Michigan's capitulation in the settlement of a federal lawsuit, allowing Tesla to sell and service vehicles directly to consumers in the state, clears the way for other new brands to bypass the franchise retail model.

The Korean brand's decision to offer U.S. customers free maintenance — while sales are growing and quality is top-tier — puts pressure on rivals.

If GM designers create a vehicle as stylish as the grille, and if engineers can ensure a reasonable driving range — or an ultrafast charging time — Hummer’s second act will be a lot more successful than its first, even with premium pricing.

A recession is coming — we just don’t know when.