DETROIT — Nearly 43,000 people died in U.S. traffic crashes in 2021, the highest number in 16 years, with deaths due to speeding and impaired or distracted driving on the rise.

DETROIT — Challenger Shawn Fain defeated Ray Curry, president of the United Auto Workers, in a close election and vowed to take a more confrontational stance in negotiating with automakers.

DETROIT — U.S. auto safety regulators have opened an investigation into Tesla’s Model Y SUV after getting two complaints that the steering wheels can come off while being driven.

DETROIT — Tesla says it will cut the cost of its next generation of vehicles in half, largely by using innovative manufacturing techniques and smaller factories.

DETROIT — Stellantis is moving closer to closing its factory in Belvidere, Ill., as it prepares for the costly transition from internal combustion to electric vehicles.

DETROIT — Rising factory output led to strong U.S. sales at the end of last year, pushing General Motors’ fourth-quarter net income up 16% over the same period a year ago.

Tesla Inc. reported better-than expected profits in the latest quarter, signaling strength as it faces growing questions about carbuyer demand for its all-electric vehicle lineup.

DETROIT — With its sales slowing and its stock price tumbling, Tesla Inc. slashed prices dramatically Jan. 13 on several versions of its electric vehicles, making some of its models eligible for a new federal tax credit that could help spur buyer interest.

DETROIT — The head of the National Transportation Safety Board expressed concern on Jan. 11 about the safety risks that heavy electric vehicles pose if they collide with lighter vehicles.

The number of traffic deaths on U.S. roadways fell slightly during the first nine months of 2022, but pedestrian and cyclist deaths continued to rise.