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Netflix to feature electric cars from GM and others in programming

LOS ANGELES — Netflix has unveiled a new star for some of its upcoming programming: electric vehicles from General Motors and other automakers. The streaming service announced an agreement on Thursday to feature vehicles including the Chevrolet Bolt, the electric GMC Hummer pickup and the Cadillac Lyriq in TV series and films "where relevant." The companies will highlight the partnership in a commercial featuring Will Ferrell that will air during the Feb. 12 Super Bowl. Netflix and GM called the agreement "part of a commitment to a more sustainable future." Financial terms were not disclosed. Netflix said it will help creators "better understand how EVs can complement and enhance their stories." Shows that will feature GM's electric vehicles include "Love is Blind," "Queer Eye" and "Unstable." Netflix productions also will include electric vehicles made by other automakers, the company said.   Marketing/Advertising TV/Movies Chevrolet GM GMC Hummer

2022 GMC Yukon gets larger screen, standard power sliding console

The 2022 GMC Yukon is falling into line with its big SUV siblings, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, according to a rundown of new features on Muscle Cars & Trucks. We've already covered the availability of the 6.2-liter V8 on the AT4 trim, and it looks like GMC buyers will have an easier time of it than Chevy buyers who want the 6.2, the engine looking like a standalone option on the GMC.  Inside, the Yukon welcomes the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, replacing the previous eight-inch cluster that had an analogue tach and speedo. A little to the right, the infotainment system will come with Google Automotive built in, obviating the need to pull up Android Auto to get access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. And just below that, the Yukon Denali makes the power sliding console a standard feature instead of a $350 option.  The big V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque comes with a shiny pair of exhaust finishers, plus 2022 sees the addition of Redwood Metallic paint, some new wheel options, and rocker panels that can be gussied up with illuminated sill plates. The current Yukon offers Max and ProGrade trailering packages, for next year an Enhanced Trailering Technology Package adds a 13-camera trailering bundle with the option for an interior accessory camera for those with enclosed haulers. On the safety side, expect reverse automatic braking to join the list of available driver assistance features. Related Video This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings.

GM, Pilot will build EVgo fast chargers at 500 truck stops across U.S.

All of our maps showing electric vehicle charging stations across the U.S. are going to need an update. Today, General Motors, Pilot and EVgo announced plans to work together on a nationwide DC fast charging network. The plan calls for 2,000 charging stalls that can deliver up to 350 kW to be installed at up to 500 Pilot and Flying J travel centers in the U.S. The goal is to have DC fast chargers available in 50-mile intervals across the country. The new charging stations will feature GM's "Ultium Charge 360" branding and "Pilot Flying J" logos but will not be limited to drivers of GM EVs. The plugs will use CCS connectors and be available to anyone. GM EV owners can take advantage of benefits, including the ability to make exclusive reservations, get discounts on charging costs and streamline the charging process with Plug and Charge and in-vehicle apps that can provide real-time charger availability. The first installation phase will take place in 2023, and "the bulk of the installations" should be completed by 2025, EVgo CEO Kathy Zoi said during a conference call with reporters announcing the plan. "We're gonna get going immediately and commence all of that engineering and planning stuff," she said. "We've got a pretty orderly plan." Pilot CEO Shameek Konar said the company expects the new EV charging stations to coexist with the current fuel infrastructure. "An average Pilot Flying J location is about 10 acres," Konar said. "This will be in addition to all of our gas pumps. The way I think about it is, this is a new source of energy that is going to coexist with gas for quite some time. We can debate how long, but we need to serve both groups of customers." Installing DC fast chargers at hundreds of Pilot's travel centers — aka truck stops — means there should be food, drinks, restrooms, WiFi and even showers available while you wait for an EV to charge. Pilot recently announced its “New Horizons” plan that will invest $1 billion in upgrading Pilot travel centers with more premium amenities, including expanded seating and lounge areas. While the exact amount of time it will take to charge an EV using these new stations will vary on the EV and its current state of charge, most EVs can refill from a low state of charge to around 80 percent in 20-30 minutes on a fast charger. The new stations are future-proofed to deliver up to 350 kW, a charge rate that few EVs today can handle.