TheDetroitBureau.com is all over the big news within the auto industry in our latest podcast, Headlight News. The weekly roundup includes news, features, reviews and more.
The Aug. 30 episode features a recap of stories by TheDetroitBureau’s Publisher Paul A. Eisenstein. August sales are expected to be down by double-digits — but not for a lack of buyers. The ongoing chip shortage is reducing dealer inventories — and their sales. Other stories in the podcast include:
- The resurgence of the COVID virus is forcing automakers to rethink their plans for bringing workers back into their facilities, after already reinstating mask mandates.
- AAA estimates Americans will spend nearly $10K to own and operate their vehicles: a new record.
- Ford plans to double its production output of the F-150 Lightning due to the popularity of the new electric pickup.
- As driving fatalities continue to rise, GM is experimenting with new technology that would allow vehicle owners to start their cars unless they were buckled in. Part of the reason for the rise in traffic deaths is a decline in seat belt usage.
Executive editor Joe Szczesny follows with our top story: GM’s two recalls of all of its Chevy Bolt EVs due to defect with the battery than can cause them to catch on fire. The recall will cost the company about $1.8 billion.
Contributing Editor Larry Printz reviews the 2022 Volkswagen Taos. The new crossover is now the least expensive hatchback one can find in VW’s line-up. It’s a solid performer that fits in with it larger siblings.
Looking at the week ahead, Managing Editor Michael Strong notes J.D. Power will unveil the results of its annual Initial Quality Study. Dodge tied Kia for the top spot last year in a surprise. Additionally, Cadillac plans to offer a closer look at its new Lyriq EV slated to arrive early next year. Subaru will show off the next model to get its Wilderness package. Finally, automakers will put hard numbers to what’s expected to be a hard month when they report sales late in the week.
Larry returns to bring automotive history to life, including actress and race car driver Anita King sets out to drive across the country — in 1915. She becomes the first woman to do so. In 1922, Chitty Bang Bang, a 23-liter Mercedes, debuts in England. The car inspires Ian Fleming to write Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, which is later made into a beloved children’s movie. Malcolm Bricklin makes another splash in the American car market in 1985 bringing the Yugo — then the cheapest new car available — to the U.S. After some early buzz, the car’s poor build quality and a 0-60 time best recorded with a sun dial dooms it to failure.
Check out TheDetroitBureau’s latest edition of the Headlight News podcast by clicking here. And look for a new episode every Monday!
