The Troubles of Ford's 2024 Ranger Production

TLDRDespite increasing production, Ford did not sell any of the 2024 Ford Rangers last month, indicating production and quality issues. Ford has had a high number of recalls in recent years and is likely facing more recalls in 2024. The vehicles are sitting idle while Ford checks for problems. GM, on the other hand, is pushing its next-generation Chevy Bolt EV to 2026, using a cheaper battery with less energy density. China's ban on the sales of rare earth materials is backfiring, as prices are falling and alternatives are being sourced. The European New Car Assessment Program suggests car makers bring back physical controls instead of relying on touchscreens for safety and ease of use.

Key insights

🔧Ford's 2024 Ranger production did not sell any units last month despite increased production, indicating production and quality issues.

GM is pushing the next-generation Chevy Bolt EV to 2026, using a cheaper battery with lower energy density.

🌍China's ban on rare earth materials is resulting in decreased prices, and alternative sources are being found.

🚗The European New Car Assessment Program recommends bringing back physical controls in cars for safety and ease of use.

💻Car manufacturers are overusing touchscreens, causing drivers to take their eyes off the road and increasing the risk of crashes.

Q&A

Why didn't Ford sell any 2024 Ford Rangers despite increased production?

Ford is facing production and quality issues, likely due to a high number of recalls in recent years.

What is GM doing with the next-generation Chevy Bolt EV?

GM is pushing the release of the next-generation Chevy Bolt EV to 2026 and using a cheaper battery with lower energy density.

What is happening with China's ban on rare earth materials?

China's ban on rare earth materials is backfiring, as prices are falling, and alternative sources are being found.

Why does the European New Car Assessment Program recommend bringing back physical controls in cars?

The program suggests this for safety reasons, as overuse of touchscreens in cars causes drivers to take their eyes off the road.

What are the risks of using touchscreens in cars?

Using touchscreens in cars increases the risk of crashes as drivers need to divert their attention from the road to interact with the touchscreen.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Despite increasing production, Ford did not sell any of the 2024 Ford Rangers last month, indicating production and quality issues.

02:23China's ban on rare earth materials is resulting in decreased prices, and alternative sources are being found.

07:23The European New Car Assessment Program recommends bringing back physical controls in cars for safety and ease of use.