Automotive
Toyota Invests in EV Charging Network IONNA to Enhance Charging Access for Customers
- Toyota joins seven other automakers as an investor and founding partner of IONNA
- IONNA to install at least 30,000 charge ports in North America by 2030
- Toyota, Lexus customers will have access to growing DC fast charger network, supporting both NACS and CCS charge ports
PLANO, Texas and RALEIGH DURHAM, N.C. /PRNewswire/ — IONNA and Toyota Motor North America (Toyota) today announced that Toyota has joined seven other automakers as an investor in IONNA to support the buildout of its high-powered charging network for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) across North America. This allows Toyota and Lexus customers access to the public network of DC fast chargers IONNA will begin deploying later this year. IONNA plans to install at least 30,000 charging ports in North America by 2030, and stations will include both NACS and CCS connectors to support all BEV drivers.
IONNA Support
“We are excited to announce our support of IONNA to deploy DC fast chargers throughout the U.S. and Canada,” said Ted Ogawa, president and CEO of Toyota Motor North America. “We believe this will not only promote the adoption of BEVs and increase customer confidence in the technology, but it will provide our Toyota and Lexus customers with access to IONNA’s rapidly growing charging network in North America.”
IONNA’s focus on the holistic customer experience aligns closely with Toyota in ensuring that charging stations provide visitors with amenities and convenience in addition to vehicle charging. IONNA plans to bring its first batch of DC fast charging stations online in 2024 and will continue the buildout of additional stations throughout the decade.
“We are delighted to welcome Toyota to our growing IONNA family,” said Seth Cutler, CEO of IONNA. “Their vision for the future of electric mobility in North America aligns perfectly with our mission to push the boundaries for the highest standards of quality, reliability, and customer experience. This partnership marks another significant achievement of many to come in our joint journey to transform EV charging and spearhead the adoption of sustainable transportation in North America.”
Supporting IONNA is an important step for Toyota, as the planned nationwide network is highlighted by a partnership and collaboration effort among now eight OEMs to invest in the buildout of public charging. Toyota is the latest manufacturer to join in its support of the EV charging company, with BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis also pledging support.
Toyota currently offers two mass-market BEVs in the U.S. and Canada – the Toyota bZ4X and the Lexus RZ. It recently announced plans for two all-new three-row BEV SUVs that will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI). By 2030, Toyota aspires to offer 30 BEV models globally across its Toyota and Lexus brand nameplates and produce up to 3.5 million BEVs annually.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM), creator of the Prius hybrid and the Mirai fuel cell vehicle, is committed to building vehicles for the way people live through our Toyota and Lexus brands, and directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America (more than 49,000 in the U.S.).
Over the past 65 years, Toyota has assembled nearly 47 million cars and trucks in North America at the company’s 12 manufacturing plants. By 2025, the company’s 13th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.
Through our more than 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.), Toyota sold more than 2.6 million cars and trucks (more than 2.2 million in the U.S.) in 2023, of which more than one quarter were electrified vehicles (full battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell).
For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
About IONNA
IONNA is a rising joint venture founded by now eight of the world’s biggest automakers, BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Toyota. Purpose-built to lead, innovate, create, and drive forward a redefinition of charging as an end-to-end integrated customer experience. Delivering this mission by developing and deploying a trailblazing nationwide network of stations with cutting-edge technology, retail integration, amenities, and unparalleled customer service. Enabling urban and long-distance EV mobility for all with over 30,000 ultra-fast-and-reliable charging points by 2030. IONNA will provide the coverage drivers need, the reliability they deserve, and the amenities they crave.
For more information, please visit www.ionna.com
SOURCE Toyota Motor North America
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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End of an Era for a famous SoCal Car Dealership
The legendary Cal Worthington car dealership chain has closed its final location in Long Beach, ending a 70-year run. Discover the story behind the iconic “dog Spot” commercials and the West Coast automotive pioneer who changed car advertising forever.
Last Updated on November 23, 2025 by Daily News Staff
From early childhood to adulthood, I vividly remember the catchy jingle that echoed through our house whenever Cal Worthington’s Dealerships commercials aired during news breaks, sporting events, and our favorite television shows.
Sadly, that era has come to an end. The legendary dealership, which once peaked at twenty-seven locations across the Western states, has closed its last remaining location in Long Beach, California.
The dealership had a remarkable seventy-year run. However, after Cal Worthington’s passing nearly a decade ago, it struggled to find its financial footing. According to Nick Worthington, Cal’s grandson, the iconic business faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to this closure.
Calvin Coolidge Worthington (November 27, 1920 – September 8, 2013) was a well-known American car dealer, celebrated especially on the West Coast of the United States. He gained fame through his eccentric radio and television advertisements for his Worthington Dealership Group, a car dealership chain that extended across the western and southwestern U.S. at its peak.
Cal Worthington’s advertisements were unique and memorable, often starting with the announcement, “Here’s Cal Worthington and his dog Spot!”—though “Spot” was never actually a dog. Instead, “Spot” could be anything from a tiger, a seal, an elephant, a chimpanzee, to a bear. In one particularly notable ad, “Spot” was a hippopotamus, which Worthington rode during the commercial. Occasionally, “Spot” even took the form of a vehicle, such as an airplane on whose wings Worthington would be seen standing while airborne. “Spot” was officially retired in the mid-1980s, but was occasionally mentioned in later commercials, maintaining the legacy of the unconventional mascot.
According to a 1990 profile published in the Sacramento Bee, Worthington grossed $316.8 million in 1988, making him the largest single owner of a car dealership chain at that time. His dedicated advertising agency, aptly named Spot Advertising, had only Worthington as its client and spent a staggering $15 million on commercials, more than any other auto dealer at the time.
Cal Worthington sold automobiles from 1945 until his passing in 2013 and owned an impressive 24,000-acre (9,700 ha; 38 sq mi) ranch located in Orland, California, north of Sacramento. His legendary marketing tactics and the persona of “Spot” have left an indelible mark on the car dealership industry and television advertising.
With the closure of the last Worthington dealership, an iconic chapter in automotive retail history and television advertising has come to an end, leaving behind fond memories and an enduring legacy.
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Automotive
2026 Nissan Sentra: Redefining Compact Sedan Value at $22,400
The all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra starts at $22,400 with dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPILOT Assist, and class-exclusive tech. Discover why it’s redefining value.
Last Updated on November 11, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Sentra re-energizes the compact sedan segment with a bold new design and even greater levels of drive-enhancing technology
2026 Nissan Sentra: Redefining Compact Sedan Value at $22,400
Nissan just threw down the gauntlet in the compact sedan segment. The all-new 2026 Sentra isn’t just a refresh—it’s a complete reimagining of what drivers should expect from an affordable sedan. Starting at just $22,400, this latest generation proves you don’t need to compromise on style, technology, or comfort to stay within budget.A Bold New Look That Punches Above Its Weight
The 2026 Sentra arrives with an upscale design that looks more premium than its price tag suggests. Nissan clearly studied what buyers loved about higher-end sedans and brought those design cues down to the compact class. The result? A car that turns heads without emptying wallets. For those craving extra attitude, the SR trim adds gloss black sporty accents across the front and rear fascia, V-motion grille, side sills, and rear spoiler—all riding on standard 18-inch alloy wheels. It’s the kind of aggressive styling that makes your morning commute feel a little more exciting.Technology That Simplifies Your Drive
Here’s where the Sentra really shines. Nissan packed this compact sedan with tech features typically reserved for luxury vehicles: Class-Leading Displays: Available dual 12.3-inch screens give you a command center that rivals what you’d find in vehicles costing twice as much. Smart Safety Features: The class-exclusive Intelligent Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection takes the guesswork out of tight parking situations. And the class-exclusive Intelligent Forward Collision Warning? That’s the kind of proactive safety tech that could save lives. Seamless Connectivity: Standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ mean no more fumbling with cables. Three standard USB-C ports ensure everyone’s devices stay charged, and available wireless charging adds another layer of convenience. Garage Door Integration: The Sentra-first myQ Universal Garage Door Opener lets you control compatible garage doors right from the infotainment screen. It’s one of those features you don’t know you need until you have it.Comfort That Goes the Distance
Long drives? No problem. Nissan equipped the Sentra with front and rear Zero Gravity seats—the same ergonomic design philosophy used in their larger vehicles. Your passengers will thank you on road trips. Speaking of road trips, the spacious trunk features a low lift-over height and optimized opening designed specifically for loading bulky suitcases and gear. It’s the kind of practical design thinking that makes real-world ownership easier. The segment-first capacitive-touch HVAC controls add a modern, premium feel to the cabin, while the class-exclusive 64-color customizable ambient lighting lets you set the mood for every drive.Performance That Adapts to Your Mood
The drive mode selector (available on SV, SR, and SL grades) includes a Sport mode for when you want a more engaging driving experience. Whether you’re navigating rush hour or carving through weekend backroads, the Sentra adapts to match your energy. And with EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 30 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined (S and SV models), you’ll spend less time at the pump and more time enjoying the drive.The Premium SL Experience
New for 2026, the SL grade returns to deliver a truly upscale experience. Standard features include:- Power sunroof
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 64-color ambient lighting
- TailorFit™ quilted seating
- ProPILOT Assist for effortless highway cruising
- Bose® premium audio system
Exceptional Value Across the Lineup
Sentra S – $22,400: The entry point delivers impressive standard features that make it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. Sentra SV – $23,170: Adds key convenience and technology upgrades for less than $800 more. Sentra SR – $25,000: Brings the sporty styling and enhanced driving dynamics for enthusiasts. Sentra SL – $27,990: The premium choice with luxury-level features at a fraction of luxury prices. (Destination and handling adds $1,245 to all models)The Bottom Line
The 2026 Nissan Sentra isn’t trying to be everything to everyone—it’s focused on being the best value in the compact sedan segment. With segment-leading technology, class-exclusive features, and pricing that starts under $23,000, Nissan has created a compelling case for why the sedan isn’t dead—it’s just been waiting for the right execution. In a market increasingly dominated by SUVs and crossovers, the Sentra reminds us why sedans still matter: better fuel economy, easier parking, more engaging driving dynamics, and in this case, technology that punches well above its weight class. The all-new 2026 Sentra proves that incredible value doesn’t mean settling for less. Sometimes, it means getting more than you expected. Press release: All-new 2026 Nissan Sentra offers incredible value with pricing from $22,400Welcome 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/
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Slate Automotive captured national attention earlier this year when it unveiled what many called the most anticipated “budget” electric pickup truck in America. Promising a minimalist design, domestic manufacturing, and a base price under $20,000 (after incentives), the Slate Truck was positioned as the EV industry’s boldest answer to the affordability problem.
But since its April 2025 debut, several developments have reshaped that story — including pricing adjustments, production plans, and questions about whether “affordable” will still apply once federal incentives fade.
⚙️ From Concept to Production
In April, Slate Auto revealed its small two-door electric pickup — a compact, customizable EV designed for simplicity over luxury. The company’s philosophy is centered around what it calls the “Blank Slate” concept: a base model stripped of unnecessary features but built for expansion.
- Base range: ~150 miles, with an optional battery upgrade to ~240 miles
- Length: ~175 inches (roughly the size of a compact SUV)
- Body style: 2-door truck, with a conversion kit planned for a 5-seat SUV variant
- Manufacturing site: Warsaw, Indiana — a repurposed 1.4-million-square-foot former printing plant
- Production start: Targeting late 2026
- Estimated deliveries: Early 2027
For more on early EV innovation and transport development, check out our recent stories on Boom Supersonic’s Overture and The Evolution of Public Transportation in Los Angeles.
💲 Price Bump and Policy Changes
When Slate’s founders — backed by investors including Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter (Guggenheim Partners) — launched the concept, they confidently pitched a price “under $20,000 after incentives.”
However, recent developments have changed that equation. The loss of a key federal EV tax credit under recent legislation means the base price now sits closer to $27,000 before incentives. Even with state-level rebates, the total cost will likely land in the mid-$20K range for most buyers.
That’s still lower than most EVs on the market, but Slate’s base model is extremely minimal: manual windows, no touchscreen infotainment, and unpainted exterior panels in the entry trim. The company argues that the simplicity keeps prices low and durability high — echoing the utilitarian design of early pickups.
“We don’t believe an affordable EV should start at $60,000,” a Slate spokesperson said during the reveal. “Our truck is for people who want a reliable tool, not a gadget.”
🧩 Reservations and Early Demand
According to TechCrunch, Slate logged over 100,000 $50 refundable reservations within two weeks of launch — an impressive early show of interest.
That figure, however, does not guarantee actual orders. As seen with other EV startups, reservation enthusiasm doesn’t always translate into deliveries. Still, with $700 million in investor funding and a clear U.S. manufacturing plan, Slate’s prospects appear stronger than many early EV challengers.
🏭 Building in America
The company’s decision to set up shop in Indiana is strategic. It provides central U.S. access to suppliers and a lower-cost workforce compared to coastal hubs. The plant conversion is underway, and Slate aims to ramp up to 150,000 units annually by 2027, according to industry reporting.
If successful, the Slate Truck could become the first mass-produced electric pickup under $30K built entirely in the U.S.
🚦 What It Means for Affordable EVs
Slate’s progress comes at a pivotal moment for electric mobility. As other manufacturers focus on high-margin luxury vehicles, the affordable-EV space has thinned out. Slate’s entry signals a renewed interest in accessible electrification — but also highlights the fragile balance between price, policy, and practicality.
If production holds, the Slate Truck could mark the beginning of a new chapter for everyday EV ownership — proof that electric doesn’t have to mean expensive.
📎 Further Reading and Related Links
From STM Daily News:
- Boom Supersonic and the Future of Flight
- The Evolution of Los Angeles Public Transportation
- The Long Track Back Podcast: America’s Transportation Comeback
Outside Sources for Further Information:
- TechCrunch: Bezos-backed Slate Auto Debuts “Analog” EV Pickup
- Car and Driver: 2027 Slate Truck Revealed
- Hagerty: Slate to Build Affordable EV Truck in Indiana
- Business Insider: Slate Auto Drops “Under $20K” Tag After Policy Change
- Newsweek: Slate Auto Confirms Funding and Bezos Involvement
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