Kirsten Korosec is smart, plugged-in, and one of the best automotive journalists around. She is an active co-host of the Autonocast podcast alongside Alex Roy and Ed Niedermeyer. The podcast covers fascinating industry trends, like how technology is advancing the electric vehicle (EV) industry. A ton has changed in the automotive and technology industries. These changes are already having significant effects on passenger safety, EV sales, and the competitive playing field between manufacturers.
Qantas is now in a particularly precarious position after the Australian airline’s recent data breach. The breach has put the personal data of over six million travelers at risk. This event has left consumers and regulators questioning data security and consumer trust across the aviation space. House Republicans pick the wrong path with passage of reconciliation act. This act would unwind much of the Inflation Reduction Act, which would be a significant blow to many sectors—including renewable energy and electric vehicles.
EV Market Dynamics
Rivian recently received another major vote of confidence, attracting a $1 billion investment from Volkswagen. This funding comes as the company sails through continued sales storms in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market. This financial support is especially timely as Rivian works to secure its future position in a market space that continues to attract fierce competition. Tesla is struggling, announcing its second straight year of falling sales after another lackluster quarter. Yet, the company’s ongoing struggle brings to the fore a volatile EV market as consumer preferences rapidly shift.
Slate Auto is preparing to release a brand new, electric pickup truck that costs less than $20,000. They are using the EV tax credit to help make this a reality. This savvy play is designed to capture cost-conscious consumers who are on the fence about making the jump to EVs. Meanwhile, Lucid is ramping up production of its Gravity model. This play is increasing competition in the luxury EV space.
Meanwhile the all electric Hummer – a hulking off road status symbol – is posting sales numbers that nearly match the new F-150 Lightning. This development indicates a shift in consumer interest towards premium electric vehicles, signaling potential changes in market dynamics as manufacturers adapt to evolving consumer demands.
Autonomous Vehicle Ventures
Travis Kalanick, the former head of Uber and current instigator in the transportation world. To that end, he’s partnering with investors to buy the U.S. subsidiary of Pony AI, a Chinese maker of autonomous vehicles. Kalanick’s participation floor is a further sign of his continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology and transportation even after his departure from Uber. Eric Meyhofer replaces him, as he comes from his post as director of Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center. Now, he’s joined Kalanick’s CloudKitchens empire, developing automation and robotics for restaurants with a company called Lab37.
His experience will be invaluable as Meyhofer is the former CEO of Uber’s Advanced Technologies Group (ATG). That group was eventually acquired by Aurora, further deepening the talent pool for this venture. His experience in robotics and automation uniquely qualifies him to contribute to novel, creative solutions in the autonomous driving arena.
Customer Innovations and Deliveries
As the automotive industry changes, so too are the companies committed to consistently improving customer experiences. Pebble has launched customer deliveries of its all-electric travel trailer. This strategic pivot shines a light on the growing use and development of sustainable, efficient, and innovative travel solutions. Consumer desire for cleaner, electric travel The growing demand for electrified travel options is a clear demonstration that consumers are actively seeking green alternatives.
Tesla made headlines last week by allowing a Model Y SUV to drive autonomously for roughly 15 miles. It certainly traveled the distance from the factory floor to the new owner’s apartment complex! This milestone is a testament to the progress of self-driving technology as well as Tesla’s determination to lead in the field of automation.
