In-Car Tech

Tesla releases software update that includes technology most other cars already have

Tesla is currently pushing an update for new technology to its customers.

Photo courtesy of Tesla Motors

Tesla has begun rolling out an update for its cars that includes technology most new cars on the market already have. Electrik reported the development over the weekend.

The update will include traffic sign reader tech as well as the ability for your Tesla to make a chime noise when its system detects that the light ahead of you has turned green.

According to software release notes, the traffic sign reader aspect will work by utilizing the car's cameras to "see" a speed limit sign. In turn, a graphic will appear in the driver visualization in the car and the information will be used to set a speed limit warning.

Tesla Model 3The Tesla Model 3 does not have a head up display.Photo courtesy of Tesla Motors

Similar technology is employed by a wide variety of automakers - everyone from Volvo and Mercedes-Benz to Ford and Mazda. It works a little differently at each. Some just read the sign and project an icon on the driver's information screen. Others automatically adjust your cruise control to be within the limit. Some read the sign, display an icon, then flash that icon with red highlights any time a driver exceeds that limit.

Many automakers show the sign recognition icon in their head up display (HUD) as well. Most Teslas do not come equipped with a HUD, but aftermarket solutions are available.

The pushed update also includes traffic light and stop sign reading technology that will alert the driver when a stoplight turns green. Some automakers offer technology that doesn't read lights, but rather alerts the driver when the car immediately ahead of them has pulled away.

Neither of these technologies make Tesla vehicles full self-driving cars. Despite the names, Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability are still in developmental stages. All Teslas require a hands-on, attentive driver to operate in a safe manner.

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New luxury EV

Lexus announces all-electric RZ 450e

Lexus just announced the new RZ 450e

Lexus

Lexus and Toyota have finally jumped onto the EV train, and we’ll soon see new all-electric SUVs from both. The Lexus variant, named RZ 450e, features a reasonable range, upscale interior, and neat all-wheel drive technology. We don’t have firm pricing for the Lexus, but expect it to start in the mid-to-high $40,000 range.

2023 Lexus RZRange is expected to reach 225 miles per chage. Lexus

The RZ shares a platform and much of its underlying engineering with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, but will take a more upscale approach. Though its size and overall shape are similar to the others, the Lexus’ exterior styling is sharper and sportier, with functional aerodynamic bodywork. A new Lexus logo is spelled out on the rear gate, instead of the traditional “L” of previous models.

The SUV comes with a 71.4-kWh battery that should deliver a range of around 225 miles on a charge. All-wheel drive is standard, and uses the RZ’s dual electric motors to shift power between the wheels that need it most.

Inside, the RZ features a minimalist, open space with controls meant to remind drivers of a horse’s reins. Ultrasuede upholstery and woodgrain trim come standard. Lexus notes the RZ’s head-up display is controllable via steering wheel-mounted buttons that handle navigation, audio, and other functions.

2023 Lexus RZThough similar to the Toyota bZ4X inside, the Lexus IS more upscale and minimalist. Lexus

Speaking of the steering wheel, the first RZs will be available with a round wheel only, but later on, Lexus will offer a yoke-style wheel like the one seen in the Toyota bZ4X concept and Tesla’s Plaid models.

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The majority of new car buyers paid a markup in January 2022.

VW

It's no secret that new car prices are climbing every year, as new technology and features make their way into even the most basic models. The issue is compounded by massive supply chain issues that have caused vehicle shortages for nearly every major automaker. Some dealers are taking advantage of record low inventory levels by marking up prices, and unfortunately, the problem isn't limited to a handful of bad apples. In analyzing recent sale price data, automotive publication Edmunds found that buyers paid a markup in a whopping 82.2 percent of all new vehicle purchases in January 2022, compared to just 2.8 percent a year before. Overall, the average transaction price rose to $728 above MSRP for new car purchases.


Tesla factoryTesla is looking to expand production in the U.S. beyond the confines of its Fremont factory. Photo courtesy of Tesla Motors

Cadillac buyers saw the largest markups, to the tune of $4,048 on average in January. Land Rover and Kia weren't much better, with average markups of $2,565 and $2,289, respectively. On the other end of the spectrum, Alfa Romeo buyers got discounts that averaged $3,421, while people who bought Volvo or Lincoln vehicles got smaller discounts of $869 and $510, respectively.

Some automakers have taken a stand against dealer markups and the general lack of transparency seen in pricing across the board. Ford and General Motors have been vocal in recent months, threatening to withhold inventory from dealers found to be slapping markups on new vehicles. As Edmunds notes, both automakers have important vehicle launches on the horizon that neither can afford to flub, and inconsistent pricing or markups is a good way to alienate new customers out of the gate.


Cadillac EscaladeCadillac buyers paid the largest markups of any brand. Photo courtesy of Cadillac

If you're thinking of shopping for a new car, the best way to avoid paying a markup is to wait. The pandemic and ongoing supply chain issues have thrown kinks into every automaker's operations that will take time to iron out. That said, it's clear that some brands are committed to having no funny business when it comes to dealerships' pricing and communication. It's possible to get a vehicle at MSRP, or even below in some cases, so if you're in a position that requires you to buy a new car, shop around to get the best deal.

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