Michael Kahn

Articles by Michael Kahn

Rivian CEO Announces Level 3 ‘Eyes-Off’ Autonomous Driving Plans

Rivian, the electric vehicle startup, has announced ambitious plans to rapidly advance its autonomous driving technology. CEO RJ Scaringe revealed the company is working on a supervised hands-free driving system set to launch later this year, with an eyes-off driving system targeted for 2026. Speaking at the opening of a new Rivian store in San Francisco on January 23, Scaringe emphasized that the company is “hyper-focused” on developing this technology. The planned supervised hands-free system would be classified as Level 2 on the SAE scale of self-driving capability, requiring drivers to monitor the road and be ready to take control at any time The more advanced eyes-off system, aimed for 2026, would elevate Rivian‘s offerings to Level 3 autonomy. At

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From Autonomous Drifting to Space Rockets: Akio Toyoda Expands Vision for Toyota at CES 2025

At the CES 2025 press conference, Toyota unveiled a series of ambitious projects and initiatives, showcasing its transformation from a traditional automaker to a comprehensive mobility company. The presentation, led by Chairman Akio Toyoda, highlighted advancements in autonomous technology, urban development, and even space exploration. While specific details were limited, Toyoda said while he initially found autonomous driving, boring, the technology behind autonomous drifting instilled new excitement in his interests. The presentation went on to show a video of two cars drifting together. This suggests a focus on developing vehicles capable of handling extreme driving conditions without human intervention. The company also alluded to ongoing research into flying cars as part of their CES announcements, although no concrete timelines or

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2025 Kia Sorento PHEV SX-Prestige AWD Review: Combine Premium Features with Efficiency and Three-Row Versatility

The 2025 Kia Sorento PHEV SX-Prestige AWD emerges as a compelling fusion of efficiency, luxury, and versatility. The Sorento PHEV doesn’t just represent another entry in the crowded SUV market, it showcases Kia‘s commitment to electrification without compromising on the practicality and comfort that families demand. With its sleek exterior design and promise of up to 32 miles of all-electric range, this vehicle aims to bridge the gap between daily commutes and weekend adventures, all while keeping a watchful eye on fuel consumption and environmental impact. Key Takeaways 32 miles of electric-only range covers most commutes: The Sorento PHEV’s all-electric capability handles typical daily driving without burning fuel, then seamlessly transitions to the 1.6L turbo hybrid system for longer trips.

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2024 Fiat 500e RED Review – Electric City Driving in Style

Navigating the bustling streets of Midtown Sacramento in the 2024 Fiat 500e RED, I couldn’t help but appreciate the vehicle’s nimble handling and compact size. The electric motor’s instant torque made darting through traffic a breeze. Swiftly changing lanes for the hard to find parking spots that would challenge larger vehicles was effortless. On my way to grab a coffee from a local coffee shop, I maneuvered through tight alleyways and crowded intersections with ease. The 500e’s responsive steering and compact dimensions allowed me to slip into a curbside spot that most cars would have passed by. Vehicle Specifications The 2024 Fiat 500e is powered by a single permanent-magnet electric motor that produces 117 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. 

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2024 Jeep Wrangler 4XE Rubicon X Review: Take Luxury Plug-In Hybrid Capabilities Off-Road

Navigating the winding roads of the Sierra Nevada foothills, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon X hummed quietly beneath me, a stark contrast to the rugged terrain towering around forgotten logging roads. This latest iteration of the iconic off-roader represents a significant evolution, blending Jeep‘s legendary capability with modern electrification. This plug-in hybrid off-roader combines Jeep‘s legendary 4×4 capabilities with electrification amongst the iconic Wrangler lineup. With 375 horsepower and 21 miles of all-electric range, the Rubicon X is ready to deliver unparalleled performance both on and off the beaten path. But does this $78,995 trail-ready hybrid live up to its hefty price tag? I put it to the test in challenging terrain to find out. Performance and Powertrain The heart

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Here’s How the Honda-Nissan Merger Could Reshape the Global Automotive Industry

Japanese automotive giants Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. have set the industry abuzz with their announcement of potential merger talks, a move that could reshape the global automotive landscape. On December 23, 2024, the two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore the creation of a new holding company, potentially forming the world’s third-largest automaker by vehicle sales. The proposed merger, which also includes discussions with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, aims to pool resources and technological expertise to better position the combined entity in the face of industry-wide challenges. This groundbreaking development comes as Japanese automakers face mounting pressure to compete in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle (EV) market, where they have struggled to keep

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2024 Kia Sorento X-Pro SX-Prestige 2.5T AWD Review: A Refined Adventure Machine

Settling into the driver’s seat of the 2024 Kia Sorento X-Pro SX-Prestige, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. This wasn’t just any test drive; I was about to embark on a 400-mile journey from Sacramento to Los Angeles for the 2024 LA Auto Show. It was the perfect opportunity to put Kia‘s refreshed midsize SUV through its paces. The 2024 Sorento has undergone a significant facelift, and it’s immediately apparent. The front fascia sports a bolder grille, flanked by redesigned LED headlights with striking amber daytime running lights. These changes give the Sorento a more commanding presence on the road, reminiscent of its larger sibling, the Telluride. The X-Pro package adds a rugged touch with 17-inch wheels

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The Lightship AE.1 vs Pebble Flow – Comparing Electric Smart Camping for 2025

The recreational vehicle industry is experiencing a significant shift towards electrification, with two leading the charge: the Lightship AE.1 vs Pebble Flow. Both of these electric travel trailers are set to redefine the RV market with their advanced Smart technologies and eco-friendly designs. These are the notable differences in their approaches and specifications. Lightship AE.1 Lightship, an American electric RV manufacturer, has unveiled its production model AE.1 Cosmos Edition. Originally introduced as the L1 at the 2023 SXSW show, this “aero-electric” travel trailer is designed and manufactured in Broomfield, Colorado. Features of the AE.1 Cosmos Edition include: The AE.1 Cosmos Edition is limited to 50 units and priced at $250,000 (or $239,900 after available tax credits). Production is scheduled to

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2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige Review Redefines the Minivan with Family Luxury

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige marks a significant evolution in the minivan segment, seamlessly blending practicality with luxury and improved fuel efficiency. The vehicle’s interior exudes an upscale ambiance that rivals European luxury vehicles, departing from the utilitarian design typically associated with family haulers. The SX Prestige trim elevates the Carnival’s interior with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. Soft-touch surfaces adorn the dashboard and door panels, while genuine leather upholstery covers the seats. The cabin features ambient lighting with customizable color options, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. I opted for teal, which looks great alongside the rest of the trim. Brushed aluminum accents and wood-grain trim pieces further enhance the luxurious feel, strategically placed throughout the interior.

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From Smartphones to Smart Cars: The Digital Transformation of Our Daily Commute

As I slide into the driver’s seat of my newly delivered 2025 Kia Sorento PHEV SX-Prestige AWD, I’m struck by the array of screens and connectivity options surrounding me. Gone are the days of fumbling with a smartphone mount; now, my device seamlessly integrates with the car’s infotainment system through Apple CarPlay, alongside with Kia’s very own Kia Access app. This personal experience mirrors a broader trend sweeping the automotive industry. By 2028, Insider Intelligence predicts that 84% of new vehicles sold in the United States will feature connected car technology. This isn’t just a statistic—it’s a glimpse into the automotive future. The global connected car market is accelerating faster than a sports car on an open highway. Precedence Research

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2024 Subaru BRZ tS Review – Track Tuned and Driver Ready

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS is Subaru‘s wild child, the one that decided to ditch the all-wheel drive and head to the gym instead. We’re talking rear-wheel drive, a punchy boxer engine, and handling that’ll make you grin like a kid on Christmas morning. As the flagship of the BRZ lineup, the tS model is engineered to satisfy purists who crave nimble handling, precision control, and a driver-focused interior. I was excited to experience first-hand what sets this performance variant apart. Distance driven: 656 miles. Driving conditions: Sunny weather, rain storms, windy mountain roads through Sierra Nevada and Pope/Chiles Valley, Napa. The Experience The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS in WR Blue Pearl, offers a focused driving experience that comes with

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#286, James Raia Behind the Wheel: Seven Years of Stories, Cars, and Conversations

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:43 — 51.9MB)Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | MoreIn this special The Weekly Driver podcast episode, Michael Kahn takes the reins from longtime hosts James Raia and Bruce Aldrich in an interview with Raia, who reflects on the journey in automotive journalism and podcasting over the past seven years. Raia leans forward and with a bit of a journalistic tone, he casually shares, “After reviewing cars every week for 21 years, I still find myself asking, ‘What’s the story behind this car?’” With candid humor and heartfelt anecdotes, Raia shares the story of how he and Aldrich built the podcast from scratch, interviewing everyone from car enthusiasts next door to industry giants

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2024 Best of the Bay: Top Vehicles Showcase Tech and Comfort

2024 Best of the Bay is an annual awards event judged by members of the Western Automotive Journalists (WAJ), a non-profit association of automotive writers and content creators based in the Bay Area. I had the unique opportunity to personally test drive each of the vehicles featured in the 2024 Best of the Bay awards. Given 30 minutes with each vehicle, I navigated a series of carefully suggested routes that allowed me to experience their full range of capabilities. From winding coastal highways to steep hills and forested backroads around Santa Cruz, the diverse landscape provided the perfect canvas to put these cars through their paces. Each drive offered something new—whether it was the roar of a performance engine or

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The Untold Challenge of Electric Vehicles: What Happens to the Batteries?

The rapid electrification of the global automotive industry has made electric vehicles (EVs) a central piece of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While the shift to EVs brings the promise of cleaner transportation, the supply chain and lifecycle of EV batteries introduce complex environmental challenges. The creation of a circular economy around EV batteries—a system that minimizes waste by reusing and recycling materials—is seen as a solution to these challenges. Building this system from scratch requires innovation, regulatory support, and technological advancements. Beyond merely reducing emissions, it aims to optimize resource use, limit reliance on virgin materials, and create a sustainable infrastructure for handling millions of EV batteries over the coming decades. EV Battery Boom: Critical Infrastructure The surge

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GM Energy PowerBank: Bringing Home Energy Storage and Backup Alongside Ultium

General Motors is not just making strides in electric vehicle (EV) technology; it’s now making a significant impact in home energy solutions. With the launch of GM Energy’s PowerBank, the company aims to provide homeowners with a robust, reliable backup energy storage system that integrates seamlessly with its Ultium platform. The PowerBank is designed to offer backup power for homes during outages and peak demand periods, while also enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability. This marks a major step forward in GM’s broader strategy to establish itself as a leader in renewable energy solutions. With the PowerBank, GM Energy is delivering more than just a simple energy storage solution—it’s offering homeowners the ability to control, manage, and optimize their energy usage

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Elon Musk Unveils Tesla Robovan, the 20-Seat Electric Van Set to Transform City Transit

Tesla has made waves yet again with the unveiling of its latest innovation: the Tesla Robovan. Introduced at the 2024 ‘We, Robot’ event, the Robovan is designed to be both a passenger and cargo vehicle, capable of fully autonomous operation. Much like the recently revealed Cybercab, the Robovan is set to revolutionize how we think about urban transportation, offering solutions for logistics, public transit, and mobility as a service. A Van Like No Other The Tesla Robovan isn’t just a larger version of Tesla’s other vehicles—it’s an entirely new concept. Elon Musk described it as “a Swiss army knife of transportation” during its reveal, highlighting its versatility for both passenger and cargo applications. Whether it’s transporting commuters or delivering packages,

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