Once hailed as a maverick genius we could all get behind, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has earned plenty of haters over the last few years as a result of his controversial political stances and affiliations.

Moreover, a new study has just confirmed what we all suspected all along: that those politics have cost Tesla billions of dollars in lost sales revenue.

How Bad Is the Damage?

Tesla US vehicle sales dropped by between 1 million and 1.26 million between October 2022 and April 2025, according to The National Bureau of Economic Research, a group of economists based at Yale University.

Related: Musk’s Tesla Payday Is So Absurd Even The Pope Had Something To Say

The authors estimate Teslas sales during that period should have been 67-83 percent higher. Some of those disaffected would-be buyers were pushed into the arms of rival carmakers, whose electric and hybrid vehicle sales grew by roughly 17-22 percent as a result, the study claims.

Among the actions that Tesla’s traditionally Democrat-voting customer base found offensive were his donation of $300 million to Republican candidates in the run up to the 2024 presidential election. The move marked a clear political shift that unsettled parts of his core audience.

Further controversy followed when Musk accepted a position with Donald Trump’s newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and voiced support for far-right political parties abroad, including Germany’s AfD.

Together, these choices reshaped his public image and deepened the divide between his business ventures and their once-loyal fan base.

The study suggests Musk’s behavior and its effect on sales negatively impacted California’s work towards achieving net zero emissions, derailing its plans to meet 2026 targets.

A Partial Rebound?

Even so, the researchers note that public sentiment toward the Tesla CEO had improved since Musk shifted his attention away from Donald Trump and back toward technology, namely robotaxis, self-driving cars and its fledgling robot business.

Tesla’s global sales are still projected to fall by about 10 percent this year, but that hasn’t slowed Musk’s ambitions. He’s now pushing for a $1 trillion pay package, which shareholders are set to vote on next month.

If approved, it would be by far the largest compensation deal ever granted to a corporate executive. Tesla chairman Robyn Denholm has written to shareholders warning that Musk could walk away if the cash doesn’t come through.

Even among high-end electric cars, the Cadillac Celestiq stands apart, an attempt to show how far American luxury can go when price isn’t part of the equation.

Some people doubted whether Cadillac’s all-electric Celestiq could ever justify its staggering price tag. For 2025, it started at around $340,000 before options, which made even luxury rivals look modest.

Yet despite the skepticism, Cadillac has already sold out of its 2025 allocation and is now taking orders for next year.

Also: Captain America’s Custom Cadillac Celestiq Is Dividing The Internet

For 2026, that figure climbs another 20 percent into the “low $400,000s,” again before you’ve had the chance to select anything bespoke.

Cadillac told Automotive News that the higher price reflects additional standard features, including eight years of connected service. Fair enough, if you’ve paid at least $400,000 for a high-tech machine, you wouldn’t expect to be billed again just to use its software.

As was the case for 2025MY sedans, the final price will depend entirely on the client’s level of curation. Essentially, each and every Celestiq is a bespoke creation unlike any of the others. That means the $400,000-plus price tag is just the starting point.

“The bespoke spirit of Celestiq extends to transaction price and will be determined by the client’s level of curation,” a Cadillac spokesperson told Autonews in a statement.

They’re all made by hand at GM’s Global Technical Center in Warren, Michigan, at a pace of less than two per day and buyers work one-on-one with Cadillac’s concierge team to personalize the car.

The company capped production for 2025 at just 25 units. It’s unclear how many it’ll build in 2026, but it did say that there are no more available reservations for 2025 examples.

Interestingly, Cadillac says it’s streamlining the design process. For example, selecting interior colors outside the streamlined palette triggered individual cost adjustments for 2025 cars. For 2026, one price includes all interior color choices, including those outside the normal selection.

More: Cadillac Delivers The Very First Celestiq EV

The first Celestiq rolled of the production line went to its owner in June of this year. The brand is no doubt hard at work to get the rest of the 2025 model year cars to their respective owners. As time goes on, it’ll be fascinating to see if the Celestiq gains a true foothold in this ultra-rarefied segment or not.

Source: Autonews

The post Does your organization provide employees with mentorship opportunities? appeared first on School Transportation News.

Meet the 2025 Transportation Director of the Year Keba Baldwin, director of transportation at Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland. Baldwin shares his leadership journey, communication strategies to enhance transparency and how he successfully manages transportation operations at the second-largest district in the state. Read the stories of the 2025 Rising Superstars as they share the stories of what led them to this award and what they love about this industry. Find articles about tablets onboard buses, the big three maintenance considerations of school bus garages, NCST delegates thoughts on LEDs, the responsibility of furthering school bus safety and more!

The STN EXPO conferences dates for 2026 have been announced, find more information about STN EXPO East in North Carolina and STN EXPO West in Nevada in the magazine.

Read the full November 2025 issue.

Cover Story

The Cornerstone of Effective Leadership
The 2025 Transportation Director of the Year, Keba Baldwin of Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland, knows how powerful communication and transparency are when responsible for safely transporting over 100,000 students daily.

Features

Finger on the Pulse
Tablets are closing the divide between dispatch, drivers and parents.

Back to Basics
School bus maintenance comes down to these big three equipment items. Vendor selection, driver behavior and maintenance cycles all play critical roles.

Rising Superstars
This year’s Rising Superstars demonstrate what it means to be a leader for their operations.

Special Reports

Lighting the Way?
While LEDs are the latest lighting technology for school buses, some say there could be better, future options—the reason National Congress on School Transportation delegates did not approve a new standard.

Feedback
Online
Ad Index

Editor’s Take by Ryan Gray
Paradise Lost, Paradise Gained

Thought Leader by Gilbert Rosas
Staying Focused on the Right Thing: Transportation (Success) Leads the Way to Sustainability

Publisher’s Corner by Tony Corpin
Is Safety Everyone’s Responsibility?

The post November 2025 appeared first on School Transportation News.

Technology is a helpful option for school district transportation departments looking to improve efficiency and cut costs, a transportation coordinator shared during a Thursday webinar.

Bryan Mitchell, marketing director for webinar sponsor Transit Technologies, reviewed current challenges related to on-time student transportation plagued by slashed budgets, driver shortages and increasing parent demands.

Rome City Schools in Georgia was facing a costly and inefficient payroll process, he said. With more than 100 transportation staff members relying on paper-based timesheets, including multi-colored paper for different shifts, Mitchell explained that the monthly task of preparing payroll was a logistical nightmare.

By using ByteCurve digital time clocks and payroll software, the district realized $30,000 in monthly labor cost savings totaling about $300,000 annually, even after wage increases. Jonathan Agenten, director of sales for ByteCurve, explained that the savings came from shaving a few minutes off each driver’s paid hours due to more accurate data collection. Christina Buffington, transportation coordinator for Rome City Schools, confirmed that no driver experienced a significant wage loss.

Buffington shared that the previous paper time sheet method would take up to a month to add up hours and verify before finalizing. She confirmed that the ByteCurve digital process has reduced the time it takes to complete the process and allows management to verify drivers’ route completion via GPS. Payroll errors were nearly eliminated and 10 hours were saved per week in driver communications and payroll reconciliation.

“It’s the work that drives the day – it’s the work that drives the pay,” quipped Agenten.

He reviewed the way ByteCurve streamlines and improves communication between the normally siloed transportation segments of routing, payroll and GPS tracking. The system provides a digital clock-in experience for drivers, an airport terminal-like dashboard emphasizing delayed or canceled routes that require staff attention, a real-time bus location view and the ability to automatically calculate complex pay scenarios based on district policies.

---

Related: Arkansas District Uses Technology to Save Money and Time
Related: (Recorded Webinar) Arkansas Transportation Department Saves $15K per Month with Bytecurve
Related: Feeling Super About Transportation Technology?
Related: (STN Podcast E274) Can I Make a Difference? Tips From Top Transportation Team & Technology Super User

---

Mitchell and Agenten reviewed the rugged and reliable Vehicle Camera Systems and Driver-Facing Cameras offered by Vestige, a sister company to ByteCurve via parent company Transit Technologies. AI-Powered Safety Solutions include a Driver Monitoring System to detect drowsiness, distraction, smoking, and phone use as well as Advanced Driver Assistance System alerts for forward collision, lane departure and pedestrian detection.

Transit Technologies also offers FASTER maintenance software which it says was “purpose built to match how fleets operate, not how companies think they do,” and can save 10-15 hours per week with automated reports and real-time dashboards.

Also recently added to the Transit Technologies family of companies was field trip management software provider busHive.

Mitchell spoke to the company’s goal of offering an integrated tech stack to meet all of a school district’s transportation needs.

These technologies are beneficial as they discover savings and efficiencies in fuel and payroll, which are the two biggest expenses in transportation, noted STN Publisher Tony Corpin.

Agenten emphasized the “white glove” treatment offered by ByteCurve in initially setting up the systems to fulfill the needs of each individual district. From Rome City Schools, both Buffington and Director of Transportation Elander Graham praised the customer service experience.

Watch the webinar on demand. 

The post Payroll Technology Saves Thousands of Dollars for Georgia School District appeared first on School Transportation News.

STN EXPO East returns to North Carolina with six days of exciting and innovative educational, networking and training opportunities for the student transportation industry.

The conference opens with a Welcome Reception at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Concord Golf Resort & Spa Thursday, March 26. The Transportation Director Summit begins Friday and continues Saturday with an off-site, all-day exclusive event focused on collaborative problem-solving and leadership development at Topgolf Charlotte Southwest.

Keynote speaker and author Jim Knight will address directors at the Transportation Director Summit Saturday, followed by conference attendees Monday with his presentation “Culture That Rocks: Set List on How to Amp Up the Company’s Culture (to Eleven) and Deliver Sustainable Results.”

The Bus Technology Summit and Green Bus Summit will feature the latest best practices in green leadership as well as interactive demonstrations of technology offerings. The National School Bus Inspection Training will once again offer hands-on as well as classroom training.

Networking events will be held throughout the conference to give attendees time to interact and problem-solve with their peers, expert speakers and vendors. These events include the Road to Championship Networking Reception on Saturday, the Technology Demonstrations and Ride & Drive Reception at the Charlotte Motor Speedway on Sunday, and the Trade Show/Networking Pit Stop Reception on Monday.

Attendees will also have a chance to tour the Thomas Built Buses C2 Plant in High Point, North Carolina, on Tuesday, March 31. Space is limited for unique experiences, so secure your space soon.

STN EXPO East will be held March 26- 31, 2026 at Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Concord Golf Resort & Spa. Save $200 on main conference registration when registering by Dec. 19. at stnexpo.com/east.

---

Related: STN Launches Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program at 2026 Conferences
Related: Roundup: Green Bus Summit at STN EXPO East Sounds Optimistic Tone
Related: WATCH: STN EXPO East 2025

The post STN EXPO East Opens Online Registration for March 2026 appeared first on School Transportation News.

When Hyundai pulled the wraps off the Elexio, a new electric SUV developed with joint venture partner BAIC and standing apart from the Ioniq lineup, most assumed it would remain a China-only model. That would have made sense, given how often collaborations like this one are designed for domestic markets.

Now, though, Hyundai has confirmed that the Elexio will also make its way to Australia. It’s expected to arrive next year, sitting between the Kona EV and the Ioniq 5 in the local lineup.

Read: Hyundai’s New Electric SUV Skips Physical Buttons Nearly Entirely For Massive Screen

Positioned as a direct rival to the Tesla Model Y and BYD’s Sealion 7, the Elexio marks new territory for Hyundai in Western market.

Whether Australian drivers will warm up to its distinctive styling and unconventional cabin design is still an open question. Yet with Chinese-built electric SUVs rapidly gaining traction Down Under, the Elexio could soon become a common sight on local roads, especially if the price is right.

Lineup And Power

Underneath, it rides on the Hyundai Group’s familiar E-GMP platform and comes with a single 88.1 kWh battery pack. Charging from 30 to 80 percent takes about 27 minutes, which is a slower than the Ioniq 5’s 10-to-80 percent top-up in about 18 minutes.

In China, the Elexio has a quoted driving range of 722 km (449 miles), but under the (considerably less generous) WLTP cycle, Hyundai is simply quoting a range of “over 500 km” (311 miles).

Australia is expected to receive three different versions of the Elexio. The base model will be a single-motor standard-range variant, the middle version will be a single-motor long-range model, and the flagship will be an all-wheel-drive long-range one, according to Drive.

Both two-wheel-drive options use a 160 kW (215 hp) motor, while the AWD variant steps up to around 230 kW (308 hp). The configuration mirrors that of the Kia EV5, which shares similar output figures across its own lineup.

Review: BYD Sealion 7 Performance Could Be Tesla’s Worst Nightmare

Inside, the Elexio wears clear Chinese design cues, though in this case, that’s not a bad thing. A 27-inch panel spans the dashboard, merging the main infotainment screen with a separate passenger display.

The driver gets a smaller readout set low near the windshield, while wireless charging pads and an eight-speaker Bose audio system round out the cabin’s tech package.

What Will It Cost?

In China, the Elexio starts at 119,800 yuan and tops out at 149,800, roughly US$16,900 to US$21,100 or about AU$25,700 to AU$32,200 if you’re counting in local currency. Tempting figures, but don’t get too comfortable. Those kinds of prices never make it past customs.

Hyundai hasn’t disclosed Australian pricing yet, though it’s safe to assume the local figure will be less charitable. Expect something between AU$55,000 ($36,000) and AU$65,000 ($42,600), a range that drops the Elexio right into the thick of the mid-size electric SUV contest.

It’s a crowded corner of the market, but one Hyundai seems quite happy to elbow its way into.

Polestar originally sounded like a great idea. Take the best of Volvo, throw in some sportier styling, and add a pinch of extra performance.

Despite this solid foundation, Polestar hasn’t lived up to their potential. That’s clear today as the company’s stock is in danger of getting delisted.

More: Polestar 6 Roadster Delayed To Churn Out More Crossovers

In a brief announcement, the Swedish automaker revealed they have received a warning from the Nasdaq that they are “not currently in compliance with the $1.00 minimum bid price requirement.” Shares closed at $0.84 today and that’s near the 52-week low of $0.82. It’s also a long way from their 52-week high of $1.42.

Looking at the price chart, it appears Polestar stock has been below the $1 threshold since late September. That’s not an encouraging sign, but the company has until April 29 to regain compliance.

Polestar / Refinitiv

This is easier said than done as it requires the closing price to be at least $1 or more for ten consecutive business days. If they fail to achieve that, they may get an additional 180 day extension.

While things aren’t looking good for shareholders, Polestar does have some positive momentum. Third quarter retail sales climbed 13% to 14,192 units, while year-to-date retail sales surged 36% to 44,482 vehicles.

On top of that, the company finally introduced the production version of the 5 at the Munich Motor Show. The Porsche Taycan competitor features a bold design, a 112 kWh battery pack, and up to 872 hp (650 kW / 884 PS).

Furthermore, the automaker unveiled a significantly improved 3 on October 1. It features an all-new 800V electrical architecture, new batteries, and upgraded electric motors. This means the crossover is faster, more powerful, and more efficient.

If you spend any time in Las Vegas, whether as a resident or a visitor, don’t be surprised if you see a Cybertruck in police livery gliding down the Strip. These aren’t movie props or promotional gimmicks, they’re among the first Tesla Cybertruck police vehicles to enter active duty in the United States.

The trucks have been overhauled by Unplugged Performance and delivered to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), where they’ve been adapted for duty in one of America’s busiest cities.

Who’s Picking Up the Bill?

One of the first questions that might come to mind when you hear about these Cybertrucks is, “Who’s paying for them?” Fortunately, it isn’t the taxpayer.

According to the LVMPD, all ten of the electric pickups were donated by Ben Horowitz and his wife. Horowitz, a tech entrepreneur and venture capitalist, is believed to be a billionaire and apparently a believer in electrified law enforcement.

Also: Cybertruck’s Light Bar Has Joined The Long List Of Things Falling Off Teslas

As for the Cybertrucks, each one comes equipped with a full suite of electronics required by the police department, including lights, sirens, and a PA system.

They also feature a series of upgrades to toughen up their looks and boost their off-roading credentials. For example, they’ve been fitted with new push bars, reinforced rock sliders, upgraded suspension components, and stronger brakes.

Counting the Savings

The LVMPD says these electric patrol trucks aren’t just about image, as they’re expected to save money too. The department estimates each Tesla Cybertruck will deliver a minimum of $47,540 in savings over its five-year service life compared with a traditional gasoline-powered police truck.

That includes annual fuel savings between $8,800 and $12,000, plus roughly $3,540 in reduced maintenance. Unless something falls off, that is. Whether those projections hold up once the trucks hit full duty remains to be seen.

Read: Las Vegas Gets First Cybertruck Police Fleet In America

“They will be at every area command… the trucks are high performance and built tough to handle everything from Fremont Street to Redrock Canyon,” LVMPD Sheriff Kevin McMahill said. “[The Cybertrucks are] practical, powerful and designed to make our job that much safer.”

Not only that, but the department claims it’s already seeing an uptick in recruitment thanks to the Cybertrucks. Apparently, nothing inspires future officers quite like a stainless-steel wedge these days.

Toyota’s booth at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show brimmed with futuristic ideas, from spider-like delivery bots to a six-wheeled Lexus minivan. Yet among all the tech-heavy marvels, one creation charmed visitors more than any other: the Kids Mobi, a self-driving, bubble-shaped EV made exclusively for children.

More: Honda Shogo Is A Tiny EV That Brings Joy To Hospitalized Kids

Framed as a “safe and secure AI-powered personal mobility for kids,” the concept blurs the line between toy and vehicle. It has a smooth, pod-like body with enclosed wheels and animated LED “eyes” that mimic expressions.

Even the sensors on the roof are shaped like ears, with the whole thing being reminiscent of an animated character.

The canopy, lifted straight from a sci-fi sketchbook, swings upward to reveal a snug single seat built for children up to 130 cm tall (about 4 feet 3 inches). Once inside, the canopy closes and an AI assistant called the “UX Friend” comes to life, chatting and playing with the young passenger throughout the ride.

While the Kids Mobi obviously relies on autonomous tech for navigation, Toyota says children can still participate in the drive, giving them a sense of control.

“It’s not just adults who want to drive and enjoy some time to themselves,” the company explains. “Kids also want freedom of mobility. And just as adults have cars, kids deserve a trusty sidekick.”

Letting a child ride solo in an autonomous pod may sound like science fiction at best and unsettling at worst, but Toyota argues it could eventually prove safer than a traditional school bus.

For now, the Kids Mobi remains a concept, though it reflects what the automaker calls the “ultimate goal” of its AI x Robotics Data Center. That means the idea will keep evolving long after the show floor closes.

Still, the project represents the “ultimate goal” of the automaker’s AI x Robotics Data Center, so development will continue.

More: Toyota Wants To Teach Your Kids To Drive With Camatte Petta Concept

Until the Kids Mobi is ready to hit the road (or, more likely, the bike lane and sidewalk), visitors of the Japan Mobility Show can check it out up close and snap a photo with it. Toyota will also give each kid an original keychain as a souvenir.

Another Kid-Friendly Concept

Interestingly, the 2025 lineup at the show includes another Toyota concept that could serve as a helpful companion for toddlers.

The Chibibo is a quadruped robot that walks alongside people and vehicles serving as a last-mile delivery solution. A shown in the official renderings, it could help a child carry their backpack, lunchbox, or any other item that would be too heavy for them.

The spider-like design allows the robot to navigate narrow alleyways and climb stairs, taking parcels to places that vehicles can’t. When idle, it crouches down into a resting pose, much like a loyal robotic pet.

Toyota

Scout Motors’ upcoming Terra pickup and Traveler SUV aren’t in production yet, but the company already has a strong sense of who its buyers are. Interest is running high, and the early numbers hint at what might define the brand’s first chapter.

Read: Scout Is Scouting Laid Off Rivian Employees

According to CEO Scott Keogh, the vast majority of reservations are for the range-extended electric powertrain. As EV infrastructure aims to improve, these type of powertrains could prove supreme for the time being.

What Are Buyers Choosing?

“Look, the market has spoken,” Keogh told Bloomberg. “Over 80% of the reservations are for the range extender.”

That figure translates to at least 104,000 of the 130,000 customers who placed a reservation choosing the version that combines electric drive with a small gasoline engine functioning as a generator, suggesting that many Americans continue to favor long-distance flexibility over all-electric purity.

Both vehicles share a modular architecture capable of supporting either an all-electric powertrain or an EREV setup. The pure electric version will utilize a nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery with a capacity of approximately 120 kWh, offering an estimated range of 350 miles (563 km).

How the Systems Differ

The range-extended models, on the other hand, use a smaller lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) pack with about half that capacity for roughly 150 miles (241 km) of battery-only driving.

When the charge runs low on the EREV, a small gas-powered on-board generator will kick in and provide power to the battery. As such, the EREV will offer around 500 miles of range.

Keogh hinted that Scout could prioritize the EREV at launch due to its high demand: “In general, in life, you like to meet the market… we would probably lean with the EREV, but nothing we’ve announced yet.”

Both versions will roll off the line at Scout’s new $2.3 billion factory in Blythewood, South Carolina, that’s set to begin production in late 2027. Interestingly, Keogh thinks EVs will still end up being the future.

“The world is still heading electric,” he said. “The technology is there, the innovation is there. We want to make sure Scout is prepared for the next 100 years. We’re not building a two-year brand.”

It will be worth watching how advances between now and 2027 shape Scout’s approach, and whether early demand for flexibility gives way to full electrification once the infrastructure finally keeps pace.

The refreshed 2026 Toyota bZ offers up to 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS), which is a massive 124 hp (92 kW / 126 PS) increase over its terribly named predecessor.

That power boost lets the top-spec model range-topping variant to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.9 seconds and travel 278 miles (447 km) on a single charge. To highlight that newfound performance, Toyota is bringing out the bZ Time Attack concept.

Set to debut at the SEMA Show next week, the track-focused model features an aggressive body kit with a prominent front splitter and new side skirts. They’re joined by extended fenders, a sporty rear diffuser, and a massive rear wing.

More: Toyota Slashed Thousands Off New Base bZ, But Raised It For Other Trims

Besides the body kit, the crossover has been lowered 6 inches (152 mm) while its track has been expanded by the same amount. This gives the model an aggressive stance, which is amplified by 19-inch BBS Unlimited wheels that are wrapped in Continental Extreme Contact Sport 02 tires.

Adding to the drama is a custom tri-color paint scheme that blends metallic and pearl hues.

Given the racing ambitions, the interior has been stripped of non-essential equipment. The result is a relatively bare cabin with a chromoly roll cage and OMP HTE-R racing seats. We can also see a new steering wheel and a shifter that has been relocated to the dash.`

Toyota didn’t say much about the powertrain, but confirmed the concept has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that has been tuned to produce more than 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS).

Aside from upgraded motors, the concept has a revised suspension that features TEIN coilovers and springs. They’re accompanied by an Alcon braking system that uses Hawk pads.

Seven years after Canadian leaders last met their Chinese opposite numbers, Prime Minister Mark Carney is sitting down with Chinese President Xi Jinping. At stake are billions of dollars worth of trade, but Carney hinted that the trade agreement many are hoping for might not materialise, at least not from this first face-to-face.

The two leaders are getting together at the summit of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation in Gyeongju, South Korea, and in the run-up to the meeting, some news reports suggested that Canada could be ready to axe the 100 percent tariff on imported Chinese EVs put in place in 2024.

Related: China Turns Up The Pressure As Canada Reconsiders Its EV Tariffs

Canada is under pressure to hit eco targets, and giving access to more affordable EVs could help. But the real pressure to cancel the EV tariffs is coming from Canada’s farmers.

The country’s Canola industry is worth billions of dollars, with a healthy chunk of that revenue coming from China. But exports to China have tanked since the Chinese placed a 75.8 percent tariff on canola seed in response to EV tariffs.

So a simple “you drop your tariffs and I’ll drop mine” handshake could sort everything, right? It’s not that easy, and Carney was careful not to suggest that he expected to come back from this initial meeting with an oven-baked trade agreement.

“We will explore what we can build on. This is our second largest trading partner. This is the second largest economy in the world,” Carney told the media in the build-up to the meet, as reported by CTV News.

“[But] there’s no preset offer. This is the difference between relationship and transaction,” he added, explaining that the relationship between the two countries needed to “deepen” and that there were many other topics up for discussion besides EVs.

Another reason Carney might hesitate before lifting EV tariffs is concern over the welfare of Canada’s own auto industry, which is already taking a beating from US President Donald Trump’s tariffs, and the current US-Canada tensions aren’t likely to ease those problems soon.

The last thing it needs is an influx of bargain-priced competitors from China.

Crashes on Houston’s busy freeways are an unfortunate reality of city life, and one earlier this week proved especially tragic. The driver of a BMW was killed, and the driver of a Tesla Cybertruck died in hospital after the two vehicles collided in Houston, Texas.

Shockingly, police say the BMW’s driver had mistakenly entered the freeway, traveling the wrong way after driving down an exit ramp and heading westbound in the eastbound lanes.

Watch: Cybertruck Ripped In Half By A Mercedes Built Like A Tank

The crash occurred around midnight on October 28 along the I-10 Katy Freeway. According to police, the BMW, whose specific model hasn’t been identified, slammed into the Cybertruck and burst into flames almost instantly. The force of the impact also pushed the Tesla into an 18-wheeler.

Initially, it was only the driver of the BMW who was declared dead on the scene, and the driver of the Cybertruck was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Sadly, the Tesla driver succumbed to their injuries.

Houston Police Department Sgt. Rebecca Dallas told KHOU that the BMW driver had entered the freeway in the opposite direction, ignoring multiple Do Not Enter and Wrong Way signs along the ramp.

Investigators are expected to conduct an autopsy of the BMW driver to see if they were impaired at the time of the collision. The name of the driver who caused the crash hasn’t been released. However, the driver of the Cybertruck has been confirmed as a 38-year-old father of two young children.

Accidents Like This Are Far Too Common

Accidents like this are far from rare. More than 1100 wrong-way fatalities have been recorded across Harris County in the past decade, and last year alone, 233 people were injured in similar incidents throughout the area. Clearly, something needs to be done to reduce these numbers.

Local authorities may need to explore a combination of measures, from adding more signage to exit ramps to enhancing driver education. Small changes could go a long way toward preventing future tragedies on Houston’s highways.

For years, many traditional carmakers seemed content to ignore the quiet storm gathering in China’s automotive sector. The rise of new Chinese manufacturers barely registered on their radar, as if the disruption that had shaken the tech world could never reach the showroom floor.

Read: Ford Chief Says China Leads US By 10 Years In EV Batteries, Needs Their IP

That illusion has now been thoroughly dispelled. Most major automakers now grasp the scale of disruption these Chinese brands are set to bring to the global car market, and among the most outspoken voices acknowledging it is Ford’s chief executive, Jim Farley

Over the past year, Farley has been quite outspoken in his belief that Chinese brands have developed a significant lead in the electrification race.

How Big Is The Threat?

At one point, he was even driving a Xiaomi SU7 every day, not as a stunt but out of genuine admiration. For Farley, the challenge from China eclipses even the Japanese surge of the early 1980s.

“I think it’s exactly the same thing, but it’s on steroids,” Farley told Business Insider. “They have enough capacity in China with existing factories to serve the entire North American market, put us all out of business. Japan never had that. So, this is a completely different level of risk for our industry.”

In 1980, Japan produced over 11 million vehicles, a surge that prompted then-President Ronald Reagan to impose voluntary export limits on Japanese imports. Today, the circumstances are different but the unease feels familiar.

Chinese EVs are currently barred from sale in the United States, insulating local brands for the moment. Yet Ford, operating on a global stage, can’t rely on geography for protection.

The Chinese Tech Advantage

“[The Chinese] have far superior in-vehicle technology. Huawei and Xiaomi are in every car. You get in, you don’t have to pair your phone. Automatically, your whole digital life is mirrored in the car,” Farley added.

“We are in a global competition with China, and it’s not just EVs. If we lose this, we do not have a future Ford. The Chinese are the 700-pound gorilla in the EV industry. It is completely dominating the EV landscape globally and more and more outside of China.”

For now, Trump-era regulations, including the removal of the federal EV tax credit worth up to $7,500, have impacted demand for electric vehicles in the United States.

Still, Farley sees the slowdown as temporary. He expects EVs to hold about 5 percent of the U.S. market in the short term but believes that number will rise as lower-cost models reach production and public perception catches up with the technology.

The Kia EV4 made its debut at the New York International Auto Show back in April, touted as Kia’s straightest shot yet at the Tesla Model 3. It seemed poised to stir up the affordable EV segment, but that momentum has stalled before it even reached the showroom.

According to the Korean automaker, the EV4’s American launch has been postponed “until further notice,” a decision that leaves would-be buyers of reasonably priced EVs with one less option in an already tightening field.

Read: Kia’s First Electric Sedan Is Here To Beat The Model 3 At Its Own Game

Kia had engineered both sedan and hatchback versions of the EV4 for different markets. The United States was due to receive only the sedan, while Europe and several other regions would get both body styles.

What seemed like a straightforward rollout has since collided with market realities. The American car landscape looks markedly different from when the EV4 was unveiled in April, and even more so from when Kia first mapped out its export plans.

“Kia’s full range of vehicles offers meaningful value and inspiring performance to customers,” a Kia spokesman told InsideEVs. “However, as market conditions for EVs have changed, the release of the upcoming EV4 electric sedan will be delayed until further notice.”

What Could Have Been

The EV4 sedan had been set to land in local dealerships in the first quarter of 2026. Kia never got to the point of announcing local prices for it, but with the $7,500 federal EV tax credit now a thing of the past, the math likely stopped adding up.

Without that incentive, the EV4 would have faced a steep uphill battle against more established competitors.

As in other regions, the American-spec EV4, built on Kia’s E-GMP platform, would have come with a 58.3 kWh battery and a 201 hp motor powering the front wheels. That setup promises about 235 miles of range, or roughly 378 kilometers.

Above it sit the Wind and GT-Line models, both equipped with an 81.4 kWh pack capable of up to 330 miles (531 km) on a charge. These figures placed the EV4 squarely in Tesla’s neighborhood, at least, that was the plan before the pause.

The Junior has been a rare hit for Alfa Romeo and the brand is trying to increase its appeal by introducing a new Sport Speciale. It’s designed to “blend elegance, sportiness, and cutting-edge technology.”

The model certainly looks the part as it features gloss black cladding with bright silver inserts. They’re joined by tinted rear windows and 18-inch alloy wheels with a two-tone diamond cut finish. Customers will also find “Sport Speciale” badging as well as an optional contrasting black roof.

Review: The Junior Is Everything Alfa Romeo Needed And Nothing Alfisti Wanted

Upgrades extend to the cabin, which has black perforated Alcantara seats with contrasting Ice accents. The front seats are heated and have power adjustment, as one would expect from a luxury brand.

Alcantara upholstery can also be found on the dashboard, door panels, center tunnel and steering wheel. On the latter location, it’s joined by leather and contrast stitching. Other notable highlights include aluminum pedals and an ambient lighting system.

If that isn’t special enough, the Junior can be equipped with the Techno pack, which adds Matrix LED headlights, GPS navigation, and a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system. They’re joined by a rearview camera, parking sensors, and power folding mirrors with blind spot detection.

The package also includes a number of other upgrades including a hands-free power liftgate, a wireless smartphone charger, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. This is on top of a six-speaker audio system and front/rear USB charging ports.

Despite having sport in its name, powertrains carryover and include a 143 hp (107 kW / 145 PS) hybrid that is offered with front and all-wheel drive. Customers can also get a fully electric Sport Speciale that produces 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS).

Owning a Ford F-150 Lightning means saying goodbye to gas stations forever. That’s the promise, at least, though it comes with the unspoken reality of long waits while electrons trickle into the battery. On the bright side, your truck can double as a backup power source for your home, and if Ford’s to be believed, even earn a few bucks while it sits in the driveway.

Read: F-150 Lightning Production Halted Indefinitely As Ford Bets On Gas Trucks Again

The company is eager to promote its usefulness, recently dedicating an entire piece describing how owners can turn their EV into a “side hustle”.

How Does It Work?

For some time, Ford’s Energy Rewards program has provided customers with bonuses for charging their F-150 Lightnings during off-peak times. It also has a system that allows the truck’s battery to serve as a backup generator during outages and blackouts.

In select US markets, owners can now charge their Lightning when electricity is cheaper (typically overnight during off-peak hours) and use the stored energy to power their home when grid prices are higher during peak times.

That’s not all. Customers can also return excess power from the F-150 back to the grid and get incentives from participating utility providers. According to Ford, customers can save up to $42 per month, or almost $500 per year, by using its new Home Power Management software.

The program has been launched in partnership with DTE Energy in Southeast Michigan. DTE will provide eligible owners the means to transfer power from the EV to their home.

Everything happens automatically, too, meaning the software optimizes the flow of energy to and from the battery pack while retaining battery health.

F-150 Lightning Production Paused Indefinitely

While the system is clever, it hasn’t done much to change the Lightning’s overall fortunes. Despite being the best-selling electric pickup in America this year, sales still trail Ford’s early projections. Earlier this month, production was officially paused with no restart date in sight.

With the federal EV tax credit gone and fuel economy penalties no longer enforced under the Trump-era rollback, Ford appears to be easing away from the Lightning experiment. The company now plans to build over 45,000 additional combustion-powered F-150s next year, signaling a quiet retreat to familiar ground

Maserati might be battling with slow sales, but they’re not giving up on their most popular SUV, the Grecale. The Trident brand has rolled out a series of updates for the 2026 model year, with most of the attention on the fully electric Folgore trim, which can now travel farther between charges.

The Grecale Folgore was launched in 2023 with dual electric motors producing 550 hp (410 kW / 557 PS) and a 105 kWh battery offering 500 km (311 miles) of WLTP range.

What’s New?

While the electric powertrain’s core specifications remain unchanged for 2026, Maserati has introduced a new AWD-Disconnect system said to boost range to 580 km (360 miles).

More: Maserati Can’t Sell The Grecale In Numbers So It’s Selling Them One By One

Their solution is simple: when AWD is not required, the system sends power to the rear wheels only, bringing a significant reduction in energy consumption that results in an extra 80 km (50 miles) of zero-emission range.

The shift happens automatically in just 500 milliseconds and physically disengages the front axle shafts from the hubs. Maserati says this method is more efficient than disconnecting at the motor or differential.

Algorithms To The Rescure

To determine when AWD should engage or disengage, the vehicle relies on a network of sensors and algorithms that continuously monitor several variables.

Depending on torque demand, brake temperature, road gradient, instantaneous speed and acceleration, selected driving mode, outside temperature, and activation of vehicle dynamic control systems, the system makes sure drivers get the performance they need from the electric SUV.

The Folgore accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.1 seconds, making it the second quickest Grecale behind the V6-powered Trofeo that completes the same sprint in 3.8 seconds. The EV, however, has the lowest top speed in the lineup, capped at 220 km/h (137 mph).

More: Maserati’s $50,000 Discounts Reveal How Bad Things Really Are

The electric Grecale retains its remote climate control, automatic battery preconditioning, and EV Routing functions. The latter now includes a Dynamic Range Mapping feature that visually displays how far the car can travel on its remaining charge within the built-in navigation system.

More Customization Options

Alongside the Folgore’s efficiency upgrades, Maserati has expanded personalization options across the entire 2026 Grecale range.

The exterior palette now includes 11 colors, plus 32 additional shades from the Fuoriserie Programme, six of which are new. Inside, buyers can choose from eight interior hues, eight seat designs, four brake caliper finishes, and six alloy wheel patterns, including a set exclusive to the Folgore.

Maserati has yet to confirm pricing for the 2026 Grecale lineup, though given how its sales have been going, it’s probably safe to assume the figures won’t stray far from last year’s. After all, it’s hard to raise prices when the cars aren’t exactly flying off the lot.

The 2025 SEMA Show is coming up soon, and Hyundai is bringing something big – literally.The automaker has teamed up with the YouTube duo BigTime to showcase a project that blurs the line between tech showcase and trail rig.

Automotive personalities Jeremiah Burton and Zach Jobe helped Hyundai create what you see here, the Ioniq 9 Off-Road Concept. Think of it as a junction between EV luxury and off-roading prowess.

Set for display inside SEMA’s Future Tech Studio, this Hyundai concept makes an immediate impression. It features bright yellow paint, a lifted suspension, unique wheels, and knobby all-terrain tires. Hyundai’s largest electric SUV doesn’t look bad with what appears to be a trail-ready stance.

More: Hemi V8 Ram And Purple Charger Team Up For Stellantis’ SEMA Spectacle

A custom light bar and auxiliary lighting boost nighttime visibility and provide a bit more functionality to a vehicle clearly intended for the trail.

Underneath all of this is an Ioniq 9 Calligraphy. It features dual motors, all-wheel drive, 422 horsepower (315 kW), and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. Notably, Hyundai hasn’t said if there are any mechanical modifications.

“This concept takes IONIQ 9 into new off-road terrain it has yet to explore,” said Sean Gilpin, Chief Marketing Officer for Hyundai Motor North America. “Its aggressive lift, all-terrain tires, and rugged design inspire both innovation and customization—the hallmarks of any successful SEMA concept.”

For Burton and Jobe, who rose to fame through their fun, informative automotive builds, the collaboration marks a fresh spin on the EV world.

“EVs have come a long way, so getting a chance to put our own spin on an off-road-themed IONIQ 9 is pretty cool,” said Burton. “We themed this IONIQ 9 off of our 1977 vintage cabover we call Bud. This new-tech-meets-vintage look gives it character and capability.”

BigTime will highlight the SUV across its social media channels. Fans will get the chance to see behind-the-scenes footage of the build.

The partnership highlights how Hyundai is willing to be very flexible when it comes to marketing a luxurious flagship electric SUV. It doesn’t have to be all champagne and leather. Sometimes it can be dirt and light bars.