The next big EV race is a war, not a battle. As every Western automaker has rushed into the premium plug-in vehicle sector, it’s about damn time some serious trickle-down started to happen in North America. While the second-generation Chevrolet Bolt could establish an early foothold, a new Tesla is reportedly on the horizon, and it could be coming as soon as next year.
In addition, we learn of a group of people who wanted Ford Edges [Ed Note: If you’re as confused by this as I am, don’t worry. -DT], and see that it’s just been a shambolic time for automotive trim pieces, as several automakers have issued recalls for flying plastic. Welcome back to The Morning Dump, eh?
What’s Next For Tesla?
With the statement-piece Cybertruck now in production, it’s time for Tesla to focus its vehicle research and development priorities on other matters, some of which could arrive soon. Reuters reports that Tesla is fielding supplier bids for a next-generation vehicle expected to launch next year.
Tesla has told suppliers it wants to start production of a new mass market electric vehicle codenamed “Redwood” in mid-2025, according to four people familiar with the matter, with two of them describing the model as a compact crossover.
Hmm. Well, even though the Model Y fits the industry description of a compact crossover, the alleged codename floating around for the facelifted Model Y is Project Juniper. There’s a chance “Redwood” could sit below the Model Y and Model 3 in sizing, which means this might be the future entry-level electric vehicle Tesla’s been touting. Whether or not it will meet Elon Musk’s $25,000 target price for an entry-level car, or even 2025 deliveries, is yet to be seen. I mean, how much harder could this be to build than the Cybertruck? Speaking of cheap cars, Reuters has an idea on a potential benchmark.
Tesla in recent years tore down a Honda Civic, whose price starts at $23,950 in the United States, to study how to make cheaper cars, two separate sources said.
Mind you, “Redwood” might not just be one vehicle. According to Reuters, “The next-generation Tesla architecture, internally called “NV9X,” will include two or more models, said the two people and one of the initial sources.”
So, lots of information here and plenty still missing, but keep in mind this is still early-stage stuff and this is still Tesla. Plans change, delays happen, and there’s a nonzero chance the end result might not be what people are expecting. As ever, just use the rule of thumb of lowering your expectations. That way, you’ll either get the satisfaction of correctness or a pleasant surprise.
Triangles, Triangles, Triangles
Even though the big buzzword on the street these days is electrification, the rotary engine with its funny triangular rotors seems to be staging a comeback. Automotive News reports that Mazda has assembled a new team to work exclusively on rotary engines, with a particular focus on making them part of green systems:
Considering all the research and development Mazda put into the Wankel rotary, along with the existence of the rotary-equipped MX-30 R-EV extended range electric vehicle, this seems like a perfectly logical next step for Mazda. Just one wish: Could we have a production version of the Iconic SP concept car, pretty please?
Living On The Edge
We’ve heard of thieves stealing new vehicles from U.S. factories before, but now the trend appears to be leaking through the northern border. As reported by local news outlet Halton Hills Today, 14 Ford Edge crossovers were stolen from the factory in Oakville, Canada.
Overnight on Jan. 7 to 8, police say thieves cut a large hole in the exterior fence surrounding the property and stole 14 brand new Ford Edge vehicles valued at approximately $630,000.
Halton Police took carriage of the investigation, and through partnering with neighbouring police services, 12 of the 14 vehicles have been recovered throughout the GTA.
Police have also arrested five people in relation to this investigation.
So what lesson have we learned here? That’s right, Ford surprisingly still makes the Edge. It’s a fine, quiet, comfortable crossover with enough rear seat width to fit three child seats across, it’s just old. A massive new touchscreen in 2021 only went so far, and the standard two-liter Ecoboost turbocharged four-cylinder engine feels underpowered, but the last Edge I drove was remarkably pleasant. Also, don’t steal cars.
It’s A Bad Week For Trim Pieces
On-the-fly weight reduction is generally frowned upon, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. Recently, several automakers have issued recalls for parts that may fly off while underway, known to other motorists as the second-least fun reason to file a windshield claim, just behind some “Final Destination” shenanigans.
Ford is recalling 1,889,110 Explorer SUVs from model years 2011 through 2019 because according to a NHTSA defect report, “An A-pillar exterior trim part that detaches while driving can create a road hazard for other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.” No kidding. The fix? New A-pillar trims installed with both clips and adhesive. This should be a considerable quality of life upgrade for any Explorer driver experiencing A-pillar trim rattles, not to mention anyone fearful of being hit with a flying trim piece.
Oh, and Ford isn’t alone in its trim panel woes. Kia is recalling 101,049 2023 to 2024 Sportage crossovers and Carnival minivans for improperly installed roof moldings that may make a break for it at high speeds. Apparently, spontaneous roof trim panel release has happened hundreds of times on these vehicle, as per the safety investigation timeline.
Kia NA Safety Office updates data analysis across all data sources and identifies 492 unique incidents for 2023-2024MY Sportage: (dates of receipt: 5/23/2022—1/9/2024) and 365 unique incidents for 2022-2024MY Carnival (dates of receipt: 6/21/2021—1/8/2024)]. No crashes or injuries.
While both of these situations feel like Tim Robinson sketches, you’d expect major automakers to install good trim pieces that don’t fly off while you’re driving. Maybe it’s time to update that old, cliched bumper sticker that goes “All parts falling off this car are of the finest English workmanship,” don’t you think?
What I’m Listening To While Writing This
Spoiler alert, I’m driving a 2023 Toyota GR Corolla Circuit Edition this week, and there’s just something about a hot hatch that makes you want to throw on some DnB. Today, it’s Chase & Status with “Baddadan” featuring IRAH, Flowdan, Trigga, and Takura.
The Big Question
Recalls are often an unfortunate part of vehicle ownership, and when they require in-person fixes, quality of service may vary. The last time I had my 325i in for recall work, the process was quite good. I dropped it off, the local dealership called me a cab home, then collected me when the car was ready, and there wasn’t even a single “you might want to…” service upsell attempt during the entire process. However, not every dealership is like that. This morning I want to ask, how was your service experience the last time you took your car in for recall work?
(Photo credits: Tesla, Mazda, Ford)
This is very topical for me, as my car is currently at the dealer for a recall and a TSB, and my loaner is a Ford Edge. I’m actually pleasantly surprised with the Edge. I know it’s an aging model, but it’s pretty decent. The engine doesn’t sound great but delivers plenty of power for the needs of an anonymous midsize SUV.
Has anyone seen a review of the Mazda rotary hybrid that gives an honest critique of the fuel economy numbers?The ones i’ve found so far have been terribly vague.It’s almost like everyone is trying to hide the terrible fuel economy of the rotary.
I brought my Town & Country in for some recall work about a year after I got it, it was 11 years old at that point and the recalls were old as well. I had to schedule the appointment a month in advance. Iirc one recall was for a loose steering wheel emblem that could become a projectile if the airbag deployed, and driver side window switches having a potential to collect water and start an electrical fire. I was offered a ride back home but it didn’t seem too busy so I opted to wait. Ended up waiting for 3 or 4 hours, partially cause they seemed to have forgotten about me. Went to ask what was taking so long for two trim pieces to be switched out and was sent on my way ten minutes later with a free 3 month trial of sirus.
“Mind you, “Redwood” might not just be one vehicle. According to Reuters, “The next-generation Tesla architecture, internally called “NV9X,” will include two or more models, said the two people and one of the initial sources.””
If I had to pick the types of vehicles that would be on this new platform, my vote would go to a small hatchback (marketed as a CUV), a small electric pickup aimed squarely at the Ford Maverick and a small van (in cargo and passenger versions).
Moral of the story: 2 brand new Edge hitting the african market soon
Ed. Note:
You mean Edge note?
There have been several recalls on our Kia Carnival. I usually have them fixed at the next service. The last one had to do with the seat tracks needing reinforcement and I scheduled it to be done with the next service about a month in advance. Took it in, got a call that it was ready, picked it up no problem. About a week later, I got a call that my “parts were in, when would you like to schedule” I was like “uh, what parts?” Turns out they didn’t do the recall work and didn’t let me know (and tbf I didn’t pay attention to the paperwork). That was a pain to take it back in after I already thought it was done.
Generally the dealership I go to is good about not upselling but they are very aggressive about the survey responses that Kia sends out after any appointment.
Elon, trying to get those stock numbers back up!
I suspect the Explorer thief’s thought they would stay out of radar. Is that stolen, naw, just another undercover cop car…
*thieves
I’ll give two recent recall work stories.
Hyundai Santa Fe, scheduled for
anti-theft software updatehorn beep extension recall – Took under a minute to check in. Sat in the waiting room and enjoyed a complimentary bottled water and bag of chips. 45 minutes later it was done, with a free car wash coupon in the front seat. No upsells or “you gotta”s.Kia Niro, scheduled for small bearing replacement in the steering column – Quick check-in, at which time they notified me of the battery coolant recall active on my car (that I never received a notice for). They offered to do it at the same time, which didn’t appreciably increase the length of the service. They offered a shuttle home (which I declined because I had already enlisted my wife). No upsells. Free car wash coupon.
Hyundai/Kia dealers are such a crapshoot I’m kind of impressed you found two good ones.
For the record I have bought from an excellent Hyundai dealer in the past. And the one where I live now is… Less excellent.
Interestingly enough, this particular Kia dealership had a REALLY bad reputation for about 20 years. Then the old ownership sold it to a larger, well-respected auto group in the area. They cleaned out ALL the old management and any rank-and-file that weren’t on board with the changes they were going to make, and it’s now one of the best around. I used to drive about 25 miles further to a different dealership before the new management.
I’ve always gotten the same first class level of service at my Kia dealership like you’ve gotten with yours. Not all Kia dealers are pond scum.
Someone should ask Scott Stapp, he’s six feet from the Edge.
Maybe he’ll hold me now
I don’t think I’ve ever taken my truck in for recall work alone. I generally have it done when I’m in for an oil change and free tire rotation. I typically have good experiences with the techs and service writers at the dealer*, but the parts department is extortionate so I try to avoid that at all costs.
*: Even though I’ve asked them what probably seemed like idiotic questions at the time, like when my slightly leaking water pump failed completely right before I took it in to get looked at and dumped a big puddle of coolant in my garage. Not knowing this yet, I asked them if I could hold off on replacing it until I had researched to see if it was something I could DIY (it is, but it’s a PITA). They correctly recommended against driving the truck anywhere while it was leaking coolant at an alarming rate. I felt very stupid the next time I walked into my garage and saw the mess it had made.
Now I know what DnB is, so thank you. Recently been on a mid 2000s Canadian hip hop binge recently. Swollen members, Sweatshop Union, K-os, have all been bumping pretty hard recently.
Dave and Busters?
Drum n bass.
Indeed
Joke
Head
(Boots and pants and boots and pants and….)
Took my 2014 Fiesta ST in to get a new coolant tank and have them drill and tap the cylinder head to put in a temp sensor for a known hot spot in the casting. They gave me a 3.5L twin turbo Lincoln sedan as my loaner so no complaints besides the gas mileage 🙂
I bought this car brand new and took it to the dealer for every single oil change while under warranty so they couldn’t try and make me jump through hoops (plus free car wash!).
Well the first oil change I did at home once warranty was over coincided with being done after this recall that involved drilling and tapping (which took longer than expected because they had a new guy doing it…) and boy did my heart sink when I saw the confetti in the drain pan. Anyways 60,000 miles later and no issues at all. They also didn’t completely fill the coolant above the new minimum line, but it’s special coolant so I haven’t topped it off in this time frame, but no leaks or overheating so why mess with success.
When I got my ST coolant tank recall done last year, it went:
“Absolutely, give us a week to get the parts. You’ll be able to pick it up the next day.
Thanks for bringing it in. Here’s a spot on a crowded shuttle to get home. See you tomorrow!
Uh, it’ll be a few more days. No one remembers how to do it.
Actually, we got the wrong parts. Give us a few more days.
Ok, we’ve got it apart. While we’re in here, we should do the water pump. It’ll be full price even though the car’s already in pieces.
No? Well, it’ll take us a few more days to put back together.
It’s finally done two weeks later. Please find your own way back to the dealership.”
Yikes! When I called for an update and they said the new guy was taking too long I got real nervous, real quick. I definitely idled the car in the parking lot to get it up to operating temperature to make sure the coolant gauge was reading correctly before driving off the lot.
I think the dealer I go to is used to dealing with less affluent clientele because they NEVER upsell anything. This backfired once when my SVT Focus overheated (for the 3rd time) and they didn’t even replace the thermostat because they only did exactly what was requested on the work order. I got them to replace it for parts cost only since it’s almost negligent to not replace that part while you are already in there and clearly they didn’t test the car properly since it wasn’t reading accurately.
There is no way that Musk would not have already touted a new model if it was going to be manufactured/delivered next year.
He always talks out his ass about products before they are even developed. Full self-driving (not to be confused with FSD) has been promised forever and still doesn’t exist.
The cybertruck was announced almost 10 years before they sold one (if you believe they even sold one yet).
If there was a new model coming out mid 2025 we would have heard about it before his last stock option tranche landed in early 2023.
“The cybertruck was announced almost 10 years before they sold one”
They Cybertruck was announced in 2017, the concept was revealed in 2019.
So it looks more like 6 years between the time it was announced and the first one being sold late last year.
Where the hell are you getting 10 years from?
If you don’t like Musk or Tesla, fine. But don’t make shit up. You’re only making yourself look like an idiot.
That’s so weird. Then this video from 2015 talking about the Tesla Truck must have been information from a clairvoyant. Or from Musk, when he said Tesla was going to build a truck that year.
Tesla Pickup Truck, 2015 Lincoln MKC, Ferrari Romping, McLaren P1 Sold Out, & Rapid Fire News! – YouTube
If you want to argue I’ll revise my statement to 8 years (if you want to count the dozens delivered in december). But the point still stands. I won’t respond to Stans usually but I’m giving you the benefit of the doubt since most people on this site are pretty reasonable.
Having a 3rd party talk about what Tesla might be working on in the future isn’t the same thing as Tesla formally announcing the vehicle… which happened in 2017.
It’s like me thinking about when I want to retire. I might mention to a friend that I might want to retire at 65. But having some person talk about what they overheard me say is not the same thing as me formally announcing it.
The only thing that is weird here is you taking a youtuber’s word as if it was a formal announcement from Tesla itself.
Ok, you made me go digging. Here is a CNN article from 2013 from a Musk interview when he said Tesla would build a truck but it would probably be 5 years before it will be offered.
Or maybe the same report from business insider
Tesla Pickup Truck (businessinsider.com)
“[Musk] said that, yes, Tesla was planning to make a truck, but not a commercial one, because the market opportunity for commercial trucks is much smaller. Musk said the Tesla truck would be modeled on Ford’s F-Series in part because of that truck’s remarkable popularity.”
Also, this is not the same as some rando casually mentioning something to a friend. It’s the CEO of the company talking to reporters at an industry event.
So, Maybe now I can go back to the 10 years I initially stated.
Musk casually talking about what the company’s future product plans might be is NOT the same thing as a formal product announcement.
You’re nuts if you think it is.
Takata airbag in my 2003 Tundra. Dropped it off at the dealership (I didn’t even know where it was!) and came back at the end of the day and picked it up. No interaction or waiting, exactly the way I like it.