Tesla’s FSD Streaks Feature Turns Self-Driving into a Gamified Experience

Welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short. Quick, tight, and dense, TDS curates the latest automotive headlines from around the globe in one place. Each story is summarized in a single sentence with a link for readers seeking more details.

Adam is traveling on assignment this week, so I’m back in the driver’s seat to bring you the latest updates.

This Week’s Top Automotive Stories

Tesla’s New FSD App Feature Gamifies Self-Driving Usage

Tesla has rolled out a new Full Self Driving (FSD) app update that not only simplifies subscription management but also introduces a gamified tracking system. The feature displays “streaks” to show how frequently customers use FSD during trips or daily drives, aligning with Tesla’s signature approach to user engagement.

Infiniti Begins Production of 2027 QX65 in Tennessee

Production of the 2027 Infiniti QX65 has officially started at the automaker’s plant in Tennessee, marking a key milestone for the brand’s SUV lineup.

Waymo and Self-Driving Taxis Report Potholes to Cities

Self-driving vehicles, including Waymo taxis, are now contributing to urban infrastructure maintenance by alerting cities to potholes during their regular operations.

Acura Dealership Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Retro 1980s Setup

A Honda Acura dealership recreated a nostalgic 1980s showroom for its 40th anniversary, complete with retro design elements that delighted visitors.

Kia and Genesis Recall 235,792 Vehicles Over Fuel Leak Risk

A potential fuel leak between the fuel pipe and fuel rail connection has prompted a recall of 141,032 Kia Carnival minivans and 94,760 Genesis models.

Mercedes-Benz Partners with Samsung SDI for Next-Gen EV Batteries

Samsung SDI has secured its first electric vehicle battery supply deal with Mercedes-Benz, supplying batteries for the German automaker’s upcoming EV lineup.

Keanu Reeves’ 2005 Scion tC Surfaces on Bring a Trailer

A 2005 Scion tC once raced by actor Keanu Reeves has been listed on Bring a Trailer, drawing attention from automotive enthusiasts.

Automakers Reconsider Sedans as Crossover SUVs Dominate

Following the crossover SUV boom, automakers across the industry are now reassessing their sedan strategies amid shifting consumer preferences.

Weekend Race Results

• AdventHealth 400 at Kansas Speedway – Tyler Reddick (23XI Racing) took the win.
• NASCAR Xfinity Series Kansas Lottery 300 – Taylor Gray (Joe Gibbs Racing) emerged victorious.
• ARCA Menards Series Tide 150 – Gio Ruggiero (Joe Gibbs Racing) claimed the top spot.
• IndyCar Series Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach – Alex Palou (Chip Ganassi Racing) secured the win.

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