Cars

Lyft and Tensor Redefine Car Ownership with New Robotaxi Program

Lyft and Tensor have embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration that promises to revolutionize the concept of vehicle ownership and the ridesharing industry. This partnership introduces a novel robotaxi program where individuals can purchase autonomous cars, known as Tensor Robocars, which are integrated into Lyft's network. The core innovation lies in the ability for car owners to deploy their personal self-driving vehicles to earn revenue through the Lyft platform during periods when they are not being used for personal travel. This strategic move aims to transform vehicles from mere personal transportation assets into income-generating investments, offering a potential shift in how people perceive and utilize their cars in the future of mobility.

The announcement from Lyft, a leading ridesharing entity, and Silicon Valley's autonomous vehicle developer, Tensor, signifies a pivotal advancement in transportation. The program will allow members of the public not only to request rides from driverless vehicles but also to become owners of these self-sufficient cars. Tensor's Robocar will be the inaugural privately-owned autonomous vehicle designed to be fully compatible with Lyft's services right from the manufacturing stage. This initiative directly addresses the long-standing challenge of vehicle downtime, offering a solution where cars can contribute economically when idle.

Jeremy Bird, Executive Vice President of Driver Experience at Lyft, highlighted the program's potential to overcome traditional barriers in ridesharing. He emphasized that historically, earning through the platform required a driver's physical presence in their vehicle. Tensor's innovation eliminates this constraint, enabling car owners to commence earning revenue immediately after acquiring their vehicle. Furthermore, this partnership will grant riders access to an advanced and opulent fleet of autonomous vehicles, fostering what Bird describes as an expansion of possibilities within the transportation sector.

This innovative business model echoes visions previously articulated by Tesla for its own autonomous fleet. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has frequently spoken about the potential for Tesla owners to dispatch their vehicles for autonomous ride-hailing services when not in personal use, thereby generating passive income. Musk drew an analogy to the Airbnb model, where property owners can monetize their homes when unoccupied. This philosophy of maximizing asset utility through shared economy principles is now being actively pursued by Lyft and Tensor.

Tensor, established in 2016, has distinguished itself by developing the first Level 4 autonomous vehicle intended for individual ownership. Their Robocar, a culmination of nine years of development, leverages NVIDIA chips to power its sophisticated AI and redundant safety systems. The vehicle is equipped with over 100 advanced sensors, including numerous cameras, LiDAR, and radar units, processing an immense volume of data per second to navigate and operate autonomously. This robust technological foundation underscores the capabilities of the Robocar.

Lyft's engagement in this program extends beyond merely facilitating individual ownership; the company has also secured hundreds of Tensor Robocars for its proprietary fleet operations. This dual approach aims to empower individual entrepreneurs to establish their own fleets within the Lyft network, while simultaneously bolstering Lyft's own autonomous vehicle capabilities. This model fundamentally redefines car ownership, transforming luxury vehicles into productive assets that continually generate income, rather than diminishing in value while parked.

This venture by Lyft and Tensor represents a forward-thinking approach to car ownership and ridesharing, promising a future where personal vehicles are not just modes of transport but also active contributors to their owners' financial well-being. By allowing cars to operate autonomously within the Lyft ecosystem, the partnership seeks to unlock new economic opportunities and reshape the urban mobility landscape. The rollout of Tensor Robocars with Level 4 autonomous driving is anticipated across major global cities, with deliveries scheduled for late 2026 and 'Lyft-ready' vehicles launching in 2027, marking an exciting new chapter for the industry.

2025 Hyundai Palisade vs. 2025 Kia Telluride: A Comprehensive Comparison

Choosing between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade and the 2025 Kia Telluride can be challenging, as both are compelling three-row mid-size SUVs built on the same foundation. However, they cater to distinct consumer preferences, with the Palisade exuding a more luxurious and refined persona, and the Telluride leaning towards robust utility and adventure readiness. This comparison aims to dissect their core differences and similarities across various aspects, including ride dynamics, engine specifications, fuel economy, exterior aesthetics, interior comfort, technological advancements, and safety performance. Understanding these nuances will be crucial for prospective buyers to align their vehicle choice with their personal driving style and family needs, ensuring a satisfying ownership experience with either of these popular models.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade and 2025 Kia Telluride, while sharing a common engineering base, present distinct philosophies in their design and performance. The Palisade is engineered to offer a more cushioned and absorbent ride, effectively smoothing out road imperfections for enhanced passenger comfort. In contrast, the Telluride features a firmer suspension system, which minimizes body roll and provides a more controlled driving experience, particularly appealing to those who might venture off the beaten path. Both SUVs are powered by a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, available in either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Palisade FWD models achieve an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, with AWD variants slightly less efficient at 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The Telluride, however, shows a minor advantage in FWD fuel economy, offering 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while its AWD versions manage 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. When it comes to towing capabilities, the Telluride surpasses the Palisade with a maximum capacity of 5,500 lbs, compared to the Palisade's 5,000 lbs. These subtle differences in ride dynamics and practical capabilities highlight the divergent target audiences for each model.

The exterior styling of these two SUVs visually communicates their intended use. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade boasts a more refined and upscale appearance, characterized by a bolder grille, sleeker lines, and a choice of seven exterior paint colors. Standard exterior features across most Palisade trims include 18-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels, daytime running lights (DRLs), and LED taillights, with optional enhancements like side mirror approach lights and door handle welcome lights further accentuating its premium appeal. The 2025 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, embraces a more rugged and utilitarian aesthetic, featuring increased exterior cladding, a more angular profile, and a wider selection of eight exterior colors. While also offering 18-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights, the Telluride distinguishes itself with available LED fog lights and, in its X-Line and X-Pro trims, a marginally higher ground clearance of 8.4 inches compared to the standard 8-inch clearance shared by both models.

Inside the cabin, both the Palisade and Telluride offer versatile seating for seven or eight passengers, with the seven-seat layout featuring comfortable second-row captain's chairs. The Palisade provides a slight advantage in front legroom, measuring 44.1 inches, which is 2.7 inches more than the Telluride. However, both SUVs offer identical legroom for the second and third rows, at 42.4 inches and 31.4 inches, respectively. When it comes to cargo space, the Telluride offers a bit more practicality: 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second row, and a substantial 87 cubic feet with all seats folded down. The Palisade, in comparison, provides 18 cubic feet behind the third row, 45.8 cubic feet behind the second, and 86.4 cubic feet with all seats folded. Regarding seating materials, the base Palisade comes with cloth upholstery, while the entry-level Telluride features synthetic leather. Both models offer synthetic leather, leather-trimmed, and Nappa leather options across higher trim levels.

In terms of technology and safety, the 2025 Palisade often feels more advanced. Both SUVs are equipped with a 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen, but the Palisade sets itself apart with a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster across all trims. The Telluride, by contrast, offers a standard 4.2-inch digital instrument display, with the larger 12.3-inch version available as an option. Both vehicles include driver intercom systems, facilitating easier communication between front and rear passengers, and feature front-row audio isolation for a quieter ride. However, the Palisade's available Harman Kardon sound system boasts 12 speakers, two more than its Kia counterpart, contributing to a more immersive audio experience. On the safety front, the Telluride received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest accolade, the Top Safety Pick+, while the Palisade earned the second-highest rating, Top Safety Pick.

Ultimately, the decision between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade and the 2025 Kia Telluride boils down to individual priorities. If a luxurious ride, a sophisticated aesthetic, and advanced interior technology, such as a fully digital instrument cluster and a superior sound system, are paramount, the Palisade is likely the more appealing choice. Its emphasis on premium comfort and refined design makes it ideal for urban families or those who prioritize a plush driving experience. Conversely, if rugged versatility, greater towing capacity, slightly better fuel economy in FWD configurations, and a top-tier safety rating are key factors, the Telluride emerges as the stronger contender. Its utilitarian design and practical features cater well to active lifestyles and adventurous families. Potential buyers are strongly encouraged to test drive both models to personally assess their driving dynamics, interior comfort, and overall feel before finalizing their decision, as each SUV offers a unique blend of attributes designed to meet different needs.

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2023 BMW M4 CSL With Minimal Mileage Goes Up for Auction

A remarkable 2023 BMW M4 CSL, with a mere 1,600 miles on the odometer, has appeared on Bring a Trailer for auction. This exceptional model, a limited-edition variant of the already potent M4 Competition, emphasizes reduced weight and enhanced performance. Clad in a crisp Alpine White exterior complemented by a sophisticated black Merino leather interior, this particular vehicle is one of approximately 300 units allocated for the U.S. market, out of a global production run of just 1,000. It presents an enticing opportunity for automotive aficionados to acquire a practically new, high-performance coupe that seamlessly combines race-track prowess with a touch of everyday luxury, all while potentially offering a substantial saving below its original MSRP.

BMW's commitment to driving excellence is vividly demonstrated in the M4 CSL, a contemporary iteration of their legendary performance philosophy. The CSL designation, signifying \"Competition Sport Lightweight,\" underscores its core design principle: shedding unnecessary mass to boost agility and speed. Compared to the standard M4 Competition, this special edition has undergone significant enhancements, including a boosted twin-turbocharged S58 3.0-liter inline-six engine, refined engine management software, a more efficient cooling system, and upgraded engine mounts. These modifications collectively yield an impressive output of 543 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, all channeled through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and an active M differential.

The exterior design of the M4 CSL, while generally understated given its formidable power, features carefully integrated sporty elements that set it apart. Black and red accents are strategically placed across the vehicle, from the brake calipers visible through the 19-inch front and 20-inch rear forged Style 827M wheels, to the distinctive kidney grilles, hood air intakes, and various aerodynamic components. The optional M Carbon Exterior package further elevates its aggressive stance with carbon fiber body parts, while M Heritage roundels and a quad exhaust system complete the visual transformation, signaling its high-performance credentials.

Beyond raw power, the M4 CSL excels in handling, a critical aspect of its performance identity. It features a specially tuned suspension system, incorporating adaptive M suspension, adjustable Dynamic Stability Control, and M Traction Control. The vehicle's ride height is lowered by 8mm compared to the M4 Competition, optimizing aerodynamics and ensuring exceptional stability and grip during high-speed maneuvers and aggressive cornering. This meticulous engineering guarantees that the immense power generated by the engine is effectively transferred to the road, providing a thrilling and controlled driving experience.

The interior of the M4 CSL strikes a refined balance between sportiness and luxury. M Carbon bucket seats, designed to provide maximum support during dynamic driving, are also heated and adorned with red stitching and illuminated CSL logos. Carbon fiber trim extends throughout the cabin, gracing the center console, sections of the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and parts of the dashboard. For moments away from the track, the car offers a suite of modern conveniences, including a head-up display, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, dual-zone automatic climate control with traditional physical buttons, and the iDrive infotainment system, complete with navigation, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

In a concession to weight reduction, the rear seats have been removed and replaced with a practical cargo net. Drivers can monitor the car's vital statistics through the configurable Live Cockpit Pro display, which includes a tachometer, a 200-mph speedometer, and readouts for fuel level and coolant temperature, providing all necessary information for both spirited driving and daily commutes. This combination of focused performance and creature comforts makes the M4 CSL a unique proposition in the high-performance coupe segment.

The current auction offers a compelling opportunity for enthusiasts. With an original manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $140,895, and current bids hovering around $70,000, the next owner could acquire this exceptional vehicle at a significant value. Its potent engine, superior handling, and limited production numbers—approximately 300 for the U.S. market—make it a truly rare and desirable find. Although the auction concludes in three days, the final price remains to be seen, promising an exciting conclusion for this nearly-new performance marvel.

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