By Blair Qualey

An electric Ram pickup truck with up to 500 miles of range per charge and a battery-powered people-hauling Kia SUV were among the new vehicles being introduced at the New York International Auto Show.

Through the past four generations spanning more than two decades, the Lexus RX has been a perennial leader among midsize luxury utility vehicles. The recently introduced fifth-generation 2023 model is poised to continue in this position by expanding the variety of trim levels and powertrain choices.

Many B.C. residents want to take the plunge and purchase their first zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), but there are a number of considerations, including costs and whether they have access to fast-charging infrastructure where they live, work and along routes they travel.

Small hatchbacks make affordable fuel-sipping commuters that can tote a good amount of gear. They also serve as platforms for raucous, racing-inspired runabouts with a surfeit of horsepower and attitude. The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is the latest member of that club.

The Cadillac XT4 sets a course for modest changes

The familiar Chevrolet Blazer name, which was revived for 2020, will soon become more visible with the 2024 electric model, which Chevrolet expected to make available, well, about now, actually.

Big and brawny utility vehicles arenB´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·™t to everyoneB´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·™s liking, or to their requirements. If a small-and-tall wagon-type model would suit you just fine, then there are vehicles such as the Hyundai Venue.

British ColumbiaB´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·™s new vehicle industry, like many other sectors, is in the midst of a labour crunch. Across the province, dealers and other auto-related businesses are struggling to hire employees in a number of areas B´ÎÔª¹ÙÍøÍøÖ·“ all critical to the success of the sector and provide services that consumers need and expect.

The recent departure of the compact Encore utility vehicle leaves the similarly sized Encore GX, which for the 2024 model year receives a fresh face. The grille has been reshaped, and a new hood and boomerang-look headlights and taillights have been installed.