Lexus president Koji Sato says he wants to include a simulated manual gearbox in the brand’s upcoming electric supercar. Get all the latest auto industry news in the Executive Briefing.
Today’s headlines:
+ Police in Oregon have uncovered a catalytic converter theft ring operating in the Portand area, charging that the gang stole 44,000 converters worth more than $22 million. More at The Drive.
+ Steven Cliff, the USA’s top auto safety regulator, is stepping down to return to the California Air Resources Board, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced. More at Yahoo! Life.
+ Audi of America, Kia, and Porsche say their EV buyers will lose access to federal tax credits of up to $7,500 once the new U.S. climate and inflation bill is signed into law. More at Reuters.
+ NASCAR Cup driver Bubba Wallace has signed a multi-year contract extension with 23XI Racing, the team co-owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA legend Michael Jordan. More at ESPN.
+ Japanese Truck maker Hino Motors and its parent company Toyota have been accused of falsifying emissions data in a class action lawsuit brought in the United States. More at World Auto Forum.
+ The family of a Michigan woman killed after an air bag module exploded in her SUV following a crash has filed a lawsuit against General Motors and two parts suppliers. More at The Detroit News.
+ Tesla CEO Elon Musk has affirmed that after several years of delays, later in 2022 the company will begin deliveries of the Tesla Semi, which boasts 500 miles of range. More at Commercial Carrier Journal.
+ BMW will join with Toyota to launch a version of the X5 to be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell system similar to the one in the Toyota Mirai, with introduction slated for 2025. More at MotorIllustrated.
+ Lexus president Koji Sato says he is experimenting with software that can emulate a manual transmission.for the brand’s upcoming electric replacement for the LFA supercar. More at Car and Driver.
+ Circuit of the Americas in Texas says it is comfortable with Las Vegas near it on the 2023 Formula 1 calendar as the series groups more races by region to cut travel costs. More at Racer.
Photo courtesy of Lexus.
Review the previous Executive Briefing from August 12 here.
The Tesla Semi is going to shake up the trucking industry with its significantly greater efficiency than electric trucks based on ICE chassis.