Welcome to The Drive with Alan Taylor. His first contributor is BJ Killeen- Automotive Journalist and Voice of Reason discusses the impact of tariffs on Chinese imports, with a focus on electric vehicles and semiconductors. President Biden’s decision to impose $18 billion worth of tariffs on imports from China, including electric vehicles, semiconductors, and medical products, has drawn attention. The tariffs are affecting major companies like Volvo, owned by the Chinese car manufacturer Geely, and specifically impacting Polestar, a brand under Volvo, which has exported 2200 cars. The broader impact on industries like solar panels and medical equipment, mostly made in China, is also significant, highlighting the substantial impact of Chinese imports on various industries, particularly the automotive sector. In addition, mention was made of insurance companies no longer insuring certain Hyundai and Kia models due to a security issue. A TikTok video demonstrated how easy it was to break into and steal these cars because of a missing security feature. As a result, some insurance providers have stopped offering coverage for these models, although Hyundai and Kia have addressed the problem with a software-based fix. However, it was noted that some insurance companies, such as AAA and State Farm, are still not insuring the affected vehicles. BJ Killeen also had the opportunity to drive the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla, a hot hatchback designed for both track and everyday use, which comes in three trim levels: Core, Premium, and Circuit. This top-of-the-line Circuit Edition competes with the Volkswagen Golf R and the Honda Civic Type R, featuring a unique design and limited production. Lauren Fix, Editor in-Chief for Car Coach Reports, shared information on toxic chemicals in new cars, particularly the presence of flame retardants in car seat foam, with 99% of cars containing this toxic material. She emphasized the need to open car windows and park in the shade to reduce exposure to these chemicals. Lauren also mentioned the best and worst sports cars on her YouTube channel and other platforms, and discussed driving the Chevrolet Silverado EV RST and the Chevrolet Equinox V, both featuring exciting progress in the EV industry. Josh Hancock, a Hollywood car consultant, expressed concerns about product placement in the movie “The Fall Guy,” particularly regarding the portrayal of a GMC truck and a Hummer EV. Additionally, he mentioned the slower than expected return of TV and film production in Hollywood, despite new sound stages being built in preparation for a comeback. Before leaving, he added that some early adopters are having second thoughts about the Cybertruck due to poor visibility caused by large A-pillars and sub A-pillars obstructing the view while driving. Closing the show with Alan is George Kennedy III -Co-founder of Cartender.com, and the Vice President of the New England Motor Press Association. He contributes to U.S. News & World Report, CarGurus, Forbes Wheels, and here on The Drive. George drove the 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Hybrid. It is the performance version of the GLC, which is the compact SUV in the Mercedes lineup. The GLC is popular for its refined and functional interior. The AMG GLC 43, being the speedier version of the GLC, is equipped with a turbocharged 2-liter engine and a mild hybrid assist, producing 416 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It’s fun to drive and has an athletic suspension, making it great for cornering without being punishing for everyday use. This well-rounded vehicle accelerates quickly, corners well, and is very comfortable on the highway, making it an excellent choice for various driving conditions. The AMG model starts at $65,000, and our model, with optional upgraded wheels and interior enhancements, amounts to about $72,000.