The Growth of Nuclear Energy and Renewable Energy Sources Follow the Trail Blazed by Electric and Autonomous Vehicles
Introduction
The largest car stories of 2024 were related to the development of electric and self-driving vehicles, new models, and changes in the automobile market.
In the car world this year, improvements and changes came one after the other. A few large changes on the horizon could define the way we drive for the next few years. Keep on reading to discover the 12 biggest car news stories of 2024.
1. New Affordable Electric Cars Launched
Several new electric vehicle (EV) models were launched in 2024 with lower pricing in order to capture mainstream consumer interest.
Key releases included a $30000 Ford Focus EV hatchback with 250 miles of range and Hyundai mini EV with 120 miles of range for less than $20000 with basic features only. Thus, the presence of more affordable EVs makes their ownership possible.
2. Millionth Autonomous Car Produced
The final significant achievement relates to the availability of the millionth prototype of a self-driving car for the public.
Currently, most auto manufacturers have their self-drive cars in the market. This indicates that the technology is moving from the experimental stage to the adoption stage or phase.
Security is still paramount, but self-driving vehicles are anticipated to capture 60% of the market share by 2030.
3. Hydrogen Infrastructure Expands
Hydrogen fueling stations tripled this year in the US as new hydrogen fuel cell vehicles were unveiled by car makers.
As the hydrogen infrastructure develops further, hydrogen-powered EVs can satisfy many consumer mobility requirements without emitting any GHG. Large manufacturers plan on having more than 2,000 stations by 2026.
4. Tesla Pickup Breaks Sales Records
Tesla’s new electric pickup truck became the second fastest selling truck in history with more than 1M pre-orders and 250K sold in 2024.
The vehicle had a futuristic look, with outstanding performance figures and innovative technologies and safety systems that were appealing to the consumers and raised the bar for trucks.
5. The Toyota Solterra was crowned the SUV of the Year.
From leading automotive publications, the 2023 Toyota Solterra midsize SUV innovation award was awarded to the best midsize SUV.
According to the reviewers, it offers a competitive 400 miles of electric range, a spacious yet athletic exterior, luxurious interior touches, and sophisticated driver assistance features. This is a big plus for new BEV models from Toyota.
6. Supply Chain Issues Continue
As with other industries, automakers had to continue to contend with supply chain issues. Lack of supplies such as batteries and semiconductors follow the same trend resulting in even lower stocks on dealership floors.
Subsequently, high demand along with shortage of supply enabled car companies to proceed to increase prices. In some cases, it may still take a number of years to come to a resolution.
7. General Motors has recently unveiled an adjustable airless tire.
General Motors unveiled new airless tire prototypes for military vehicles that could be the model for consumer vehicles.
Polymers and micro structured metals constitute the UPTIS (Unique Puncture-proof Tire System) that cannot be flattened thus no need for spare tires or tools. GM further avouch that they also have a longer life cycle and are associated with a smooth, noiseless ride.
8. New Labour Union Enters Tesla</Lead
In a historical turn in Tesla’s working relations, the production workers’ union was established, the Tesla Workers Alliance (TWA), and the company started bargaining.
This responded to concerns over extended working and will likely foment organising pressure at other Tesla and EV plants.
9. Thus, the BMW Solar Roof Option Announced is an article about BMW introducing a new feature in their cars.
BMW had stated that it plans to make the solar-powered roof available for all vehicles by 2026.
Installed with solar tiles that can be installed specifically on the roof, drivers would be able to get additional 25 miles of charge per day.
This enables battery-electric BMWs to recharge conveniently through sunlight. A similar solar plan was soon disclosed by its arch competitor, Mercedes.
10. Virginia Tests Vehicle Mileage Tax Systems
Virginia was the first state to pilot a vehicle mileage fee in the United States due to the low gas tax revenues. Owners of fuel efficient and electric cars willingly participate in the ‘per-mile’ rather than ‘per-gallon’ scheme.
Success could pave the way to other states implementing similar taxes based on the road usage instead of fuel consumed.
11. Florida Legalizes Level 4 Autonomous Cars
Florida passed legislation to allow level 4 self-driving cars that can operate without any human intervention under certain circumstances. California and Texas also broadened permissions.
Allowing more states for testing while adopting rigorous safety guidelines helps to advance the technology while also providing for risk mitigation.
12. Nissan’s new generation of Solid-state batteries increases EV range.
Also, Nissan said that the vehicles with the new solid-state batteries will be available in 2028. Lithium-ion is said to have double the energy density of Lithium-ion to give its EVs range nearly comparable to gasoline vehicles – perhaps even over 750 miles on a single charge.
Competitor Toyota plans to roll out comparable utility battery technology roughly by 2025.
Conclusion:
Automotive industry in 2024 witnessed several milestones that are expected to define transportation for the many years to come.
New models of electric vehicles enter the market at lower costs and are produced in larger quantities for the mass market. There was also more advancement in self-driving car technology and their supporting structures and a shift towards more people using self-driving cars.
Other developments that took place include new EV models in several categories, more hydrogen fueling stations to support hydrogen cars, and General Motors airless tires.
Overall, there were issues in the supply chain that affected automakers but new relations between workers at Tesla could set a tone for the sector.
A number of states also began initiatives to ready themselves for an electrified and autonomous world on the roads.
New battery technology from big players such as Nissan is expected to come through soon, thereby setting the stage for a major shake up of the automotive industry in the near future. The developments of 2024 have kicked off the processes of significant change.
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