Good morning and welcome to our daily digest of automotive news from around the globe, starting with…

Daimler Predicts The Semiconductor Shortage Will Run Into 2022

Daimler had predicted that the chip crisis that is crippling the auto industry will continue into 2022. However, they expect the situation to become more manageable next year. The crisis has forced the German automaker to stockpile unfinished cars as it waits for crucial chips. The statement comes after similar predictions from Stellantis. 

Mercedes Teases Maybach-Branded Electric EQS SUV

Sticking with the German automaker, Mercedes has revealed a Maybach-branded version of the EQS SUV. The EQS SUV, which is not to be mistaken for the confusingly named EQS sedan, is yet to be unveiled, but will likely share tech with its namesake. The teaser comes as Mercedes’ announced that all of its models will be available with an electric variant starting in 2025,

The Alpha SuperWolf Is America’s Latest Electric Crew Cab Pickup

The Alpha SuperWolf (no relation to Alfa Romeo, or indeed, Alpha Tauri) is a crew cab variant of the already released Wolf+. Other than the truck’s dimensions, the company didn’t reveal too many details. However, it will feature options such as auxiliary lights, tubular doors, and a retractable tonneau cover.

UK Police Warn Drivers To Store High-Tech Keys In Metal Tins To Prevent Car Theft

Keys are supposed to be the first line of defense against theft. But it seems that modern keyless-entry key fobs are actually easier to hack, thanks to new-age car thieves finding ways to intercept the signal. The solution? Store them in metal tins or protective pouches says the UK’s National Police Chiefs’ Council.

2022 BMW X7 Is Bound To Cause Controversy With Its Split Headlights

Having given us a slightly less controversial design in the form of the recently-launched BMW 2-Series Coupe (rear-end notwithstanding), it seems BMW hasn’t quite given up those shock tactics, as it prepares to split the X7’s headlights. But hey, perhaps it’ll take the spotlight away from the large kidney grilles eh?

VW Atlas Cross Sport GT Concept Debuts With Sportier Styling And 300+ HP

The new Atlas Cross Sport GT concept is a true sports utility vehicle. It features a host of exterior and interior changes designed to appeal to enthusiasts. Other than the stunning Eisvogelblau paint job, it features ST Suspension XTA Plus 3 coilovers as well as color-matched springs, 22-inch ABT Sport HR AeroWheels, Yokohama Advan Sport tires, and eight-piston Tarox front calipers. Would you buy one?

Tesla Will “Most Likely” Resume Accepting Bitcoin As Payment

Elon Musk has announced that Tesla is likely to start accepting Bitcoin again. Tesla had previously started accepting the cryptocurrency but stopped in May over environmental concerns. During the conference, Musk confirmed that he has personal holdings in bitcoin, ethereum, and dogecoin, admitting that he does ‘pump’ them, but denies selling.

Brabus Gives The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe The 789 HP Treatment

Brabus has been unleashed upon an unsuspecting Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe. The result is called the 800 SUV Coupe, with up to 789 hp under the hood. The 789 hp version completes the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 3.4 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited at 280 km/h (174 mph). Plus, you get the obligatory carbon add-ons available in either high-gloss or matte.

What Else Is Making The News?

Tokyo’s Olympics Opening Ceremony Underway

Tokyo’s Olympic opening ceremony is underway, The games, which have already seen their fair share of controversy. The stadiums for the games however will be empty, as the spread of Covid 19 continues to unnerve Japanese authorities.

Intel Predicts That Chip Shortage Could Stretch Into 2023

It’s not just cars that have been hit with chip shortages. Techradar reports that Intel predicts the shortage of semiconductors, which also afflicts some electronic equipment manufacturers, will last well past next year, into 2023. Part of the reason is that Taiwan — the world’s primary source of chips — has been hit by severe drought, compounding matters.