Michael Kahn

Articles by Michael Kahn

,

Ford’s Removable Roof Battery: A Game-Changer in EV Range Solutions

In the rapidly evolving landscape of sustainable transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) are at the forefront. However, ‘range anxiety’ – the fear of running out of battery before reaching a charging station – has been a persistent concern for potential EV owners. Ford has proposed an innovative solution to this issue: a removable roof battery for EVs. “The techniques described relate to an electrified vehicle backup battery system, which includes a traction battery pack and a backup battery assembly that is removably mounted to the vehicle. This backup battery assembly can recharge the traction battery pack through a charge port of the vehicle.” Ford‘s patent application for this removable roof battery technology has been making waves in the industry. The proposed

Read more
,

Toyota’s Solid-State Battery: A Game Changer for Electric Vehicles

Toyota, the world’s second-largest carmaker, has recently announced a significant breakthrough in battery technology that could revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The Japanese auto giant claims to have developed a solid-state battery with a range of 745 miles (1,200 kilometers) that could charge in 10 minutes or less, a feat that could potentially double the distance of vehicles running on conventional lithium-ion batteries under the same conditions. The solid-state battery, as its name implies, employs solid electrolytes, a departure from the liquid ones found in conventional lithium-ion batteries. This shift is more than just a technical nuance. It’s a potential revolution for EVs, promising to slash charging times, boost capacity, and mitigate the fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Read more
, , ,

The Future of Luxury EVs: AEHRA Sedan and AEHRA SUV Unveiled

In the realm of luxury electric vehicles (EVs), a new player has emerged that is poised to redefine the automotive landscape. AEHRA, an Italian-American ultra-premium electric automotive brand, has recently unveiled its latest creations: the AEHRA Sedan and AEHRA SUV. These vehicles are the epitome of world-class engineering, Italian design, and American customer service, all wrapped in a sustainable, electric package. Earlier this month, AEHRA showcased the exterior design of its second model, the AEHRA Sedan, at the Milano Monza Motor Show. This follows the brand’s first model, the AEHRA SUV, which was revealed in December. Both vehicles are built on a 925-V platform, with battery assistance from Miba, offering a range of up to 800 km from a 120

Read more
,

Toyota Research Institute’s Vision for Seamless AI-Human Integration

Putting Humans First Gill Pratt possesses a unique ability to simplify intricate concepts, making him an ideal spokesperson for Toyota Motor Co. as its chief scientist and CEO of the Toyota Research Institute (TRI). In a recent gathering at TRI’s Silicon Valley headquarters, Pratt engaged with tech reporters and analysts, including SAE Media, to discuss the increasing attention paid to artificial intelligence (AI). It’s a key area of research for TRI’s 200 scientists and engineers. With humor, Pratt addressed concerns surrounding ChatGPT, the controversial chatbot developed by OpenAI in late 2022, and its potential to write term papers for college students. He observed society has become less naive and more skeptical of technology, particularly due to the initial hype around

Read more
,

What’s Important About the Ford MT82 Transmission Recall

Ford MT82 Transmission Recall notice: Mustangs and Mustang GTs from 2011 to 2019 were equipped with a Ford MT82 transmission with a six-speed manual. Many owners have found the transmission faulty. Further, according to Car and Driver, Ford was aware of the problem since the car began testing in 2010. The company had issued no less than seven notices to dealers on how they could fix the problem. The transmissions, supplied by Getrag, had a wide array of issues, and it led to Mustang owners to file a Class Action Suit. Problems Included • Issues with the gearbox• Transmission that slips, jerks and harshly engages• Incurs premature internal wear• Increased shift efforts• Inability to drive• Some suffered complete transmission failure.

Read more

TheWeeklyDriver.com’s 2017 Best Cars of the Year

TheWeeklyDriver.com presents its 11th annual best cars of the year list. For the past two years, we selected 12 vehicles instead of 10 because we couldn’t decide what cars to leave off the lists. The selection was more clear-cut this year, so we’ve again chosen 10 vehicles. Volvo is the only manufacturer with two vehicles on the 2017 best cars list. Bentley, Genesis, Honda, Kia, Lincoln, Mazda, Volkswagen and Toyota are also represented. As editor and publisher of TheWeeklyDriver.com since 2004, I reviewed 38 cars and trucks in 2017 model years for at least a week. Most of the vehicles I drove in the calendar year; some 2017 models in 2016. I also drove at least a half-dozen other vehicles

Read more

Honda Orders Massive Recall of Honda Odyssey minivan

A recall and a stop-sale order has been issued for the Honda Odyssey minivan for two separate issues by American Honda. The recall affects 641,302 vehicles built between Aug. 17, 2010 and Oct. 24, 2016. The majority of the recall, covering 633,753 minivans built between Aug. 17, 2010 and Oct. 1, 2015, involves a faulty seat mechanism. In a statement, the automaker said one of the recalls involves a mechanism that “allows the outboard second row seats to tilt and slide forward for access to the third row seating area may not properly lock the seat into place when the seat is returned to its normal position,” which increases the risk of injury to passengers seated in the second row.

Read more
,

2014 Toyota 4Runner: New design, same praises

The redesigned 2014 Toyota 4Runner, a long-established favorite among off-road sport utility vehicle enthusiasts, features a rugged new exterior and interior updates that offer increased comfort and convenience. Previewed in a mid-August manufacturer’s media presentation in Cle Elum, Wa., the fifth generation 4Runner is available in three grades: a value-driven SR5; top-of-the-line Limited, and a Trail grade for maximum off-road capability. With the optional third-row seat in the SR5 and Limited editions, the 4Runner seats as many seven occupants. Versatility is a 4Runner strong suit. New model year owner have choices: a rear wheel 4×2, part-time 4×4 or a full-time multi-mode 4×4 with a locking center differential. All models are equipped with a 4.0-liter, 270-horsepower V6 teamed to a five-speed

Read more
Previous