News That is Easy to Digest

While some automakers are trying to get their vehicles back, others are practically giving theirs away. Never a dull moment in auto, amirite?

. . .

Recall Round-Up

Just since Q1 of this year, more than 9M vehicles have been affected by recalls. Yikes. Let’s look at some of the most recent ones:

• Ford — Recalled over 8K manual-equipped 2024 Mustangs due to a fire risk from leaking clutch fluid. The improperly secured clutch pressure line can lead to engine stalling or under-hood fires.
• Tesla — Recalled 125K vehicles due to a seat belt warning light and chime failure, impacting models S, X, 3, and Y from 2012-2024.
• Chrysler — Recalled over 211K 2022 Dodge Durango, Ram 2500, and 3500 vehicles due to a software malfunction that can disable the electronic stability control system, increasing crash risk.
• Kia — Recalled 463K Telluride SUVs (2020-2024) due to overheating front power seat motors that pose a fire risk. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until repairs are made.

Fisker Gets Desperate

In Fisker’s latest move to stay afloat, the EV maker is selling its Ocean mid-size crossover to employees at a significant discount. Though it’s still hoping to turn the tides, this seems like yet another desperate measure during desperate times for the company.

• Recent Troubles — Fisker has been on a downward spiral for a while now. From facing delisting from the NYSE, to missed interest payments, to up-hill legal battles, things aren’t looking good.
• Over-Estimating Demand —Their current challenge has been moving inventory. Of the 10,142 units produced in 2023, only 4,700 have sold. Despite recent efforts, Fisker had a measly ten sales in Germany in May.
• Steep Discounts — In an effort to bring in quick revenue, Fisker is offering employees an Ocean Extreme or Ocean Ultra at a hefty discount — $20K (despite these models initially being priced at $61,499 and $52,999, respectively).

Amazon Expands Its Self-Driving Fleet

Zoox is expanding its autonomous robotaxi service to Miami and Austin, continuing its mission to revolutionize ride-hailing with its custom-built driverless boxes.

• New Testing Grounds — Zoox will begin by mapping the cities and using retrofitted Toyota Highlander test fleets to gather important data before deploying its bespoke EVs.
• City-Specific Challenges — Austin’s unique traffic light configurations and Miami’s diagonal traffic lights will provide valuable data to enhance Zoox’s technology.
• Commercial Focus — While testing in these new cities is imminent, Zoox's primary focus for commercial ride-hailing remains on San Francisco and Las Vegas, with plans to expand to more cities in the future.