This is a quick roundup of what’s happened in automotive for the week of October 27 through November 2, 2024. A video walkthrough of this roundup is at the bottom of this article.
GM Defense Completes First Diplomatic Security Services Armored SUV
GM Defense, General Motors’ law enforcement and security arm, has completed its first new-generation production vehicle. This one slated for the Diplomatic Security Service in the U.S. State Department.
Stellantis Invests In Wind Tunnel Tech for Wheel and Tire Aero
Stellantis has unveiled its Moving Ground Plane technology, a $29.5 million investment. The upgraded wind tunnel is part of the company’s research and technical center in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It will be able to measure airflow resistance from wheels and tires, which account for about 10 percent of real-world aerodynamic drag.
Scout Unveils Production-Intent Concept SUV and Pickup Models
Scout Motors has unveiled two production-intent concept vehicles, the Traveler SUV and Terra truck. Both designs include battery-electric and extended-range electric drivetrains. The vehicles were designed in Michigan and will be manufactured in South Carolina. Scout is owned by the Volkswagen Group.
Porsche 911 Carrera T Comes Back
The 911 Carrera T is making a comeback for Porsche enthusiasts. In the 2025 model year, a coupe and cabriolet model of the car will be offered, both with exclusive manual transmissions and rear-axle steering.
Cadillac Confirms 2026 Lyriq-V Will Be First EV To Have V-Series Badge
Cadillac has confirmed that the upcoming Lyriq will have the V-Series performance badge as the first electric vehicle in the automaker’s history to do so.
Hyundai Releases Teaser for Upcoming Ioniq 9
Hyundai has released teaser images of its upcoming three-row electric SUV, the Ioniq 9.
Dodge Direct Connection Launches Hellephant A30 and Drag Pak 354 Crate Hemi Engines
Dodge has expanded its parts line via its Direct Connection sub-brand. Launching in the lineup is the Hellephant A30 and Drag Pak 354 Hemi engine blocks. Both features an all-new construction. Three new supercharger kits have also been added to the order banks.
Suzuki, Toyota, Daihatsu Furthering Cooperation on EVs
Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation will further their collaboration in the supply of a battery electric vehicle SUV model. This new model will be produced at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India beginning in Spring of 2025 and launch worldwide.
Hyundai Unveils Hydrogen FCEV Concept
Hyundai has unveiled its new INITIUM hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle concept. It is a preview of an upcoming production FCEV, Hyundai says, that will unveil next year. The concept furthers the company’s 27 years of hydrogen technology development.
Walmart Deploying Chevrolet BrightDrop Vans for InHome Delivery Service
Walmart has adopted the Chevrolet BrightDrop electric van for its InHome delivery service in major U.S. markets. Four hundred of the vans will be deployed to support growth of the retailer’s new direct delivery service brand.
Aptera Completes First Function Test of Production-Intent Vehicle
Aptera Motors has reached a milestone in the development of its solar electric vehicle with a successful first drive of its production-intent model. The vehicle will continue to be used in real-world validation and testing.
SEMA 2024
This section includes news from the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association show. The show runs from November 5-8 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Mopar Introduces Plymouth GTX Electromod and Ram Sport Truck Concepts
A 1967 Plymouth GTX Electromod Concept is powered by a concept Mopar “e-Crate” propulsion package envisioned from the upcoming Charger EV. Ram has both a 2500 Power Wagon concept and a Ram 1500 RHO with high-impact exterior graphic designs and Mopar accessories.
Toyota Shows Off New 4Runner Throwback Concept, TRD Surf
Toyota has introduced the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept at SEMA, a concept celebrating Southern California’s surf culture. Built in the Toyota Motorsports Garage, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept combines the first-generation 4Runner with the 2025 4Runner model.
Infiniti Shows Autograph Lounge Concept
Infiniti embraces tailgate season with a refined look via the Autograph Lounge concept. This “luxurious reimagination of tailgate” adds accessorites to the all-new 2025 Infiniti QX80. The Autograph Lounge adds entertainment and a slide-out drawer in the cargo area as well as custom wheels and matte grey wrap.
Honda Racing Announces New Business for Performance Parts
Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) has announced a new business for developing authentic performance parts for Honda and Acura customers. With parts developed by HRC engineers will include showcases at SEMA to launch product prototypes.
Nissan Shows Five Project Builds Featuring Frontier, Kicks, and Z
Nissan has announced four project builds heading to SEMA, including the Frontier pickup and the Kicks crossover. As well as the Z sports car. The Frontier models include Project Tailgater and TARMAC concepts. The Kicks Beach Patrol and Urban Shadow add that model to the lineup while the Z Legend shows off accessories for the sports car.
