Tesla Model 3 rated and updated, two new hybrids, Canadian Bolt EVs, and more Superchargers: The Week in Reverse


2014 Tesla Model S in China

2014 Tesla Model S in China

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Which new hybrid started production this week in the United States?

What electric car is back-ordered for a year?

What systems of the Tesla Model 3 did the insurance industry test and rate this week?

This is our look back at the Week In Reverse—right here at Green Car Reports—for the week ending on Friday, May 18, 2018.

Friday, we reported on where Tesla is expanding its Supercharger network to prepare for more Model 3s rolling out onto the roads.

We noted the final report by the EPA on the Volkswagen dieselgate scandal. The agency's internal watchdog says new measures are effectively catching cheaters, but that still more can be done.

Tesla Supercharger site in Rocklin, California, before expansion [photo: George Parrott]

Tesla Supercharger site in Rocklin, California, before expansion [photo: George Parrott]

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Thursday, the big news was all about Tesla. First, the company moved to take advantage of changes in Chinese law that allow foreign manufacturers to open businesses in the country without local Chinese partners. The move could eventually reduce Tesla prices dramatically in  China.

The IIHS also finally weighed in on the Tesla Model 3's front crash prevention system which includes automatic emergency braking. It found the system works well.

2019 Honda Insight, 2018 New York auto show

2019 Honda Insight, 2018 New York auto show

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On Wednesday, Honda announced that its new, third-generation Insight Hybrid had started production at the company's factory in Indiana.

The Wall Street Journal also reported that Tesla CEO Elon Musk had rejected suggestions to add additional sensors to the company's Autopilot system to ensure that drivers keep paying attention behind the wheel.

2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV

2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV

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Tuesday, we confirmed with General Motors that Chevy Bolt EVs are back-ordered for as long as a year in Canada.

We also got details on all the over-the-air updates that new owners of the Tesla Model 3 have already received.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek first drive

2018 Subaru Crosstrek first drive

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Monday, Elon Musk announced that the long-awaited Performance and all-wheel-drive versions of the Model 3 would go on sale later in the week. Cars with these packages should sell for even more money than the basic rear-wheel-drive, long-range Model 3s that Tesla has been selling so far.

Subaru announced that its next Crosstrek Hybrid would be a plug-in that shares its hybrid system with the Toyota Prius Prime. It is expected to go on sale late this year.