The Toyota Hi-Lux, which used to be their compact truck, is the second best selling truck in the world. Older versions are somewhat legendary for their indestructibility - https://topgear.fandom.com/wiki/The_Indestructible_Hilux
The 2022 Toyota Hilux does not bear much resemblance to the 1980s version. It is much larger, heavier, and has a touchscreen navigation system.
Re:Who owns Tesla’s data?
by nemothekid on Monday August 08, 2022 @01:30PM
(#32388463)
The 2022 HiLux is not the 1980s Hilux. The 2020 Hilux has GPS, CarPlay and Toyota Connected Services.
Of course they are different. The compact version lasted until ‘97 and is still one of the best selling trucks of all time. The Ford Maverick fits into the compact, inexpensive pickup slot and is doing very well. I’m not saying it would have to be Hilux branded but fill the gap for a compact, economical, bombproof pickup.
Your original comment was that it wouldn’t sell well. Ford Maverick sales indicate that would not be the case.
Re:Who owns Tesla’s data?
by nemothekid on Monday August 08, 2022 @07:50PM
(#32392517)
The original comment put forth:
>no onboard computers other than simple microcontrollers for the various systems (charging, etc.), no streaming wifi / GPS data collection, and no need for software updates
You are talking about a vehicle with no onboard SATNAV, no Carplay/Android Auto, no telematic roadside assistance. The Ford Maverick has all these things. My claim isn't that small trucks don't sell, my claim is that a car that doesn't even support Bluetooth audio wouldn't sell.
It would only be cheaper to manufacture at scale; and that assumes that market wants a "1980s small Toyota truck with a Tesla motor". I imagine a car like that wouldn't sell very well; so it would either be incredibly expensive to either build in small batches or to make up for the unsold inventory