Stellantis is selling their stake in NextStar Energy for just $100.
Move comes amid lackluster EV sales and changing regulations.
LG is shifting focus from EVs to energy storage systems.
Stellantis is pivoting away from electric vehicles as the company embraces the ‘power of choice.’ This has cost them billions and they’re selling their 49% stake in NextStar Energy to LG Energy Solution.
This is an interesting development as the NextStar Energy joint venture was established in 2022 and aimed to create Canada’s first large-scale battery manufacturing facility in Windsor. The plant was originally designed to employ approximately 2,500 people and have an annual production capacity of more than 45 gigawatt hours.
Battery module production began in the fall of 2024 and mass production of lithium-ion battery cells followed in November of 2025. While more than $3.7 billion ($5 billion CAD) has been invested into the facility, a lot has changed since 2022.
Electric vehicle adoption has grown more slowly than many automakers anticipated and the Trump administration recently eliminated federal tax credits. On top of that, tariffs have complicated things and automakers are now turning their attention away from EVs.
Stellantis didn’t go into many specifics, but called the move a “strategic decision” that was mutually agreed upon. They went on to describe themselves as a “committed customer” that “will continue to source battery products from NextStar Energy.”
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa said, “By enabling LG Energy Solution to fully leverage the Windsor facility’s capacity, we are strengthening its long-term viability while securing the battery supply for our electric vehicles. This is a smart, strategic step that supports our customers, our Canadian operations, and our global electrification roadmap.”
Those sentiments were echoed by LG Energy Solution CEO David Kim, who stated “LG Energy Solution sees growth opportunities in North America by situating a key production hub in Canada. Full ownership of NextStar Energy will enable us to respond swiftly to the growing demand from the ESS [Energy Storage System] market and position us to play a key role in Canada’s EV industry by securing additional North American-based customers.”
Despite the upbeat rhetoric, The Detroit News reports Stellantis sold their stake for just $100. That’s a token amount, especially given the sizable investment into the facility.
Dreame has launched a third car brand called Star Motor.
Two of the new models closely resemble Dongfeng vehicles.
One upscale SUV channels China’s take on the Rolls-Royce.
Just a month after Chinese vacuum cleaner firm Dreame unveiled three high-performance EVs at the CES show in Las Vegas, it has previewed three additional models it plans to add to its fleet. These will be launched under the new Star Motor brand, existing alongside Dreame’s Nebula Next and Kosmera brands.
The first two models are the T08 and T08L. Both are striking off-roaders, with the T08L sharing much of its design with the T08 but is considered even more focused on off-road performance. There’s no denying the T08 models are striking, but their design isn’t unique. In fact, they almost look like direct copies of two other bold Chinese off-roaders.
Those two models come from Dongfeng, where they are badged the M917 and M817. Dreame has quite clearly copied Dongfeng’s homework with the T08L, crafting bodywork that looks almost identical to the M917, as well as near-identical headlights. The T08 looks mostly the same but has slightly different headlights, apparently copied from the smaller M817.
The similarities between Star Motor’s T08 and Dongfeng’s M917 are particularly apparent from the sides. It has virtually identical squared-off fenders, the same exposed hinges on the front doors, and door panels that look exactly the same as the M917. The only unique element that Star Motor appears to have designed is a distinctive front bumper.
Star Motor hasn’t actually unveiled the T08 and T08L, and only previewed them with a couple of images at a recent company event. As such, we don’t know what kind of powertrains they will have, other than the fact that they will include rear-wheel steering that can turn the rear wheels by up to 24 degrees.
Rolls-Royce Fighter
Previewed alongside the T08 and T08L was the Star Motors D09 that looks to be positioned as the firm’s flagship luxury SUV, akin to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. It shares similarities with the Cullinan lookalike that Dreame previewed last year and could be the production version of that model.
The front of the D09 is dominated by a grille that makes even a Rolls-Royce grille seem small. It also has prominent LED daytime running lights up front, a LiDAR mounted on the roof, and a set of fancy-looking wheels.
The facelifted Q4 Sportback e-tron has been spied in Europe.
It sports new bumpers, a revised grille, and an updated interior.
Model will likely have an improved powertrain and extra range.
Audi is wrapping up testing on the facelifted Q4 e-tron as spy photographers have snapped a Sportback prototype virtually undisguised. It looks instantly recognizable, but incorporates a number of updates.
Starting up front, we can see a lightly revised grille that is flanked by familiar headlights. They’re joined by a new bumper, which has updated air curtains as well as a revamped intake with a honeycomb mesh pattern.
The subtle changes continue out back as the crossover adopts a streamlined bumper that eschews “e-tron” badging. The faux vent has also been removed, while there are new triangular accents at the outside edges. Elsewhere, we can see a new diffuser with more pronounced vertical elements.
SHproshots
The head- and taillights have varying degrees of camouflage, suggesting we can expect updated lighting units. We also wouldn’t be surprised to find restyled wheels and some other minor tweaks.
Spy photographers didn’t snap interior pictures this time around, but previous images have shown an all-new dashboard with a freestanding curved display. It appears to echo the one found in newer models such as the A6 and Q5.
This means we can expect an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment system. They could be joined by an optional 10.9-inch front passenger display.
Powertrain details remain elusive, but the model will likely benefit from more efficient motors, improved batteries, and upgraded charging technology. This should help to make the Q4 e-tron more competitive, which is important as the model has lost a lot of its luster since the Q6 e-tron arrived.
While specifics are few and far between, the current model features a 77 kWh battery pack as well as rear- and dual-motor all-wheel drive systems. The former produces 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS), while the latter develops a combined output of 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS). Customers can also expect ranges of between 258 and 288 miles (415 – 463 km).
BYD sold 205,518 cars in January, down from 300,538 last year.
EV and plug-in hybrid sales both dropped compared to 2025.
Analysts say Beijing may revive incentives if sales stay low.
Demand for electric cars in China may be cooling, and some of the country’s biggest automakers are starting to feel the chill. Several of the most prominent domestic brands, including BYD, Xpeng, and Xiaomi, reported noticeable drops in January sales.
Data shows that BYD sold 205,518 vehicles in China last month. The number sounds solid on its own, but it marks a sharp decline from the 300,538 vehicles the company moved in January 2025.
Both BYD’s electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids were affected. Of the 205,518 vehicles sold last month, 83,249 were EVs and 122,269 were PHEVs. A year earlier, those numbers stood at 125,377 and 171,069 respectively. Exports took a hit too, dropping to 100,482 units in January from 133,172 in December.
Is Government Policy Slowing Sales?
These figures suggest weakening demand in China and possibly overproduction for overseas markets, but a recent government policy change may go some way to explaining the drop. As of January 1, the country reinstated a 5 percent purchase tax for new energy vehicles, having previously exempted them from a 10 percent tax for more than a decade, CNBC reports.
“We see increasing pressure on China’s auto market in 2026, driven by a combination of policy and competitive factors,” Helen Liu, partner at Bain & Company, told CNBC. She added that recent tax changes may prompt some consumers to delay purchases, while automakers hold back on new model launches.
“We know [EV sales will] slow, we just don’t know by how much,” added Tu Le, founder of Sino Auto Insights. “We’ll know much better after the first quarter is over.”
Rough Starts And Reversals
Xiaomi also struggled out of the gate. It sold 39,000 cars in January, which was an improvement over the same time last year, but a steep drop from the more than 50,000 EVs delivered in December. Xpeng’s January was even rougher. Sales fell 34.1 percent year-on-year to 20,011 units, and the month-on-month drop was starker still at 46 percent compared to December 2025.
Li Auto’s performance dipped as well, with deliveries slipping to 27,668 units for the month.
Competitors Capitalize
However, it’s not all bad news. One of the few bright spots was Aito, a newer brand backed by Huawei’s operating system, which reported more than 40,000 deliveries in January, marking a gain of more than 80 percent compared to the same month last year.
Sales at Leapmotor rose to 32,059, while Nio also reported an increase to 27,182 units. Geely sold more than 270,000 cars in January, a 1 percent increase year-on-year. Interestingly, its EV sales fell by 15 percent, while its PHEV sales rose 37 percent.
That performance has pushed Geely into second place in the country’s EV market behind BYD, thanks in part to strong momentum from its Galaxy and Zeekr brands.
Will China Step In?
The slowdown has fueled speculation that Beijing may step in once again. If the slump continues into the first quarter, analysts believe the government could reinstate certain subsidies or incentives
Samuel Tremblett, 20, died after his Tesla caught fire.
He called 911, saying he was trapped inside the car.
His body was later found in the Model Y’s rear seat.
Tesla has been hit with yet another lawsuit related to its electrically powered doors. Last week, the mother of a 20-year-old man who died following a collision in a 2021 Tesla Model Y filed a lawsuit against the automaker. The complaint was submitted to federal court in Massachusetts.
According to the filing, Samuel Tremblett was still alive after crashing his Model Y into a tree along Route 138 in Easton, a small town just south of Boston. He managed to dial 911 from inside the car, but a transcript of the call reveals he was unable to open the doors as fire began to engulf the car.
Trapped And Unable To Escape
“I’m stuck in a car crash,” Tremblett said on the call, no doubt in a frenzied state. “I can’t get out, please help me. I can’t breathe…It’s on fire…I’m going to die.”
Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene, but they couldn’t extinguish the blaze fast enough to save the young man. According to local media, fire responders heard four explosions from the Model Y within the first 10 minutes at the scene. It took four hours before the inferno was put out.
The lawsuit states that Tremblett suffered “catastrophic thermal” injuries as well as smoke inhalation. His body was found in the back seat of the Model Y. According to the complaint, he was unable to open the doors after the crash and succumbed to the fire before help could reach him.
How Tesla Doors May Fail
The lawsuit claims that the electronic exterior door handles on the Tesla Model Y may fail to open during a crash, making it impossible to access the vehicle from outside. In addition, the suite says that the interior mechanical door release is not clearly marked and may be difficult to locate.
This is especially problematic in the rear, where the emergency release is hidden beneath a plastic panel in the door pocket. It’s a simple cable, and many Model Y owners and/or passengers may not even realize it’s there.
The lawsuit cites 17 incidents, going back to 2016, in which Tesla reportedly received complaints of both adults and children becoming trapped inside vehicles during thermal runaway events.
Growing Regulatory Pressure
A recent report from Bloomberg says that at least 15 people in the US have been killed in crashes involving Tesla vehicles where the doors couldn’t be opened. Concerns over the operation of these electronic door handles have recently prompted a ban in China, and it’s possible that other countries could follow suit.
In the US, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced in September that it is investigating potential defects in some Model Y vehicles. These cases involve incidents where the external door handles allegedly failed following collisions.
Meanwhile, a US lawmaker has proposed legislation that would require manual door releases in new vehicles and provide first responders with reliable access when power is lost.
Lawmakers criticized Waymo’s growing reliance on Chinese suppliers.
Some robotaxi operations are remotely managed from the Philippines.
Senators raised national security concerns over foreign involvement.
Waymo chief safety officer Mauricio Peña fronted US lawmakers at a tense Senate hearing last week, where the self-driving tech company was accused of getting “in bed with China,” as it rolls out more of its robotaxis. The hearing also offered a reminder that beneath the polished image of AI, there’s still a reliance on human labor, often lower paid, sourced from abroad, and largely out of sight.
For years, the Google Alphabet-owned company has relied on the Jaguar I-Pace for its fleet, but Waymo is now preparing to roll out a next-generation, minivan-style robotaxi developed in partnership with Zeekr, a subsidiary of China’s Geely Group.
During the hearing, Peña told lawmakers that the United States is “locked in a race with Chinese companies for the future of autonomous vehicles.”
He also warned that without a clear national framework, the industry could end up facing a fragmented patchwork of state regulations that slows investment and limits progress.
Lawmaker Questions Zeekr Partnership
Sen. Bernie Moreno from Ohio didn’t let the irony of Waymo using a Chinese vehicle for its fleet go unnoticed. “You said in your testimony that we’re locked in a race with China, but it seems like you’re getting in bed with China,” he retorted during the hearing.
“Giving a natural market to a Chinese company to ship us cars is making us better and creating more jobs for Americans? That’s completely ridiculous,” Moreno added.
According to Business Insider, Moreno went on to suggest that Waymo could be sidestepping US laws designed to curb Chinese involvement in sensitive vehicle technologies. He speculated that the company might be using a “backdoor” to avoid complying with the federal connected vehicle rule, which was finalized last year but has not yet been fully implemented.
Peña rejected that characterization. He maintained that the Zeekr vehicles have “no connectivity” and that all of the autonomous systems are installed in the United States. He also argued that leveraging a global supply chain gives Waymo the flexibility to grow faster and build in operational safeguards.
Overseas Operators Raise Flags
Still, the issue of oversight didn’t stop at the hardware. During the hearing, Waymo revealed that in addition to using remote operators in the US, it also has some working overseas.
When asked for a breakdown of operator locations, Peña said he didn’t have exact figures but confirmed that while some are based in the US, others are much farther away, including in the Philippines, Futurism reports.
“They provide guidance,” he argued. “They do not remotely drive the vehicles. Waymo asks for guidance in certain situations and gets an input, but the Waymo vehicle is always in charge of the dynamic driving tasks, so that is just one additional input.”
According to Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts, “having people overseas influencing American vehicles is a safety issue,” adding that these are the jobs that Americans should have. He called the use of remote human operators outside the US “completely unacceptable,” according to Business Insider.
In a statement to Carscoops, Waymo emphasized that no remote employees drive the vehicles.
“Waymo’s fleet response teams are located in the U.S. and abroad. As we scale globally – including to London and Tokyo – we need some Fleet Response functions outside of the U.S. It is very important to note, however, their role is never to drive the vehicle remotely. Our technology, the Waymo Driver, is in control of the dynamic driving task, even when it is receiving guidance from remote assistance”, the spokesperson said.
Tesla Joins the Conversation
The vice president of vehicle engineering at Tesla, Lars Moravy, was also in attendance at the Senate hearing. He said that the US needs to “modernize regulations that inhibit the industry’s ability to innovate,” or risk losing the autonomous vehicle race.
“Federal regulations for vehicles have not kept up with the pace of the rapid evolution of technology,” Moravy said. He added that many safety standards still in place were designed decades ago and no longer account for today’s technical realities.
Update: We’ve added quotes from Mauricio Peña and a statement from Waymo.
Ferrari’s first EV named Luce, pairs retro tactility with futuristic digital tech.
Exposed aluminum and innovative layered displays are like nothing else.
Nardi-style steering wheel features power and chassis manettinos toggles.
If you thought Ferrari’s first EV would feel like an iPad on wheels, think again. The new cabin designed by former Apple man Jonny Ive is a gorgeous fusion of digital tech, tactile physical controls, and some retro styling cues guaranteed to make even a trip to the corner store feel like a Mille Miglia run.
Meet the Ferrari Luce, a name that means light and quietly hints that electrons can still have a pulse. Before we even see the bodywork in May, the Italians have pulled back the curtain on the interior to prove to us that maybe an electric Ferrari isn’t the devil’s work after all.
That design energy comes courtesy of LoveFrom, the creative outfit founded by Jony Ive and Marc Newson. Ive is famous for his work on touchscreen tech juggernauts like the iPhone and iPad, but for this project, he was adamant that the Luce needed plenty of real switches.
Toggles Are Back
So the Luce doubles down on physicality. Real buttons. Real toggles. Real rotary controls that click with satisfying precision. Ferrari says test drivers went through more than 20 rounds just to perfect the feel and sound of each switch. It is basically ASMR for your fingertips, especially the launch control switch, which is located above your head, aircraft-style.
Front and center is a steering wheel that looks like it time-traveled from the 1960s. Three slim spokes, exposed aluminum, and a layout inspired by classic Formula One cars. Nineteen CNC-machined parts make it lighter than a typical Ferrari wheel, yet it’s packed with finger controls so you can adjust things without playing touchscreen whack-a-mole.
Real Or Virtual?
Behind it sits a wild instrument binnacle developed with help from Samsung Display. Two wafer-thin OLED panels overlap to create deep, layered dials that look almost analog at a glance. There’s even a physical needle sweeping across digital graphics because apparently pixels alone weren’t dramatic enough.
According to Ferrari, the Luce’s digital displays were “inspired by both historic automotive cues and the purposeful, clear graphics found in aviation, particularly helicopters and aircraft.” The influence is easy to spot. The layout and typography are unmistakably automotive, a modern tribute to the Veglia and Jaeger instruments from classic Ferraris.
Start-Up Buzz
Ferrari messed up with the SF90, putting a nasty touch-sensitive start button on the steering wheel that killed much of the buzz you normally get from firing up a Maranello car. But it has redressed the balance with the Luce’s startup ritual. First, you insert a chunky glass key into a dock on the console. Its color shifts, then the drive selector wakes up in a coordinated light show.
We’ll have to wait until May to see the Luce’s exterior, though it’s likely we’ll learn more about the powertrain and chassis package between now and then.
Many of us thought we’d find it hard to get excited about an electric Ferrari, no matter how quickly it laps Fiorano, but if the rest of the car is as thoughtful and original as this cockpit there’s going to be plenty to love, even if it doesn’t have gas in its veins.
Skoda Epiq is the brand’s smallest EV and Kamiq alternative.
Built on VW’s MEB Plus with FWD and up to 267 miles of range.
Related to VW ID. Polo and Cupra Raval, starts from €26,000.
This year’s new Skoda Epiq still wearing a psychedelic disguise, but underneath the swirls and squiggles is a very clear message. This is the electric SUV for people who like their cars small on the outside, big on the inside and don’t want to pay a premium for swapping a combustion powertrain for an electric one.
Think of the Epiq as the baby brother to the Elroq and Enyaq, and the electric cousin of the Kamiq. At just under 4,200 mm (165 inches) long and riding on a 2,601 mm (102 inches) wheelbase, it’s squarely in city-friendly crossover territory.
However, Skoda claims packaging magic gives it one of the biggest boots in its class, at a surprising 475 liters (16.8 cu-ft). Fold the seats and you get 1,344 liters (47.5 cu-ft), which is properly useful family car stuff.
What’s Underneath?
Under the skin, the Epiq is Skoda’s first model on the new MEB Plus platform, a cost focused evolution of the VW Group’s electric toolkit. Unlike larger rear drive MEB cars, this one is front wheel drive, which helps free up cabin and cargo space.
It’s also closely related to the upcoming VW ID. Polo and the Cupra Raval, all part of the group’s affordable urban EV push along with the ID. Cross SUV.
Tortoise Or Hare?
The not very epic entry-level Epiq 35 makes 85 kW, or about 114 hp (116 PS), from a single front motor that gets it to 62 mph (100 kmh) in 11.2 seconds, and uses a 38.5 kWh LFP battery for up to 196 miles (315 km) of range. But a maximum 50 kW charge speed means fills will be slow, so this one is best suited to urban sorties from the house, not road trips.
The Epiq 40 bumps power to 133 hp (135 PS / 99 kW) and drops to 62 mph sprint to 9.8 seconds, with similar battery capacity but slightly faster 90 kW DC charging. At the top sits the Epiq 55 with 208 hp (211 PS / 155 kW) and a larger 55 kWh NMC battery good for up to 267 miles (430 km) of range.
Charging peaks at up to 133 kW on the bigger battery, meaning a 10 to 80 percent top up can take just over 20 minutes, and the 62 mph time is a spritely 7.4 seconds. That makes this little Skoda more road trip capable than you might expect from something that looks ready to spend its life dodging delivery vans and cyclists.
Big Screen, Eco Materials
Inside, Skoda promises its usual Simply Clever touches, a 13 inch central screen, a small digital driver display and lots of recycled materials. It hasn’t released any interior images of the finished car yet, but the cabin pics of the Epiq concept shown in the gallery below are surely at least 85 percent on the money.
We’ll get the real images in the coming weeks, along with prices, which are expected to start at $26,000 (£25k for the UK), matching those of the combustion Kamiq. That looks like good value next to Kia’s EV3, though the base EV3 is much more powerful and longer-legged. Renault’s 4 E-Tech also poses a strong threat thanks to its even lower entry price, better range and acceleration and more interesting design.
Toyota confirmed the Highlander is returning in a new form.
Launches as 2027MY as a battery-electric three-row SUV.
Teasers show AWD and BEV badges, confirming key specs.
The next chapter of Toyota’s SUV lineup is about to begin and it’s all-electric. Meet the all-new 2027 Highlander. As we suspected, the latest teaser confirms that Toyota will indeed use the Highlander name for its new three-row SUV.
While the full reveal lands on Tuesday, there’s already plenty to unpack from what we’ve seen so far. Here’s what we know, and what we’re watching for. Full launch coverage will follow as soon as the wraps come off.
The new video goes a bit further than the previous two. While we don’t get a full look at the vehicle in question, we get something far more concrete: badges. During a short 11-second clip, we see the Highlander wordmark along with two other logos.
The first is Toyota’s BEV badge, indicating that what we’re looking at is an EV. Second, it’s the brand’s AWD logo, so we can expect that it’ll be a dual-motor SUV. In previous teasers, we saw the general shape of the rear of the Highlander and then a shot from the third row looking forward. Both pointed to what we’ve learned today about what Toyota decided to name this SUV.
In the past, we’d seen a concept named the bZ5x. Based on new renderings of what we think the Highlander will look like, the two seem to be one and the same. To that end, it’s worth noting the abandonment of the bZ and BZ nomenclature.
That’s a trend we’ve seen from other brands lately as well, including Volkswagen, which is bringing back familiar names like Polo and Tiguan for its upcoming EVs.
After a less-than-stellar launch of the bZ4X, Toyota revamped the branding to just BZ. It then reused that same name on the upcoming BZ Woodland. Why it ditched the BZ name in favor of Highlander alone probably just comes down to branding and the pull of name recognition.
In the end, it’s a lot easier to sell people on something they’re already familiar with, like the Highlander name, than to build interest around a brand-new one, even if the product itself has little, if anything, to do with the original.
You can be sure that we’ll dig around on that front, though, because as you’re reading this, we’re preparing to see the new Highlander up close and in person at the launch site.
It’ll get unveiled tomorrow at 9:30 p.m. EST. When it does, we’ll have full coverage with photos, video, and hopefully some insider tidbits on one of Toyota’s biggest new SUVs in years.
Mercedes-AMG is preparing a third EV alongside SUV and GT EVs.
Third model remains under wraps but has been officially confirmed.
Simulated shifts and fake ICE sound are expected once again.
Mercedes-AMG isn’t just refining its performance playbook, it’s rewriting it with a two-pronged strategy. On one end, the brand is leaning back into larger displacement engines, bringing more inline-six and V8 models into the fold. At the same time, it’s investing heavily in electrification, with three bespoke EVs slated for release in the coming years.
The first of these will be the all-electric AMG GT four-door, previewed last year by the radical AMG GT XX concept. That model will be followed by a high-powered electric SUV that’s expected to produce more than 1,000 hp. A coupe version of this SUV is already in the pipeline as well, and Mercedes-AMG has said it should break cover by late 2027.
Mercedes-AMG chief executive Michael Schiebe confirmed the news during a recent interview with Autocar. While he didn’t share specific technical details about the coupe SUV, it’s a fair assumption that it will closely mirror the standard SUV beneath the surface, just with a more streamlined roofline.
More Dramatic Looks?
SHProshots
Interestingly, recent spy shots of the regular all-electric SUV from AMG show that it already has quite a low-slung shape, not too dissimilar to a Lamborghini Urus, rather than a more upright SUV like a Bentley Bentayga.
If AMG makes it even more coupe-like, it could end up looking just as dramatic in profile as the Ferrari Purosangue, not that you’d hear us complaining if that is the case.
It’s not the design of the SUV-coupe that will be the key selling point. As with the standard SUV, as well as the GT four-door, AMG’s third dedicated EV will be based on the bespoke AMG. EA architecture using trip Yasa axial flux motors.
Insane Levels Of Power
Both two- and three-motor versions are expected, with the range-topping potentially producing as much as 1,341 hp, or one Megawatt of power. This will allow it to leave more traditional combustion-powered super SUVs for dead, and could make it one of the quickest on the market.
Whether either of the two SUVs or the GT four-door can match the driving enjoyment of AMG’s more traditional V8s remains to be seen. In an effort to make them a little more exciting, AMG will add fake ICE soundtracks to its electric models, as well as simulated shifts like those pioneered by Hyundai’s N division.
75 percent of Germans say they probably won’t buy a Tesla.
Politics now shape how Germans view EV brands and buyers.
Domestic brands are gaining as Tesla’s appeal declines.
Tesla might be providing employment for thousands of Germans at its Berlin Gigafactory, but the nation’s car buyers have no interest in returning the favor by getting a Tesla of their own. A new survey suggests most Germans aren’t just hesitant about buying a Tesla, they’re actively swiping left on the idea.
According to research from the German Economic Institute, more than three quarters of Germans say buying a Tesla is off the table. Around 60 percent called it completely out of the question, while another 16 percent polled in the study said they probably wouldn’t buy one.
That’s not a minor wobble in brand appeal, it’s a serious collapse, and helps makes sense of Tesla’s 27 percent sales decline in Europe last year.
What makes it more awkward is that interest in electric cars in general is not the problem. According to DW, the same survey shows plenty of Germans are open to EVs, especially from domestic brands. Around one in five new cars sold there is fully electric and roughly 40 percent of those surveyed said they could imagine buying an electric car from a German brand.
Musk Is The Problem
Researchers point to Tesla boss Elon Musk as a big part of the story. His outspoken political positions, including voicing support for Germany’s far-right AfD party, and his association with President Trump, and by proxy, tariffs and US threats against Greenland and European security, have not exactly gone down smoothly with many German buyers.
Political views now play a major role in EV purchasing decisions in Germany, turning what used to be a tech and environmental choice into something that feels far more tribal.
Even groups you might expect to be more Tesla friendly aren’t rushing to sign order forms. Among supporters of Germany’s Green Party, who are generally enthusiastic about electric mobility, only one in 10 said they could imagine buying a Tesla.
On the other end of the political spectrum where AfD supporters live, enthusiasm for EVs overall is low, which drags Tesla interest down even further.
A Win For BMW And Mercedes
For German automakers, this looks like an unexpected gift. With Tesla stumbling in the court of public opinion, local brands suddenly have more room to sell their own electric models without having to wrestle with Silicon Valley star power. BMW’s new iX3 is one EV capitalizing on Tesla apathy. It’s nearly sold out for the year.
It is a reminder that in the EV era, software and charging speeds matter, but so does how people feel about the badge on the hood. But maybe Elon Musk doesn’t care, because he has his eyes on a bigger prize.
Having revolutionised the car market, Musk is going all in on robots and robotaxis, which have the potential to generate even more money for Tesla. Last month the CEO confirmed the Model X and S would be axed this spring to make way for Optimus robot production.
CATL says its new 5C battery lasts far longer than rivals.
Delivers 1.1M miles with repeated fast charging at 20 C.
Withstands 60 C heat and still offers over 500,000 miles.
New EVs come with long battery warranties, but used EV buyers picking one up years later don’t get that same safety net. And the thought that a car spent its early life tethered to a fast charger is a major worry. But according to one major Chinese battery supplier, that may not be the case for much longer.
CATL claims its latest 5C lithium ion pack can retain 80 percent of its original capacity after 3,000 full charge cycles when hooked up to a fast charger under ideal 20 degrees C (68 F) conditions. Do the math and that works out to roughly 1.1 million miles (1.8 million km). That’s taxi driver territory, not school run use.
Even when things get toasty, the numbers still look wild. CATL says that at 60 C (140 F), which it compares to a Dubai summer, the battery still holds 80 percent capacity after 1,400 cycles. That equates to around 520,000 miles (840,000 km), which is still more than many cars ever see.
Charge In 12 Minutes
The 5C label refers to charge rate in fills per hour. In simple terms, this battery can theoretically be charged from empty in about 12 minutes. Ultra fast charging like that normally hammers battery longevity, but CATL says clever chemistry and thermal management keep degradation in check.
According to the company, the secret sauce includes a more uniform cathode coating to reduce structural damage, a special additive in the electrolyte that helps repair tiny cracks, and a temperature responsive layer on the separator that slows ion movement if things start getting too hot. The battery management system can also target cooling to specific hot spots inside the pack.
All of this is aimed at making fast charging routine rather than something owners try to avoid. That could be a game changer for high mileage users like taxis, ride hailing drivers and delivery fleets, where downtime really is money.
Of course, this is all on paper for now. CATL hasn’t said when mass production will start or which cars will get these long-life packs first. Real world results often look less glamorous than lab numbers.
Still, if even half these claims hold up, the idea that an EV battery might outlast the car wrapped around it suddenly sounds a lot less like science fiction and a lot more like your next used car bargain.
PROS ›› Interior, good tech, great value CONS ›› Inefficient, slow A/C, heavy
Electric car startups are everywhere these days, but most struggle to move beyond the hype. Zeekr is one of the rare exceptions. In just five years, Geely Group’s premium EV-focused brand has already rolled out a handful of genuinely impressive models and is making real progress with its battery tech.
Initially, Zeekr’s models were sold only in China, but the company has since expanded quickly abroad. First came the smaller X, a compact SUV that shares its tech with the Volvo EX30 and Smart #1. Most recently, Zeekr launched the 7X in Australia. It’s been pitched as a Tesla Model Y rival, but can it really measure up to the world’s most popular EV?
QUICK FACTS
› Model:
2026 Zeekr 7X Performance AWD
› Starting Price:
AU$72,900 ($50,800) as tested
› Dimensions:
4,787 mm (188.4 in.) Length
1,930 mm (75.9 in.) Width
1,650 mm (64.9 in.) Height
2,900 mm (114.1 in.) Wheelbase
› Curb Weight:
2,385 kg (5,258 lbs)
› Powertrain:
Dual electric motors / 100 kWh battery
› Output:
637 hp (475 kW) / 524 lb-ft (710 Nm)
› 0-62 mph (100kmh)
3.8 seconds
› Transmission:
Single speed
› Efficiency:
21.8 kWh/100 km
› On Sale:
Now
SWIPE
After spending time living with the flagship 7X Performance AWD, we came away convinced. It doesn’t just keep up with Tesla’s best, it beats it in several areas, and in some cases, rivals EVs that cost two or even three times more. In short, it’s well worth your attention.
How Much Does It Cost?
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
Three different versions of the 7X are available. The range starts at AU$57,900 (equal to US$40,400 at current exchange rates) for the RWD, undercutting a Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive by AU$1,000 (US$700). Sitting in the middle of the 7X family is the Long Range RWD, priced at AU$63,900 (US$44,500), or AU$5,000 (US$3,500) less than the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive.
Perched at the top of the line-up is the Performance AWD, starting at AU$72,900 (US$50,800), making it comparatively cheap compared to the AU$89,400 (US$62,300) Model Y Performance All-Wheel Drive.
So, what do you get for your money? The 7X Performance AWD uses a 100 kWh NMC battery and has electric motors at the front and rear, combining to produce a monstrous 475 kW (637 hp) and 710 Nm (524 lb-ft) of torque. Thanks to its advanced 800-volt architecture, it supports DC charging at up to 420 kW and AC charging at 22 kW.
What’s It Like Inside?
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
It’s also a certifiable tech-fest, and this is no more obvious than in the cabin. Unlike Tesla and some competitors like Xpeng, Zeekr hasn’t adopted the same ultra-minimalistic approach that appeals to some but, to us, is usually an exercise in penny-pinching.
After pressing a button on the B-pillar to open the driver’s door, I was immediately struck by the remarkable fit and finish of the 7X’s cabin. Not only does it feel more premium and way more interesting than a Model Y, but it also feels of a higher standard than cars from legacy rivals like Kia’s EV5, and even BMW and Audi. In fact, the 7X’s cabin feels almost as plush as the Lotus Eletre I tested last year, which also comes from Geely but costs three times as much.
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
A 16-inch infotainment display sits in the center of the dashboard and is brilliant. It’s among the snappiest I’ve ever used, thanks to the high-end Qualcomm processor, and is an absolute joy to use.
Like so many other EVs, it has a smartphone-inspired setup with a swipe-down menu for shortcuts and notifications, as well as an in-depth settings menu. You don’t have to wait even a split second for the screen to load after sitting inside, and if your phone’s connected, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto will load instantaneously.
All the climate control settings are on the screen, and while auto scribes like ourselves often complain about this, it didn’t bother me in the 7X, as it’s easy to use, even on the move. However, I found it could take up to 5 minutes for the AC to start blasting really cold air on hot days.
What Else Makes The Cabin Stand Out?
The 13-inch digital instrument cluster and 36-inch head-up display are also superb, although the cluster offers very little scope for customization, which is a shame.
Zeekr’s designers and engineers were incredibly thoughtful when crafting the 7X’s cabin. There are beautiful knurled metal switches below the screen, metal speaker grilles on the pillars and door panels, and beautiful soft-touch materials across virtually every square-inch of the cabin, even along the lower parts of the door panels.
Elsewhere, there are hidden pockets on the door’s armrests, two 50-watt cooled wireless charging pads, and a gargantuan center console storage area. There are plenty of luxurious features too, including heated and ventilated seats, as well as massage functions for the front pews, which are among the best I’ve ever used. In the rear, there are even electronic sunshades that deploy at the press of a button, and hidden storage draws under the seats.
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
The 7X Long Range RWD and Performance AWD also include a 21-speaker audio system that’s incredibly adjustable and of great quality, although it didn’t sound quite as crisp as I would have liked. Zeekr has also added a panoramic glass roof, and unlike some rivals, it includes a folding shade. There’s even an interior camera on the B-pillar, which displays a live video to the infotainment screen, allowing drivers to keep a watchful eye on their kids at any time.
What About The Trick Doors?
Then there are the doors. As mentioned, they’re electric. From inside, you touch a button, and they will open, using sensors to determine if there’s an object nearby, automatically adjusting how far they’ll open. When entering, the doors can be pulled shut manually or by pressing the same button. The driver can even close the doors by stepping on the brake, just like a Rolls-Royce.
For the most part, these doors work well, although there were occasions when they didn’t open as wide as they could have, even if there was nothing blocking them. Fortunately, the electric functions can be disabled, and they can be used like manual doors.
The 7X also has adaptive Magic Carpet air suspension with Zeekr’s Continuous Damping Control system and five different ride heights, including one where it looks slammed to the ground, and one where it sits high enough for off-roading.
Visibility is good, though the rear window view is very limited. Given how much tech is found inside the 7X, it’s perhaps surprising that there isn’t a digital rearview mirror, similar to what sister brand Polestar uses. Storage space is great with 539 liters (19 cubic-feet) of cargo space, and 1,978 liters (69.8 cubic-feet) with the rear seats folded down. There’s also a 42-liter (1.4 cubic foot) frunk.
How Does It Drive?
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
With a serious amount of power, it’s no surprise that the 7X Performance AWD feels absolutely ferocious in a straight line. Zeekr says it needs just 3.8 seconds to hit 100 km/h, (62 mph) and that’s a figure we were able to match. There’s no need to worry about the acceleration being capped as the battery drains either, as it’ll still run sub-4.0 second times even below 30 percent state of charge.
The ‘Performance’ name could easily lead you to think this is a focused, razor-sharp model like a BMW M or an Audi RS, but that’s not the case. Let me explain.
SUVs, particularly heavy electric ones that place too much emphasis on dynamic handling, often have compromised levels of comfort. Some owners may be willing to live with this for an occasional blast along a mountain road, but for the vast, vast majority of driving scenarios, luxury EVs like the 7X need to feel polished and comfortable. That’s exactly the feeling Zeekr has achieved.
If you throw the 7X aggressively into turns, it offers immense levels of grip, but can feel a little unsettled. Additionally, the front seats offer very little bolstering, so you can slide around while behind the wheel. However, drive it at 80 percent of its capabilities, or below, and it feels just about perfect.
First is the ride. The adaptive suspension offers Comfort, Standard, and Sport options. The first is very supple, but perhaps is a little too floaty. For most of my time with the 7X, I drove it with the ride in Standard mode, finding it remained soft over speed bumps, without bouncing around unnecessarily. Even in the stiffer Sport mode, it feels softer than some other heavy electric SUVs, like the Kia EV5.
The steering also offers Comfort, Standard, and Sport settings. Regardless of which is selected, the steering remains sharp, even though it lacks communication like virtually all electronic steering systems on the market. Much to my surprise, I left it in Comfort most of the time, enjoying how light and direct the steering was.
Photo Credits: Brad Anderson/Carscoops
Zeekr has also done a superb job of calibrating the brakes, and they feel completely natural, as if there isn’t any regen going on, even though there is. Of course, there is also a one-pedal driving mode, perfect for use in town. However, the one-pedal mode isn’t nearly as strong as some rivals, so unless you lift off the throttle far in advance before a stop, you’ll still need to gently apply the brakes. That’s no drama, as even when driven spiritedly, the big orange calipers feel up to the task.
Whereas the RWD and Long Range RWD models have 19-inch wheels, the Performance AWD sits on larger 21-inch forged units wrapped in Continental EcoContact7 tires. Grip is good, although there’s quite a bit of tire noise at highway speeds. We suspect the 19-inch wheels are quieter.
Is Zeekr’s ADAS As Polished As The Rest?
Zeekr’s ADAS system is also a good one. It’s enabled just like Autopilot on a Tesla, offering good radar cruise control functionality, as well as active lane centering. During multiple long highway stints, it always kept me in the center of my lane and even includes an automatic lane-change function that worked faultlessly.
However, there was also one time when the entire ADAS system was disabled as I hit a bump while crossing onto a bridge. But, for the most part, it works well.
Interestingly, Australian models use a Mobileye software stack for their ADAS, where in other markets there’s an Nvidia system instead. This system is also included in the recently updated 7X launched in China, which features a 900-volt platform, and it is expected to come to Australia next year. According to some reports, the Nvidia system is even better, but we will have to wait and see.
How Far Can It Go?
Zeekr says the 7X Performance AWD can travel up to 543 km (337 miles) on a single charge and quotes power consumption of 19.9 kWh/100 km. During my time with it, I averaged 21.8 kWh/100 km with an even mix of urban and highway driving.
That’s not great, but it is better than the 22.4 kWh/100 km I averaged in the Audi SQ6 e-tron, even though it has 95 kW (127 hp) less grunt than the Zeekr. Those seeking better efficiency would be wise to opt for either the RWD or Long Range RWD models with driving ranges of 480 km (298 miles) and 615 km (382 miles).
What’s The Verdict?
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
The Zeekr 7X is superb in almost all areas. Its cabin is a key highlight: not only does it feel way more premium than a Tesla, but it also feels nicer than the excellent BYD Sealion 7, and many other German EVs, for that matter. Vehicles like the 7X have shattered the illusion that you need to buy something from a premium legacy brand, and to pay a hefty price, to get a high-quality vehicle.
While I haven’t had the chance to drive the RWD and Long Range RWD versions, I suspect that these will suit most buyers more than the Performance AWD. Regardless, all three have been competitively priced, offer amazing features, and once again prove that when it comes to EVs, the Chinese do it better than most.
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
Before yesterdayElectric Vehicles - Latest News | Carscoops
Canada cut Chinese EV tariffs from 100% to 6.1% in new deal.
Initial cap set at 49,000 vehicles, with future growth to 70,000.
Nearly half of new EVs expected to cost under $35k CAD to start.
A new trade agreement has cracked the door open for electric vehicles from China to officially re-enter the Canadian market. In exchange, the People’s Republic is easing up on tariffs for Canadian agricultural exports, especially canola. Yes, your future EV might be indirectly powered by salad oil diplomacy.
Cheap, tech-packed, and improving at a scary pace, Chinese EVs are terrifying North American automakers and fascinating savvy car buyers, and they haven’t even landed yet, kept out by tariffs and political caution.
This new agreement changes the vibe. Canada gets more affordable EV options because the tariff rate is being cut from 100 percent to 6.1 percent.
The initial annual import cap is set at 49,000 vehicles, or one third of the car market, but could grow to 70,000 annually five years from now. And crucially, around half of the volume is expected to cost less than $35k CAD ($25k).
But what would you buy? If price is king, the tiny BYD Seagull, sold in some markets as the Dolphin Surf, could be the ultimate city runabout. Sure, it looks about the size of a carry on suitcase with headlights, and Canadian winters are not exactly minicar friendly.
However, if the goal is getting more people into affordable EVs, this little hatch and its bigger Dolphin brother could be game changers for urban commuters.
Sedan fans looking for some style, will be hoping Xpeng’s P7+ (seen above) gets an invite, but if you’re determined to blow past that $35k budget you’ve surely got to be rooting for the Xiaomi SU7 sedan and YU7 SUV.
These are the cars that make traditional brands nervous and car nerds very curious. Ford CEO Jim Farley daily-drove an SU7 specially imported for him and his team in 2024 and described it as “fantastic,” telling an interviewer “I don’t want to give it up.”
Of course, there will be questions about service networks, long term reliability, and how these brands fit into Canada’s market. But purely from a car geek perspective, the idea of suddenly having access to this whole new wave of EVs is kind of exciting.
So Canadians, if these cars start showing up in showrooms, which one are you signing for? And if you are reading from elsewhere, play along. If you did live in Canada, what Chinese EV would be on your driveway?
Toyota teased the exterior and interior of a new three-row SUV.
Production rumored for Kentucky using U.S.-sourced batteries.
The model will be fully revealed on Tuesday, February 10.
A big reveal is just around the corner for Toyota, and it’s shaping up to be one of the brand’s most important new models of the year. Teased earlier this week and set to debut on February 10, the automaker is about to introduce a new three-row SUV, and there’s a strong chance it will be fully electric.
We’ve speculated that this new model could step in as a successor to the aging Highlander SUV, though it’s unclear whether Toyota will stick with that name, adapt it to something like “bZ Highlander,” or go in a different direction altogether.
This model has been a long time coming. Toyota first offered a glimpse of its planned seven-seat SUV back in late 2021, referring to it then as the bZ Large Concept. The latest teasers strongly suggest the production version is finally here, giving us a much clearer idea of what to expect.
Design Echoes the bZ Family
Illustrations Nikita Chuyko/Kolesa
As shown in these renderings, created by Nikita Chuyko for Kolesa and based on the original concept, the new SUV appears to follow the same design language as Toyota’s existing bZ models. The front end features headlights reminiscent of the original bZ, formerly known as the bZ4X, along with a blacked-out lower grille and prominent vertical air curtains.
The side profile isn’t particularly striking, but these renders do show the new SUV with very thin A-, B-, and C-pillars, just like the original concept. This should greatly improve visibility and help give the cabin a light, airy feel.
It has also been designed with both pop-out and traditional door handles. If Toyota is thinking ahead, it’ll stick with them, especially since China has now banned retractable versions and other countries could soon follow.
Illustrations Nikita Chuyko/Kolesa
These renderings also depict the new model with standard wing mirrors and rear-facing cameras in place of the mirrors. Given that no other Toyota has digital wing mirrors, we’d be surprised if this one does, but it’s not beyond the realm of possibility.
At the back, the design includes a full-width LED light bar connecting two taillight units, echoing styling trends across the industry.
Inside the Three-Row Cabin
After previewing the exterior, Toyota followed up with an interior teaser confirming the vehicle’s three-row layout. In the version shown, it appears to adopt either a 2+2+3 or 2+2+2 configuration with second-row captain’s chairs. Still, Toyota may offer an option with a bench seat in the second row, potentially increasing total capacity by one.
Front and center on the dash is a wide, horizontally oriented touchscreen perched above a row of physical buttons, possibly for climate control, volume, and other secondary functions. The driver has a separate, large digital gauge cluster. Second-row passengers, meanwhile, have access to their own climate controls housed within a dedicated center console.
Other visible elements include ambient lighting integrated into the door panels and a panoramic glass roof that appears to extend at least to the second row.
Toyota is expected to sell this new model in several different markets, with a particular focus on the US, where it will be sold alongside the current ICE Grand Highlander.
While official confirmation is still pending, this vehicle is believed to be the electric three-row SUV that Toyota has already announced for production at its Kentucky facility, powered by batteries sourced from North Carolina. As for timing, it’s rumored to launch sometime later this year.
Stellantis has announced they’re ‘resetting’ their business.
Company is dialing back on EVs and embracing choice.
Expects to lose up to $24.8 billion in second half of 2025.
Following the ouster of Carlos Tavares, Stellantis has been making big changes. As part of the shakeup, the company killed plug-in hybrids in North America and axed the fully electric Ram 1500 REV. Ram also brought back the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 and the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the TRX.
These are notable developments and they’re costing Stellantis a fortune. In particular, the automaker announced a $26.2 (€22.2) billion charge that is primarily related to their shift towards “freedom of choice.” This effectively means consumers can choose the powertrain of their liking as the company will offer internal combustion engines, hybrids, and EVs.
The revelation was part of a larger announcement, where the company revealed a “reset of its business.” We’ll learn more during Stellantis’ Investor Day event on May 21, but the automaker is dialing back on EVs as the “pace … needs to be governed by demand rather than command.”
CEO Antonio Filosa said, “The reset we have announced today is part of the decisive process we started in 2025, to once again make our customers and their preferences our guiding star.” He added the massive charges “largely reflect the cost of over-estimating the pace of the energy transition that distanced us from many car buyers’ real-world needs, means and desires.”
Filosa also slammed his predecessor as he noted the “impact of previous poor operational execution, the effects of which are being progressively addressed by our new team.”
Breaking Down The Numbers
Stellantis said $17.4 (€14.7) billion was due to re-aligning product plans with customer preferences and new emission regulations in the United States. It also reflects “significantly reduced expectations for BEV products.” Speaking of which, the company is writing off $3.4 (€2.9) billion related to cancelled projects.
Stellantis is also taking a $2.5 (€2.1) billion hit to “resize” their EV supply chain, while $6.4 (€5.4) billion is from other changes in the company’s operations such as workforce reductions in Europe.
For the second half of 2025, the company expects revenues of $92.2 – $94.6 (€78 – €80) billion. While that sounds pretty good, the company is expecting a net loss of $22.4 – $24.8 (€19 – €21) billion.
That’s a jaw dropping figure and Stellantis is responding by eliminating the annual dividend for 2026. The company’s board also authorized issuing up to $5.9 (€5) billion in bonds.
Needless to say, investors were spooked and Stellantis stock tumbled a staggering 23.69% to close at $7.28 (€6.16) per share.
A Few Silver Linings
Despite a lot of bad news, Stellantis revealed some positive developments including that second half consolidated shipments rose 11% to 2.8 million units. The company went on to note they saw growth in a number of key markets including North America, South America, Enlarged Europe, China, and the Middle East & Africa region.
The company is also addressing quality problems and this seems to be working. Stellantis said the “number of issues reported for vehicles in their first month of service decreased over 50% in North America, and over 30% in Enlarged Europe since the beginning of 2025.” The company chalked part of this early success up to improved methods and beefing up their engineering teams.
Furthermore, Stellantis is hoping a slew of new and updated products will drive sales. Key among them is the new Jeep Cherokee, Compass, and Recon as well as the facelifted Grand Cherokee and Grand Wagoneer. The Dodge Charger should also get a boost from a new twin-turbo inline-six, while the Hemi-powered Ram 1500 is already proving popular.
Ford has issued two new recalls for the Transit and E-Transit.
Both involve missing washers, but are entirely separate.
Recalls address slipping engines and a busbar connection.
Ford is already dominating the recall chart and we can add two more campaigns to their early lead. Both of them involve the Transit and one is hot stuff.
As you may have guessed, it involves a fire risk on the 2026 E-Transit. The van’s high-voltage battery pack could be missing washers, which can “cause high electrical resistance or electrical arcing.” This increases the risk of a fire as well as the potential for a loss of propulsion.
98 vehicles are impacted and the issue was traced back to missing washers on bolts used to secure busbar connections in the battery pack. Ford became aware of the issue last November, when a worker noticed two bolts were missing conical washers.
This kicked off an investigation, which eventually blamed the problem on a supplier sorting error that failed to detect the absence of washers during production. Thankfully, this appears to have been a rare oversight as Ford isn’t aware of any field reports and believes just 1 percent of the recall population is impacted, which equates to one van.
However, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so dealers will inspect and replace the busbar fasteners as needed. If there’s a bigger issue, technicians will replace the entire busbar.
Loose Engine Crossmembers
The second recall involves 1,403 Transit vans from the 2023 and 2024 model years. These vehicles have engine crossmembers that may not have been properly secured, which means the engine can shift and, potentially, result in brake failure or a loss of drive power.
The models were equipped with the off-road focused Trail package and the government says fasteners used to secure the engine crossmember to the vehicle body may not have included a washer. This can result in joint failure over time, causing the engine to slip out of position.
Last summer, Ford learned the Transit Trail modifier used substitute bolts that may not have included washers. This hadn’t been validated, so the automaker ran a series of tests to examine the possible implications. These “confirmed engine slip and loss of clamp load on assemblies with no washers.”
No problems have been reported and 1.1 percent of the vehicles are believed to be missing washers. Notification letters will go out later this month and dealers will replace the crossmember fasteners.
Genesis will introduce a bespoke platform next year.
It supports multi-energy configurations including EVs.
Architecture is designed to deliver a premium experience.
Genesis started out life as a high-end Hyundai, but it was eventually spun off as a luxury brand. The two companies have continued diverging ever since and a big differentiator is coming next year.
It’s a bespoke platform, which promises to deliver performance and refinement worthy of a premium brand. The architecture has reportedly been designed to be flexible and can accommodate both hybrid and electric powertrains.
Speaking to Autocar, Genesis Motor Europe’s Managing Director Peter Kronschnabl said, “It was decided that in order to fulfill the requirements of the brand’s driving dynamics, Genesis needs its own platform for … future models.”
Kronschnabl went on to suggest the architecture will be sporty as it will have “relatively direct steering” as well as a ride that’s firm, but comfortable. He added the new platform should enable Genesis to deliver driving dynamics that echo that of other premium brands.
It remains unclear what models will ride on the new architecture, but Genesis is working on an assortment of new vehicles including a high-performance sports car that was previewed by the Magma GT concept. The luxury brand is aiming to increase annual sales to 350,000 units by 2030 and this will be aided by the introduction of new hybrid, electric, and range-extended vehicles.
However, Kronschnabl suggested Genesis won’t go overboard and try to fill every niche known to man. As he explained, “We are not into that. At the moment, it’s very clear and segmented: we have the GV60, GV70 and the Electrified G80, and even with the new products we will not go to find the last niche, because this leads to confusion of customers.”
New Kaveya will use a U.S.-made solid-state battery pack.
Factorial’s battery tech also works with existing EV factories.
Karma delayed the hypercar to improve driving range and feel.
Karma Automotive, which emerged from the remnants of Fisker Automotive, recently ended production of its range-extender Revero and is now turning its attention to a far more ambitious project. In late 2023, the American brand previewed the Kaveya, a hypercar-rivaling electric coupe, and to bring it to life, it’s teaming up with a local solid-state battery manufacturer.
That partner is Factorial, a solid-state battery company with close ties to several global OEMs, including Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Kia, and Stellantis. Its technology will form the foundation of Karma’s upcoming electric platform, which will debut in the Kaveya.
Technical specifications for the battery pack are not yet known, but Factorial’s proprietary FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) solid-state design is engineered for compatibility with current lithium-ion manufacturing lines.
Up to 80 percent of the same production equipment can be reused, which could dramatically cut costs and speed up deployment. For a low-volume manufacturer like Karma, that’s a critical advantage.
Waiting Until the Tech Could Catch Up
Karma president and chief executive Marques McCammon says Karma delayed the launch of the Kaveya last year as it “did not yet see a clear path to fully delivering the uncompromising driving experience that should be expected from an American ultra-luxury vehicle company.”
Thanks to its partnership with Factorial, the company’s solid-state battery will offer better efficiency and a longer driving range compared with traditional lithium-ion batteries. When the Kaveya was first previewed, it was going to use a 120 kWh pack with over 250 miles (402 km) of range. In all likelihood, the new solid-state pack will be smaller and offer more range.
“Launching our first U.S. passenger-vehicle program with Karma is a meaningful milestone for Factorial,” said CEO Siyu Huang. “FEST was built to scale, and this milestone not only highlights the energy and performance solid-state technology can deliver but also underscores the global leadership of U.S. technology innovators. High-performance luxury vehicles require cutting-edge innovation, and this collaboration showcases what’s possible when performance leads.”
Hypercar Performance
Karma has already outlined some of the performance targets for the Kaveya. Dual electric motors will combine for a total output of 1,180 hp and 1,270 lb-ft (1,720 Nm) of torque. That should be enough to get the car from zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) in under 3 seconds, with a projected top speed north of 180 mph (290 km/h)
Electric YU7 GT packs 990 hp from dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup.
Voluptuous body bigger air intakes, large rear diffuser, red GT badge.
Reports say the Model Y Performance-eater could cost $60k-$70k.
Xiaomi isn’t content with making an SUV that looks almost as good as Ferrari’s. The Chinese tech giant’s high performance YU7 GT has surfaced in official Chinese filings, and if the numbers are right, this thing has enough power to make some V12 Purosangue owners sweat into their designer driving gloves.
The regular YU7 is already turning heads by mixing sleek looks with serious EV grunt. Now Xiaomi has cranked the dial way past sensible. The GT version gets a dual-motor setup pushing a combined 738 kW, which works out to about 990 hp (1,004 PS). Its combustion Ferrari lookalike makes do with 715 hp (725 PS / 733 kW).
Okay, so that’s not quite as crazy as the 1,526 hp (1,547 PS / 1,138 kW) punched out by the hottest version of the YU7’s sedan brother, the SU7 Ultra, but we doubt anyone who buys one will feel it lacking in go.
Spec papers logged with Chinas’ Ministry of Industry, Information and Technology (MIIT) list the top speed as 186 mph (300 kmh) and we’d put money on that being artificially limited. The battery is a lithium pack from CATL but electric range details are still under wraps.
Subtle Menace
Visually, the GT dials up the drama with, chunkier bumpers with angrier air intakes and a large rear diffuser. Red brake calipers peek out from behind 21 inch wheels, and there are matching red GT badges on the rail and doors to make sure nobody mistakes this for the sensible family version.
The regular YU7 lineup already stretches from single-motor, rear-drive models with around 315 hp (320 PS / 235 kW) up to dual-motor versions with as much as 681 hp (691 PS / 508 kW). Those cars helped Xiaomi rack up huge sales in China and even outranked the Tesla Model Y on home turf.
Priced to Shame Porsche
The YU7 GT sits higher, both in performance and, most likely, price. Early chatter from China point to a range between 450,000 and 500,000 yuan, or roughly $60,000 to $70,000. Porsche’s new Cayenne Turbo Electric makes significantly more power, with 1,139 hp (1,155 PS / 850 kW), but it starts at $163,000 in the U.S. and is expected to cost at least twice as much as the Xiaomi in China. No surprise, then, that Porsche is struggling.
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