The unstoppable growth of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) in cities presents serious challenges to urban road safety and congestion . Therefore, reflecting on mobility policies becomes crucial .
Private vehicle use has been increasing since the pandemic . For example, in May 2025, an average of 195 thousand light vehicles entered CABA daily, representing an 11.7% increase compared to May 2019 . However, the vehicle type is the real change . ACARA statistics show that Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) accounted for 53% of sales in the first quarter of 2025 . This marks a significant leap from 2023, when SUVs represented 33% of new registrations . Automakers drive this growth due to their better profit margins . Additionally, users choose SUVs for their greater comfort and safety .
Urban Challenges: Space, Safety, and Aggressiveness
Despite their advantages for occupants, the increase of SUVs in cities generates serious challenges . Questions arise about how desirable it is for society as a whole to have cities filled with large, tall vehicles . The two main issues are the greater use of public space and the threat to the road safety of other users .
SUVs occupy between 20% and 30% more public space . Consequently, less road space remains to be shared with other vehicles like bicycles . Regarding safety, engineer Fabián Pons indicated that the height difference complicates bumper engagement . This factor makes SUVs much more aggressive in side and frontal collisions . An SUV can weigh up to 2.5 tons, in contrast to a small car that weighs around 1000 kilos .
The Impact in Safety and Congestion Figures
Accident data confirms this concern. Half of all pedestrian deaths in 2022 accidents in the United States resulted from collisions with SUVs or large trucks . Furthermore, between 2011 and 2020, pedestrian deaths from SUV accidents doubled compared to fatal collisions involving smaller cars nationwide .
Congestion worsens as the percentage of SUVs in the vehicle fleet grows . This happens for a simple reason: their larger size occupies more space, which reduces room for maneuvering and overtaking . A University of Sydney study determined that the presence of SUVs increased congestion on Minneapolis-Saint Paul highways by 9.5% . This is due to their larger size, which limits other vehicles’ maneuvers, and their longer braking time . The dynamics of traffic congestion become more complex due to all these factors .

The Environmental Factor and Policy Responses
The environmental impact is an additional factor that deteriorates with SUV use . In fact, an International Energy Agency report held SUVs responsible as the second-largest factor in the increase of global emissions between 2010 and 2018 . This occurs because the high energy efficiency of new platforms does not offset the additional fuel consumption needed to move larger and heavier vehicles .
There are various possible policies to moderate these problems . Measures include improving the quality and frequency of public transport and creating adequate infrastructure . Implementing differentiated tolls on highways and high-density zones is also considered to discourage the entry of large cars . Cities like London, New York, and Paris already apply measures such as “congestion charges” or variable parking fees where heavier vehicles pay more .
INTELLIGENT MOBILITY
Stellantis Expands Connect One Benefits for 2027 Models
Stellantis is enhancing its Connect One platform for 2027 model-year vehicles by adding remote engine start, lowering Wi-Fi subscription costs, and expanding connected services across multiple brands.
Stellantis is expanding its Connect One connected services platform for the 2027 model year, adding remote engine start and stop through the mobile app while reducing the monthly cost of its Wi-Fi Plus subscription. The updates apply to most Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT, and Alfa Romeo vehicles sold in the United States.
The enhanced package gives owners more convenience, connected features, and long-term value through a standard 10-year service plan.

Stellantis expands Connect One benefits across its 2027 vehicle lineup.
Remote engine start joins the standard package
One of the biggest updates is the addition of remote engine start and stop through the brand’s mobile app, allowing drivers to warm up or cool down their vehicle before getting behind the wheel.
The standard Connect One package now includes:
- Remote engine start and stop
- Remote door lock and unlock
- Over-the-air software updates
- Monthly vehicle health reports
- Recall and maintenance alerts
- Service scheduling
- Automatic SOS emergency calls
- Remote personal data deletion
- Access to in-vehicle games through the App Market
These features are included for 10 years at no additional cost on most eligible 2027 model-year vehicles.

Remote engine start is now included with the standard 10-year Connect One plan.
Lower Wi-Fi pricing and expanded connected services
Stellantis also reduced the monthly cost of its Connect Wi-Fi Plus subscription to $15.99, lowering the price by $2 per month. Customers who activate the service within 30 days of purchasing their vehicle receive a three-month free trial.
The subscription includes:
- Unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity for up to eight devices
- Connected navigation services
- Vehicle finder
- Stolen vehicle assistance
- Theft alerts
- Remote horn and light activation
Certain models receive additional benefits. The 2027 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Wagoneer S, and Alfa Romeo lineup include three years of premium connected services at no extra cost, while selected Jeep and Dodge models continue using the SiriusXM Guardian platform with extended safety and assistance features.
The latest updates reinforce Stellantis Connect One as one of the most comprehensive connected vehicle platforms available, combining convenience, safety, and digital services while reducing ownership costs for customers.

Stellantis also lowered the price of its Wi-Fi Plus subscription while expanding connected services across multiple brands.
INTELLIGENT MOBILITY
Home EV Charging Guide: Everything GM Owners Need to Know
Home EV charging is easier than many drivers think. Here’s everything GM EV owners need to know about charging, installation, costs, and charging standards.
Charging an electric vehicle at home is the most convenient and cost-effective way to keep a battery full. According to industry estimates, more than 80% of EV charging in the United States happens at home, making public charging a secondary option for most drivers. Understanding the different charging levels, connector types, and installation requirements can help owners get the most from their electric vehicle.

Most EV owners recharge their vehicles at home using Level 1 or Level 2 charging.
Level 1 vs. Level 2 home EV charging
Home EV charging comes in two primary forms. Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt household outlet and requires no special installation. While it’s the simplest solution, it typically adds only 3 to 5 miles of driving range per hour, making it best suited for drivers with short daily commutes.
Level 2 charging operates on a 240-volt circuit and requires professional installation. The faster charging speed makes it the preferred solution for most homeowners, with compatible GM home chargers capable of adding up to 44 miles of range per hour. Many workplaces, hotels, parking garages, and public locations also offer Level 2 charging.

Level 2 charging provides significantly faster charging speeds than a standard household outlet.
Understanding NACS and CCS charging connectors
Modern GM electric vehicles are transitioning to the North American Charging Standard (NACS), while previous models use the Combined Charging Standard (CCS1/J1772) connector. The difference is simply the charging plug design, and adapters allow owners to use either standard without replacing their home charging equipment.
Installing a Level 2 charger requires a qualified electrician, who will determine whether the home’s electrical system can support the new circuit. Installation costs vary depending on the home’s electrical panel, wiring distance, and available capacity.
Smart charging helps reduce costs
Many electric utilities offer lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, allowing owners to schedule charging overnight and reduce operating costs. GM’s mobile apps also let owners monitor battery status, set charging limits, and schedule charging sessions remotely.
For daily driving, charging to 80% is generally recommended to help preserve long-term battery health, while charging to 100% is best reserved for longer road trips.

Smart charging allows EV owners to schedule charging during lower-cost overnight hours.
Home charging also unlocks advanced technologies such as vehicle-to-home (V2H) capability. Compatible GM EVs paired with the appropriate charging equipment can supply electricity to a properly equipped home during a power outage, while optional home energy storage systems can store excess electricity for later use.
INTELLIGENT MOBILITY
GM EV Charging Network Expands to 120+ IONNA Stations
GM EV drivers can now access more than 120 IONNA fast-charging stations across the United States with seamless charging through Energy Pass.
Electric vehicle owners driving Chevrolet, Cadillac and GMC models now have access to an even larger public charging network as IONNA continues expanding across the United States. Backed by General Motors and seven other major automakers, the fast-growing charging network now operates 122 charging locations nationwide with 1,166 DC fast-charging stalls, making long-distance EV travel more convenient than ever.
The expansion also strengthens GM’s charging ecosystem by integrating IONNA directly into the company’s Energy Pass platform, allowing drivers to locate chargers, start charging sessions and pay without downloading additional apps.

GM EV drivers now have access to more than 120 IONNA fast-charging stations across the United States.
GM expands fast charging across the United States
IONNA continues rapidly expanding its footprint with stations strategically located across major travel corridors.
Many of the new locations feature IONNA Rechargeries, offering drivers amenities such as:
- Fast charging up to 400 kW
- Food and beverage options
- Modern restrooms
- Well-lit charging areas
- Comfortable rest stops during charging sessions
The network is designed to reduce charging times while providing a better experience for EV owners traveling long distances.

IONNA Rechargery locations combine ultra-fast charging with convenient traveler amenities.
Energy Pass simplifies public EV charging
GM’s new Energy Pass integrates public charging directly into the MyChevrolet, MyCadillac, and MyGMC mobile apps.
Instead of creating multiple charging accounts, drivers can:
- Find compatible charging stations
- Start charging remotely
- Pay directly through one account
- Use Plug & Charge for automatic authentication
- Receive a 10% discount when charging at participating IONNA stations
The system also provides access to multiple charging providers through a single interface.

Energy Pass allows GM EV owners to access multiple charging networks from one app.
More charging options for GM electric vehicles
Beyond IONNA, Energy Pass also connects GM customers with several of the nation’s largest charging networks, including Tesla Supercharger, Electrify America, and additional providers that continue expanding throughout the country.
Combined, these networks provide access to nearly 70% of all DC fast chargers in the United States, giving GM EV owners significantly greater charging flexibility whether commuting daily or taking longer road trips.
As IONNA continues opening new locations nationwide, General Motors is strengthening one of the most important aspects of EV ownership: convenient, reliable and easy-to-use public charging infrastructure.
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