The Downshift (TDS for short) is a daily roundup of the morning’s leading headlines from the automotive sector and car culture, assembled by The Drive’s editorial staff. Each article includes a brief overview and a link to the original source for those looking to explore further.
Here’s what’s occurring on Friday, September 11, 2026:
🗺️ If you’ve observed that the U.S. government has steered its auto industry in a significantly different direction compared to the rest of the globe—less international cooperation, minimal to no emissions regulations, and no incentives for consumers to switch to electric vehicles—you’re not the only one. Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa stated at an analyst gathering on Thursday, “We see clearly the world divided into two things: One is the United States … and then we have the rest of the world.” The challenge for companies like Stellantis is how to thrive in both landscapes. [Reuters]
💵 In relation to Stellantis, Chrysler is reportedly aiming for a starting price of $25,000 for its Arrow and Arrow Cross compact SUVs, while the larger Airflow will commence at $35,000. These prices are attractively low for the current market, signaling that the company does not intend to move Chrysler upmarket at any level. [Automotive News]
📜 Democratic Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois has reached out to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, advocating for measures against individuals misusing Tesla’s Full Self-Driving and Autopilot technologies, referencing an NBC report that compiled 43 videos showing drivers who seemed to be sleeping while the systems were active. [Reuters]
🔌 Regarding Tesla, the manufacturer has finally delivered on a feature announced three years ago—vehicle-to-home capability, which allows the Cybertruck to supply power to your house. However, to utilize this feature, you’ll need to fully engage with Tesla’s energy ecosystem, including a Powerwall 3 and Wall Connector charger. [InsideEVs]
🗾 Remember the Lexus LS? Although it has disappeared from our market, in its home country of Japan, it continues, entering 2027 with improvements in ride and handling, as well as exterior and interior design updates. The fifth-generation LS began production in 2017. [Motor1]
🥨 Bovensiepen, the creators of the Alpina brand now completely absorbed by BMW, have unveiled a new vehicle based on the Z4, named the Spider. It produces 430 horsepower, with a limited run of just 99 units being made. [Autocar]
🏁 Upcoming races to tune into (all times Eastern):
- NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Gateway: Saturday at 7:30 p.m. on CW/ESPN
- IGTC Suzuka 1000km: Saturday at 11:15 p.m. on YouTube
- European Le Mans 4 Hours of Silverstone: Sunday at 7 a.m. on FIAWEC+
- MotoGP at Misano: Sunday at 8 a.m. on FS1
- Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix: Sunday at 8 a.m. on Apple TV
- NASCAR Cup Series at Gateway: Sunday at 3 p.m. on USA
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**Stellantis CEO Highlights US Auto Industry’s Global Challenges**
Recently, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares underscored the growing pressures from worldwide competition faced by the U.S. auto sector. As the automotive industry evolves, Tavares stressed the need for American manufacturers to adapt to a swiftly changing environment defined by technological progress, shifting consumer expectations, and the ascendancy of electric vehicles (EVs).
Tavares emphasized that the U.S. automotive industry is not merely up against traditional competitors in Europe and Asia but is also contending with new challengers, particularly in the EV market. Firms like Tesla have disrupted the industry, urging established automakers to expedite their electric vehicle projects. This competition is further amplified by the rise of technology companies entering the automotive field, utilizing their software and technology expertise to devise innovative mobility solutions.
The CEO highlighted the importance of teamwork and strategic partnerships to navigate this competitive environment. Stellantis, resulting from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, aims to capitalize on its wide array of brands and global presence to strengthen its competitive grip. Tavares noted that the company is devoted to investing in research and development, especially in electric and autonomous vehicle technologies, to accommodate a more environmentally aware consumer demographic.
Additionally, Tavares addressed the regulatory hurdles confronting the U.S. auto industry, especially regarding emissions regulations and fuel efficiency standards. He argued that a balanced regulatory approach is crucial to ensure American manufacturers can effectively compete on a global scale while also achieving sustainability objectives.
In summary, Tavares’ comments act as a wake-up call for the U.S. auto sector. As global competition escalates, American automakers must innovate and adapt to maintain their relevance in a rapidly changing market. The industry’s future will hinge on its capacity to embrace transformation, invest in emerging technologies, and react to the challenges from both established and new competitors.
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