Cars Archive

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is warning people not to buy rhinestone-studded steering wheel decals, after several people were reported injured by the shiny decorations. A crash triggering an airbag sent tiny rhinestones into one person’s face and neck, while another person lost sight in one eye. Glittering metallic decals featuring all the major car brands’ logos can be found on eBay, Etsy, and a number of other online sellers.

After laying off 500 members of the Tesla Supercharger team and sending the EV charging world into turmoil, Tesla is looking to rehire some of the personnel. As Bloomberg reports, one of the major returns is director for charging for North America Max De Zegher, who apparently worked right under ousted director Rebecca Tinucci.

The group of 800 demonstrators accused Tesla of environmental harm, citing mining lithium for EV batteries. The group is said to want to stop the factory’s expansion. CEO Elon Musk said it’s “fishy,” and called them dumb. In March, the factory shut down temporarily after an arson attack.

Android phones are reportedly getting a Google Maps update that finally lets EV drivers filter for charging stations, making them easier to find. Last month, Maps gained an AI-powered station locator assistant. Will we see the features soon on other Maps screens like on cars with Google built-in or ones with Android Automotive?

Unless you work for the Supercharger team that was recently gutted in his “absolutely hard core” approach to cost cutting. Musk already said that the Supercharger network would still continue to grow, but “at a slower pace for new locations,” causing more than a little concern amongst Tesla owners and anyone relying upon the North American Charging Standard. Now we have clarification.

This was shared by a recently laid off employee who requested anonymity. Even AI chatbots aren’t this sterile.