News Roundup: Tesla/Ford Partnership, 2024 Atlas, BMW i5, More

All-new BMW 5 Series and i5 EV

BMW is introducing the 2024 5 Series with an all-electric i5 and no V8 model. Instead the only gas 5er at launch with be the 255 hp 530i xDrive for $70,500. The new 5 Series is longer and wider, and BMW says it drives better than the car it replaces. It will also come loaded with tech beyond the 590 hp and 412 km of range electrical system the i5 M60 ($95,000) offers. The i5 will offer a hands-on driver assistance system that can automatically change lanes with just a glance from the driver at their mirror. The new 5 gets BMW's twin-screen Curved Display that merges the 12.3-inch dash and 14.9-inch centre screen into one bezel. The system uses BMW's latest iDrive which includes gesture controls. BMW plans to add a PHEV for Canada in 2024 and the new 5 should hit dealers around the end of 2023.

Ford will use Tesla charge ports



Ford has inked a massive deal with Tesla that will see Blue Oval models able to charge at more than 12,000 Tesla Supercharger fast-charge stations across Canada and the U.S. Ford will begin including a Tesla plug adaptor with its EVs starting next year and in 2025 will offer its EVs with a Tesla plug built-in. The compatibility will specifically be for V3 (and likely newer) Tesla Supercharger stations. This brings Ford's total network of fast-charge stations to nearly 100,000 in North America. Ford also confirmed that it would be launching a "series of next-generation EVs" beginning in 2025.

2024 VW Atlas pricing



Volkswagen announced pricing for the refreshed 2024 Atlas crossover. The Atlas drops its base trim and its VR6 engine, so pricing is up slightly. The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas starts from $49,995, with the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport from $48,895. A new 269 hp 2.0L turbo-four is now the only engine. Making Comfortline the entry spec means that wireless app connect, power hatch, heated and ventilated front seats and other comfort features are now standard. Also new for 2024 is the Peak Edition trim, a rugged off-road appearance grade that comes with all-terrain tires.

New MyNissan app



Nissan has launched a new MyNissan app for its customers. The new app includes vehicle functions like remote locking and unlocking, vehicle customization, and other convenience features. It also lets customers schedule maintenance and access emergency services. Owners can even see their payment information if financed through Nissan. Nissan Ariya EV owners will be able to see EV-specific information like battery status, time until charge complete, and range, all from their smartphone or smartwatch.

Maybach Night Series



Mercedes has just announced a new grade for its top-shelf Maybach models. The Mercedes-Maybach Night Series adds exquisite details like dark chrome and new intricately textured surfaces. On the EQS SUV, it will include pinstripes on the grille, exclusive two-tone paint, and rose gold headlight accents. On the S-Class, it will include a similar two-tone finish and rose gold as well as its own unique interior colour options. Also offered will be the most ostentatious wheels we've ever seen, covered in an array of Maybach logos on the wheel face.