AD #4212 - Mercedes Kills Eyes-Off Driving Feature; 1st Dark Factory Will Open by 2030; Acura Gets 1st 2-Motor Hybrid
About this episode
Mercedes has discontinued its Level 3 autonomous driving feature, citing limited customer benefits, and will instead focus on its new Level 2 Plus system. The episode also discusses the future of automotive manufacturing with the rise of 'dark factories' powered by advanced robotics, and the expected slowdown in global EV sales. Honda aims to increase its sales despite market declines, while Acura plans to introduce its first two-motor hybrid. Additionally, Ford is launching the Mustang Dark Horse SC and a new Bronco RTR, aiming for performance at a more accessible price point.
Level three autonomous system
"There was only one automaker that offered a Level three autonomous system in the US, but now there's none."
A Level three autonomous system means the car can drive itself in some situations, but the driver still needs to be ready to take over if needed.
A Level three autonomous system allows a vehicle to handle all driving tasks under certain conditions, requiring minimal human intervention. However, the driver must be ready to take control when requested by the system.
Drive Pilot
"...but now there's none. Mercedes is dropping the feature from its drive Pilot system for future models because it didn't think it offered much benefit to the customer."
Drive Pilot is a system from Mercedes that helps the car drive itself in certain situations, but it's being removed because it didn't help drivers much.
Drive Pilot is Mercedes-Benz's advanced driver assistance system that enables semi-autonomous driving. It was designed to provide a hands-free driving experience under specific conditions but has been discontinued due to limited benefits.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
"First available on the S class."
The S-Class is a high-end car from Mercedes-Benz that offers many luxury features. It was the first car in the US to have a special self-driving feature that allows it to drive itself in certain conditions.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a luxury sedan known for its advanced technology and comfort features. It was the first model to offer a Level three autonomous driving system in the US, showcasing Mercedes' commitment to innovation in the automotive industry.
Mercedes-Benz EQS
"In EQS EV in twenty twenty three, it was the only certified hands off in eyes off driving system in the US, but it required special hardware a twenty five hundred dollars yearly subscription."
The EQS is an electric car from Mercedes-Benz that is very luxurious and packed with technology. It was also one of the first cars to have a special self-driving feature.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS is an all-electric luxury sedan that represents the brand's entry into the electric vehicle market. It features advanced technology, including the Level three autonomous driving system, making it a significant model for Mercedes-Benz.
LDAR
"...and on top of that, it used LDAR from Luminar, which is now bankrupt."
LDAR is a technology that helps cars see and understand their surroundings, which is important for self-driving features.
LDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging, a technology used for mapping and sensing the environment around a vehicle, crucial for autonomous driving systems. It helps the vehicle understand its surroundings to navigate safely.
Level two plus plus system
"...which is considered a Level two plus plus system doesn't use any LDAR, will offer city driving capability and launches in the US later this year."
A Level two plus plus system is a more advanced version of a driving assistance system that can help the car drive in more complicated situations, like in the city.
A Level two plus plus system refers to an advanced driver assistance system that offers enhanced features beyond standard Level two automation, allowing for more complex driving scenarios, such as city driving.
Mercedes
"...top Mercedes and fully electric sales. It sold more than two hundred and twenty three thousand evs..."
Mercedes is a famous car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars, known for their quality and advanced technology.
Mercedes-Benz is a well-known German luxury automotive brand that produces a wide range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and sports cars. It is recognized for its innovation and quality.
Audi
"...but Audi top Mercedes and fully electric sales. It sold more than two hundred and twenty three thousand evs..."
Audi is another German car brand that makes luxury vehicles and is now focusing more on electric cars.
Audi is a German automotive manufacturer that produces luxury vehicles and is part of the Volkswagen Group. It has been increasing its focus on electric vehicles (EVs).
BMW
"...BMW, which sold two point four million, but Audi top Mercedes and fully electric sales. It sold more than two hundred and twenty three thousand evs..."
BMW is a car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars and is known for their sporty performance.
BMW is a German automotive brand known for its luxury vehicles and performance-oriented cars. It has a strong presence in both traditional and electric vehicle markets.
BEVs
"...well behind BMW, which sold four hundred and forty two thousand BEVs globally in twenty twenty five."
BEVs are electric cars that use batteries for power instead of gasoline or diesel. They are important for reducing pollution and using renewable energy.
BEVs, or Battery Electric Vehicles, are vehicles that run entirely on electricity stored in batteries, with no internal combustion engine. They are considered a key part of the transition to sustainable transportation.
OTA
"...using OTA, allowing your executives to oversight throughout the process. Wireless Nearvi Cloud, your vehicle update solution..."
OTA means that car companies can send updates to your car's software over the internet, just like your phone gets updates. This helps keep the car running well and secure.
OTA stands for Over-The-Air updates, which allow manufacturers to remotely update vehicle software without needing to take the car to a dealership. This technology enhances vehicle performance and security.
Honda
"...but Honda believes it can boost its sales. Cox Automotive..."
Honda is a car brand from Japan that makes reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles, popular for their quality and performance.
Honda is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing reliable cars, motorcycles, and power equipment. It has a strong reputation for fuel efficiency and engineering.
hybrid powertrain
"Honda says it will overcome that by boosting production of more affordable gas powered models. However, it didn't reveal how many more vehicles it plans to build and speaking of Honda, the automaker revealed that the next gen version of the Accura RDX will be the brand's first model to feature a two motor hybrid power train."
A hybrid powertrain is a system that uses both a regular gasoline engine and electric motors. This helps the car use less fuel and produce fewer emissions, making it more environmentally friendly.
A hybrid powertrain combines an internal combustion engine with one or more electric motors to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows vehicles to operate on electric power alone at low speeds or when idling.
Acura RDX
"Honda says it will overcome that by boosting production of more affordable gas powered models. However, it didn't reveal how many more vehicles it plans to build and speaking of Honda, the automaker revealed that the next gen version of the Accura RDX will be the brand's first model to feature a two motor hybrid power train."
The Acura RDX is a luxury SUV that is known for being comfortable and packed with features. The upcoming version will use a hybrid engine, which means it will combine a gasoline engine with electric motors for better fuel efficiency.
The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The next generation will feature a two-motor hybrid powertrain, marking a significant shift towards electrification for the brand.
EV fast chargers
"One of the largest grocery store chains in the US is going to install thou of ev fast chargers in parking lots. Kroger and its affiliated stores are partnering with EVgo to install at least one hundred and fifty fast charging stalls a year at locations throughout the US."
EV fast chargers are special stations that can charge electric cars much faster than regular chargers. This means you can get back on the road quickly, which is especially helpful on long trips.
EV fast chargers are high-powered charging stations designed to quickly recharge electric vehicles. They can provide a significant amount of charge in a short period, making them ideal for long-distance travel and reducing downtime for EV owners.
Ford Mustang GTD
"The Mustang GTD is basically a street legal version of the Mustang GT three track car, but it costs about three hundred and thirty thousand bucks."
The Mustang GTD is a special version of the Ford Mustang that you can drive on the street, but it's built to perform like a race car.
The Mustang GTD is a street-legal version of the Mustang GT3 track car, designed for high performance on both the road and the track.
Mustang Dark Horse
"Building on the Mustang dark Horse, the company is launching a new version."
The Mustang Dark Horse is a sportier version of the Ford Mustang that focuses on better performance and driving experience.
The Mustang Dark Horse is a performance-oriented variant of the Ford Mustang, designed to offer enhanced power and handling.
Dark Horse SC
"Called the dark Horse SC. Instead of a naturally aspirated five liter V eight under the hood, it's powered by the automaker's supercharge five point two liter V eight."
The Dark Horse SC is a new version of the Mustang that has a powerful supercharged engine, making it faster and more exciting to drive.
The Dark Horse SC is a new variant of the Mustang that features a supercharged engine and advanced performance components.
supercharged
"it's powered by the automaker's supercharge five point two liter V eight, which is mated to a seven speed dual clutch transmission."
Supercharged means the engine has a special device that helps it get more air, which makes it more powerful.
A supercharged engine uses a compressor to increase the amount of air entering the engine, allowing for more fuel to be burned and resulting in greater power output.
dual clutch transmission
"which is mated to a seven speed dual clutch transmission."
A dual clutch transmission is a type of car gearbox that helps the car change gears quickly and smoothly.
A dual clutch transmission (DCT) uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets, allowing for faster gear shifts and improved performance compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
Brembo
"It also comes with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, carbon fiber wheels, Magna ride suspension..."
Brembo is a brand that makes high-quality brakes for cars, especially for those that go really fast.
Brembo is a well-known manufacturer of high-performance braking systems, often used in sports cars and racing applications for their superior stopping power.
carbon fiber
"carbon fiber wheels, Magna ride suspension, a new hood and deck lid, and a number of other aerodynamic upgrades."
Carbon fiber is a very strong and light material used in cars to make them faster and more efficient.
Carbon fiber is a lightweight and strong material commonly used in automotive and aerospace applications to reduce weight and improve performance.
MagnaRide suspension
"Magna ride suspension, a new hood and deck lid, and a number of other aerodynamic upgrades."
MagnaRide suspension is a special type of car suspension that can change how it works while you're driving, making the ride smoother and handling better.
MagnaRide suspension is an advanced adaptive suspension system that adjusts the damping characteristics in real-time for improved ride quality and handling.
Fox dual reservoir setup
"...there's also the option for a Fox dual reservoir setup. The idea is to have that off road performance..."
The Fox dual reservoir setup is a special type of shock absorber that helps vehicles handle bumps and rough terrain better. It keeps the ride smooth by managing heat and improving control.
The Fox dual reservoir setup refers to a type of shock absorber system designed for off-road vehicles. It helps improve suspension performance by allowing for better heat dissipation and increased damping control.
Ford Bronco
"...the new Bronco RTR comes standard with thirty three inch tires and a lifted suspension, but there's also the option for a Fox dual reservoir setup."
The Ford Bronco RTR is a special version of the Bronco that has been upgraded for better off-road driving. It has features like a higher suspension and bigger tires to help it drive on rough roads.
The Ford Bronco RTR is a modified version of the standard Bronco, designed for enhanced off-road performance. It features upgrades like a lifted suspension and larger tires, making it suitable for rugged terrains.
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