Mark Phelan
USA TODAY
Detroit, MI, United States
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Past articles by Mark:
2024 Jeep Wrangler can climb over rocks or rock a baby to sleep
Wrangler added laminated glass, insulating foam and other goodies to reduce noise inside the cabin by a whopping 5 decibels. → Read More
Smart electronics on Ford Super Duty pickups include safety tips from ‘driving coach’
The Ford Super Duty pickups are used for everything from personal transportation to utility company bucket trucks and ambulances. → Read More
2023 Mercedes GLC 300 is the best gasoline-powered compact luxury SUV
The GLC is the best-selling Mercedes in the United States. should continue that, and turn up the heat for competitors from Audi, BMW, Lexus and Caddy. → Read More
Troy dealer is among first to install money-saving battery for EV charging
The 140 kWh battery allows fast charging with little or no upgrade to the dealership’s electric service or connection to the electric grid. → Read More
Volvo's 2024 EX90 electric SUV has 16 sensors, 8 cameras, impressive range
Volvo’s 2024 EX90 three-row electric SUV will bristle with new features when it rolls off the assembly line in South Carolina late this year. → Read More
New Mercedes E-class sedan will have artificial intelligence, Zoom calls, disco lights
The 2024 Mercedes E-class's dash will have up to three screens and will be able to display apps including Zoom and TikTok. → Read More
Driving a hybrid could save you money vs. an EV — depending on where you live
Depending on where you live, you might spend less on fuel driving a hybrid than an electric vehicle. → Read More
Coming soon to US vehicles: Cameras to replace side mirrors, headlights that 'talk'
I got a look at the features that are already available in other parts of the world recently at Forvia's North American tech center in Auburn Hills. → Read More
Hybrids, EVs dominate Consumer Reports top vehicle picks; US shut out of top 10 brands
The list had very little good news for U.S.-based automakers. Only the Tesla 3 EV and Ford Maverick hybrid pickup made the cut. → Read More
Jeep’s first EV wins Europe’s top new-vehicle award
Being named 2023 European Car of the Year was a surprise victory for the Avenger subcompact SUV, the first all-electric vehicle from Jeep. → Read More
Biggest EV fast-charge company raising prices, but you can get a discount
Electrify America will increase prices to fast-charge electric vehicles March 6, depending on local electric regulations. → Read More
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander SUV boasts more space, features to compete with Hyundai, Kia
The larger version of the popular Toyota Highlander SUV debuts at the Chicago Auto Show this week and goes on sale later this year. → Read More
Honda hopes adding a new hybrid version will return the 2023 Accord to sales glory
The hybrid drivetrain makes one of America’s favorite cars significantly better for 2023 as does the addition of real-time Google searches, music. → Read More
Can you make a long highway drive in an EV? I did 1,100 miles and enjoyed it
Will the American tradition of road trips survive the transition to electric vehicles? My experience says yes, but some things will have to change. → Read More
Ford F-150 Lightning laps the field as EVs dominate vehicle of the year winners
The electric Ford F-150 Lightning and Kia EV6 were named truck and utility vehicle of the year of the year, respectively. → Read More
EVs dominate, but gasoline engines still play a role in Free Press vehicles of the year
Electric vehicles dominated new vehicle introductions this year, but internal combustion engines powered some exceptional vehicles, too. → Read More
Kia’s 576-hp EV6 GT could teach Ford and Porsche a thing or two
Kia’s EV6 GT is a gauntlet to the face of other brands from Chevrolet to Toyota and Volkswagen. → Read More
Innovation drives family-owned auto company's 100-year run
“We’ve always had an inclination to innovate. Otherwise, you fossilize and die,” said Haartz, the third generation to run the Acton, Mass., company. → Read More
2023 Toyota Prius hybrid feels familiar despite added power, new looks
The 2023 Prius adds power, but Toyota says the fifth generation of its signature electrified small car will remain the most fuel efficient hybrid. → Read More
Electric Amazon vans spotted around metro Detroit are carrying trade secrets, not goods
Built by Rivian, the electric Amazon vans are going through simulated work shifts, including recharging and hundreds of delivery stops. → Read More