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Here’s what we’ve got for you today:

• Is Full Self Driving a Fantasy?

• Hyundai's Ioniq 6 DUNKS on Tesla

• Toyota Prius has a Glow Up

• Polestar 2 Dethrones Tesla Model 3

IS FULL SELF DRIVING A FANTASY?

Tesla CEO Elon Musk, our favorite billionaire with out-of-this-world dreams, has been tantalizing us with the prospect of self-driving cars for years now. Just recently, he doubled down on his fantastical claims, stating that he would be "shocked if we do not achieve full self-driving safer than a human this year." Ah, Elon, always the optimist.

Many "experts" in the field seem to be drinking the same Kool-Aid as Musk, believing that fully autonomous vehicles are just around the corner. But is the excitement overshadowing the potential risks and challenges of our inevitable self-driving future?

When Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD), the poster child of the autonomous vehicle industry, decided to spice things up by expanding its FSD software beta trials to over 60,000 Tesla owners, with just a safety test and a wad of cash as the only entry requirements, the company's cult-like fan club jumped at the chance to participate.

But as we all know, the internet never sleeps, and videos of some hair-raising FSD moments surfaced. Cars veering into oncoming traffic, attempting to play chicken with trains, and struggling to regain control – you know, just some totally normal stuff.

Though, there are benefits to letting Joe Public test the technology. After all, the more bizarre scenarios and edge cases the system encounters, the more it learns, right? Right? Safety and reliability through chaos. Approved.

So let's be real – the future of FSD looks far from rosy. Many experts have cast doubt on Tesla achieving FSD by the end of the decade, let alone this year. But this is Elon we're talking about. Taking risks and making big bets that pay off is kind of his thing. So, who knows? Hopefully someday soon, FSD will be the norm, and we'll wonder how we ever coped without our robotic chauffeurs.

HYUNDAI IONIQ 6 DUNKS ON TESLA

Oh, another Hyundai, yawn. Wait, this one's actually kind of cool? Introducing the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6, an EV sedan that's here to make Tesla quake in its boots. Yeah, you heard me. Hyundai's done it again.

Hyundai's Ioniq 6 is coming for the Tesla Model 3, and it's bringing a trunkful of specs with it. I mean, just look at the numbers: 320 horsepower, 446 lb-ft of torque, and a range of 361 miles (full spec, estimated). But the design... ah, that's where it gets interesting. Picture an '80s digital future, then slap it on a car. That's the Ioniq 6.

Now, don't go thinking this car is all style and no substance. Sure, it's got a few quirks, but that sleek exterior is more than just eye candy – it's responsible for the impressively low 0.22 drag coefficient, which helps it achieve that oh-so-desirable 361-mile range on the longest-range variant.

On the inside, it's like Hyundai raided the cool drawer and threw everything in. Expect architectural ambient lighting, easter eggs sprinkled throughout, and enough knee room to make you feel like you're in a full-size truck. It's a bit tight on headroom, though, so tall folks might have to get cozy with slouching. And sure, the materials aren't exactly luxurious, but who needs soft-touch door panels when you've got this much tech?

Speaking of tech, the Ioniq 6 comes with twin 12.3-inch displays, standard ADAS, and even machine learning with its Highway Driving Assist II. Apple CarPlay is there too, but you'll have to deal with a wired connection. Lame.

When you hit the road, expect a smooth and isolated ride. It's not the sporty EV you might be expecting, but it's plenty comfortable and quiet. The Ioniq 6 is more of a big ol' road couch than a speed demon, and that's just fine. Don't get too excited about the HDA II ADAS, though – it's good, but not quite hands-off good.

As for competition, the Ioniq 6 has its sights set on the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2. While it beats them in range, it falls short in the horsepower and acceleration departments. Plus, it doesn't quite qualify for the federal tax credit, which could be the biggest issue with it.

So, what's the verdict? The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is Good with a capital G, but it's not without its flaws. If you can look past the lack of headroom and lightning-fast acceleration, then the long-range RWD trim might just be the perfect EV for you. Otherwise, keep shopping.

TOYOTA PRIUS HAS A GLOW UP

Buckle up, buttercup, because we're diving into the world of "cool" hybrids. If you've been desperately waiting for a Prius to finally have its glow-up, then rejoice! This plug-in hybrid has got you covered.

Remember when the Prius first rolled into town, all shy and innocent, 20 years ago? We all had a good chuckle as it tried to take on the mighty gas-guzzling beasts of the road. But look who's laughing now! This trendy new Prius has sashayed its way onto the hybrid catwalk and is ready to strut its stuff.

Ah, the 2023 Prius Prime XSE Premium in all its glory! That stylish Instagram-worthy face, those slim and oh-so-trendy lights, and the cursive "Prime" badge on the trunklid that just screams, "Look at me! I'm fabulous!"

Toyota didn't just stop at looks, though. They've upped the ante with three trim levels that sound like they belong in a sporty car rather than a humble hybrid. It's got more horsepower, more torque, some sexy C-pillar blind spots, and a 44-mile all-electric range (lol) that'll have you cruising through your daily errands like the eco-friendly boss you are.

At the end of the day, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is more than just a pretty face. It's got the power, the efficiency, and the snazzy design that'll have you smirking at those who once doubted the Prius. But did Toyota do enough to keep the Prius relevant in today's EV world? That's all that really matters.

POLESTAR 2 DETHRONES TESLA MODEL 3

In a shocking turn of events that'll make Tesla fanboys and fangirls weep into their steering wheels, the Polestar 2 became Germany's most adored electric company car in 2022, dethroning the likes of Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and the Volkswagen ID.4. All hail the new sovereign of the electric car kingdom!

What's more, the Geely-owned brand didn't stop there, oh no! It decided to saunter its way into the top ten overall standings, strutting past old-timers like Volkswagen Golf, Passat, Ford Focus, and Skoda Octavia. So much for old-school favorites, right?

LeasePlan, the generous souls who spilled the beans last month, informed us that the Polestar 2's Long Range Dual Motor variant snagged first place, with the Single Motor version hot on its heels. Germany's most sought-after electric company cars in 2022 just got a Scandinavian makeover, and we're here for it.

The whole shebang looks like this:

1. Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor (10.6%)

2. Polestar 2 Single Motor (9.7%)

3. Dacia Spring (8.6%)

4. Skoda Enyaq iV (6.9%)

5. Renault Twingo Electric (6.3%)

6. Tesla Model 3 Long Range (5.5%)

7. Ford Mustang Mach-E (4.3%)

8. Volkswagen ID.4 Pro Performance (3.3%)

9. Tesla Model Y Long Range (3.2%)

10. Mini Cooper SE (2.3%)

In the overall standings, the Polestar 2's Long Range Dual Motor takes the 10th spot, making up 1.33% of the company cars leased in Germany last year. What a showoff, huh?

PLUGGED IN WEEKLY MEME

That's a wrap for today. Charge your batteries & see ya tomorrow! If you want more, be sure to follow our Twitter (@PluggedInEmail)

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DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.