Good morning and thank you for joining The Downshift, or simply TDS.
Concise, sharp, and to the point, TDS compiles the latest automotive news stories from around the world and presents them in one location. Each story is summarized in a single sentence with a link for those who want to explore further.
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The first cup of coffee has vanished, and I’m definitely craving a second, so let’s dive right in.
🚘 What I’m driving: Spent the weekend behind the wheel of the Polestar 4 and noticed that while I’m not a fan of its lack of a rear window and reliance on a rearview camera stream, a design featuring an actual rear window would have severely hindered visibility.
⭐️ Hyundai has launched an electric iteration of its futuristic Staria van in Europe, equipped with an impressively fast 800-volt electrical system allowing it to charge from 10-80% in just 20 minutes, unlike the VW ID Buzz; whether the Staria EV will reach the U.S. remains uncertain, although Hyundai did promote the debut on its U.S. media outlet, which is somewhat unusual for a European introduction.
👨💼 Lucid’s acting CEO Marc Winterhoff stated that automakers must enhance their efforts in conveying the technological superiority of EVs along with their packaging benefits to consumers.
🪦 Speculation about the Genesis G70’s discontinuation could be exaggerated as a new report suggests the automaker may be considering another facelift for the sporty sedan.
⛽️ Chinese manufacturer GWM unveiled two gasoline-powered eight-cylinder engines at CES in Las Vegas, including a 2.0-liter flat-eight designed for motorcycles and a 4.0-liter V8.
🪽 An Alfa Romeo Giulia featuring an extraordinary wing inspired by hydrofoils from competitive sailboats made its debut.
🧱 Lego has introduced two new Bugatti kits as part of its Speed Champions series.
💸 Waymo is offering between $20 and $40 for individuals to help close car doors.
🖼️ GM’s newly opened headquarters in Detroit boasts a design paying tribute to its heritage while integrating modern conveniences wrapped in a midcentury modern aesthetic.
🏎️ Hans Herrmann, renowned as Porsche’s first Le Mans victor, passed away at 97.
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