SEPTEMBER 24, 2018

They're Heeere! Autonomous Vehicles No Longer Science Fiction

The Big Story
It's been 15 years since the U.S. government first challenged developers to create vehicles that could drive themselves. The wait is over.

Audi’s New E-Tron Raises Electric-Vehicle Bar

Audi’s first full BEV packs in the technology, including an ultrafast-charging battery, innovative braking system and electric all-wheel drive.

Wards 10 Best UX Winners Announced

WardsAuto editors spent July and August evaluating the user experience of 25 new vehicles. That means assessing the ease of interacting with the vehicle by way of voice control, driver-assistance systems, phone pairing, infotainment and navigating touchscreens. Click here for articles, galleries and videos about the winners.

In Insane Market, 2019 GMC Sierra Denali Perfectly Sane

Test Drive
The Sierra Denali’s distinctive styling helps set it apart in the segment, as well as further distinguish itself from its Chevrolet Silverado cousin at a time when that pickup also is getting more luxurious.

How I Drank the Tesla Kool-Aid and Became a Believer

IdeaXchange
Tesla soon will face formidable competition from German juggernauts. Technically they will be able to match everything Tesla has done. But will they be able to capture the fun, whimsical and sassy attitude Tesla has created?

BMW: Don’t Count Out Diesels in U.S.

A BMW executive tells WardsAuto that new diesel engines are being developed at the automaker’s powertrain engineering center in Steyr, Austria. “You might see also these applications in the U.S.,” he says.

Smart Traction Technology Drives New Edge

Responding quicker than the human brain, the feature provides all-wheel-drive traction without input from the driver when it is needed, and helps curb fuel consumption when it is not, Ford says.

How is the Automotive UX Evolving?
Join us to explore unique technologies and consumer demands for the automotive user experience. Multiple panel discussions, OEM speakers, sponsor exhibits, vehicles on display, and a ceremony for the WardsAuto 10 Best User Experience awards. The event is a must-attend for any OEM, supplier or tech provider whose roles touch this vital part of vehicle design. REGISTER NOW!

EV Market Having Growing Pains, Expert Says

Industry analyst Asad Farid notes most forecasters predict battery costs will fall as production scales increase, but he believes that reduction will be offset by higher material prices.

Volkswagen Takes Big Step in 3D Printing

The German automaker says its process, developed with partners HP and GKN Powder Metallurgy, prints metal parts 50 times faster than other 3D printing methods depending on the part.

Cars Could Run on Hydrogen Made From Plastic

Chemistry department researcher Moritz Kuehnel says light-absorbing materials are added to the plastic before it is placed in an alkaline solution and then exposed to sunlight, which creates hydrogen.

Improved Ride Highlights Mercedes’ Second-Gen GLE

The new GLE is the first model to receive Mercedes-Benz’s so-called E-Active Body Control suspension. It is claimed to be the first suspension to offer individual control of both the spring and damper rates at each wheel.

Concept CUV Previews Third Dedicated BMW i Model

The Vision iNext presages the third BMW i model when it goes on sale in 2021, following the gasoline-electric i8 and the battery-powered i3, in a role BMW says will position it as its “new technology flagship.”

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