In South Africa, a growing lineup of affordable EVs is showing that budget-conscious drivers can still benefit from all-electric driving. As automakers compete to win over price-sensitive buyers, several brands are introducing lower-cost models aimed at making EV ownership more accessible. Among the options are the BYD Dolphin Surf and Geely E2 Aspire. The E2 Aspire recently took the title of South Africa's least-expensive electric car from the Dolphin Surf, with a starting price of $20,980. Here's what to know According to the Daily Dispatch, the Geely E2 is just a little over a hundred dollars cheaper than the BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort. That narrow gap still leaves the Dolphin Surf among the least expensive zero-emission options on sale. Buyers can choose between two Dolphin Surf trims: the Comfort and the Dynamic, and both use a front-wheel-drive electric motor producing 55kW. Battery size is what separates the driving experience. The Comfort uses a 30kWh pack with an estimated range of 144 miles, while the Dynamic gets a 38.8kWh battery, with an estimated range to 183 miles, along with DC charging from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes. In Daily Dispatch's testing, the car's real-world range lined up with BYD's estimated figures. More background This kind of pricing had been unusual in South Africa's EV market. The least expensive electric cars used to cost more than $43,000, putting them beyond the reach of many households and making them a better fit for early adopters than for shoppers focused on value. Models such as the Dolphin Surf and Geely E2 point to a changing market. Once EV prices drop below $30,000, they become more attainable for everyday urban use, especially for drivers who mostly need a car for commuting, school runs, and errands. EVs can save drivers money over time through
Aug 17, 2026 · via thecooldown.com
Spotify's Car Thing Is Resurrected, Thanks To Community Firmware Wizards Who Refused To Abandon It Do you remember Car Thing? The hardware was Spotify's now-abandoned device to control streaming music from the platform, rather than relying on built-in car software, like CarPlay or Android Auto. However, Spotify killed off Car Thing after just a few months. First announced in 2019, Car Thing later launched in 2021 in a limited capacity, before becoming generally available in 2022. It was on sale from February to July, before Spotify pulled the plug on producing it. Unfortunately, December 2024 rolled around, and Spotify then buried the entire product, stopping any remaining Car Things from working. No longer functional, Spotify overnight had created e-waste that was useless to owners. Until, much like those hacking Amazon Echo Show, some hardware tinkerers created Mira, custom firmware for dead Car Things to bring them back. All you need is the download, a USB-C cable, and a Car Thing to get started. Setup will require you to tether Car Thing to your PC or phone to connect via Bluetooth to access Spotify. Once all connected, hook up Car Thing wherever you want it, and you can once again use it to control the music that's streaming from your phone. Most of the original features that you'd expect are here, including podcast support, lyrics view, source options, and various methods of control (including gesture, physical, and voice). As of August 2026, the current version of Mira, 1.0, has two known issues. These are Bluetooth not always automatically reconnecting and waking from sleep can occasionally be flaky. That said, the project's GitHub page is incredibly detailed and even comes with a troubleshooting section. Car Thing is back as Mira Thing Mira is the latest in a line of consumers attempting to
Aug 16, 2026 · via bgr.com
In connected car news areStoneridge, Geotab, E Ink, BMW, Kinetic Technologies, Flock Safety, Magna, Ford and Lincoln. In this Article Stoneridge to Unveil Centralized EVO ECU Platform for Software-Defined Commercial Vehicles Geotab Introduces Geotab Investigations Platform for Telematics Incident Reconstruction E Ink and BMW Unveil Color-Changing iX3 Flow Concept Featuring Segmented Electrophoretic Surface Technology E Ink Corporation and BMW Group have detailed their fifth collaborative concept vehicle, the BMW iX3 Flow Concept, featuring dynamic exterior surface actuation driven by full-color E Ink Prism electrophoretic display technology. On display at BMW Welt in Munich through September 2026, the one-off demonstration vehicle integrates programmable ePaper panels across the vehicle exterior. The surface system executes a ten-second animated visual sequence utilizing microencapsulated charged particles that shift optical states via targeted electrical signals, consuming power exclusively during state transitions. The project highlights ongoing engineering advancements in non-planar digital surface integration, scaling from the initial monochrome iX Flow presented at CES 2022 to multi-segment full-color surface architectures used in the i Vision Dee and i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. Developed as a promotional showcase vehicle tied to Sony Pictures and Marvel theatrical media, the iX3 Flow concept demonstrates low-power customizable vehicle exteriors, dynamic OEM brand communication, and flexible surface personalization for future battery-electric vehicle platforms. Kinetic Technologies Launches KTS1642Q Automotive Load Switch Kinetic Technologies has introduced the KTS1642Q, an AEC-Q100 qualified load switch engineered to simplify compliance with ISO 16750-2 and ISO 7637-2 power transient standards. Designed for automotive ECUs, ADAS modules, and digital instrument clusters, the 6A device operates within a 4V to 40V range and features robust protection against -28V reverse battery conditions, 35V load dump, and electrical transients. The integrated solution includes a 41mΩ MOSFET, fixed 20.3V over-voltage protection (OVP) with a 360ns response time, and thermal protection with auto-retry functionality. By consolidating critical
Aug 16, 2026 · via autoconnectedcar.com
By proceeding, I acknowledge that I have read and agreed to the Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, consent declaration, and the sharing of my information with lending partners, dealers, OEMs, and for marketing communication via Phone Calls, SMS & WhatsApp. BE 6 Sporteq priced between Rs 19.45 lakh and Rs 26.95 lakh. BaaS prices start at Rs 11.45 lakh plus 3.75/km. It gets a triple screen dashboard. After introducing the Scorpio Lifestyler, Mahindra has now launched the BE 6 Sporteq in the country. The Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq lineup is available in 8 variants, priced between Rs 19.45 lakh and Rs 26.95 lakh, ex-showroom. It is basically the rebranded BE 6, featuring a new 70kWh battery pack and connected car tech along with a triple screen dashboard layout. The new Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq also gets a revised variant lineup. Mahindra has also introduced the Battery as a Service (BaaS) pricing for the BE 6 Sporteq range. Deliveries for the Coupe SUV will begin on August 26, 2017. | Variant / Battery | 59 kWh (BaaS)# | 59 kWh | 70 kWh | 79 kWh | | ONE | ₹ 11.45 | ₹ 19.45 | - | - | | TWO | ₹ 12.95 | ₹ 20.95 | - | - | | THREE | - | ₹ 21.95 | ₹ 22.95 | - | | THREE + | - | - | ₹ 23.95 | ₹ 24.95 | | FOUR | - | - | - | ₹ 26.95 | | LAUNCH EDITION | - | - | - | ₹ 26.95 | | FE | - | - | - | ₹ 24.45 | | FE FOUR | - | - | - | ₹ 26.95 | The new BE6 Sporteq is available in 8 variants, and three
Aug 16, 2026 · via carlelo.com
Why Every New Car Seems To Have A Giant Screen Now That big screen on your dashboard isn't just for looks—here's why automakers are replacing buttons with increasingly large displays. Walk into a new-car showroom, and there's a good chance the dashboard's main highlight is not the steering wheel, the instrument cluster, or even the climate control panel. It's the screen. Modern cars increasingly have enormous displays stretching across the dashboard, replacing buttons, knobs, and traditional gauges with something that looks more like a tablet than a piece of automotive equipment. But why did automakers suddenly decide bigger is better? Motor101 Welcome to Motor101, our series dedicated to answering the internet's biggest automotive questions. From the origins of iconic designs to the engineering breakthroughs that shaped the world's greatest cars, we uncover the stories behind the vehicles you love. Cars Started Borrowing From Smartphones The biggest reason for the touchscreen takeover is simple: drivers got used to touchscreens everywhere else. Smartphones, tablets and computers changed what people expect from technology. Instead of learning dozens of dedicated controls, drivers increasingly expect menus, icons and customizable interfaces. Automakers noticed. A touchscreen can combine navigation, audio, phone connectivity, vehicle settings and other functions into one interface. Instead of designing a separate physical control for every feature, the manufacturer can put multiple functions behind software. That also means the interface can change after the car leaves the factory. A physical button is essentially fixed; software is not. That's particularly important as cars become increasingly connected and software-defined. One Screen Can Replace A Lot Of Hardware The big screen trend is about more than just drivers liking high-tech gadgets. Giant displays sit at the crossroads of consumer electronics trends, software development, cost savings, connectivity and automakers' desire to make new cars feel more advanced. And
Aug 16, 2026 · via motor1.com
Kia Seltos vs Tata Tiago Ev Engine & Transmission Engine Type Engine Displacement Number of Cylinders Engine Installation Fuel Type/ Propulsion Gearbox Type Number of Gears Manual Shifts via Gear Lever on Automatic Gearbox Paddle Shifters for Automatic Gearbox Sport Mode for Automatic Gearbox Drive Layout Lockable Differential/s Max Engine Power Max Engine Torque Motor Type Number of Motors Max Motor Power Max Motor Torque Fuel & Performance Fuel Supply System Emission Standard Terrain Modes Official Fuel Economy City Fuel Economy as Tested Highway Fuel Economy as Tested Fuel Tank Capacity Drive Mode Types Battery Capacity Charging Time Claimed Range Autocar Tested EV Range Suspension & Steering Front Suspension Type Front Springs Rear Suspension Type Rear Springs Damper Control Ride Height Adjust Type of Power Assist Steering Adjust type Steering Adjust 4 Wheel Steer Front Brakes Rear Brakes Wheel Size Front Tyre Size Rear Tyre Size Wheels Spare Wheel Turning Radius Dimensions Length Width Height Wheelbase Chassis Type Boot Capacity Doors Ground Clearance Comfort Cup Holders Launch Control Bottle Holder in Doors Rear Windscreen Sun Shade Trunk Light Foldable Seatback Table Flat Bottom Steering Wheel Climate Control Cooled Cup Holders Cooled Glovebox Exterior Mirrors Electric Fold Cruise Control Front Passenger Seat Adjust from Rear Exterior Mirrors Electric Adjust Third Row AC Vents Steering Mounted Controls Dead Pedal Digital Instrument Cluster Driving Modes Sunglass Holder Door Pockets Sunroof Driver Armrest Storage Rear Power Outlet Rear Parcel Tray Heated ORVM Rear AC Vents Ambient Lighting Push Button Start Hands-free Boot Opening Glove Box Voice Assisted Sunroof Interior Lamps Roof Grab Handles Remote Locking Keyless Entry Auto Parking Power Windows with One Touch-Up Front Seatback Pockets Power Windows with One Touch-Down Power Windows Vanity Mirror Rear Reading Lamp Rear Window Sun Shades Cabin Boot Access Powered Tailgate Powered Backseat Recline Adjustment Comfort Headrest
Aug 16, 2026 · via autocarindia.com
Maruti Suzuki Swift vs Vinfast Vf6 Engine & Transmission Engine Type Engine Displacement Number of Cylinders Engine Installation Fuel Type/ Propulsion Pure Electric Driving Mode Gearbox Type Number of Gears Manual Shifts via Gear Lever on Automatic Gearbox Sport Mode for Automatic Gearbox Drive Layout Lockable Differential/s Max Engine Power Max Engine Torque Motor Type Paddle Shifters for Automatic Gearbox Max Motor Power Max Motor Torque Fuel & Performance E20 Compatibility Emission Standard Auto Start/Stop Official Fuel Economy Autocar Tested City Mileage Autocar Tested Highway Mileage Fuel Tank Capacity Autocar Tested Mileage User Reported Mileage Battery Capacity Charging Time Claimed Range Suspension & Steering Front Suspension Type Front Springs Rear Suspension Type Rear Springs Damper Control Ride Height Adjust Type of Power Assist Steering Adjust type Steering Adjust 4 Wheel Steer Turning Radius Front Brakes Rear Brakes Wheel Size Front Tyre Size Rear Tyre Size Wheels Spare Wheel Dimensions Length Width Height Wheelbase Ground Clearance Kerb Weight Chassis Type Boot Capacity Doors Comfort Power Windows Roof Grab Handles Cabin Boot Access Sunglass Holder Bottle Holder in Doors Cooled Glovebox Cup Holders Bluetooth Connectivity Digital Instrument Cluster Door Pockets Driver Armrest Storage Driver rear view monitor (DRVM) Electric Tailgate Release Trunk Light Front Seatback Pockets Headlight and Ignition on Reminder Voice Assisted Sunroof Interior Lamps Vanity Mirror Rear Parcel Tray Power Windows with One Touch-Down Powered Tailgate Steering Mounted Controls Power Windows with One Touch-Up Exterior Mirrors Electric Adjust Exterior Mirrors Electric Fold Remote Locking Keyless Entry Push Button Start Climate Control Rear AC Vents Third Row AC Vents Front Passenger Seat Adjust from Rear Rear Window Sun Shades Rear Windscreen Sun Shade Rear Power Outlet Sunroof Ambient Lighting Driving Modes Cruise Control Auto Parking Launch Control Dead Pedal Hands-free Boot Opening Acoustic Windshield Glove Box Foldable Seatback Table Utility Recess
Aug 16, 2026 · via autocarindia.com
Kia Sorento India Launch on September 4: AWD and Live Gen AI Confirmed for New 7-Seater SUV - Team Autopunditz - 12 hours ago - 5 min read Kia India is preparing to make a significant move in the premium SUV segment with the launch of the Kia Sorento on September 4, 2026. Ahead of its market introduction, the company has confirmed two important technologies for the India-spec three-row SUV – All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and its new Live Gen AI in-car assistant. The Sorento will sit above the Seltos in Kia India's SUV portfolio and effectively become the company's flagship internal-combustion-engined SUV in the country. More importantly, it will mark Kia's entry into a part of the market currently occupied by premium three-row SUVs such as the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, Jeep Meridian and Toyota Fortuner. Kia Sorento AWD Confirmed for India One of the biggest confirmations ahead of the launch is the availability of all-wheel drive. The Sorento will become the first ICE-powered Kia offered in India with AWD, adding an important capability to what has primarily been a front-wheel-drive Kia SUV portfolio in the country. Globally, the Sorento is already available with AWD depending on market and powertrain. Kia's international specifications also show AWD availability on the Sorento Hybrid, demonstrating that the drivetrain is already integrated with the electrified version of the SUV. For India, AWD could give the Sorento a stronger premium positioning while improving traction on wet roads, loose surfaces and more challenging terrain. It also differentiates the upcoming SUV from models that focus primarily on urban three-row family transportation. Live Gen AI Brings Conversational Assistance Another major technology confirmed for the India-spec Sorento is Live Gen AI. Unlike conventional voice-command systems where occupants have to use relatively fixed commands, the generative-AI-based system is designed to
Aug 16, 2026 · via autopunditz.com
The Hyundai Palisade is back, but this time it’s a little different… The South Korean carmaker’s biggest flagship three-row SUV in Australia has entered its second generation, ditching the V6 petrol and diesel for a new petrol-electric hybrid that’ll reportedly foreshadow the next-gen Hyundai i30 N. I called the original Palisade the new Hyundai Genesis spiritual successor, but is the new-gen as impressive? With a drive-away price tag now touching close to $100K due to an up to ~$14K price increase, I tested the top-spec Calligraphy with the seven-seat captains chair option for a week to find out whether it’s still worth buying. NOTE: The press vehicle was provided by Hyundai Australia for a seven-day independent evaluation. Toll costs were covered, but we have no commercial arrangements with the company and it had no editorial control. Pros. + Family-friendly three-row interior + Superb ride comfort + Quiet and punchy hybrid + Non-overwhelming tech + Unique retro dash design Cons. – Interior ergonomic and usability issues, seat sensor recall – No adjustable regen, not as fuel efficient – Noticeable body lean – Very limited V2L and Stay Mode – Subsantial price increase; isn’t great value anymore Vehicle tested: | Model | 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid | | Variant | Calligraphy | | Starting price | $89,900 before on-road costs | | Exterior colour | Ecotronic Grey (+$750) | | Interior colour | Pure Black tone (standard) | | Options | Seven-seat configuration (+$1000) | | Country made | South Korea | Design and quality. The new Palisade has an evolutionary design, but the interior in standard black doesn’t feel like it’s worth its price. The exterior is still unmistakably a Hyundai Palisade. The second-gen evolves the Cadillac style exterior with prominent stacked daytime running light and turn indicator signature, reshaped tail-lights,
Aug 15, 2026 · via henryman.net
The Mahindra B6 has been doing really well in India. At its Independence Day event, the carmaker has launched the SPORTEQ version of this electric SUV, at a starting price of Rs 11.45 lakh, ex-showroom. That's under the Battery As A Subscription (BaaS) program and for the 59kWh variant. The range-topping SPORTEQ variant costs Rs 26.95, ex-showroom. It has become the new flagship in the BE6 lineup. Deliveries will begin on August 26. Additionally, a new Freedom edition of the BE6 Formula E has also been unveiled. The SPORTEQ launch edition brings major changes to the e-SUV’s cabin. It now gets a triple-screen dashboard, new connected features and a new black-and-tan colour scheme. It retains the exterior styling of the standard BE6. The sharp body lines, clean panels, LED lighting, flush-fitting door handles and 20-inch alloy wheels continue unchanged. The ‘SPORTEQ’ badge is probably the only noticeable exterior update. The actual changes have come inside the cabin. The SPORTEQ has a more practical (read ‘conventional’) cabin design. It gets three large screens inside, while the regular EV comes with just two (the infotainment unit and the instrument cluster). In the SPORTEQ, the third display functions as the front passenger entertainment screen. All three screens are 12.3-inch units. This is similar to the setup used in the XEV 9e and XEV 9S. The dashboard itself has also been redesigned. The standard BE6 has a halo-like element separating the driver and front passenger areas. The SPORTEQ ditches this in favour of a cleaner, horizontal design. This makes access to the wireless charging pad and USB Type-C ports easier. There are additional storage spaces as well. And finally, the cabin now has a black-and-tan colour theme. The car also gets a revised upholstery and dashboard trims. Another important highlight of the SPORTEQ edition
Aug 15, 2026 · via cartoq.com
The Chevrolet Corvette may be an American performance icon today, but back in the mid-1950s, its future was far from secure. Chevrolet’s fiberglass two-seater looked sensational, yet it still needed to prove it was more than a stylish boulevard cruiser wearing a sports-car costume. That is where a tiny group of factory-built Corvettes entered the picture. These machines helped drag the ’Vette out of the country club parking lot and into the wonderfully loud, oily world of motorsports. One of those historically important cars has survived, complete with an incredible ownership story and the sort of documentation that makes serious collectors start rearranging their garages. Now, this exceptionally rare 1956 Corvette is preparing to cross the auction block. This Is One Of Only Two Surviving SR-1 Corvettes Chevrolet produced just six SR-optioned Corvettes in June 1956, making them considerably rarer than most headline-grabbing limited-production supercars. This particular example is reportedly one of only two known survivors, so calling it rare feels like a serious understatement. You have better odds of seeing a modern hypercar parked outside a coffee shop than finding another one of these at your local Corvette meet. Importantly, this was not one of the competition cars that raced at the 1956 12 Hours of Sebring. Instead, it was one of six production Corvettes assembled in St. Louis with 13 special SR-1 options. The package grew from Chevrolet’s early racing efforts and helped establish the hardware later offered through the RPO 684 and 687 competition packages between 1957 and 1962. The SR program added the serious stuff early Corvettes needed for competition, including upgraded brakes, cooling hardware, suspension components and other performance-focused equipment. Racing had already demonstrated the Corvette’s potential, with John Fitch and Walt Hansgen taking a specially prepared example to ninth overall and first in its
Aug 15, 2026 · via hotcars.com
Mahindra has launched a Formula E Freedom Edition for the rejigged and rebranded BE 6 Sporteq line-up. Two variants of the BE 6 Sporteq Formula E Freedom Edition are on sale, namely FE and FE Four, which are priced at Rs 24.45 lakh and Rs 26.95 lakh, respectively. This Formula E Freedom Edition debuts less than a year after the prior BE 6 Formula E edition went on sale, and notably eschews its more aggressive styling cues in favour of the standard BE 6’s design, along with a few unique touches. The previous BE 6 Formula E Edition has also been removed from Mahindra's website. Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq Formula E Freedom Edition exterior and interior As noted previously, the BE 6 Sporteq Formula E Freedom Edition no longer sports the previous version’s slim front and rear DRLs, circular LED headlamps, and chunkier bumpers. Instead, it looks quite similar to the standard BE 6 Sporteq, with C-shaped front and rear DRLs and sleeker bumpers. That said, the Freedom edition retains ‘Formula E’ badging on the front fenders, and additionally gets a new Rosso Impulso colour option and tri-colour decals peppered across the bodywork. Inside, the BE 6 Sporteq Formula E Freedom Edition features no changes to the overall layout, but gets special touches like a Firestorm Orange colour scheme, leatherette and suede upholstery, a 'Formula E Freedom Edition' plaque, Formula E decals on the panoramic glass roof, unique virtual engine sounds, and more. Notably, the Formula E Freedom Edition sports the halo-like loop on the dashboard that separates the driver and co-driver, instead of the flatter, more conventional layout seen in most BE 6 Sporteq variants. That also means the BE 6 Sporteq Formula E Freedom Edition can be had with dual 12.3-inch screens only, not a triple-display setup. Coming
Aug 15, 2026 · via autocarindia.com
Gov. DeSantis talks 'flying cars,' Cory Mills, at Daytona stop DAYTONA BEACH — His days as Florida governor are running short, but Ron DeSantis was at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Aug. 14 to talk about the future − before weighing in on a present-day political question for many Volusia County voters. DeSantis − who formerly represented Volusia and Flagler counties in the U.S. House of Representatives − ended his press conference with a short response to a question about U.S. Rep. Cory Mills, a Republican who represents the 7th District in southern Volusia and Seminole counties. "I have not endorsed Cory Mills, and I do not support Cory Mills," DeSantis said. Clyde Morris Boulevard improvements announced DeSantis also announced the acceleration of a $56 million corridor improvement project that passes Embry-Riddle. The project will resurface 3 miles of Clyde Morris Boulevard from Mason Avenue south, past Halifax Health, across International Speedway Boulevard and past Mainland High School and ERAU to Beville Road. The project will also involve raised medians, upgraded traffic signals, lighting and drainage, construction of a pedestrian tunnel near the entrance to ERAU, and the addition of a 14-foot-wide multi-use path on the west side of Clyde Morris. And the governor dove into a future where people can cross wide swaths of Florida by air without having to fly a plane or helicopter. 'Flying cars' or 'air taxis' could be testing in Florida within months DeSantis said Florida will begin testing these vehicles by the end of 2026. He had also spoken about the development at the SunTrax Testing Grounds in Auburndale earlier in the week. "By the end of this year, Florida will be actively testing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, while SunTrax Air Ground is actively testing and supporting the deployment of autonomous and connected vehicles,"
Aug 15, 2026 · via news-journalonline.com
As originally sung by Fergie and then sampled by Jack Harlow: “first class, up in the sky.” But this time, we aren’t talking about airplanes. Earlier this week in Auburndale, Gov. Ron DeSantis showcased “SunTrax,” Florida’s groundbreaking, nation-leading facility for the research and development of emerging transportation technologies. Nestled along the I-4 corridor in Polk County, the 775-acre SunTrax campus was built to test connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) technologies but is now looking to the sky. It has expanded into aviation technology to help safely advance the development of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technology, also known as “flying cars.” With this in Florida’s back pocket, state officials expect to host a series of AAM test flights by the end of the year to let the world know what we are up to. “Great to be at the SunTrax Testing Grounds in Auburndale today to highlight Florida’s leadership in the future of transportation. By the end of this year, Florida will be actively testing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, while SunTrax Air Ground is actively testing and supporting the deployment of autonomous and connected vehicles,” DeSantis said. “I was also proud to announce that FDOT is partnering with Embry-Riddle and Polk State to help Florida students prepare for exciting career opportunities in the next generation of transportation. Florida has the innovation-friendly policies, the universities and research institutions, the infrastructure and forthcoming infrastructure investments, and the talent needed to become the premier location for emerging transportation technology.” Home to the nation’s first dedicated AAM Aerial Test Track, SunTrax will actively test eVTOL aircraft throughout the Central Florida aerospace region by the end of the year using its controlled environment. SunTrax provides companies with the privacy to thoroughly test aircraft and new communication technologies under real-world conditions. Additional tenant hangars
Aug 15, 2026 · via floridapolitics.com
A few weeks ago, I finally pulled the trigger on Kia's 2026 K4 Hatchback after countless hours of research. I looked into everything from gas mileage to interior quality, and even the reliability of the car's Android Auto and CarPlay connectivity. However, one key feature never crossed my mind: the speed of its USB-C and Qi wireless charging. Thankfully, I remembered 12V USB cigarette lighter adapters are a thing, and picked up a relatively cheap one from Amazon. I've owned an Ioniq 5 EV for a few years now, and the K4 is actually my family's second vehicle. As far as my Ioniq 5's three USB-A ports are concerned, I've never felt I could really rely on them to charge my phone, given they only output roughly 10.5W of power (yes, even though the car is a 2022, somehow it only features painfully slow USB-A ports). This problem gets even worse when using Android Auto or CarPlay. It sort of just maintained my Pixel 10 Pro's or iPhone 17 Pro's charge while running Android Auto/CarPlay, using apps like Waze and Spotify, and connected over 5G data. In most cases, my phones would get warm really quickly, and their batteries would hover at roughly whatever percentage I plugged them in at. I eventually resorted to just making sure my phone was adequately charged before heading out of the house. It's important to note that this is just my experience with a specific Kia car model, the 2026 K4 Hatchback. If your in-car USB ports charge your phone adequately, that's great. Generally, newer vehicles are more likely to feature USB-C ports capable of delivering higher wattage, while older cars are more likely to struggle. Car USB ports often offer lackluster charging speeds My K4's USB port charges my phone, just very slowly.
Aug 15, 2026 · via xda-developers.com
runchyroll Starts In-Car Anime Streaming with Appning by FORVIA Crunchyroll Expands Into Connected Cars With FORVIA Deal The anime platform’s partnership with Appning by FORVIA brings streaming to select connected vehicles, broadening its distribution strategy. Highlights - Crunchyroll is partnering with FORVIA’s Appning to bring anime streaming to select connected vehicles. - The in-car anime service will offer more than 50K episodes across roughly 25K hours of content. - Video playback will be restricted on moving vehicles for safety. Crunchyroll is extending its streaming platform beyond traditional screens with a new partnership with Appning by FORVIA, enabling subscribers to stream anime in select connected vehicles. Announced on Aug 12, the deal integrates Crunchyroll into over 40 automotive brands, starting with BMW and MINI. The rollout will first expand across the wider BMW Group, then expand into additional brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Lotus, and SAIC. The service will reach drivers in North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, India, and Australia, giving Crunchyroll access to markets where BMW Group vehicles already ship with Appning’s app store built into the infotainment system. Inside BMW vehicles specifically, Appning runs the underlying app marketplace while TiVo handles content recommendations for Crunchyroll subscribers. Crunchyroll Brings More Than 50K Anime Episodes in Cars With FORVIA Deal With the Appning deal, Crunchyroll brings more than 50K anime episodes, totaling roughly 25K hours of content, to a new viewing surface beyond phones, tablets and TVs. Brian McGarvey, Crunchyroll’s senior vice president of global distribution and business development, said the company wants entertainment available wherever fans are, “including in their vehicle.” “Through this collaboration with Appning, we're glad to provide another way for this passionate, global fan community to enjoy their favorite anime,” he further stated. FORVIA has confirmed that Crunchyroll will follow the same safety restrictions applied to other
Aug 15, 2026 · via respawn.outlookindia.com
Tackling Rising Costs: Why Fleets are Turning to Embedded Telematics Inside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Two-Track Telematics Strategy With 20,000 vehicles and two fundamentally different driver populations, the Church faced a fleet management problem that a single telematics program couldn't solve. How it responded offers a replicable framework for any fleet where one size doesn't fit every driver. Editor's note: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uses Motorq to consolidate connected-vehicle data across multiple automakers. Mechanics don’t use the same tool for every job. Mark Dibb doesn't use the same telematics program for every driver, either. As global fleet planning & acquisition manager at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he helps oversee roughly 20,000 vehicles across its global operations. One side of the fleet consists of missionary vehicles, which are driven by 18- to 22-year-olds, many of whom are new drivers. The other is employee vehicles driven by facilities managers, education coordinators, and operational staff. These populations don't create the same fleet management problem, so the Church built two programs. The Missionary Fleet: Where Safety Came First For the missionary fleet in the United States, the Church uses windshield-mounted cameras with active in-cab coaching. The business case was straightforward. "These are 18- to 22-year-olds, out on their own, many of them behind the wheel regularly for the first time in their lives,” said Dibb. “For a population with that little driving experience, we knew we needed to be proactive.” The real-time feedback model produced substantial reductions in speeding and aggressive driving violations over time and, by the Church’s account, has helped to reduce accidents and save lives. For a young driver population with limited experience behind the wheel, the investment justified the additional hardware, installation, and ongoing program management requirements. The
Aug 14, 2026 · via automotive-fleet.com
AFS Client Sues Polestar, Drawing National Media Attention The Wall Street Journal, Automotive News The lawsuit filed by ArentFox Schiff on behalf of client Prestige Imports against electric-vehicle maker Polestar has drawn coverage this week from both The Wall Street Journal and Automotive News. We are sharing highlights of that coverage below. What the Press Has Reported The Wall Street Journal reported that Prestige Imports of East Hanover, New Jersey alleges that Polestar “orchestrated” its recent ban by the US government as “cover” for its desire to leave the US market. According to the Journal, the complaint contends that Polestar’s decision to exit the United States effectively and wrongfully terminates the dealer’s state franchise agreement, with the dealership claiming at least $25 million in damages. The Journal noted that Polestar announced in June that it would stop selling new vehicles beginning with the 2027 model year after the US Department of Commerce denied its waiver request under the new “Connected Vehicles” rule, and that the Commerce Department had approved a waiver roughly a month earlier for Volvo Cars, which shares common Chinese ownership and other links to Polestar. Polestar declined to comment on the litigation. Automotive News reported that the suit seeks a declaration that Polestar violated New Jersey’s Franchise Practices Act, payment of the franchise’s fair market value, and five years of continued parts and warranty support. As reported, the complaint alleges that Polestar planned its US exit for two years and “maneuvered the [government] into a ban,” and that a July “force majeure” letter amounted to a constructive termination without the required 60-day notice or good cause. The article also reported allegations that Polestar continued urging US dealers to invest — including endorsing a multiyear Bergen County expansion as recently as February 2026 — while preparing to leave
Aug 14, 2026 · via afslaw.com
I don't drive every day. Instead, I love taking a long drive every weekend to enjoy relaxed highway driving. Since I drive for a specific reason, which is more to do with enjoyment than necessity, I don't compromise on what makes it fun. That's one major reason why I never use my car display as a basic navigation screen. It can mean different things to different people, but for me, it is about striking a balance between entertainment and utility. I don't shy away from admitting that I spent days researching and finding the right tools for my Android Auto, but what I regret the most is ignoring the most important part of the setup: one that establishes the connection. However, I couldn't ignore the problem any longer. That's why I took a major decision last week. I permanently abandoned wireless Android Auto in favor of a simple USB cable. Android Auto trivia The ultimate challenge From launch day to the latest features — how well do you really know Google's in-car platform? In what year was Android Auto first announced by Google? Which car manufacturer was the first to ship a production vehicle with built-in Android Auto support? What is the name of the feature that allows Android Auto to work without a physical cable connection to the car? Which of the following navigation apps was NOT officially supported on Android Auto at launch in 2015? What is the minimum Android version required to run Android Auto on a phone as of its standalone app era? Which messaging app was among the first third-party apps to be supported on Android Auto at launch? What major redesign did Android Auto receive in 2022 that changed its visual layout significantly? Google discontinued the phone-screen version of Android Auto in 2023, replacing
Aug 14, 2026 · via androidpolice.com
At a time when the radio industry is fighting to keep its hold in the dashboard, TuneIn is offering another pipe to drivers. Now the Stingray-owned streaming platform is extending its reach through a deal with iM Media Labs whose content hub is primarily accessed via AT&T Connected Car. The integration will allow drivers to access TuneIn’s live radio, sports, news, and music content, as well as podcasts, through a native, OEM-branded in-vehicle experience, without requiring phone projection. “Automotive is a key growth area for TuneIn, and this partnership is another step in making our content available wherever drivers choose to listen,” TuneIn CEO Rich Stern says. “iM Media Labs shares our vision for delivering exceptional in-vehicle audio experiences, and together we’re making it easier for listeners to discover and enjoy live audio content on the road.” The iM Media Hub, as its name implies, brings together various audio options with what it says is “hyper-personalized” one-to-one listening experience. Powered by agentic AI, near real-time data, and state-of-the-art speech synthesis, the Hub is intended to create an audio experience unique to user preferences, with features that may include curated playlists, AI-DJs, and local news, weather, sports, and information. The platform supports voice and glance-based interactions designed to reduce manual inputs by the driver so they can keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. With the TuneIn integration, the companies say existing TuneIn listeners will be able to access their “Favorites” and “Recently Played” content directly through the Hub, making it easy to pick up where they left off as they move between devices. “Media Hub is built to give drivers one intuitive place to access the entertainment they enjoy most,” says John Jasper, President and COO of iM Media Labs. “Adding TuneIn significantly expands that choice,
Aug 14, 2026 · via podcastnewsdaily.com