SUVs and EVs Take Center Stage at the 2026 New York International Auto Show

(Feature Impact) The 2026 New York International Auto Show is shining a spotlight on the latest in automotive innovation, from advanced technology to the growing shift toward electric vehicles. One automaker, Kia, is using the show to highlight two versatile SUVs designed to offer more space, capability and flexibility for modern drivers.

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The all-new 2027 Kia Seltos has grown in size, offering a roomier interior with additional legroom, headroom and cargo space. It also adds a hybrid powertrain, making it the only vehicle in its class with three powertrain options. The SUV comes packed with advanced safety features, a more capable all-wheel-drive system and premium interior touches, including dual 12.3-inch display screens and an available panoramic sunroof.

The automaker is also showcasing the all-electric EV3, a compact SUV designed to make electric vehicle ownership more practical. With an estimated range of up to 320 miles, fast-charging capability and optional all-wheel drive, it balances performance, technology and everyday usability. Its intuitive features and flexible design make transitioning to electric simpler for a wider range of drivers.

Both models represent Kia’s commitment to providing options that blend capability, innovation and style. To learn more, visit Kia.com.

SOURCE:

Kia Motors America

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Rising Fuel Costs

(Feature Impact) If you’re feeling pain at the pump, you’re not alone. However, it’s not just rising gas prices that can impact your wallet – it might be your own habits on the road that negatively impact fuel efficiency and add extra strain to your vehicle.

With gas prices fluctuating by more than $1 per gallon nationally in recent years, Mercury Insurance is highlighting how driver behavior can significantly influence fuel costs.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, aggressive driving – rapid acceleration and hard braking – can reduce fuel economy by up to 40% in city driving and 30% on highways, increasing annual fuel expenses by hundreds of dollars.

For the average American driver, that inefficiency adds up quickly. AAA estimates that annual fuel costs can exceed $2,000 depending on vehicle type and region. A 30-40% reduction in fuel economy can translate into hundreds of dollars in additional fuel expenses each year – before factoring in the added wear on key vehicle components.

“Most drivers think of aggressive driving as a safety issue, but it’s also a cost issue,” said John Dicken, director, material damage claims at Mercury Insurance. “From a claims standpoint, we see how habits like hard braking and rapid acceleration accelerate wear on brakes, tires and suspension components. Smoother driving isn’t just more efficient – it helps reduce preventable damage over time.”

The Hidden Cost of Driving Aggressively

Fuel is only part of the equation.

• Brake replacement can range from $300-800 per axle, depending on the vehicle.
• A new set of tires can cost $600-1,200 or more.
• Poorly maintained or underinflated tires can lower gas mileage by roughly 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop in pressure, according to federal transportation data.

Over time, inconsistent maintenance and aggressive driving habits compound these costs.

“Driving behavior directly impacts how often certain parts need to be replaced,” Dicken said. “When drivers anticipate traffic, maintain steady speeds and keep up with routine maintenance, they reduce strain on their vehicle and potentially avoid unnecessary repair expenses.”

Practical Eco-Driving Tips That Make a Measurable Difference

Consider these strategies recommended by Mercury Insurance to improve efficiency and reduce vehicle wear:

Accelerate gradually: Avoid rapid starts and jackrabbit acceleration, which significantly reduce fuel economy.

Brake smoothly and anticipate stops: Looking ahead and easing into stops reduces stress on brake systems.

Maintain consistent speeds: Using cruise control on highways can help improve fuel efficiency.

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Keep tires properly inflated: Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips. If you’re unsure what your vehicle’s tires should be inflated to, locate the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb for the proper PSI inflation or refer to the owner’s manual.

Remove excess weight: Extra cargo and unused roof racks reduce efficiency and increase drag.

Efficiency, Safety and Sustainability

The Environmental Protection Agency reports that transportation accounts for roughly 28% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. While vehicle technology continues to improve, individual driving behavior remains one of the most immediate ways drivers can reduce both fuel consumption and environmental impact.

“Small, consistent changes in how we drive can produce meaningful savings over time,” Dicken said. “It’s one of the simplest ways drivers can protect both their budget and their investment.”

For more information about efficient driving and other cost saving measures, visit MercuryInsurance.com/Resources.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

Mercury Insurance

Explore the latest in innovation, AI, gadgets, startups, and digital trends in STM Daily News’ Techsection.

Testing the Slate Truck

The affordable electric pickup from Slate Auto is continuing to gain attention as the startup moves closer to production. One of the most visible recent developments came when legendary car collector and TV host Jay Leno featured the truck on his popular YouTube series Jay Leno’s Garage.

The episode offered one of the most detailed looks yet at the upcoming Slate Truck, including a real-world test drive, design insights, and a closer look at the company’s philosophy behind building what could become one of America’s most affordable electric vehicles.

Watch the Jay Leno Test Drive

What Jay Leno Revealed About the Slate Truck

During the episode, Leno drove a pre-production prototype of the truck while engineers from Slate Auto explained the design approach.

Unlike many modern EVs packed with luxury features, the Slate Truck is intentionally simple.

Key highlights from the test drive include:

A Focus on Simplicity and Repairability

One of the most notable ideas behind the truck is that it is designed to be easy to repair and modify. Instead of relying on proprietary parts or complex electronics, the vehicle uses a more straightforward architecture that could allow owners or independent mechanics to work on it.

This approach contrasts with many EVs that require dealership service or specialized tools.

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Modular Body Panels and Customization

The Slate Truck is built around a modular platform with removable exterior panels and optional accessory kits.

According to the company, owners will be able to customize the vehicle with:

Different body panel styles Accessory racks and cargo options A potential conversion kit that can transform the pickup into a small SUV

The idea is to allow the vehicle to evolve with the owner’s needs over time.

Minimalist Interior

Inside the prototype shown to Leno, the truck features a very basic interior layout.

Instead of a large infotainment system, the vehicle relies heavily on smartphone integration and simpler controls to keep costs down. This minimalist philosophy is part of the company’s effort to build a lower-cost EV.

Pricing and the “Affordable EV” Promise

When the truck was first revealed in 2025, Slate Auto suggested the vehicle could cost under $20,000 after incentives.

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However, with changes to federal EV incentives and updated pricing expectations, analysts now estimate the truck will likely start around the mid-$20,000 range.

Even at that price, the vehicle could still become one of the most affordable electric trucks available in the United States.

Production Plans in Indiana

The company plans to manufacture the truck in Warsaw, Indiana, where a large former industrial facility is being converted into an EV factory.

Production targets include:

Production start: Late 2026 Early deliveries: Possibly 2027 Potential capacity: Up to about 150,000 vehicles per year once fully ramped

Strong early interest has also been reported, with more than 100,000 reservations placed for the truck shortly after its reveal.

A Different Kind of Electric Truck

The Slate Truck is entering a market where most electric pickups—such as the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T—sit at much higher price points.

Rather than competing on luxury or performance, the Slate Truck is aiming to fill a different niche: a practical, customizable, and relatively affordable electric work vehicle.

If the company can deliver on its promises, it could open the door to a new category of budget-friendly EVs.

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For now, the test drive on Jay Leno’s Garage provides one of the clearest glimpses yet at how the truck might perform in the real world.

Related Coverage on STM Daily News

• Automotive News and Innovation – STM Daily News
• Boom Supersonic and the Overture: The Return of Commercial Supersonic Travel
• The Evolution of Public Transportation in Los Angeles
• Technology News and Emerging Innovations

Further Reading and Information

• Slate Auto Official Website
• Watch the Slate Truck Test Drive on Jay Leno’s Garage
• Car and Driver: First Look at the Slate Truck
• TechCrunch: Slate Auto Leadership Changes Ahead of Launch
• InsideEVs: Latest Electric Vehicle News

Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!

https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner