Consumer Reports highlights five top electric vehicles under $50,000, including the Hyundai Ioniq 6, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia Niro Electric, Nissan Ariya, and Audi Q4 E-Tron, emphasizing their range, features, and reliability for budget-conscious buyers.
EV sales in the US experienced a significant drop in October following the expiration of federal tax credits, with automakers like Ford, Kia, and Hyundai reporting declines between 25% and over 70%, although hybrid vehicle sales remain strong. The market is expected to stabilize as buyers adjust to the new incentive landscape.
Ford introduces the 2026 Mustang Mach-E GT California Special, featuring unique styling inspired by the classic California Special package, including a new Rave Blue color, special hood graphic, and interior upgrades, with pricing starting at $37,795 and availability in early 2026.
San Diego's parking enforcement is transitioning from three-wheeled scooters to Ford Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles, with some residents questioning the decision. The city cites long-term cost benefits and environmental goals as reasons for the switch, with the Mustangs being part of a larger effort to electrify the municipal fleet. While the Mustangs offer advantages in mileage and maintenance costs, concerns have been raised about their size and maneuverability compared to the scooters. The move aligns with the city's Climate Action Plan, aiming for 100% zero-emission light-duty vehicles by 2035.
The NTSB is investigating a fatal crash in San Antonio involving a semi-autonomous Ford Mustang Mach-E and a Honda CRV, which resulted in the death of Jeffrey Allen Johnson, 56, from Austin. The NTSB's interest lies in advanced driver assistance systems and how vehicle operators interact with these technologies. The Mustang Mach-E is capable of hands-free driving but still requires driver supervision. Ford has expressed condolences and stated that safety is a top priority, and they will fully collaborate with any resulting investigation.
In January 2024, Ford's U.S. EV sales decreased by 11%, with only 3.2% of the brand's total volume being all-electric vehicles. The drop is mainly attributed to a 51% decrease in Ford Mustang Mach-E sales, while the Ford F-150 Lightning saw a marginal decline and the Ford E-Transit van experienced significant growth. Ford's adjustment of 2024 pricing and production plans reflects awareness of the challenging market situation, particularly concerning the Mustang Mach-E. The Ford E-Transit van, however, continues to perform well, with sales up 214% year-over-year.
Google announced at CES 2024 that Android Auto will soon integrate with Google Maps to provide real-time EV battery updates and suggest charging stations along the route for Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, with plans to expand to other Android Auto-compatible EVs. The update will also display the car's battery level upon arrival and estimate charging time. Additionally, Google built-in is expanding to more car brands, including Honda, Nissan, and Ford, and the Chrome browser is rolling out in beta to select Volvo and Polestar models.
Ford's Mustang Mach-E SUV is likely to lose its eligibility for the up-to-$7,500 tax credit for plug-in car purchases in January 2024. The EV tax credit is changing to include stricter requirements for domestic sourcing of battery components and minerals, as well as a prohibition on Chinese battery components. Ford is still working to understand the implications of the new guidance from the Treasury Department. While discounted prices may offset the lost tax credit, overall Mach-E prices are expected to increase next year. Other automakers are also reviewing the new regulations and their impact on their eligible EV models.
The massive investments in electric vehicles (EVs) from the EV-spending bill in key swing states like Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, and Michigan could potentially influence the outcome of the 2024 Presidential election. Democrats are focusing on job creation as a key strategy, which resonates in these states with significant EV-related investments. Despite some Republican skepticism towards EVs, the promise of jobs and economic growth has led even staunch opponents to support EV-related projects in their communities. Additionally, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares expressed concerns that political and public opinion shifts could impact the company's EV production plans. Meanwhile, Ford is offering discounts on its Mustang Mach-E, and lithium-ion battery prices are falling, making EVs more affordable.
The Test Car Happy Hour #42 features Motor1.com editors discussing their experiences with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD, and Kia EV6 GT. The episode concludes with a discussion on the best EVs to buy under $60,000. Viewers can join the conversation and ask questions during the live stream or listen to the audio version on streaming platforms.