand has had terrible consumer reviews since it returned to the U.S in 2011. The brand had already been tarnished prior to the resurrection of the 124. I mean if people recognize your brand with an acronym like; Fix It Again Tony, you’re going to have a tough time selling cars. More and more people going through a mid life crisis are choosing sporty SUV’s and electric vehicles over sports cars. So how could the FIATA have stayed relevant in a space that’s been dominated by one car for the last thirty years? Well, it would have had to evolve, which Fiat just simply failed to do. It should have looked back on its past and modeled its Pininfarina designed predecessors. It could have achieved this by evolving with the times, adopting new technologies and competing with modern standards. Do you think Amazon got to where they are by selling books the entire time? Or would Netflix still be around if they continued to just deliver DVD’s to your home? The twin cam, fuel injected engine found in the previous Spiders was revolutionary back in the day. The Spider was a pioneer in the car industry, with mechanical innovations still used til this day. This most recent Spider was never anything special. It just proved to us that Fiat’s days are numbered in the United States. With just the 500L and 500X left in production. Fiat is hanging on to a small thread with what’s left of its so called Small SUV lineup.

In retrospect, maybe it’s time for the Spider to become an Alfa Romeo after all. Maybe it was meant to be a luxury roadster, appealing to buyers looking for an upgrade to the Miata. What if Alfa Romeo designed an all electric Spider with a 0-60 time that can compete with Tesla’s 1.9 second Roadster? A sleek, modern electric roadster designed by a famous Italian coach builder. It makes perfect sense since Alfa Romeo already plans to bring its first hybrid/electric vehicle to production with the Tonale next year. These are ways you can remain relevant, especially in a market where certain brands already hold a strong footprint. How do you grab some of that market share? Well, you learn from history and you innovovate. Automakers are adapting to changing times, pivoting to hybrid and electric powered motors. This is clearly the future as emission restrictions continue to be implemented across the globe. But how do you standout in a competitive and saturated market? You build upon your brand’s strengths. For example, take a look at the vehicle featured above. It’s a concept car, nothing officially released from Alfa Romeo. However the car embodies everything that Alfa Romeo represents. It pays homage to the GTV, one of the best homologated cars Alfa Romeo has ever built. This concept vehicle induces emotion by paying respect to Alfa Romeo’s racing days, while remaining contemporary for today’s roads.

Look at the all new Ford Bronco, a modern rendition of its 60’s predecessor. People are beyond excited for the Bronco’s release because everyone agrees that Ford got it right. It’s fully capable off road and its styling is reminiscent of a time when everyone wished they had a Bronco in their driveway. Automakers need to stop designing with cookie cutters and begin creating vehicles that evokes the passion in the driver. Hopefully Fiat or Alfa Romeo catches on and can restore the Spider for a third time. And just maybe this time it will be more charming.

[robot-radar]

2016 Tesla Model S Price

2016 Tesla Model S Review

Maybe no other auto leading of electric drive as unmistakably simply like the 2016 extravagance car Tesla Model is an electric battery at the upper end of the range, with style, execution and a cost to coordinate. Being an early automaker that does not regard the customary techniques for getting things done, the Model S has built up a fortunate notoriety.

Likewise, with every single electric vehicle (EV), driving extent and load time are constantly present contemplations. The S show offers the amplest scope of any EV available, offering between 210-294-mile go. This, joined with the across the nation system of quick chargers Tesla Supercharger, makes the S demonstrate a suitable answer for whole deal courses.

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2016 Tesla Model S Black

2016 Tesla Model S Configurations

2016 Tesla Model S Interior

2016 Tesla Model S Exterior

2016 Tesla Model S MSRP

2016 Tesla Model S Price

2016 Tesla Model S Review

2016 Tesla Model S Specs

2016 Tesla Model S

Conventional extravagance cars of contenders offer a great deal more effective and refueling much speedier, however the S model is still the perspective between electric vehicles.

There is little to question the execution of the model S ‘. It is quick noteworthy, particularly low speeds, with a few forms that quicken as quick as a portion of the speediest autos on the planet. We built up a P85D at 60mph in 3.5 seconds, Tesla said the P90D furnished with a most extreme range activity mode will be Ludicrous in 2.8 seconds.

The section level 60D is still worthy quick, and regardless of the possibility that the cost is not precisely modest, bear in mind to consider their low working expenses and government and state motivating forces (assuming any).

We live with a 2013 model Tesla S for year and a half and discovered numerous issues of unwavering quality, however that was a couple of years prior, amid the preparation time of the organization, where the torments of development were obvious.

Guarantee repairs were done rapidly. It is an extremely able element auto, and even offers interesting elements, for example, air redesigns, your taxi is not as extravagant as different autos in its class.

Likewise, different autos in its class offer not just electric drive. His peers incorporate the 2013 2016 Audi A7, 2016 BMW 7 Series 2016, 2016 Mercedes Benz S-Class and Porsche Panamera 2016. Every one of them offer an assortment of motors and trim levels and incredible in different ways yet in the event that you are after an EV, 2016 Tesla Model S is in a class of one.

Electric vehicles don’t approach the 2016 BMW i3 and 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf. Both are deserving of your consideration on the off chance that you are searching for less expensive, decently extravagance boutons.

2016 Tesla Model S Levels of adjust and attributes

2016 Tesla Model S is an extravagance car with four to seven travelers. It is accessible in six variations: 60, 60D, 75, 75D, 90D and P90D. The figures in every level of complete allude to the limit of the kilowatt hour (kWh) of the battery (which straightforwardly influences the range), while the “D” assigns the twin-motor, all-wheel-drive models.

Take note of that the S Tesla show overhauled constantly as opposed to the model year, so the accompanying doesn’t really mirror the most recent offers.

The S 60 show accompanies 19-inch wheels, all-station tires, LED head, taillights and taillights, route, voyage control, supercharger organize get to, programmed temperature control of two Zones, 17-inch touchscreen Alerts stopping, stopping spoilers, collapsing and warmed side mirrors, blind side programmed crisis brake, path leave cautioning, texture upholstery and vinyl best quality, front seats, eight-way warmed), Seat 60/40 raise collapsing, tilt directing haggle Bluetooth telephone haggle network and sound framework with seven speakers two USB ports (media and cargo) and HD radio.

A cell association, Internet radio and Wi-Fi association and additionally an all inclusive versatile connector for charging (with 110 volts, 240 volts and J1772 connectors) is likewise included.

The Upgrades Premium Package incorporates versatile headlights, enhanced lodge air filtration, inside cowhide framework (when calfskin seats are chosen), LED inside lighting, control liftgate, LED bundle Ultra includes High Fidelity sound framework incorporates 12 speakers and satellite radio.

Below zero Weather Package includes a total line of warmed back seats, a warmed controlling wheel, de-icers for wiper cutting edges and sprinklers.

Set up the S display with a moment charger for up to two circumstances the ordinary charging rate (up to 58 miles of range for every hour) when consolidated with the discretionary 80 Amp divider charger.

The autopilot permits the driving model restricted sans hands S, including programmed change ways by selecting the turn flag pointer, semi-independent directing, parking space identification spot and stopping capacities, without hands calling.

The Smart Air Suspension choice includes the suspension auto-tuning (flexible tallness).

Conceivable back collapsing and hop seats (for youthful youngsters) increment the aggregate limit of up to seven travelers, while a back seat guiding replaces the back seat with two chief seats, in this manner lessening limit Total of four travelers. Raise situate casings and back confronting hop seats can not be prepared all the while.

Show S 60D includes an extra motor that powers the front wheels. Something else, the greater part of the above elements and alternatives are material. 75D models 75 and 60 are just models and 60D with programming that permits the battery is utilized all the more totally.

The 90D and P90D have a bigger battery (90 kWh), which additionally offers choices like a carbon fiber raise spoiler, 21-inch wheels with superior summer tires, Smart Air suspension bundle and Other elements likewise overhauled suspension alteration.

2016 Tesla Model S Execution and MPG

The 2016 Tesla S is fueled by water-cooled electric engines (one motor for models 60 and 75, two 60D models, 75D, 90D and P90D) coordinating the power specifically to the wheels by means of a Direct drive single speed transmission. Single-motor models are raise wheel drive just, while double motor models (alluded to as “D”) feast upon each of the four wheels. Lithium-particle battery modules are likewise utilized all through the preparation.

The model S 60 (and 75) is appraised at 315 drive and 325 lb-ft of torque, and Tesla gauges that can achieve 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The EPA gauges the vitality utilization at 34 kWh per 100 miles and a scope of 210 miles (249 miles to 75).

Similarly, as with every single electric vehicle, the driving style extraordinarily impacts the real range. As per Tesla, the range additionally diminished by 3 percent if a S 60 model is outfitted with 21-inch wheels.

The two-motor S 60D (and 75D) show has 328 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque, and Tesla says it will achieve 60 mph from the stop in 5.2 seconds. The assessed EPA vitality utilization is 33 kWh per 100 miles and a scope of 218 miles (259 miles to 75D).

90D Model S has 417 strength and 485 lb-ft of torque and is fit for an hour 0-60 mph of 4.2 seconds. The evaluated vitality utilization by the EPA is 33 kWh per 100 miles and a scope of 294 miles, is the champion rank among all variations of the S show.

Tesla said the superior P90D expands creation to 463 hp (532 hp with discretionary Ludicrous mode), useful for a sprint of 3.1 seconds at 60 mph (2.8 seconds for the Ludicrous mode). EPA assesses the P90D 270 miles go at a vitality utilization rate of 35 kWh per 100 miles.

All Teslas can be energized from standard 110 and 240 volt outlets and from various open charging stations utilizing versatile general connectors and connectors included. Selled with a 110 volt outlet is moderate – You can energize just around 3 miles for each hour run esteem.

For instance, an eight-hour overnight charge on a 110-volt outlet will withdraw just 24-mile extend. Then again, utilizing a force of 240 volts with a 50 amp circuit (known as a NEMA 14-50 connect and regular to VR parks), you can revive around 30 miles for each hour run, comparable to Seven hours to completely energize the 60 kWh S 60 show obstruct with the main on-board charger and eight hours for the 75D. The 90 kWh 90 demonstrate bundle needs around nine hours.

The twofold charger – You require a 100 amp circuit to work at full limit – It is a choice. Utilizing the discretionary divider connector pairs the energize rate to roughly 60 miles of range for every hour, which implies that a full revive for the 60 kWh variant takes around three hours, four hours for the 75D and around four-one Half hour to 90 kWh adaptations.

The Model S can likewise utilize a national system of sponsors as Tesla keeps on developing. Tesla said modern review fast boots can supplant up to 170 mile range to 90 kWh batteries in about thirty minutes, permitting long-separate travel.

Regardless of the possibility that a one hour stop each 170 miles may not be the most ideal approach to travel, it allows Tesla proprietors to drive through the United States in the event that they deliberately arrange their trek.

2016 Tesla Model S Security

Standard security highlights for all Tesla S demonstrate variations incorporate head, knee and pelvic airbags for front travelers and front and back side window ornament airbags.

All models have steadiness and footing control, stun sensors for separating high-voltage, anti lock plate brakes and a back view camera. What’s more, the back confronting seat choice builds the current back guard with a moment high quality aluminum outline.

In government tests, the S 2015 has accomplished a five-star rating for aggregate stun insurance, five stars for general frontal effect security and five stars for side effect wellbeing. Since the 2016 model is essentially a similar auto, we expect comparable crash test comes about.

In the Edmunds brake tests, a P85D with elite summer tires came at a 60 mph stop in only 102 feet. To put this separation into viewpoint, most expansive extravagance vehicles take around 110 feet to stop, and even elite games autos take around 106 feet. Given the substantial Tesla mass, which is a great outcome.

2016 Tesla Model S Inside View

An enormous focal touch screen controls all parts of the auto’s helper capacities. Catches and catches are uncommon, bringing about a sort of blended pack, contingent upon the qualities. Despite the fact that the touch screen is sufficiently bright and a quick activity is chaotic and requires a great deal of consideration. There is a level of configurability in the arrangement of sound controls, atmosphere and route.

Both front and back seats offer adequate space for the legs for the grown-ups, in spite of the fact that the travelers of the higher back seats may need space because of the slant of the rooftop line. The front seats are decent however do not have the huge number of settings (and, at last, solace and support) found in other extravagance vehicles cost comparative.

On the off chance that you have a low for old fashioned breaks, you might be pulled in to hop situates before the back looking. Take note of that reasonable for little kids. The seats have a few safety belts, so you needn’t bother with an additional wellbeing seat, additionally cleverly little.

These third-push seats overlap level into the floor, permitting an imperative 26.3 cubic feet of payload space, which is a great deal more than in other vast extravagance cars. The multiplying of the level line implies that the space grows to 58 blocks. There is additionally an auxiliary trunk in the engine that offers a couple of cubic feet of additional storage room, yet the front trunk in a bi-motor S display has about a large portion of the space.

In spite of the fact that the lodge materials are pleasant, they don’t coordinate those found in extravagance autos in the S display value extend. The fit and complete don’t appear to be adequate in this portion. In intensive testing, we found the cowhide upholstery is all around kept up after some time, yet premium calfskin extravagance brands feel somewhat more adaptable and more upscale.

Somewhere else, the run of the mill window switches and controls the driver appears to have been acquired from Mercedes-Benz. They function admirably.

2016 Tesla Model S Driving

2016 Tesla Model S offers an extraordinary driving background, even among electric vehicles. Yes, similar to all the quickening of electric vehicles, it is both delicate and bafflingly quiet. Yet, the S display has so much torque that in full quickening resembles being pulled from a weapon – A noiseless one.

The push is colossal and addictive. Catapulting far from every semaphore significantly affects the shoreline yet quickly expanding in the S model is a standout amongst the most elating encounters accessible on an auto today. It is the trap of the auto’s mark.

Braking is additionally praiseworthy, not just in light of the fact that the pedal feels like a traditional auto, additionally in light of the fact that it makes the model S stop with specialist.

The controlling and suspension balanced add considerably more to the experience, with clarity and exactness that are not regularly found in an EV. This vast extravagance sports vehicle is not hesitant to alternate, on account of the floor mounted on the upkeep of its focal point of gravity batteries.

We additionally characterize your versatile voyage control framework as one of the best we have tasted. Responds to a great degree well to movement conditions and moves an abnormal state of certainty to permit the auto to control the throttle.

Luckily, the donning capacities of the S display does not come to the detriment of solace and congruity, as the nature of the tower is smooth.

Through the areas and around the city, extraordinary hush prompts peace. Be that as it may, at interstate rates (particularly when the S model is outfitted with more extensive, superior tires), wind and street are closer view and the substantial car just gets to be distinctly normal as far as aggregate sound protection.

Mindful drivers will likewise see the shrieking of the front electric engine in double motor models. Put the stereo at a sensible volume, in any case, and the street clamor is a long way from being as exceptional.

2016 Tesla Model S – Autopilot Capabilities designed to make your highway driving Safer 2016 Tesla Model S Review Maybe no other auto leading of electric drive as unmistakably simply like the 2016 extravagance car Tesla Model is an electric battery at the upper end of the range, with style, execution and a cost to coordinate.

[toomanysinks]

Transportation Weekly: Polestar CEO speaks, Tesla terminology, and a tribute

Welcome back to Transportation Weekly; I’m your host Kirsten Korosec, senior transportation reporter at TechCrunch . This is the fourth edition of our newsletter, a weekly jaunt into the wonderful world of transportation and how we (and our packages) move.

This week we chat with Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath, dig into Lyft’s S-1, take note of an emerging trend in AV development, and check out an experiment with paving. Oh, and how could we forget Tesla.

Never heard of TechCrunch’s Transportation Weekly? Catch up here, here and here. As I’ve written before, consider this a soft launch. Follow me on Twitter @kirstenkorosec to ensure you see it each week. (An email subscription is coming). 

ONM …

There are OEMs in the automotive world. And here, (wait for it) there are ONMs — original news manufacturers. (Cymbal clash!) This is where investigative reporting, enterprise pieces and analysis on transportation lives.

This week, we’re featuring excerpts taken from a one-on-one interview with Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath.

On February 27, Volvo’s standalone electric performance brand Polestar introduced its first all-electric vehicle, a five-door fastback called the Polestar 2. The EV, which has a 78 kWh battery pack and can travel 275 miles (estimated EPA guidance) on a single charge, will be manufactured at a new factory in Chengdu, China. Other notable specs: The infotainment system will be powered by Android OS, Polestar is offering subscriptions to the vehicle, and production starts in 2020.

Here is what Ingenlath had to say to me about …

EV charging infrastructure

To be very unpolitical, I think it would be totally stupid if we were to aim to develop electric charging infrastructure on our own or for our brand specifically. If you join the electric market today, of course, you would see partnerships; that’s sensible thing to do. Car companies together are making a big effort in getting out a network of necessary charging stations along the highway. 

That’s what we’re doing; we’re teaming up and have the contracts being designed and soon signed.

On the company’s approach to automation 

The terminology is important for us. We very clearly put that into a different picture, we’re not talking about, and we clearly do not ever want to label it, an “autopilot.” The focus of this system is a very safe distance control, which brakes for you and accelerates for you, and of course, the lane keeping. This is not about developing an autopilot system, it is about giving your safety. And that’s where we don’t want to provoke people thinking that they have full rollout autopilot system there. But it is a system that helps you being safe and protected on the road.

I also reached out to Transportation Weekly readers and asked what they wanted to know and then sent some of those questions to Ingenlath.

TW Reader: How did it feel taking one of your personal styling elements – the C shaped rear lamps – from your previous brand over to Polestar?

Ingenlath: It’s an evolutionary process. Polestar naturally builds on its “mothers” DNA and as a new branch develops its own personality. Thor’s hammer, the rear light signature -—with each new model launch (Volvo and Polestar) those elements diverge into a brand specific species.

TW Reader: How much do you still get to do what you love, which is design?

Ingenlath: Being creative is still my main job, now applied on a broader scope — trying to lead a company with a creative and  brand building mindset. Still, I love the Fridays when I meet up with Robin and Max to review the models, sketches and new data. We really enjoy driving the design of both brands to new adventures.

Dig In

Tesla is finally going to offer customers a $35,000 Model 3. How the automaker is able to sell this electric vehicle at the long-awaited $35,000 price point is a big piece of that story — and one that some overlooked. In short, the company is blowing up its sales model and moving to an online only strategy. Tesla stores will close or be converted to “information centers” and retail employees will be laid off.

But this is not what we’re going to talk about today. Tesla has also brought back its so-called “full self-driving” feature, which was removed as an option on its website last year. Now it’s back. Owners can opt for Autopilot, which has automatic steering on highways and traffic-aware cruise control, or FSD.

FSD capability includes several features such as Navigate on Autopilot that is supposed to guide a car from a highway on-ramp to off-ramp, including navigating interchanges and making lane changes. FSD also includes Advanced Summon, Auto Lane Change, and Autopark. Later this year, the system will recognize and respond to traffic lights in more complex urban environments, Tesla says.

All of these features require the driver to be engaged (or ready to take over), yet it’s called “full self-driving.” Now Tesla has two controversially named automation features. (The other is Autopilot). As Andrew Hawkins at The Verge noted in his coverage, “experts are beginning to realize that the way we discuss, and how companies market, autonomy is significant.”

Which begs the obvious question, and one that I asked Musk during a conference call on Thursday. “Isn’t it a problem that you’re calling this full self-driving capability when you’re still going to require the driver to take control or be paying attention?” (I also wanted to ask a followup on his response, but the moderator moved onto the next reporter).

His response:

“We are very clear when you buy the car what is meant by full self driving. It means it’s feature complete, but feature complete requiring supervision.

As we get more — we really need billions of miles, if not maybe 10 billion sort of miles or kilometers on that order collectively from the fleet — then in our opinion probably at that point supervision is not required, but that will still be up to regulators to agree.

So we’re just very clear.  There’s really three steps: there’s being feature complete of full self driving that requires supervision, feature complete but not requiring supervision, and feature complete not requiring supervision and regulators agree.

In other Tesla news, the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating a crash, that at first glance seems to be similar to the fatal crash that killed Tesla owner Joshua Brown.

In cooperation with the Palm Beach sheriff’s office, the NTSB is sending a team of three to conduct a safety investigation of the commercial motor vehicle and Tesla crash in Delray Beach, FL.

— NTSB_Newsroom (@NTSB_Newsroom) March 2, 2019

A little bird …

We hear a lot. But we’re not selfish. Let’s share.

It’s no secret that Pittsburgh is one of the hubs of autonomous vehicle development in the world. But what’s not so widely known — except for a group of government and company insiders — is that Mayor William Peduto is on the verge of issuing an executive order that will give more visibility into testing there. 

The city’s department of mobility and infrastructure is the central coordinator of this new executive order that aims to help guide testing and policy development there. The department is going to develop guidelines for AV testing, we’re told. And it appears that information on testing will be released to the public at least once a year.

Got a tip or overheard something in the world of transportation? Email me or send a direct message to @kirstenkorosec.

Deal of the week

Daimler and BMW are supposed to be competitors. And they are, except with mapping (both part of the HERE consortium), mobility services (car sharing, ride-sharing), and now the development of highly automated driving systems. The deal is notable because it illustrates a larger trend that has emerged as the AV industry hunkers down into the “trough of disillusionment.” And that’s consolidation. If 2016, was the year of splashy acquisitions, then 2019 is shaping up to be chockfull of alliances and failures (of some startups).

Also interesting to note, and one that will make some AV safety experts cringe, both companies are working on Level 3 driving automation, a designation by the SAE that means conditional driving automation in which multiple high levels of automation are available in certain conditions, but a human driver must be ready to take over. This level of automation is the most controversial because of the so-called “hand off” problem in which a human driver is expected to take control of the wheel in time.

Speaking of partnerships, another deal that got our attention this week involved New York-based mapping and data analytics startup Carmera and Toyota Research Institute-Advanced Development. TRI-AD is an autonomous drive unit started by Toyota with Denso and Aisin. TRI-AD’s mission is to take the research being done over at the Toyota Research Institute and turn its into a product.

The two companies are going to test a concept that will use cameras in Toyota test vehicles to collect data from downtown Tokyo and use it to create high definition maps for urban and surface roads.

TRI-AD considers this the first step towards its open software platform concept known as Automated Mapping Platform that will be used to support the scalability of highly automated driving, by combining data gathered from vehicles of participating companies to generate HD maps. AMP is new and has possible widespread implications at Toyota. And TRI-AD is full of A-listers, including CEO James Kuffner, who came from the Google self-driving project and Nikos Michalakis, who built Netflix’s cloud platform, and Mandali Khalesi, who was at HERE.

Read more on Khalesi and the Toyota’s open source ambitions here.

Other deals:

India’s Ola spins out a dedicated EV business — and raised $56M

Volvo Cars has acquired a stake in Zūm, an on-demand ride sharing service for children

Snapshot

Snapshot this week is a bit untraditional. It’s literally a snapshot of myself and my grandmother, months before her 100th birthday. Her memorial service was held Saturday. She died at 101. She loved cars and fast ones, but not so much driving them. And every time I got a new press car, we’d hit the road and she’d encourage me to take the turns a bit faster.

She also loved road trips and in the 1920s, her father would drive the family on the mostly dirt roads from New Jersey to Vermont and even Canada. In her teens, she loved riding in the rumble seat, a feature found in a few vehicles at the time including the Ford Model A.

She was young at heart, until the very end. Next week, we’ll focus on the youngest drivers and one automotive startup that is targeting that demographic.

Tiny but mighty micromobility

Lyft’s S-1 lays out the risks associated with its micromobility business and its intent to continue relying on third parties to manufacture its bikes and scooters. Here’s a key nugget about adoption:

“While some major cities have widely adopted bike and scooter sharing, there can be no assurance that new markets we enter will accept, or existing markets will continue to accept, bike and scooter sharing, and even if they do, that we will be able to execute on our business strategy or that our related offerings will be successful in such markets. Even if we are able to successfully develop and implement our network of shared bikes and scooters, there may be heightened public skepticism of this nascent service offering.”

And another about seasonality:

“Our limited operating history makes it difficult for us to assess the exact nature or extent of the effects of seasonality on our network of shared bikes and scooters, however, we expect the demand for our bike and scooter rentals to decline over the winter season and increase during more temperate and dry seasons.”

Lyft, which bought bike-share company Motivate back in July, also released some data about its electric pedal-assist bikes this week, showing that the pedal assist bikes are, unsurprisingly, more popular than the traditional bikes. They also traveled longer distances and improved winter ridership numbers. Now, Lyft is gearing up to deploy 4,000 additional electric bikes to the Citi Bike system in New York City.

One more thing …

Google Maps has added a feature that lets users see Lime scooters, pedal bikes and e-bikes right from the transit tab in over 80 new cities around the world. Users can click the tab to find out if Lime vehicle is available, how long it’ll take to walk to the vehicle, an estimate of how much their ride could cost, along with total journey time and ETA.

Notable reads

If take the time to read anything this week (besides this newsletter), spend some time with Lyft’s S-1. The ride-hailing company’s prospectus mentions autonomous 109 times. In short, yeah, it’s something the company’s executives are thinking about and investing in.

Lyft says it has a two-pronged strategy to bring autonomous vehicles to market. The company encouraging developers of autonomous vehicle technology to use its open platform to get access to its network and enable their vehicles to fulfill rides on the Lyft platform. And Lyft is trying to build its own autonomous vehicle system at its confusingly named “Level 5 Engineering Center.”

The company’s primary investors are Rakuten with a 13 percent stake, GM with 7.8 percent, Fidelity with 7.7 percent, Andreessen Horowitz with 6.3 percent and Alphabet with 5.3 percent. GM and Alphabet have business units, GM Cruise and Waymo respectively, that are also developing AV technology.

Through Lyft’s partnership with AV systems developer and supplier Aptiv, people in Las Vegas have taken more than 35,000 rides in Aptiv autonomous vehicles with a safety driver since January 2018.

One of the “risks” the company lists is “a failure to detect a defect in our autonomous vehicles or our bikes or scooters”

Other quotable notables:

Check out the Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State report, a newly released report from Volvo Car USA and The Harris Poll called  The State of Electric Vehicles in America.

Testing and deployments

Again, deployments doesn’t always mean the latest autonomous vehicle pilot.

On Saturday, Sidewalk Labs hosted its Open Sidewalk event in Toronto. This is part of Sidewalk Toronto, a joint effort by Waterfront Toronto and Alphabet’s Sidewalk Labs to create a “mixed-use, complete community” on Toronto’s Eastern Waterfront

The idea of this event was to share ideas and prototypes for making outdoor public space the “social default year-round.” One such prototype “hexagonal paving” got our attention because of its use case for traffic control and pedestrian and bicyclist safety. (Pictured below)

These individual precast concrete slabs are movable and permeable, can light up and give off heat. The idea is that these hexagonal-shaped slabs and be used to clear snow and ice in trouble spots and light up to warn drivers and pedestrians of changes to the street use or to illuminate an area for public uses or even designate bike lanes and hazard zones. And because they’re permeable they can be used to absorb stormwater or melted snow and guide it to underground stormwater management systems.

Sidewalk Labs tell me that the pavers have “plug and play” holes, which allow things like bike racks, bollards, and sign posts to be inserted. Sidewalk Labs initially built these with wood, and the new prototype is the next iteration, featuring modules built from concrete.

On our radar

There is a lot of transportation-related activity this month.

The Geneva Motor Show: Press days are March 5 and March 6. Expect concept, prototype and production electric vehicles from Audi, Honda, Kia, Peugeot, Pininfarina, Polestar, Spanish car company Hispano Suiza, and Volkswagen.

SXSW in Austin: TechCrunch will be at SXSW this coming week. Here’s where I’ll be.

2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. March 9 at the Empire Garage for the Smart Mobility Summit, an annual event put on by Wards Intelligence and C3 Group. The Autonocast, the podcast I co-host with Alex Roy and Ed Niedermeyer, will also be on hand.

9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. March 12 at the JW Marriott. The Autonocast and founding general partner of Trucks VC, Reilly Brennan will hold a SXSW podcast panel on automated vehicle terminology and other stuff.

3:30 p.m over at the Hilton Austin Downtown, I’ll be moderating a panel Re-inventing the Wheel: Own, Rent, Share, Subscribe. Sherrill Kaplan with Zipcar, Amber Quist, with Silvercar and Russell Lemmer with Dealerware will join me.

TechCrunch is also hosting a SXSW party from 1 pm to 4 pm Sunday, March 10, 615 Red River St., that will feature musical guest Elderbrook. RSVP here. 

Self Racing Cars

Finally, I’ve been in contact with Joshua Schachter who puts on the annual Self Racing Car event, which will be held March 23 and March 24 at Thunderhill Raceway near Willows, California.

There is still room for participants to test or demo their autonomous vehicles, drive train innovation, simulation, software, teleoperation, and sensors. Hobbyists are welcome. Sign up to participate or drop them a line at contact@selfracingcars.com.

Thanks for reading. There might be content you like or something you hate. Feel free to reach out to me at kirsten.korosec@techcrunch.com to share those thoughts, opinions or tips. 

Nos vemos la próxima vez.

source https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/03/transportation-weekly-polestar-ceo-speaks-tesla-terminology-and-a-tribute/

[hardwaremains]

Lucid car price

LUCID CAR PRICE SOFTWARE

In line with global automotive price increases, Lucid added that it is putting prices up across the range from June 1, 2022. It is now available in four variants after the company commenced deliveries of the introductory “Dream Edition” in late 2021. The company currently sells one model, the Lucid Air. Share prices for Lucid Motors dropped 7% following the earnings report. The news was not taken well by investors, however as global headwinds put pressure on auto start-ups in ramp-up phase. Lucid Motors is backed by the Saudi sovereign fund. He underlined the company’s recent deal to sell the Saudi Arabian government 100,000 cars over the next 10 years. Lucid chief financial officer Sherry House said this is sufficient to fund the company into 2023. The company delivered 360 vehicles so far in 2022 bringing in $US57.7 million ($A81 million) and closed the quarter with $US5.4 billion ($A7.6 million) cash on hand. With range-topping specs that include 900-volt architecture that can recharge more than 480km range in 20 minutes and accceleration from 0-60mph (0-96.5km/hr) in 2.6 seconds, it delivers up to 830km driving range and 782kW power. The Lucid Air has been pegged as a serious competitor to the Tesla Model S. “We are nearing completion of deliveries of Lucid Air Dream Edition, and we began deliveries of Lucid Air Grand Touring, with an EPA-estimated range of up to 516 miles and an unprecedented efficiency of 4.6 miles per kilowatt-hour.” Peter Rawlinson, Lucid’s CEO and CTO, said, “We continued to make progress in the first quarter of 2022 despite on-going global supply chain challenges. But, the company’s current production capacity of 12,000-14,000 vehicles a year means some customers could be waiting almost two years to receive a new vehicle. This equates to a potential $US2.9 billion ($A4 billion) in revenue potential. At its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, it said that it already has 30,000 orders on the books. This time is yours.Lucid Motors will be very busy for at least the next two years, it would seem. In the future, your car will be able to retrieve your groceries, pick up your kids from practice, or provide you a moment to sit back and relax as you are safely driven home.

LUCID CAR PRICE SOFTWARE

Over-the-air software upgrades will allow the Lucid Air to transition through progressive levels of autonomy. AUTOPILOTIn the future, Lucid's assistive technology will help you and your family get things done. Hitting top speeds or hugging tight corners, the Lucid Air’s perfectly calibrated air springs, advanced damper technology, and low center of gravity deliver precision handling and a smooth ride. Developed entirely in-house, this integrated system delivers the ultimate EV driving experience. PERFORMANCE Lucid’s powertrain technology unleashes breathtaking performance with world-class range and efficiency. INTERIOR Inspired by an executive jet, the Air offers optional executive rear seating with 55 degrees of recline, affording moments to stretch out and relax. Below a sweeping glass canopy, the ultra-spacious cabin provides an unrivaled sensory experience. DESIGN Designed from the inside out, the Lucid Air is meticulously sculpted to maximize interior space. Originally teased as the "Atieva Atvus" it was unveiled as the "Lucid Air" in December 2016 and originally planned to be available about two years later. About Lucid Air GENERALThe Lucid Air is an all-electric 4-door sedan, designed by the American automotive company Lucid Motors.

[unlikelycrownkitty]

Interview the CEO of Tesla Elon Musk.

Tesla was founded in 2003 by Elon Musk, a Canadian who made a fortune by producing and selling PayPal, the online payment system. I have not heard that Musk used to be an electric car-maker. He started out with solar panels, and with the launch of the Tesla Roadster, he had a car that was as fast as a Porsche Cayenne, and he was selling it at a premium price. After the launch of the Roadster, and the launch of the Model S, he went into electric cars. On the Tesla website, there is a section called "The Future" where you can read Musk's predictions for the future. Musk has said he sees electric cars as a "natural partner" to the Tesla Model S. "I see electric cars as the natural partner to the Model S," he has said. Tesla's Model S is a luxury sports car, priced at around $85,000. Tesla does not sell the Model S in India, but it is selling the Model S in several other countries, including Australia, New Zealand and Mexico. According to reports, the Model S is now the best selling luxury car in the US, with sales of over 4,000 units in the first nine months of 2016. The Model S is available in five trims: the $49,000 Signature, the $57,000 85D, the $79,000 P90D, and the $102,000 P100D. The Model S is powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, developing 420 hp (210 kW). The Model S is available with either the eight or nine-speed automatic gearbox, and the Model S comes with a rear-wheel drive option. The car has a range of about 300 km (186 miles). The Model S is available in two exterior colors: black and silver.

[orbemnews]

From the Charred Wreck of a Lamborghini, a D.I.Y. Supercar PORTLAND, Ore. — Under the rear hood of Chris Steinbacher’s Lamborghini Huracán sits a Chevy engine. Sure, it’s a twin turbo, and, yes, it pumps a menacing 900 horsepower to the wheels, but the pedigree is Detroit, not Italy. And the rest of the car was basically put together in Portland. Lamborghini purists may want to cover their eyes now. The left-for-dead Lambo is one of Mr. Steinbacher’s salvaged supercars. He bought it — what was left of it, anyway, after a fire burned it nearly in two — for $40,000, and it was delivered via forklift. (A new Huracán can approach $300,000, and Mr. Steinbacher’s now-tricked-out 2016 model hovers in that same stratosphere.) Parts for this resurrection cost about $50,000, a discounted total that he kept down with the help of sponsors on his YouTube channel, B Is for Build, which has close to 1.5 million subscribers. Flooded Ferraris and mangled McLarens are easily found on auction sites like Copart and Impact Auto Auctions. Most people playing in this realm work strictly with cash, Mr. Steinbacher said, although financing can sometimes be arranged. What happens after your wreck rolls off the delivery trailer is far more complicated, but with more money and dedication, a dream car may be within reach. A few years ago, Mr. Steinbacher was a senior software engineer with a desire to build unique sports cars. “I started around early 2015 knowing absolutely nothing about cars,” he said of his YouTube channel, where he learned as he went. “In January of 2017, the company I was making software for went out of business, and I continued doing YouTube full time.” When he learned he could buy salvaged supercars at a small fraction of the used market price, Mr. Steinbacher was “kind of hooked,” he said. He started to buy totaled cars and fixed them up in his backyard. Fixing cracked-up cars isn’t easy “unless you’re one hell of a gambler,” Mr. Steinbacher said. “The hunting part isn’t hard — anyone can Google around and find salvaged-car auction sites and find supercars on there.” Most times the car will require a shipment, however, and you might not see it in person, let alone get a test drive. “You’ve got six to 10 pictures to try and assess the extent of the damage and how much it’s going to cost to fix,” he said. This is a skill that can take years and many mistakes to master. “Eventually I turned a camera on to track my progress,” he said, “and started posting it on YouTube.” For a number of prominent rebuilders, YouTube is an essential source of know-how, and the ad revenue certainly doesn’t hurt. “I love working with my hands,” said Rich Benoit of Boston, whose channel is Rich Rebuilds. A computer science major in college, Mr. Benoit “kept working my way up to Teslas, Audis and now the BMW i8,” he said. “Supercar is a funny word,” Mr. Benoit added. “I’ve built many high-end cars, like Teslas, Audi RS7s, but the i8 is my first ‘supercar’ per se.” All have been built in his family’s garage. His personal favorite retrofit? Swapping a V-8 engine into a Tesla. There’s no formal definition for what gives a sports car superpowers, but, generally speaking, this class includes an automaker’s best specimens, in terms of design, power and abilities — and the all-important price tag. Bought after an accident, the salvage-titled carcass of the 2014 BMW i8 cost Mr. Benoit $28,000. After $10,000 of parts and countless hours of labor, his project is complete. Today in Business Updated  April 7, 2021, 2:31 p.m. ET And the cost of the i8’s labor? That’s “leisure time and considered fun,” he said. Charging for his time is like “charging money to spend time with your kids.” Trading desks for dashboards, Mr. Steinbacher might not have known much about cars when he started, but he’s a quick study. He lost count after more than 50 rebuilds, he said, and has kept around 25 of them. His YouTube channel has helped fund his “car building addiction,” he said. He wouldn’t mind another day job, he added, “but simply more hours on the cars mean they get done quicker and I’m able to build more and crazier stuff.” Fixing up these cars can make dreams come true at a discount. If you have the skill or connections to get it done, they can cost far less than showroom-floor counterparts. In Clackamas, Ore., Wheel has worked on roughly 200 supercars during his nearly 20 years running Tommy’s Window Tinting. His clients have brought him Ferrari 488 Spiders and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMGs, and a crown jewel, a $2.8 million 1958 Corvette that will debut at this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association show, known widely as SEMA. “You would probably end up getting your dream car for half the cost,” Mr. Saenz said. “But you would have to also come to the conclusion that you are getting a car that’s either salvaged or has been parted together.” For hobbyists like Mr. Benoit and Mr. Steinbacher, part of the allure is the thrill of the hunt. The mythical “barn find,” of discovering a dusty classic that just needs a deep cleaning? That would be far too easy. A key theme emerges when talking with the rebuilders: A supercar that has been in an accident will only invite more trouble if it’s not fixed properly. This hobby is as cash-intensive as it is labor-intensive. “There are a lot of corners you can cut,” Mr. Saenz said. “You don’t necessarily have to replace it with a factory part.” Once they’re road-ready, insuring a rebuilt supercar can be an interesting endeavor. “Liability insurance isn’t very hard,” Mr. Steinbacher said. “Most large automotive insurance companies won’t bat an eye at insuring a salvaged supercar.” Full coverage, however, can be a different story. Some insurance companies want to inspect the car to assess a value — owners need to agree — in case it gets totaled. Insurance is a gamble the builders take. Mr. Benoit, for instance, has never had a problem arranging full replacement value coverage. Mr. Saenz offers this advice to buyers: Research the seller and what you want to buy. “Hopefully they have a lot of money” for the project ahead, he said. All the effort in the garage can pay off. Mr. Steinbacher’s Huracán took three men working for five months before they revealed their Burntacan. The total outlay? Under $100,000. “It was a creative way to make double the stock horsepower for much less than half the cost of replacing the engine,” he said. Along with the LS Chevy V-8 engine and transmission swap, twin turbos and a custom carbon-fiber body rounded out his one-of-a-kind Lambo. To Mr. Steinbacher’s knowledge, no one had fashioned a manual-transmission Huracán before. Much less one that once looked as if it had hung over a campfire like a singed marshmallow. His next vision is to take a donated 2016 Huracán chassis and build it into a full-blown Mint 400 off-road racecar, “turning it into a purpose-built endurance desert racer,” he said. Source link Orbem News #charred #DIY #Lamborghini #supercar #Wreck

[bat2018autoreview-blog]

2019 Jaguar I-Pace Price, Specs, Changes

2019 Jaguar I-Pace First Edition

2019 Jaguar I-Pace

  2019 Jaguar I-Pace

  2019 Jaguar I-Pace Review – The I-Pace Jaguar is the first fully electric vehicle of the brand that competes with the Tesla. This is a luxury crossover SUV manufactured by the famous British car manufacturer and will attract our attention with a spacious cabin, excellent handling, a powerful all-electric engine and a good range of 240 miles. The new Jaguar I-Pace 2019 will be almost the same as the concept that was presented at the Los Angeles Auto Show 2016. Despite its compact size, the I-Pace will offer an excellent interior space. of the cab due to its long wheelbase of 117.7 inches. In addition, it will provide a very good cargo space that can be expanded with the rear seats folded.

The completely new Jaguar will be available in three versions, S, SE, and HSE. However, there will also be a limited version of the First Edition. Under its hood, the I-Pace works with an electric drivetrain, but will only be available with one battery. In addition, the automaker will equip it with the latest features and system but have not yet revealed if we could expect a self-driving technology.

  SPECSDIMENSIONFUEL ECONOMYPERFORMANCESAFETY

EPA Class Small Sport Utility Vehicles 2WD Style Name S AWD Drivetrain All Wheel Drive Passenger Capacity 5 Passenger Doors 4 Body Style Sport Utility Transmission Transmission: Concentric Single Speed Automatic

Vehicle EPA Classification Small Sport Utility Vehicles 2WD Weight Information Base Curb Weight (lbs) 4784 Interior Dimensions Front Shoulder Room (in) 57.6 Front Head Room (in) 39.9 Second Shoulder Room (in) 54.6 Second Head Room (in) 38.1 Front Leg Room (in) 40.9 Passenger Capacity 5 Second Leg Room (in) 35 Exterior Dimensions Height, Overall (in) 61.3 Length, Overall (in) 184.3 Track Width, Front (in) 64.7 Width, Max w/o mirrors (in) 74.6 Wheelbase (in) 117.7 Track Width, Rear (in) 65.5 Cargo Area Dimensions Cargo Volume to Seat 2 (ft³) 25.3 Cargo Volume to Seat 3 (ft³) 25.3 Cargo Volume to Seat 1 (ft³) 52

Mileage Battery Range (mi) 240

Engine SAE Net Torque @ RPM 512 Engine Type Electric SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM 394 @ 4250 Engine Order Code NA Transmission Trans Description Cont. Automatic Trans Order Code NA Trans Description Cont. Again NA Trans Type 1 Drivetrain All Wheel Drive Final Drive Axle Ratio (:1) 9.04 Brakes Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness (in) 13.8 Disc – Front (Yes or ) Yes Rear Drum Diam x Width (in) NA Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness (in) 12.8 Disc – Rear (Yes or ) Yes Brake ABS System 4-Wheel Drum – Rear (Yes or ) NA Steering Turning Diameter – Curb to Curb (ft) 39.3 Steering Type Rack-Pinion Tires Front Tire Size P235/65R18 Rear Tire Order Code NA Rear Tire Size P235/65R18 Spare Tire Order Code NA Front Tire Order Code NA Spare Tire Size NA Wheels Front Wheel Material Aluminum Rear Wheel Size (in) 18 Rear Wheel Material Aluminum Spare Wheel Size (in) NA Front Wheel Size (in) 18 Spare Wheel Material NA Suspension Suspension Type – Rear (Cont.) Multi-Link Suspension Type – Rear Multi-Link Suspension Type – Front (Cont.) Double Wishbone Suspension Type – Front Double Wishbone

Safety Air Bag-Frontal-Driver Yes Air Bag-Frontal-Passenger Yes Air Bag-Passenger Switch (On/Off) No Air Bag-Side Body-Front Yes Air Bag-Side Body-Rear No Air Bag-Side Head-Front Yes Air Bag-Side Head-Rear Yes Brakes-ABS Yes Child Safety Rear Door Locks Yes Daytime Running Lights Yes Traction Control Yes Night Vision No Rollover Protection Bars No Fog Lamps No Parking Aid No Tire Pressure Monitor Yes Back-Up Camera Yes Stability Control Yes Other Features Electronic Stability Control (ESC) ABS And Driveline Traction Control Side Impact Beams Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags InControl Protect Emergency Sos Park Assist Automated Parking Sensors Emergency Braking Forward Collision and Rear Traffic Monitor… Lane Keep Assist Lane Keeping Assist Lane Keep Assist Lane Departure Warning Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags Airbag Occupancy Sensor Power Rear Child Safety Locks Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts -inc: Rear Center 3… Back-Up Camera

  2019 Jaguar I-Pace Design

Speaking of exterior design, the 2019 Jaguar I-Pace will be almost identical to the conceptual model presented in 2016. It features a coupe style, the family design of the brand’s grille and beautifully sculpted surfaces. For a more aggressive style, the automaker will offer it with optional 22-inch wheels.

  2019 Jaguar I-Pace Interior

  Moving inland, the 2019 Jaguar I-Pace will provide enough space for all passengers due to the extended wheelbase. It will offer 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, but if you fold the flat rear seats, there is a space of 51.0 cubic feet. The board is equipped with two touch screens, among which the top screen for information and entertainment is a 10-inch and the lowest for air conditioning controls and vehicle function is a 5.5-inch screen. The new I-Pace will also receive the new EV navigation system.

  2019 Jaguar I-Pace Engine and Specifications

The new Jaguar I-Pace 2019 will be powered by an all-electric powertrain. It will use two electric motors that will develop 394 hp (294 kWh) and 512 lb-ft of torque. There is also a 90 kWh battery placed on the floor. The power will be sent to all four wheels and can reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. This unit will provide the range of 240 miles.

With the 100 kW quick charger, the battery recharges to 80% in just 40 minutes. On the other hand, with the 50 kW charger, it will take approximately 90 minutes. Finally, with the charger at home, charging 80% of the battery takes 10 hours, while 100% takes approximately 13 hours.

  2019 Jaguar I-Pace Release Date and Price

The Jaguar I-Pace 2019 is expected to go on sale in the second half of this year. Its price is estimated at around $ 70,500. After debuting at the end of this year, the new Jaguar will find the best rivals in Tesla Model S, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q5 and BMW X3.

  The post 2019 Jaguar I-Pace Price, Specs, Changes appeared first on 2018AutoReview.Com.

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[joelplummer]

2012-2016 TESLA MODEL S P85 P90 Rear DRIVE UNIT ENGINE

2012-2016 TESLA MODEL S P85 P90 Rear DRIVE UNIT ENGINE

  Used   Great running condition motor- in cradle. Will ship anywhere in the United States. The Motor is guaranteed thru Our site also has been tested by our professionals .

[un-enfant-immature]

NHTSA launches probe into Tesla touchscreen failures

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened a preliminary investigation into allegations of failing touchscreens on Tesla’s older Model S vehicles.

The federal agency launched the probe after receiving 11 complaints from Tesla owners over a 13-month period alleging failures of the touchscreen in 2013 through 2015 Model S vehicles. The problem, which stems from a problematic flash memory device, renders the touchscreen black, including the loss of the rear camera image display when reverse gear is selected.

The focus of NHTSA’s preliminary evaluation is an Nvidia Tegra 3 processor with an integrated 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. The flash devices have a finite lifespan that is based on the number of program and erase cycles. The central display, or media control unit, allegedly fails prematurely because the memory wears out in the eMMC NAND flash. NHTSA’s initially estimated 63,000 Model S vehicles, which use this flash memory device, are potentially affected. However, the federal agency notes that the number could be as large as 159,000 vehicles. The Tegra 3 processor was used in 2012 to 2018 Model S sedans and 2016 to 2018 Model X SUVs.

The touchscreen in Tesla vehicles, which include infotainment, navigation and web browsing, have been both hailed for its design and criticized for its glitchy tendencies, particularly around the flash memory device.

NHTSA said the eMMC memory wears out after periods of progressively degraded performance. The final failure results in loss of audible and visual features, including loss of rear camera image display when reverse gear is selected. Other effect of MCU failure include climate control defaulting to Auto mode and limits on battery charging current and maximum state of charger when recharging. The failure doesn’t affect vehicle control systems such as braking, speed control or steering.

[exoticcarauction]

Front & Rear 4x Splash Guard Mud Flaps Mudguards for Tesla Model S 2012-2016 Click Here Now To Bid

[onwheelsxyz-blog]

Lucid Air: 235mph EV to be launched at New York motor show American electric vehicle (EV) start-up Lucid Motors has announced that it will reveal the Air – a luxurious saloon capable of 235mph – in production form at the New York motor show in April.  First revealed in prototype form in December 2016, the Air is positioned as a rival to the Tesla Model S as well as conventionally powered premium limousines, such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.  In entry-level, rear-wheel-drive guise, the Air features a 75kWh battery pack from Samsung and an electric motor producing 395bhp and 443lb ft. It's said to be capable of travelling 240 miles on a single charge and is available to pre-order in the US now, priced from $52,500 (£40,190).  The four-wheel-drive model gains a second motor for a total system output of 1000bhp and is expected to manage more than 400 miles per charge, thanks to a 130kWh battery. Shortly after the original unveiling, Lucid released footage of the top-spec Air hitting a top speed of 217mph, before taking it to 235mph in testing, suggesting it will become the fastest series-production EV when it launches. The Air has five seats as standard, but two individual 'executive' chairs are available as part of an interior upgrade. Lucid also claims that air suspension with regenerative valve technology gives it the most comfortable ride in the class. The Air will offer autonomous driving functions, although it's unclear whether it will feature a comprehensive Autopilot mode like that of the Tesla

[speedweasel216]

2020 Corvette C8

Thursday, July 18, marked a day that many auto enthusiasts and car industry watchers thought would never happen: After decades of rumors and innuendo, Chevrolet finally introduced a production, mid-engined Corvette. It's fair to say the 2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray's Tustin, California, reveal was a blockbuster event by the numbers. You may have already committed the key metrics to memory: 495 horsepower, 0 to 60 miles per hour in under 3 seconds, pricing starting at under $60,000.

The C8 Corvette wasn't the only thing to generate impressive stats that night: The reveal event itself triggered massive online traffic for the automotive websites and forums covering the C8 Corvette's reveal, and General Motors was temporarily overwhelmed by the unbridled interest the reveal generated. There were times when the livestream of the reveal bogged down, and when the automaker revealed that its 2020 Chevy Corvette "Visualizer" configurator tool was already live on Chevrolet.com, a tidal wave of traffic ensued, effectively gridlocking the experience for most users for the better part of a day.

When the digital dust settled, the 2020 Chevy Corvette had set a number of impressive online records for GM. In the main, 471,000 people tuned in to watch the livestream unveil of the Corvette -- an impressive figure given that the event was held midevening on the West Coast (a good portion of the event happened after much of the country had already gone to bed).

But Corvette fever didn't stop there. Friday, July 19, the first full day after the C8's debut, saw the C8 shatter Chevrolet.com traffic records, too. According to Steve Majoros, director of passenger car and crossover marketing for Chevrolet, the brand's consumer site saw five times the normal traffic load it hosts on a daily basis. Corvette-related traffic set an all-time record for Chevy's website, even with the slowdown.

"With a pretty rabid and passionate base, we knew we'd take 24 hours of grief," Majoros tells Roadshow. "The majority of people got the full [configurator] experience, which is the full 3D experience. We do have a way that the system throttles to what we're calling a 2D experience [to speed load time]. Once we hit thresholds, we worked with Amazon Web Services very quickly to double our server capacity." (GM may have outsourced its server support for things like 3D rendering, but it built the C8's configurator tool internally, a move that helped keep a lid on information leaking out about the top-secret car.)

Through the end of July, traffic to the C8's Chevrolet.com landing page alone amounted to 2.4 million visits, with 750,000 of those users coming within the first 72 hours after the reveal. By the end of July, some 1.3 million users had already tried out out the Corvette's Visualizer, poking through the various colors, options and features to configure their dream Corvettes. In total, visitors to the website built over 940,000 Corvettes and logged in excess of 152,000 hours spent on the Visualizer tool before the month of August even began.

Those are huge numbers, especially when you consider that the outgoing C7 Corvette sold just 18,791 units last year.

It's difficult to put the Corvette's reveal and website figures in proper context, as most automakers don't hold online reveal ceremonies for new cars and trucks this way (let alone disclose data about the online footprint of these events thereafter). The clearest recent example is arguably Tesla's unveiling of the Model 3 EV in March 2016.

Tesla didn't release data about subsequent website visits, but we do know that event led to a claimed 115,000 buyer reservations within 24 hours -- including $1,000 deposits. This is admittedly an apples and oranges comparison. The Model 3 four-door sedan is designed to be a more affordable mainstream automobile (that happens to be electric), versus the two-seat Corvette's much more specialized nature. Clearly, however, these are big numbers that show significant interest in both milestone automobiles.

A lot of users have configured C8 Corvettes in the Visualizer in many different ways. "Corvette, as a vehicle, has always been about personalization and bespoke and customization -- making it yours," Majoros tells Roadshow. "We wouldn't be having this call if this was [a] Malibu or Equinox, right? [With those vehicles] we've got like 40 build combinations ... we have probably infinite build combinations [with Corvette], because that's what customers want. They want a car that's uniquely theirs ... it's not a surprise that people are building and saving multiple versions."

Are there any common threads emerging in users' Visualizer selections that could point to what types of cars will end up in dealers? Not necessarily. Right now, the two most popular configurator paint color selections are Rapid Blue (new) and Elkhart Lake Blue Metallic -- two of the C8's bolder color choices. Similarly, two of the most popular interior colors have been Two-Tone Blue and Natural Dipped (tan).

Majoros doesn't necessarily think the aforementioned choices will correlate to those particular paint and upholstery finishes being the most popular when it comes down to actually ordering vehicles. "The Visualizer results to date are inconsistent with what a long-term sales trend would be," he says. Rather, Chevy officials suspect customers are focusing on newly available colors and bolder material choices and letting their imaginations run wild.

GM hasn't just rolled out the digital red carpet for the Corvette-curious online, it's also formed a special call center task force dedicated to answering customer questions. According to Majoros, Chevy pulled a number of employees from its regular customer call center, "sequestered them for six weeks" in advance of the reveal and gave them in-depth Corvette Academy training on product and process. "We skimmed off the creme de la creme and really 'Corvetted' them up," he says.

These special phone reps have been trained in "engineering, dealers, history, allocation, ordering, speccing, specifications, anything that we think could come our way," Majoros says. Housed in GM's Renaissance Center headquarters, there are five such "concierge" staffers working the phones and keyboards at any given time, and these representatives are available to answer phone calls, emails and live chat requests 12 hours a day. Average phone calls last about 15 minutes, but some extend an hour beyond that, says Majoros. Anyone can call upon these experts; you don't need to be a Corvette owner or someone who has placed a deposit for the new car.

Majoros says these call-center reps have entertained everything from general questions about how to use the website to very specific engineering questions like what the maximum possible negative camber angle is on the rear wheels when setting up the car for racing. Patrons can have repeat access to the same call center expert via phone or email as new questions arrive, too, and they can even help spec out a Corvette and transfer that information to the dealer along with discussion notes when the time comes. "i want these people to be your Nordstrom concierge. I want them to know you, basically be your personal shopper," he says.

The last time Chevrolet queued up a special concierge experience like this for one of its products? The first-generation Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid, circa 2010 or 2011.

It will likely be many months before we can tell if early interest in the livestream reveal and website configurator will translate into robust sales for the 2020 Chevy Corvette. Right now, customers can make deposits, and while dealers can place orders, in the absence of full pricing information (coming in mid-August), many are electing to wait to enter orders into their systems.

In other words, we probably won't know for a while if the C8 has more record-breaking performances in store.

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2016 Toyota Mirai Long-Term Verdict: Pulling Off the Hydrogen Highway

People ask me all the time why someone might opt for the 2016 Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, over a traditional battery EV. The conventional answer is that fuel cells require little change in an owner’s routine if they are accustomed to driving a gasoline car; refueling takes a few minutes at a station with a pump, and in theory you should achieve a similar driving range with the added benefit of emitting nothing but water from the tailpipe. But my response would differ. Despite the factors that should normalize hydrogen FCEVs, I found that driving a Mirai feels far more foreign than any other type of vehicle. Typically, we drive our long-term vehicles for an entire year, but Toyota gave us just six months with the Mirai. Our Mirai rolled into the MT Garage with 7,947 miles on the odometer, and we added another 10,497 miles over the course of the loan. As we learned from Toyota, the average Mirai customer drives about 10,000–12,000 miles a year and has one other vehicle at their disposal. Only 15 percent of customers buy rather than lease the Mirai. In some ways, the conventional answer to the fuel cell versus EV dilemma is true. Pumping hydrogen is much like pumping gas, save for the extra-cold temperature of the hydrogen dispenser nozzle. We spent an average of 4 minutes and 6 seconds refueling the Mirai on occasions when there was a quarter of a tank remaining, or 4 minutes 35 seconds when we had dropped down to just one-eighth a tank. But the Mirai’s driving range proved somewhat disappointing. Although the EPA estimates the Mirai can travel 312 miles on a tank, we averaged a total driving distance of 279 miles, based on the sum of the miles driven before a fill-up and the indicated range remaining on the readout. We refueled the H2 tank more than 50 times, but the car cracked 300 miles of total driving distance in just six instances. After refueling, the average new range estimate came out to 272 miles on the display. In a similar vein, we achieved a fuel economy rating of 61.3 miles per kilogram during our time with the Mirai, though the EPA estimates a 65.9-mpk rating. One kilogram of hydrogen is equivalent to a gallon of gas.   Unlike gas stations, which are available at every corner, hydrogen stations are still few and far between. The nearest one to my residence is 12 miles away, and there are just 30 open retail stations across California as of this writing, though a couple of them opened after or slightly before the end of our time with the Mirai. In addition to the limited infrastructure, the experience of filling up varies slightly from station to station. They usually don’t prove problematic, but one pump requires watching a lengthy tutorial, and on a couple of occasions, stations encountered hiccups dispensing hydrogen fuel. In contrast, plugging in an EV is as easy as plugging in your cell phone nowadays, especially if you charge at home. The Mirai is available in one fully loaded trim level with active cruise control, pre-collision braking, LED headlamps, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and heated seats with SofTex synthetic leather upholstery. Our model goes for $58,335, but if you lop off a $5,000 California rebate, the price drops to $53,335. (As of June 30, funding for the California tax credit has been exhausted, with priority now going to lower- and moderate-income applicants; a federal income tax credit with a maximum $8,000 value expired at the end of 2016 and has not been retroactively extended.) Toyota provides free fuel for three years, worth up to $15,000. That extra moola comes in handy because hydrogen often costs $15 or more per kg, quite expensive when you consider the Mirai’s usable fill capacity is 4.72 kg. Compare that to a single charge for an EV, which will definitely cost you less than a tank of gas. But sweetening the pot a little more, owners get free rental car service for 21 days, and Toyota also offers free maintenance for three years or 35,000 miles. Accordingly, we spent $0 maintaining our Mirai, with one small exception. After noticing our cabin air filter was dirty, we dropped $18.31 to fix the problem. (The filter is not covered by the complimentary maintenance program). The Mirai is the first hydrogen vehicle we’ve had in our long-term fleet, so it’s impossible to compare its maintenance cost to its direct competitors. But we can compare it to our long-term 2015 Kia Soul EV+, which cost $71.42 to maintain over 10,099 miles, and our long-term 2013 Tesla Model S P85+, which cost $0 to maintain but required $1,760 for new tires after 38,054 miles. Getting the Mirai serviced was a surprisingly simple affair. True, you’ll only find four Toyota dealerships in Southern California and four in Northern California that service the vehicle, and there are special Mirai technicians, but we never had to wait long to get our Mirai in for a checkup. We didn’t have to make a formal appointment for either of our two visits while adhering to the 5,000-mile service intervals. Once the tires were rotated and a few inspections were performed, we were in and out of the dealership in an hour or two. What will I miss most about the Mirai? I enjoyed its instant power delivery, which helps maneuver quickly through traffic, and its comfortable ride. Plus the car’s low beltline means expansive windows provide excellent visibility. Customers also get a uniquely designed, high-quality interior with a competent and responsive infotainment system, unique touch-sensitive climate controls, and comfortable SofTex seats. But for as many good things as I can remember, there are bad ones too. First off: The Mirai has only four seats. Vague handling, a heavy feel when cornering, and mushy brakes diminish the driving fun. The Mirai’s value proposition is put in question when you realize you’re getting a vehicle with an uninspired driving experience at the same price you’d pay for a premium car even after all the perks. The Mirai also feels older (because it is older) than the Honda Clarity. Although the Mirai trumps the Clarity in ride quality, the Clarity benefits from better handling and a newer cabin. The few hydrogen cars on the market have noticeable drawbacks when it comes to driving enjoyment, and electric vehicles such as the Volkswagen e-Golf, Chevrolet Bolt, and Tesla Model S more closely fit the bill in terms of performance. So how would I respond if someone asked what it would take for me to get into a FCEV over a BEV? I’d have to live within a few miles of a hydrogen station, have another vehicle or not travel outside of California very often, and be willing to make sacrifices in drive or ride quality. Key stats about our time with a Toyota Mirai: Total distance: 10,497 milesTotal days: 179Total H2: 171.249 kgTotal H2 cost: $2,703 (26 cents per mile)Average fuel economy: 61.3 miles per kg (mpk)/62.5 mpg-eEPA official mpk: 65.9Average (mean) new range estimate after refueling: 272 miles (low: 254; high: 295)Average (mean) total driving range (actual miles driven plus indicated range remaining): 279 miles (low: 239; high: 314)Average time to refuel at 1/2 tank: 2 minutes, 53 secondsAverage time to refuel at 3/8 tank: 3 minutes, 13 secondsAverage time to refuel at 1/4 tank: 4 minutes, 6 secondsAverage time to refuel at 1/8 tank: 4 minutes, 35 seconds More on our 2016 Toyota Mirai here: Arrival Update 1: Fill’er Up! Update 2: Mirai vs. Clarity  Update 3: New Frontiers and Frozen Fingers Update 4: Is $15,000 of Complimentary Hydrogen Fuel Enough?  Update 5: Fast Facts Our Car SERVICE LIFE 6 mo / 10,497 mi BASE PRICE $58,335 OPTIONS None PRICE AS TESTED $58,335 AVG ECON/CO2 59.0 mpg-e / 0.00 lb/mi PROBLEM AREAS None MAINTENANCE COST $0 NORMAL-WEAR COST $0 3-YEAR RESIDUAL VALUE* $37,000 RECALLS None *IntelliChoice data; assumes 42,000 miles at the end of 3-years 2016 Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS DRIVETRAIN LAYOUT Front-engine, FWD MOTOR TYPE Permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric BATTERY TYPE 1.5-kW-hr Nickel-metal hydride POWER (SAE NET) 151 hp @ 3,230 rpm TORQUE (SAE NET) 247 lb-ft @ 0 rpm WEIGHT TO POWER 27.0 lb/hp TRANSMISSION 1-speed automatic AXLE/FINAL-DRIVE RATIO 8.78:1/8.78:1 SUSPENSION, FRONT; REAR Struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar; torsion beam, coil springs STEERING RATIO 14.8:1 TURNS LOCK-TO-LOCK 2.8 BRAKES, F; R 11.6-in vented, disc; 11.4-in disc, ABS WHEELS, F;R 7.0 x 17-in cast aluminum TIRES, F;R 215/55R17 93V (M+S) Michelin Primacy MXV4 DIMENSIONS WHEELBASE 109.4 in TRACK, F/R 60.5/61.8 LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 192.5 x 71.5 x 60.5 in TURNING CIRCLE 37.4 ft CURB WEIGHT 4,072 lb WEIGHT DIST, F/R 58/42% SEATING CAPACITY 4 HEADROOM, F/R 38.5/36.8 in LEGROOM, F/R 42.5/30.1 in SHOULDER ROOM, F/R 54.3/53.5 in CARGO VOLUME 12.8 cu ft TEST DATA ACCELERATION TO MPH 0-30 2.9 sec 0-40 4.3 0-50 6.2 0-60 8.6 0-70 11.8 0-80 16.1 PASSING, 45-65 MPH 5.0 QUARTER MILE 16.7 sec @ 81.2 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 129 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.78 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 28.3 sec @ 0.58 g (avg) TOP-GEAR REVS @ 60 MPH 6,975 rpm CONSUMER INFO BASE PRICE $58,335 PRICE AS TESTED $58,335 STABILITY/TRACTION CONTROL Yes/Yes AIRBAGS Dual front, front sides, f/r curtain; driver knee; passenger thigh BASIC WARRANTY 3 yrs/36,000 miles POWERTRAIN WARRANTY 5 yrs/60,000 miles FUEL CELL SYSTEM WARRANTY 8 yrs/100,000 miles ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 3 yrs/Unlimited miles FUEL CAPACITY 5.0 kg H2 EPA CITY/HWY/COMB ECON 67/67/67 mpg ENERGY CONS, CITY/HWY 51/51 kW-hrs/100 miles (gas equiv) CO2 EMISSIONS, COMB 0.00 lb/mile (at vehicle) RECOMMENDED FUEL Compressed hydrogen The post 2016 Toyota Mirai Long-Term Verdict: Pulling Off the Hydrogen Highway appeared first on Motor Trend.

http://www.motortrend.com/cars/toyota/mirai/2016/2016-toyota-mirai-review-long-term-verdict/

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2016 tesla model s rear camera Click Here Now To Bid

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Tesla CEO Elon Musk appears poised to transform the company’s electric cars into driverless vehicles

Tesla gears up for fully self-driving cars amid skepticism SAN FRANCISCO — Tesla CEO Elon Musk appears poised to transform the company’s electric cars into driverless vehicles in a risky bid to realize a bold vision that he has been floating for years. The technology required to make that quantum leap is scheduled to be shown off to Tesla investors Monday at the company’s Palo Alto, California, headquarters. Musk, known for his swagger as well as his smarts, is so certain that Tesla will win the race toward full autonomy that he indicated in an interview earlier this month that his company’s cars should be able to navigate congested highways and city streets without a human behind the wheel by no later than next year. “I could be wrong, but it appears to be the case that Tesla is vastly ahead of everyone,” Musk told Lex Fridman, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology research scientist specializing in autonomous vehicles. But experts say they’re skeptical whether Tesla’s technology has advanced anywhere close to the point where its cars will be capable of being driven solely by a robot, without a human in position to take control if something goes awry. “It’s all hype,” said Steven E. Shladover, a retired research engineer at the University of California, Berkeley who has been involved in efforts to create autonomous driving for 45 years. “The technology does not exist to do what he is claiming. He doesn’t have it and neither does anybody else.”

Tesla Accidents / Self Driving Technology | Elon Musk appears poised to transform the company’s electric cars into driverless vehicles in a risky bid to realize a bold vision that he has been floating for years. More than 60 companies in the U.S. alone are developing autonomous vehicles. Some are aiming to have their fully autonomous cars begin carrying passengers in small geographic areas as early as this year. Many experts don’t believe they’ll be in widespread use for a decade or more. Musk’s description of Tesla’s controls as “Full Self-Driving” has alarmed some observers who think it will give owners a false sense of security and create potentially lethal situations in conditions that the autonomous cars can’t handle. They also say they’re waiting for Musk to define self-driving and show just under what conditions and places the vehicles can travel without human intervention, including specific data showing that they would be safer than human drivers and whether the system’s safety has been reviewed by outside groups or government agencies. Meanwhile, Musk continues to use both his Twitter account and Tesla’s website to pump up a new computer now in production for full self-driving vehicles. Once the self-driving software is ready, those with new computers will get an update via the internet, Musk has said. Currently the self-driving computer costs $5,000, but the price rises to $7,000 if it’s installed after delivery. Tesla vehicles equipped for full autonomy will rely on eight cameras that cover 360 degrees, front-facing radar and short-range ultrasonic sensors. It’s not known how many will have the full self-driving technology. There are about 400,000 Teslas on the road worldwide. That’s different from the self-driving systems being built by nearly every other company in the industry, including Google spinoff Waymo, General Motors’ Cruise Automation, and Ford-affiliated Argo AI. They all use cameras and radar covering 360 degrees, and also have light beam sensors called Lidar to the mix as a third redundant sensor, as well as detailed three-dimensional mapping. “Vehicles that don’t have Lidar, that don’t have advanced radar, that haven’t captured a 3-D map are not self-driving vehicles,” Ken Washington, Ford’s chief technical officer, said during a recent interview with Recode. “They are great consumer vehicles with really good driver-assist technology.” Even Lidar doesn’t guarantee 100 per cent safety. Waymo last year backed off of a pledge to run a robotaxi service in Phoenix without human backup drivers for safety reasons. And an Uber autonomous test vehicle with Lidar as well as a human backup driver ran down and killed a pedestrian last year in Tempe, Arizona, the first known death involving self-driving technology.

Tesla Accidents / Self Driving Technology Amnon Shashua, CEO of Israeli autonomous vehicle computing company Mobileye, says cars with 360-degree cameras and front facing radar could drive autonomously, but they would not be as safe as human drivers. Careful humans can drive 10 million hours without a mistake leading to a fatal crash, but cars without full redundant sensors cannot, he said. Phil Koopman, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Carnegie Mellon University, said Musk needs to show his cars can handle all situations if he wants to claim they can drive themselves. For instance, he wonders if Tesla has a plan for a big truck splashing gallons of grimy water onto a car in a snowstorm, obstructing the cameras. “The rabbit hole goes pretty deep if you want to make that (full self-driving) argument,” he said. Tesla already has been offering a system called “Autopilot” that can control cars on a limited basis with constant monitoring by a human driver. On its website, it says the Autopilot system steers your car in its lane and accelerates and brakes automatically for other vehicles and pedestrians in its lane. But questions already have been raised about Autopilot’s reliability after its involvement in three fatal crashes. In one, neither the driver nor a Tesla Model S operating on the company’s Autopilot driver-assist system spotted a tractor-trailer crossing in front of it on a Florida, highway in 2016. The car drove under the trailer shearing off the roof and killing the driver.

Tesla’s assembly lines slowed and deliveries fell during a rocky start to the new year In a 2017 report , the National Transportation Safety Board wrote that driver inattention and design limitations of Autopilot played major roles in the fatality, and it found that the Model S cameras and radar weren’t capable of detecting a vehicle turning into its path. Rather, the systems are designed to detect vehicles they are following to prevent rear-end collisions. The agency also is still investigating the two other lethal crashes, one last month in Delray Beach, Florida, eerily similar to the 2016 Florida crash, and another involving a Tesla SUV that was operating on Autopilot when it hit a highway lane-dividing barrier in Silicon Valley. Tesla maintains that its current systems are only for assistance, and that drivers must pay attention and be ready to intervene. With “Full Self-Driving Capability,” Tesla touts that you get automatic driving from the highway on ramp to the off ramp including interchanges and changing lanes automatically to overtake slower cars. Later this year, the cars will be able to recognize and respond to traffic lights and stop signs and drive automatically on city streets, the website says. Those feats are something that Tesla will likely have to prove to regulators in California — its largest U.S. market so far — before its fully autonomous cars are allowed on the roads there. But most other states don’t have the same requirements as California. And experts say there’s no federal law requiring preapproval for fully autonomous driving, as long as a vehicle meets federal safety standards, which Teslas do. “Unfortunately, it may be necessary for several people to die before regulators step in,” Shladover said. —— Krisher reported from Detroit. Published at Mon, 22 Apr 2019 12:55:23 +0000 Read the full article