In this recent episode of “The Drive” with Alan Taylor, Lauren Fix-Editor in-Chief for Car Coach Reports discusses the impact of economic uncertainty on the auto industry and the upcoming Shelby convention at New Jersey Motorsports Park, featuring classic and modern cars. She also talks about new A.I. technology using dual cameras for monitoring traffic violations, which is set to be implemented in the US. Additionally, a recent Supreme Court ruling overturned the Chevron deference, potentially leading to a reduction in fines and fees related to electric vehicles and other taxes.

Up next is George Kennedy, co-founder of Cartender.com, and the Vice President of the New England Motor Press Association. He contributes to U.S. News & World Report, CarGurus, Forbes Wheels, and here on The Drive, test drove the Hyundai Santa Fe, a three-row SUV. The 2024 redesign has a futuristic look and a well-designed interior, although it leans too heavily on touch capacitive controls. The top calligraphy trim includes luxurious features such as Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The special calligraphy package, priced at $46,500, offers these high-end features, but the base model at $33,950 still impresses with a comprehensive set of standard features. Additionally, all Santa Fe models feature a unique hidden handle in the C-pillars, making it easier to tie down cargo.

Motorsports journalist Steven Cole Smith recently provided an update on drag racing star John Force’s recovery from a serious crash. Force, over 70 years old, survived a crash at 302 miles per hour, resulting in a traumatic brain injury. His teammate, Robert Hight, had to take the year off, but the team hopes for his return next season or the addition of a new driver. Steven also discussed recent NASCAR events, with a focus on the Brickyard 400 race. The race has evolved over the years and recent events have helped re-establish it as a premier NASCAR race. In Canada, the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy race took place, and the winner was Colton Herta, one of the author’s favorite drivers. The IndyCar season is approaching its end, with the last race scheduled for September 15th in Nashville. The series has undergone changes, including the addition of a hybrid system and a stronger push-to-pass feature.

Pulling in the rear is Brian Moody, an analyst in the automotive industry and a contributor to Forbes Autos, is back to talk about the trend of rising prices in the car market, especially for older vehicles. This is making new and slightly used cars more expensive and increasing the demand for 10+ year old used cars. The study shows that the prices of older cars have gone up by 60% over the last 10 years due to factors like COVID-related shortages and inflation. People are turning to older, more affordable cars, which are also seen as durable, as new cars become more expensive. This shift is affecting the entire used car market. Brian also discusses concerns about the future of the Toyota Supra, noting the dwindling availability of sports cars due to changing attitudes among policymakers and automakers. Additionally, there is a discussion about a recent study by JD Power and the importance of considering resale value when evaluating the cost of owning a car, particularly electric cars, which tend to depreciate more rapidly than gasoline cars due to driving habits and other factors.

[00:00:00] – Contributor Lauren Fix
[00:06:58] – Cameras, Cameras, Everywhere!
[00:13:00] – Supreme Over Ruled!
[00:20:51] – Contributor George Kennedy III
[00:30:22] – Dead Weight
[00:37:21] – 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
[00:44:11] – Contributor Steven Cole Smith
[00:51:45] – NASCAR Half Way Mark
[00:57:12] – Ontario Honda Dealers Indy race
[01:05:03] – Contributor Karl Brauer
[01:15:25] – Bye! Bye! Supra
[01:21:35] – Resale Value of Electric Vehicles

Host: Alan Taylor
Producer: Dave Milligan
Copy Editor: Colleen Mahi

Contributor: Lauren Fix

Contributor: George Kennedy III

Contributor: Steven Cole Smith

Contributor: Karl Brauer

Vehicles Discussed: ,

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe, BMW Z4, Toyota Supra

• Austin Hatcher Foundation
• AutoTempest.com
• Brembo
• Dodge
• Foundation of Human Understanding
• Shell
• Subaru

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