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- Lasers headlights are done
Lasers headlights are done
2024-08-20
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Releases & Reviews
The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid arrives as one of the most refined, affordable cars on the market, offering impressive fuel efficiency and advanced features. Available as a sedan or hatchback, the hybrid boasts a 200-horsepower drivetrain, a quieter cabin with active noise cancellation, and improved structural rigidity. This Civic combines comfort, practicality, and cutting-edge technology, making it a top choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The new Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 blends high performance with opulent luxury, becoming the sportiest Maybach ever. Built on an AMG platform, it features a 577-horsepower V8 engine, nine-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel drive. Despite being slightly slower than its AMG counterpart, the SL 680 focuses on comfort with a noise-optimized exhaust and extensive insulation, making it an ultra-luxurious two-seater for the discerning driver.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Laser headlamps, once a cutting-edge innovation, are quietly fading away. Initially championed by Audi and BMW, these systems offered extended range and reduced energy consumption. However, stringent U.S. regulations limiting headlight power and the advancement of LED technology have made laser lights less appealing. As a result, BMW and Audi have no plans to include laser lights in future models, signaling the end of this once-promising technology.
General Motors is investing $918 million across four U.S. manufacturing sites to support both V-8 engine production and EV components. The investment reflects GM’s strategy to maintain a strong lineup of internal combustion engine vehicles while simultaneously advancing its electric vehicle portfolio. The company’s continued commitment to U.S. manufacturing underscores its dual focus on ICE and EV technologies as it navigates the transition to an all-electric future.
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Car Culture
Missouri rejected 475 vanity license plate applications last year, citing offensive content. The plates included profanities, references to violence, and even cannibalism. This raises questions about the fine line between free expression and public decency, especially as more people seek to express themselves through their vehicles. The rejected plates highlight the challenges of balancing individual expression with societal norms in a highly visible medium.
Maserati has unveiled the GT2 Stradale, a road-legal version of its GT2 race car. Based on the MC20, the Stradale features a 640-horsepower twin-turbo V6, extensive aerodynamic upgrades, and a lighter, stiffer chassis. Despite its track-focused design, the GT2 Stradale retains comfort features like advanced driver assistance systems, making it a viable option for both the road and the track.
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Miscellaneous
Rivian has temporarily stopped production of its Amazon delivery vans due to a parts shortage, marking another challenge for the EV startup. The issue doesn’t affect Rivian’s other models, and Amazon, which holds a 16% stake in the company, does not expect a significant impact on deliveries.
Maryland’s Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Rebate Program is back, offering financial incentives for residents and businesses to install EV chargers. The program is part of Maryland’s broader effort to expand EV infrastructure and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, with rebates covering 50% of costs up to $700 for residential chargers and $5,000 for commercial chargers.
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Quick Links
Cadillac unveiled the Opulent Velocity, a futuristic concept that merges luxury and extreme performance, showcasing the brand’s vision for an all-electric hypercar.
General Motors is laying off over 1,000 employees in its software and services division, citing the need to streamline operations amid rising costs and a focus on emerging EV markets.
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