Vehicles: Page
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Why User Experience Is Key to Everything
We no longer design products. We design experiences in the world, interconnected and powered by digital technology. Whether it’s driving, shopping or communicating, they are digital experiences, one and all.
By Kimberly Clavin • May 31, 2017 -
Plug-In Chrysler Pacifica Smooth Operator
The first mass-market electrified minivan in North America gets high marks for seamless drive quality as well as advanced propulsion technology.
By Gary Witzenburg • May 31, 2017 -
Acura Breathes New Life Into TLX
The near-luxury brand rights the wrongs of the first TLX, specifically by fixing its styling and in-vehicle technology.
May 30, 2017 -
Automakers Putting the Screws to Us
When I climb inside a new vehicle I want to be soothed not perturbed. But too often when I look up, I’m staring at some craggy fastener that never should be seen.
May 26, 2017 -
High Compression, Short Intake Distinguish VW Tiguan 4-Cyl.
Automakers for years have been extolling the virtues of “downsized” engines with fewer cylinders, optimized fuel economy and adequate power, but Volkswagen says the “B-cycle” 2.0L turbo-4 is part of its “rightsizing” powertrain strategy.
May 26, 2017 -
’17 Nissan Rogue Sport: Beard Preener’s Crossover
The Rogue Sport occupies the fastest-growing segment of a CUV-crazy market where city-centric Millennial buyers want small crossovers with interior versatility and all-wheel-drive capability.
By James M. Amend • May 25, 2017 -
Qualcomm Gets EV Charging Off the Ground
Asphalt at a French military outpost has been inlaid with 328 ft. of inductive chargers that project energy only when a vehicle passes over with plates designed to receive an electromagnetic pulse of up to 20 kW. The vehicle converts it to electricity.
May 25, 2017 -
Argentina Setting Stage for Electric-Vehicle Imports
Analyst Eric Totaro says EVs have potential for sales growth in Argentina thanks to its large middle class. But he says the government must do more to prod sales with additional tax incentives as well as invest in infrastructure improvements.
By Charles Newbery • May 24, 2017 -
Wards 10 Best Interiors Awards 2017
Editor's note: This story is part of the WardsAuto digital archive, which may include content that was first published in print, or in different web layouts. The Wards 10 Best Interiors list recognizes outstanding achievement in aesthetics, comfort, ergonomics, materials usage, fit-and-finish ...
May 22, 2017 -
The Big Story: Inside the Autonomous Vehicle
Designers are looking to create a “third living space” where, freed from the need to drive, occupants can work, socialize, be entertained or catch up on their sleep. But there are hurdles.
By David Zoia Editor • May 22, 2017 -
Internal Combustion Engine Far from Dead
Because it takes 20 years to turn the fleet over, the ICE will be around until at least the middle of this century, and probably beyond that.
By John McElroy • May 22, 2017 -
Ubimobility 2017: Business France and Bpifrance Accelerate 8 Innovative French Startups in the US Autonomous Vehicle Industry
Beginning on June 3rd, the eight selected French companies will begin an intensive two-week immersion program presenting their technologies and developing partnerships with major U.S. players in the industry.
May 19, 2017 -
FCA Moves to Resolve Diesel Dilemma
FCA and the federal government may have resolved differences over emissions from the automaker’s 3.0L diesel engine.
By Bob Gritzinger • May 19, 2017 -
Study: Lab Tests Underestimate Nitrogen Oxide Levels
The diesel vehicles studied emitted 13.2 million tons of nitrogen oxide under real-world driving conditions, which is nearly 4.6 million tons more than the 8.6 million tons expected from the vehicles’ performance under official laboratory tests.
By Alan Harman • May 19, 2017 -
2017 Wards 10 Best Interiors Quick Hits
A summation of all 31 interiors evaluated in the 2017 competition. Many of these comments are taken directly from score sheets submitted by WardsAuto editors. Prices listed are sticker. Winners in red.
May 17, 2017 -
Oz Researchers Working to Grow Hydrogen Availability
The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Organization’s membrane-reactor technology will fill the gap between hydrogen production, distribution and delivery in the form of a module that can be used at or near a refueling station.
By Alan Harman • May 16, 2017 -
What Do Car Consumers Really Want?
Product-development researchers come across an untruth here and there as they try to tap into the mind of the customer.
By Steve Finlay • May 15, 2017 -
Primearth Says Toyota Eyes U.S. Battery Plant
The timeframe remains unclear and the project is in discussion stages, but a company official tells WardsAuto Toyota wants to produce its own batteries for both hybrids and battery-electric vehicles.
By Roger Schreffler • May 15, 2017 -
Odyssey Functional Family Hauler
Ultra-configurable second-row seats, a camera to spy on your kids and improvements to powertrain and infotainment should appeal to Odyssey-buying parents.
May 15, 2017 -
With Moss Underfoot, BMW Reimagines Interiors
Designer Eric Brown spoke at this week’s WardsAuto Interiors Conference about the BMW i Inside Future Sculpture show car, which integrates holographic controls and a second-row lounge with a bookshelf. “How do you enjoy your time in the vehicle if it’s driving itself?” he asks.
May 12, 2017 -
Company Plays EV-Charging Matchmaker
Chargie allows EV drivers to access the wall-mounted chargepoints of other EV owners at homes across the U.K. who are signed up to the service.
By Alan Harman • May 12, 2017 -
Let’s Dance: New Land Rover Disco Hits Trailhead
It is just as capable as it was in the previous four generations, but adds even more of the Discovery’s trademark versatility and luxury, as well as new connectivity and a design aimed to broaden its appeal.
By James M. Amend • May 11, 2017 -
Future Car Designers Envision New Types of Luxury
The College for Creative Studies assignment is the basis of a semester-long class where students compete for recognition and special scholarships.
May 10, 2017 -
Leather, ‘Decotainment’ Find Space in Future Interiors
Use of leather and wood isn’t going away, but suppliers and automakers are finding innovative ways to use the premium materials, along with promising alternatives.
By Bob Gritzinger • May 10, 2017 -
Vehicle Interiors Not Off-Limits for Cutting Weight
OEMs and suppliers are drawing upon products and processes to lighten every part of the car, including not only the sheetmetal and powertrain but also the vehicle’s interior, industry officials say during the WardsAuto Interiors Conference.
May 10, 2017