Why Apple Cancelled Their Electric Car

In the dynamic realm of technology and innovation, Apple’s surprising decision to cancel their much-anticipated electric car project, Project Titan, has sparked extensive speculation and discussion. Delving into the intricate web of challenges and strategic decisions that led to this abrupt exit from the electric vehicle (EV) race provides valuable insights into the multifaceted reasons behind the project’s cancellation.

Strategic Shifts and the Embrace of AI Technologies

At the core of Apple’s decision was a strategic pivot towards artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI technologies. Recognizing the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, Apple opted to redirect its focus and resources to areas promising a more substantial competitive edge. This strategic agility stresses the company’s ability to adapt swiftly to the fast-paced technological environment, even if it means stepping away from ambitious projects like Project Titan.

This shift is indicative of Apple’s forward-thinking approach, acknowledging the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of technology. While the electric car project was groundbreaking, Apple’s decision aligns with its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.

Economic Factors and the Fluctuating EV Market Dynamics

The electric vehicle market, although burgeoning, is not immune to challenges, and economic factors played a pivotal role in Apple’s decision-making process. High interest rates and economic slowdowns contributed to fluctuating demand for electric vehicles, creating an uncertain climate that prompted even established automakers to reassess their electric mobility strategies. Some industry players pivoted towards hybrids as a more immediate and financially viable solution.

Apple’s decision to cancel Project Titan reflects a broader industry trend of cautious investment in electric mobility amidst economic uncertainties. It demonstrates the company’s pragmatic approach, avoiding potential pitfalls in a market undergoing rapid transformation.

Internal Reorganization: A Shift Towards Core Competencies

Another critical aspect of Apple’s strategic decision was its internal reorganization. Talents initially dedicated to the electric car project were shifted to AI divisions, showcasing a deliberate strategy to prioritize core competencies in electronics, software, and online services. This internal realignment also highlights Apple’s commitment to innovation, even if it calls for discontinuing projects that no longer align with the company’s evolving strategic goals.

The move also emphasizes Apple’s confidence in the potential of AI technologies to redefine the future of technology. By channeling resources and expertise into areas of strength, Apple positions itself strategically to lead in emerging technological frontiers.

Looking Ahead: Apple’s Continued Exploration of Automotive Technologies

The cancellation of Project Titan does not mark the end of Apple’s automotive ambitions. The company remains committed to exploring automotive-related technologies, exemplified by their continued development of the widely adopted CarPlay system. This ongoing interest in the automotive space suggests that while Apple may have shelved its electric car project, its quest for innovation within the industry continues.

Apple’s venture into electric cars was a bold exploration of new territory for the tech giant. The cancellation of Project Titan, while surprising, provides a deep dive into Apple’s strategic decision-making process. It showcases the company’s ability to pivot in response to changing market dynamics and internal priorities. As Apple continues to explore new frontiers, its journey serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges at the intersection of technology and mobility.

What’s News: Makers Pulling Out of EVs

A recent trend has emmerged in the EV Market–makers are backing out. In some cases, once the government incentives were gone they cars weren’t able to sell at a profit. Toyota was an early adopter getting into the EV market with their Prius Hybrid. If anyone could get a toe hold in this emerging market, Toyota was poised to do so. Now Toyota has made major announcements that call into question any new models of EV or or Hybrid.

Next to admit their EV woes was Ford. While Ford hasn’t declared the idea kaput, the future does not look bright.

Here’s a story now, of a company that doesn’t make cars, but never the less publicly toyed with the idea of jumping into EV’s. Apple has now signaled an official, oops, we didn’t mean it.

Here’s a link to the latest on this topic from By Jake Perez, Editor at LinkedIn News

“Apple is giving up on EV ambitions”

While reports of Apple’s plan to build a car to rival Tesla have been circulating since 2014, Apple never confirmed the project existed. They did however hire 2,000 people for “Project Titan” which was exploring the idea of creating an EV to rival Tesla. What will happen to those 2K employees? According to annonymus sources by way of Bloomburg, some will move to Apple’s Generative AI project and others will be invited to leave.

While most experts (and closet Apple fans) site reallocation of resources as the cheif reason why. We tend to aggres with C Jennifer Tae’s take on it. Namely that Apple doesn’t make their own hardware and at this time, no one capable of building EV’s is interested in the kinds of deals Apple works with other equipment makers.

Regardless of the reasoning among individual auto makers (or potential EV makers), what’s truely causing this strategic withdrawl in the industry as a whole?

Rather than restate things, here’s a video on what’s happening at Ford which will pretty much sum up what’s going on in the industry.

And to verify our point that it’s not just Ford…here’s a video explaining the EV situation in China.

Lastly, it’s not just EV makers suffering losses and changing direction. Hertz has decided to reduce the number of EVs in its fleet by 20,000 cars.

Why? That’s interesting. The cars are theoretically cheaper to maintain so why not drive them longer. For one thing, they cost more to repair which offsets any savings on maintenance. But the big reason is the Hertz business model call for selling off their used, but well maintained, cars every couple years before they lose value. Price wars on new EVs has cratered the used EV market, meaning Hertz will not recoup as munch money toward the purchase of new vehicles.

What’s News: Giuseppe’s Garage

You’re not going to believe this 12 years old boy Hellertown, Pennsylvania, who loves to wrench. Good Morning America covered him working at his dad’s auto body shop, because they want to inspire the next generation to do stuff. At the kicker, we hope he inspires people of all ages to learn more about all things automotive.

Here’s a Welcome Video About Giuseppe’s Garage:

Here are some links to places you can follow his work:

• Website
• Youtube Channel
• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• Tiktok
• X
• Merch

This young man’s passion is so infectious and with his father they’re exactly what this blog is about. We’re going to reach out to his people and try to score an interview. Cross your fingers with our writing staff and all the mechanics over at our sponsor, Tire Kickers.

What’s News: The Latest Safety Recalls

Both Honda and Toyato American divisions have recalled certain cars this month, here’s what you need to know.

Honda Back to Back Recalls

According to a story in reuters.com Honda is recalling 2.5 million cars (in the US, 4.5 million world-wide) over a faulty fuel pump issue. The recall includes various models including the 2018-2020 model year Honda Accord, Civic, CR-V, HR-V, Insight, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Passport and various Acura models, including the ILX, MDX, RDX, RLX, TLX and NSX vehicles.

Honda said the replacement parts have greater density and expanded clearance.

The announcement comes a day after Honda recalled about 106,030 CR-V hybrid vehicles due to the risk of fire or injury in a crash caused by an overheated battery cable or short circuit. Look for Honda to notify owners of effected cars in February.

Of course, if you are a Honda owner you can always check this site, Honda Recalls, to see the latest on recalls.

Toyota is having it’s own issues.

In another story by reuters.com Toyota announced it will recall 1.12 million vehicles worldwide because a short circuit in a sensor could cause air bags not to deploy as designed.

The recall covers 2020 through 2022 model year vehicles including various Avalon, Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Lexus ES250, ES300H, ES350, RX350 Highlander and Sienna Hybrid vehicles and could result in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensors not working. It includes 1 million vehicles in the United States.

The sensors ensure air bags do not deploy if a small adult or child is sitting in the front seat. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the sensors. This recall should also begin in February. Toyota had recalled cars over airbag issues in 2022 also.

The issues seem to stem from an improved airbag system that detects what size of driver is opperating the vehicle. Basically the goal was to reduce injury from deploying airbags when it would do more harm than good–so the issues aren’t making you less safe than you were five years ago, they’re simply failing to achieve the desired improvements.

You can always check your Toyota at Toyota.com/recall.

WARNING: What is the TikTok Kia Challenge?

If you’re a Kia or Hyundai car owner, you probably are curious about the TikTok Kia challenge. While most TikTok challenges are meant for entertainment, the Kia challenge is different. This challenge is intended to warn Kia or Hyundai car owners about the security threat to their vehicles. The Kia challenge has raised eyebrows about how a USB cable can bypass the car’s ignition system. Sounds crazy, but it’s a trick that puts most of these vehicles at risk of getting stolen or vandalized.

The TikTok Kia Challenge

The Kia challenge on TikTok has sparked an enormous interest as it exposes a security loophole in the Kia car model. The videos on the TikTok social platform show Kia car owners igniting their vehicles using a USB cable. Other videos show cars stolen, vandalized, and left on the streets. Surprisingly, a USB device is found on some of the stolen vehicles.

As a result of the TikTok Kia challenge, warnings have been sent to Kia and Hyundai car owners. Kia and Hyundai car models have been labeled potential targets, and car owners have been strongly advised to step up the security measures on their vehicles.

The police have responded to the TikTok Kia challenge by posting warnings on their social media platforms. The posts on social media inform the public how thieves bypass ignitions using a USB cable and recommend implementing additional security measures to keep their cars safe.

According to the police reports, they believe that teenagers are using the trending social media challenge to steal KIA and Hyundai models. Additional security measures are strongly recommended, including using wheel locking devices and activating the car’s alarm system. Car owners are also advised to park their vehicles in well-lit and high-traffic areas to discourage thieves from vandalizing their vehicles.

Kia and Hyundai car manufacturers have also responded to the Kia challenge by rolling out software updates to help improve the security of their cars. Reports indicate that stealing the Kia and Hyundai models is easy because the cars lack electronic immobilizers to deter thieves from breaking into them and bypassing the ignition.

Fixing this Security Loophole

To strengthen the security of their cars, Kia and Hyundai manufacturers rolled out security upgrades on these cars. The software upgrade changes specific Hyundai control modules, especially for vehicles with conventional “turn-key-to-start” ignition systems. The security upgrade will trigger an “ignition kill” feature that will only turn off when the car is started using a key fob. Therefore, this will prevent car theft using the hyped theft mode.

Kia and Hyundai car owners are eligible for the software upgrades. They are advised to drive their vehicles to the nearest local car dealership, where technicians will help them with the upgrades. The good news is that the security upgrades take less than an hour and are offered free. Once the security systems have been upgraded, the vehicles get a window decal to show they have the latest anti-theft technology.

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Hyundai Ioniq 6 Review

Hyundai is doing its best to compete with the Tesla Model 3, especially now with the release of its latest EV model, dubbed the Ioniq 6. Ioniq 6 is a true reflection of Hyundai’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for electric vehicles. Hyundai designers did their very best with the car’s aerodynamic form and clean, simple lines. Besides the aerodynamic shape, the Ioniq 6 features a 77.4-kWh battery pack, providing about 361 miles of driving range when using the SE Long Range setting. Compared to its predecessors, the Ioniq 6 is generally more stylish and futuristic.

Aesthetics and Function

Aesthetics and function sync harmoniously in the Ioniq 6. Right from the car’s transparent texture to the amazing parametric pixel lights, the Ioniq 6 is clearly a competitive move in electric mobility.

The interior is well-designed to offer passengers maximum comfort in their personal space. It’s quite spacious and focuses more on usability, delivering the best of what EVs can offer.

Another cool aspect of the Ioniq 6 is its Dual Color Ambient Lighting. Passengers can comfortably customize their cabins based on their preferences. It offers 64 colors and 6 pre-installed themes to transform the cabin lighting as desired.

Ioniq 6 features comfortable seats efficiently designed to offer extra space for individuals in the cabin.

Technology Features

The 2023 Ioniq 6 doesn’t disappoint when it comes down to matters of technology. The supercar features advanced technology features to deliver an exceptional driving experience. At the front, it comes with a modular touchscreen featuring a 12-inch display.

Ioniq 6 dashboard comes with the following advanced technology features:

• Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay®
• Bluetooth multi-connection
• Real-time travel radius mapping

Driving Experience

The Ioniq 6’s design still makes the car stand out when you hit the road. One might argue the car looks like a combination of a Hyundai Sonata and a Beetle, as it delivers the best of each in terms of features and performance.

On the road, the Ioniq 6 feels more sci-fi compared to its current rivals in the market today. The sedan’s performance on the road doesn’t disappoint, as it proves to be stable, comfortable, and quick. It has six modes, including snow, sport, comfort, and eco modes. The Ioniq 6 performs exceptionally well in the sport mode. It offers sharp acceleration compared to the eco mode, which leaves the car slightly dragging. According to Hyundai, the supercar can move from 0-60 miles per hour in under five seconds when driving in a dual-motor, 4-wheel configuration.

On the downside, the location of the gear selector is something that most users will complain about. The gear selector is somewhat hidden on the steering wheel, making it difficult to access the first few minutes of driving the car.

Overall, Hyundai Ioniq 6 brings a good balance of technology, design, performance, range, and price. The 2023 Ioniq 6 will likely make the switch to EV vehicles more convenient and comfortable for users looking to move in that direction. Its advanced tech and bold design will surely lure many to buy it.

 

Ford’s Amazing New Feature – Automatic Backing Up To Your Trailer

In 2015, Ford released the Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which functioned as a truck-assisted towing function. This feature made it easier to hitch and back up a trailer, even for folks with little to no experience. Advances in technology have brought numerous changes as Ford includes more than just the Pro Trailer Backup Assist in its trucks. The Ford’s amazing new feature dubbed Pro Trailer Hitch Assist is a new addition that has revolutionized the whole process of backing up and hitching a trailer. Here’s more.

How the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist Works

The Pro Trailer Hitch Assist takes over your truck’s controls and automatically reverses it to the trailer hitch. Unfortunately, the new feature is only offered on a few Ford models.

The automatic backup assist feature relies on the truck’s reverse camera and sensors to reverse the truck to the hitch position. This feature is a system on its own as it controls gas, steering and brakes.

According to the automaker, the feature helps customers to save time. Instead of relying on someone to spot the truck while reversing, the system works on its own. A driver can singlehandedly reverse the truck in position and drive to work.

Once the trailer is hitched to the truck, the automatic backing-up feature eliminates guesswork, as you don’t have to stress over which direction you should turn. In fact, as previously noted, you don’t even need a spotter. You simply need to press the Pro Trailer Backup Assist on the truck’s dash, and the autonomous feature handles everything for you.

It’s worth noting that once the system is configured, the driver can still take charge of the controls at any time. The driver can still determine which direction the truck should turn, and they can quickly do this using a single button. Manual control is still required to ensure the truck moves in the right direction as required.

Ford has also incorporated other features to enhance the user towing experience. For instance, the Smart Hitch system helps to weigh the trailer to ensure the driver can distribute the trailer’s weight evenly.

How to Use the Ford Automatic Backup Feature

You first need to set up the automatic backup feature before you can use it.

1. Start by attacking the trailer to the truck

2. Ensure the trailer and the truck line up and face the same direction on a level surface

3. Use the system’s instructions to install the trailer sensor

4. Turn on the Trailer Backup knob. Follow the instructions on the display screen on the truck for further settings

5. Engage in reverse and let go of the steering wheel

6. Use the backup knob to move the trailer left or right

The Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist function generally makes it easier to back up a trailer, even with little experience. It’s as simple as turning a knob in the direction you want the trailer to move. The system controls everything, from handling the steering to the brakes. This new feature makes towing experience relatively easy since it eliminates the reversing and hitching challenge truck owners initially struggled with.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Review

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness might look similar to its predecessor, but the car has been completely redesigned. There are also mechanical upgrades in the 2024 model to enhance the car’s performance. Despite the changes, the new Subaru Crosstrek has certain similarities, as seen in the Forester Wilderness and Outback Wilderness.

 What’s New in the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

One of the major transformations in the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is in the ground clearance it offers. Unlike its predecessors, the 2024 model offers 9.3 inches of ground clearance.

The Crosstrek also features more design cues and exterior body cladding. It comes with a different bumper styling and grille at the front.

 Interior Design and Comfort

Subaru Crosstrek has an improved seat design to offer more comfort than its previous versions. The car also offers an overall improvement in the sound-deadening materials used to silence noise from the outside.

Car enthusiasts looking for major changes in the car’s interior will feel shortchanged as the Crosstrek still comes short with its utilitarian interior design. Most of the seat trims feature cloth upholstery, with higher-end models having silver stitching.

Like the previous models, the front and back doors have deep pockets to hold water bottles.

 Under the Hood

Under the hood of the Crosstrek Sport and Limited versions feature two engine options – the 182 hp, 176lb, 2.5-liter four. On the other hand, the standard models feature a 152 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Research shows that we should expect a 148-hp engine as the manufacturers plan to release hybrid models very soon.

Another major change is with its transmission. The automaker opted to drop the manual transmission this time around, making the Crosstrek quite different from its predecessors. On the plus side, the automatic transmission enhances the car’s low-speed performance. The towing capacity also increased, delivering an impressive 3,5000 lbs.

 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Fuel Consumption

The 2024 Crosstrek offers up to 28 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 34 on the highway, depending on the driving configuration.

It’s important to note that gas mileage also varies depending on the powertrain, as indicated below:

2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder

• Base trim – 33 mpg highway, 28 mpg city
• Premium trim – 33 mpg highway, 28 mpg city

2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder

• Limited trim – 34 mpg highway, 27 mpg city
• Sport trim – 34 mpg highway, 27 mpg city

Hybrid Trim

• Hybrid trim 90 mpge

 Infotainment and Connectivity

The Crosstrek comes with an 11.6-inch touchscreen display, which is similar to what the WRX Sports Sedan and Outback station wagon offered. However, the base model comes with a smaller 7.0-inch display.

 Safety Features

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness features the latest EyeSight driver assistance technology. Other standard safety features include standard adaptive cruise control, automated energy braking, and standard lane-departure warning.

 024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness: Price

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is priced at $33,290, and with this price, it comes with automatic LED lights that steer with the car’s wheels, a cold-weather package of heated seats, mirrors, and a windshield. The package also comes with dual-zone climate control.

Rumors: An Electric Camaro?

There’s no denying the fact that the Chevy Camaro didn’t perform well. The sales of the muscle car have been declining since 2015, and it’s quite clear that the trend might continue. With the declining sales, there have been rumors all over claiming that a new Camaro will emerge and will strive to compete with the new electric vehicles. How true is this? Here’s what we found out.

The Chevy Camaro

The Chevy Camaro was once one of the most sought-after muscle cars in the automobile industry. This car dominated the market for several years as it was popularized in films and commercials. Besides its aesthetics, Camaro was a car that even individuals on a budget could buy.

Technology has transformed the automobile industry, and cars that have failed to live up to their expectations have slowly been phased out of the market. Judging from the declining Camaro sales, it seems like the old Camaro will slowly exit the market. What’s more, there are no positive signs from General Motors that they will roll out another Camaro to compete with other electric vehicles.

One of the main challenges experienced with the old Camaro is that the car’s manufacturing, designing, and even advertising are quite expensive. The odds are just against Camaro.

 

EV Version of Camaro

Electric vehicles are slowly taking over the market, and most people consider these cars an option, especially now with the rising fuel cost. Car manufacturers are also doing their best to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles.

With that being said, there’s a good chance Camaro might survive as General Motors is contemplating going green by 2023. The EV version of the Camaro will take its looks from its old version, but there are some expected changes in the new model.

 

The Electric Camaro: What to Expect

Research shows that the EV Camaro will have four doors instead of two. Even with such minor changes, this has left most car enthusiasts thinking about investing in an electric Camaro.

The front end of the new Camaro is also expected to change as new car models have moved past the conventional grill in the front. The grill area is expected to be slimmer, and the bodywork will be slightly above the old Camaro.

The headlights of the EV Camaro will also change and will look like what most other electric cars have.

As for horsepower, rumor has it that the EV muscle car will have about 1,000 hp to match its electric engine.

 

When Will EV Camaro Hit the Market?

There’s so much to expect in the EV Camaro, which will leave most car enthusiasts anxious about its release. While most people think the car might hit dealership floors by the end of 2023, there’s no guarantee that this might happen anytime sooner. But the good news is that having the old and new Camaro in the market will give users an easier time deciding whether to go for the EV version or to stick with the old model.

Best of the Web: Rotary Engine is Back Baby!

In scowering the web, our team found an interesting artical about the return of the rotarty engine, but not might you would think. In this post, first covered by MotorTrend, we see the Rotary Engine being customized rather enginiously to charge an EV.

For those of you who follow our EV/Hybrid category of articles, you will be familiar with our complaints about EVs. It’s not that they are bad, its that we don’t have the grid developed to the point that can support them. Also, while EV’s have clean exhaust that doesn’t automatically mean they have lower environmental impact.

What’s unique about this Rotary Charging system is that it will allow you the best options in how to use your onboard engine. Instead of being completely electric and losing a practical range, or running continuously with a little EV assist here are there, this new approach will allow the operator to decide which of three modes they find most beneficial–Normal, EV, and Charge mode.

The challenge with engines for fuel efficiency and ejecting gasses is cycling them up and down in responce to the need to accelerate from a stop. In this new Mazda powertrain configuration, the engine is never connected diretly to the wheels. It runs more like a portable generator, which allows it to run at maximum efficiency. This is a good compromise, giving the range of an ICE car but the cleaner emmisions of an EV. In fact by having an EV mode where the car can only run on electricity it should be possible to drive this hybrid even in cities that ban ICE vehicles, and switch back to hybrid mode when on trips.

The current make of car to have this option is called the MX-30 R-EV, by Mazda of course, and is available in Europe so far. When this EV/engine combo will be available in the US is still unkknown.