Good morning and welcome to our daily digest of automotive news from around the globe, starting with…
UK Police Commissioner Says Cops Are Running Out Of Power With Their EVs
With lawmakers around the world ridding the future of ICE vehicles, it seems inevitable that everything from delivery drivers to emergency service providers will have to embrace an electric future. However, a police commissioner in the UK says the EVs on the fleet aren’t up to the task, as they frequently run out of charge. “Although I fully understand and support climate controls, my first priority is to fight crime,” said Chris Nelson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire.
Tesla Cybertruck Inches Closer To Production As It’s Spotted Out On A Test Track
The Tesla Cybertruck is (finally) inching closer towards a production reality, with a prototype spotted on a test track at the company’s Fremont factory. The truck can be seen sporting production-spec rear-view mirrors and a single windshield wiper. There are also more rounded edges on the body to meet pedestrian safety requirements.
New Suzuki Jimny 5-Door Prototype Spotted In Europe, Could Get A Hybrid Powertrain
The long-awaited five-door Suzuki Jimny has been spotted in Europe. The SUV features an extended wheelbase compared to its three-door counterpart and has extra windows at the back. The interior hints at a refresh with a larger infotainment screen. Expect the long Jimny to debut in late 2022, or early 2023, along with a mechanically updated three-door variant that will likely include a hybrid version.
Toyota Hits EV Tax Credit Cap, $7,500 Incentive Set To Start Being Phased Out In October
According to reports, Toyota has sold its 200,000th PHEV or EV, meaning that the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 will be gradually phased out. This will happen in stages as the full credit will drop to $3,750 and then $1,875 before being phased out altogether. Toyota told CNBC the process will begin on October 1st and be complete by October of 2023. That means if you’re in the market for a bZ4X or Rav4 Prime, you might want to act fast.
This Is Hongqi’s New Chinese State Limousine, Just Don’t Ask Them For Details About It
Hongqi may be little-known in the West, but for those in China, the brand is typically reserved for dignitaries and those in positions of power. Their latest offering, the N701, has been spotted transporting President Xi during a recent trip to Hong Kong. However, details of the imposing luxury vehicle are, in typical fashion, kept under wraps.
Very First Cadillac Escalade V Sells At Auction For A Whopping $525,000
The very first Cadillac Escalade V to ever roll off of the production line just sold for the hefty sum of $525,000. The funds raised from the auction will go towards the Detroit chapter of Pensole Lewis College. Meanwhile, the buyer of the Escalade will be entitled to a pair of custom shoes from footwear designer Dr. D’Wayne Edwards.
Cop Stops Ford Mustang Driver After Their Epic Fail At Drifting
The fact that no bystanders were harmed in the marking of this video is its only saving grace, as a Mustang driver gets promptly embarrassed by his poor drifting abilities. Fortunately for the owner, the car doesn’t appear to have hit anything solid and likely escaped without any damage. Unfortunately for them, a police officer witnessed the whole thing.
What Else Is Making The News
Elon Musk Fathered Twins In Secret
Tesla CEO Elon Musk is reported by Business Insider to have fathered twins with one of his top executives. The twins’ mother is Shivon Zilis, director of operations and special projects for Neuralink, where Musk is a co-CEO. The twins were born weeks before Musk’s second child with musician Grimes.
Marriot Hotels Hit With Another Data Breach
Marriott confirms data breach and a failed extortion attempt – @sergheihttps://t.co/ob9ncgQlmP
— BleepingComputer (@BleepinComputer) July 6, 2022
The Marriott International hotel chain has been breached by hackers, with over 20GB of data, including customer payment information, reported stolen. Speaking to The Verge, a spokesperson said the company was “aware of a threat actor who used social engineering to trick one associate at a single Marriott hotel into providing access to the associate’s computer.”