GM hires ex-Apple exec to lead new software unit

A sign with the General Motors quality mission statement stands in the lobby at the GM Warren Tech Center in Warren, Michigan. Rebecca Cook | Reuters DETROIT – General Motors has hired former Apple executive Mike Abbott to lead a newly created software unit for the Detroit automaker. Abbott, former vice president of engineering for… Continue reading GM hires ex-Apple exec to lead new software unit

Nikola exits European joint venture to focus on hydrogen trucks in North America

Nikola Motor Company Source: Nikola Motor Company Electric heavy truck maker Nikola said Tuesday that it’s “refocusing the company on North America” as it exited a European joint venture with its chassis supplier, The news came as the company reported its first-quarter results. Here are the key numbers, together with Wall Street estimates as reported… Continue reading Nikola exits European joint venture to focus on hydrogen trucks in North America

Fisker cuts production guidance for Ocean EV after last-minute snags

Henrik Fisker stands with the Fisker Ocean electric vehicle after it was unveiled at the Manhattan Beach Pier ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Show and AutoMobilityLA on November 16, 2021 in Manhattan Beach, California. Patrick T. Fallon | AFP | Getty Images Electric vehicle startup Fisker on Tuesday reported a wider first-quarter loss than… Continue reading Fisker cuts production guidance for Ocean EV after last-minute snags

49. Monarch Tractor

Founders: Praveen Penmetsa (CEO), Mark Schwager, Zachary Omohundro, Carlo MondaviLaunched: 2018Headquarters: Livermore, CaliforniaFunding: $116.4 millionValuation: $271 millionKey technologies: Autonomous vehicles, roboticsIndustry: AgriculturePrevious appearances on Disruptor 50 List: 1 (No. 20 in 2022) Persephone Kavallines Agriculture has been difficult to disrupt, and decarbonize. As the producer of the world’s first-ever fully electric, driver-optional smart tractor, Monarch Tractor’s goal… Continue reading 49. Monarch Tractor

Hyundai and Kia thefts keep rising despite security fix

Nearly three months ago, Hyundai and Kia unveiled software that was designed to thwart an epidemic of thefts of their vehicles, caused by a security flaw that was exposed on TikTok and other social media sites. So far, it hasn’t solved the problem. Across the country, thieves are still driving off with the vehicles at… Continue reading Hyundai and Kia thefts keep rising despite security fix

GM hires ex-Apple leader to head new software team

General Motors Co. is hiring Mike Abbott, former vice president of engineering for Apple’s Cloud Services division, as the automaker’s executive vice president of software, the company said Tuesday. Abbott takes on the newly created position May 22. He will report to GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra. Abbott will head a new software organization… Continue reading GM hires ex-Apple leader to head new software team

GM nixed Apple CarPlay, Android Auto. Here’s why

This content is only available to subscribers. Get unlimited digital access. $1 for the first 3 months. Subscribe Now Your subscription supports: Trusted, up-to-date local Detroit and Michigan-wide breaking news. Accurate, fact-based journalism without an agenda, so you get the information you need to make informed decisions. Complete coverage and commentary on Michigan politics from… Continue reading GM nixed Apple CarPlay, Android Auto. Here’s why

Fisker Ocean Force E is hardcore 4×4 with 550bhp

Fisker is developing an off-road upgrade package for its Ocean electric SUV, promising go-anywhere ability and significantly enhanced performance.  Launched with the intention of broadening the SUVs market appeal and to shake up a class that’s currently dominated by combustion-engined 4x4s, Fisker promises that the Ocean Force E will perform “superbly” off-road. To help it… Continue reading Fisker Ocean Force E is hardcore 4×4 with 550bhp

McLaren to launch V8 hybrid supercar

A new V8 hybrid powertrain will power McLaren’s next-generation halo models as the firm confirms 90% of its line-up will be hybridised within the next five years. Developed by engine supplier Ricardo in Shoreham, Sussex, the powertrain will “form an integral part of McLaren’s next-generation product line-up”, deliver “best-in-class performance” and offer “thrilling driver engagement”, said boss Michael… Continue reading McLaren to launch V8 hybrid supercar

MINI Convertible: inside the latest feature-packed spec

There’s a pure and simple joy to driving a drop top. More open air; more sun; more wind through your hair. Now, the MINI Convertible lets you enjoy even more of that open-top thrill more of the time. Building on the iconic design and heritage of the classic MINI Hatch – but adding a fully… Continue reading MINI Convertible: inside the latest feature-packed spec