(Ford)
RJ Scaringe, Rivian founder and CEO, and Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford have announced a $500 million Ford investment in Rivian. Through a strategic partnership, Ford will develop an all-new, next-generation battery electric vehicle for Ford’s growing EV portfolio using Rivian’s flexible skateboard platform. This is in addition to Ford’s existing plans to develop a portfolio of battery electric vehicles on its own. As part of its previously announced $11 billion EV investment, Ford already has confirmed two key fully electric vehicles: a Mustang-inspired crossover coming in 2020 and a zero-emissions version of the best-selling F-150 pickup. Rivian will remain an independent company and the investment is subject to customary regulatory approval. Following Ford’s investment, Joe Hinrichs, Ford’s president of Automotive, will join Rivian’s seven-member board. Editor-in-Chief's Note: Interesting news, since GM ended discussions with Rivian not too long ago because Rivian wouldn't allow GM exclusivity. So GM walked. Is this the panacea that Ford is looking for? There's no question it jump starts Ford's development of its all-electric F150 and elevates its overall profile in the BEV space. But make no mistake, it's still a giant "we'll see" as to how all of this turns out. -PMD
RJ Scaringe, Rivian founder and CEO, and Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford have announced a $500 million Ford investment in Rivian. Through a strategic partnership, Ford will develop an all-new, next-generation battery electric vehicle for Ford’s growing EV portfolio using Rivian’s flexible skateboard platform. This is in addition to Ford’s existing plans to develop a portfolio of battery electric vehicles on its own. As part of its previously announced $11 billion EV investment, Ford already has confirmed two key fully electric vehicles: a Mustang-inspired crossover coming in 2020 and a zero-emissions version of the best-selling F-150 pickup. Rivian will remain an independent company and the investment is subject to customary regulatory approval. Following Ford’s investment, Joe Hinrichs, Ford’s president of Automotive, will join Rivian’s seven-member board. Editor-in-Chief's Note: Interesting news, since GM ended discussions with Rivian not too long ago because Rivian wouldn't allow GM exclusivity. So GM walked. Is this the panacea that Ford is looking for? There's no question it jump starts Ford's development of its all-electric F150 and elevates its overall profile in the BEV space. But make no mistake, it's still a giant "we'll see" as to how all of this turns out. -PMD
(Aston Martin images)
Aston Martin is calling this machine its ultimate open-top driving experience: the new DBS Superleggera Volante. Powered by Aston Martin’s own 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12, producing 715BHP and 900Nm of torque, it goes 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds, 0-100mph in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 211mph. Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group CEO, Dr. Andy Palmer, had this to say: “There is nothing on earth that compares to the roar of an Aston Martin V12 and I believe that the DBS Superleggera Volante provides one of the greatest sensory experiences in the automotive world. This is truly a testament to the no compromise approach of our engineers and designers, to deliver the two key aspects of a convertible Super GT. Exceptional performance in an irresistible form, DBS Superleggera has justifiably won the hearts and minds of Super GT lovers the world over, and the Volante takes this concept to the next level.” How much? $329,100 (MSRP inc. Gas Guzzler Tax) with U.S. deliveries set to begin next fall.
Aston Martin is calling this machine its ultimate open-top driving experience: the new DBS Superleggera Volante. Powered by Aston Martin’s own 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12, producing 715BHP and 900Nm of torque, it goes 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds, 0-100mph in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 211mph. Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group CEO, Dr. Andy Palmer, had this to say: “There is nothing on earth that compares to the roar of an Aston Martin V12 and I believe that the DBS Superleggera Volante provides one of the greatest sensory experiences in the automotive world. This is truly a testament to the no compromise approach of our engineers and designers, to deliver the two key aspects of a convertible Super GT. Exceptional performance in an irresistible form, DBS Superleggera has justifiably won the hearts and minds of Super GT lovers the world over, and the Volante takes this concept to the next level.” How much? $329,100 (MSRP inc. Gas Guzzler Tax) with U.S. deliveries set to begin next fall.
