Ford Sync 4 lets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto users cut the cord
Ford is launching a new infotainment system to replace the familiar Sync 3. The new Sync 4 system adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as more cloud-based features. Ford plans to launch Sync 4 on certain vehicles in 2020, but did not say which vehicles would get the system first.
Toyota gives its sweet, race-ready Supra the green flag for production
At the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, Toyota unveiled a racing version of the 2020 Supra. Initially called a concept car, the Supra race car has now been confirmed for production. Toyota will start Supra sales to race teams in Europe, North America, and Asia 2020. The Supra will run in the GT4 class.
Hyundai upgrades its Veloster N with the best the aftermarket has to offer
Hyundai wants tuners to love its Veloster N hot hatchback, so it loaded one up with aftermarket parts for the 2019 SEMA show. Hyundai specifically focused on bolt-on parts to show what owners can do with their own cars. A Hyundai Veloster-based off-roader called the Grappler will also appear at SEMA.
Hyundai’s hydrogen fuel cell truck makes hauling freight green and glamorous
Hyundai doesn't want to limit its hydrogen fuel cell tech to cars. The automaker has revealed a fuel cell commercial truck that looks like an Art Deco sculpture on wheels. Hyundai has confirmed plans to build 1,600 fuel cell trucks for Switzerland, but is vague on plans for the United States.
You can now buy a Porsche online, but still have to take delivery at a dealer
Porsche is launching an online sales pilot program with 25 U.S. dealerships. Customers can complete most of the purchasing process through a website, but have to visit a brick-and-mortar dealership to sign paperwork and pick up their cars. Porsche is running a similar pilot program in Germany.
Obsessive attention to detail makes the Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo faster on track
The Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo is the latest in a line of Ferrari race cars stretching back to the company's founding. Ferrari engineers spent 18,000 hours tweaking the car's aerodynamics for improved performance. Ferrari is also launching an updated 488 Challenge race car for its one-make series.
Nissan unveils its next-gen technology, including a virtual reality passenger
Nissan rolled out some new tech for the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, headlined by a dual-motor electric all-wheel drive system. Nissan is also continuing work on so-called "invisible-to-visible" tech. The all-wheel drive system is confirmed for production, but the other tech may not be commercially viable.
2020 Aston Martin Vantage AMR first drive review: Row your own
The 2020 Aston Martin Vantage AMR brings a manual transmission back to Aston's lineup. While automated gearboxes are proliferating in sports cars, the Vantage reminds us of the joys of self shifting. Aston Martin Vantage AMR production is limited to 200 units, but the manual will be available after that.
AdaSky uses military thermal imaging tech for self-driving cars
Israeli startup AdaSky plans to introduce a new type of sensor into the mix for driver-assist systems and self-driving cars. AdaSky's thermal imaging sensor relies on the heat radiated by people and objects. It's a 24/7 solution that will work in conditions that might blind other sensors, AdaSky claims.
Hyundai develops a cruise control that learns to drive like you
Hyundai is using machine learning to analyze a human driver's behavior. This will let drivers fine-tune the responses of adaptive cruise control, according to Hyundai. The automaker believes this tech will act as a stepping-stone to fully autonomous cars. Hyundai is already working with Aptiv on that.
2020 Subaru Crosstrek gets more tech and a slight price bump
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek returns for the new model year largely unchanged. Subaru has added a rear seat reminder feature, and EyeSight driver assist tech is now standard on more trim levels. Subaru also bumped up the price by $250 for the standard Crosstrek, and $185 for the Crosstrek Hybrid.
Audi grounds flying taxi project as it rethinks Airbus partnership
Audi is having second thoughts about a partnership with Airbus to develop a flying taxi. The goal of the project was to develop a vehicle that could transition from driving to flying. Several other automakers remain interested in flying taxis, despite many unanswered questions about the technology.
