Just a few years ago, the idea of someone targeting a Tesla charging station in a bombing attack would’ve seemed unthinkable. Today, it’s just the latest sign of growing anger aimed directly at Elon Musk. Authorities in Washington State believe an explosive device might have been planted at a Supercharger station, destroying part of the site and taking the entire location offline. Now, Tesla, the FBI, and local law enforcement are all trying to figure out what happened.

According to Lacey Police, a call came in around 1:30 a.m. reporting a “loud noise in the Sleater Kinney area.” When officers showed up at the local Target on 655 Sleater Kinney Rd, they found a severely damaged Supercharger station. Photos from the scene show one of the main cabinets of the charging station in several pieces. A Supercharger stall also has a piece missing.

More: Vandals Attack 5 Cybertrucks At Shopping Mall Triggering Police Hunt

The Lacey Police Department is calling the incident “malicious mischief” and said that it’s working with the FBI to sort out exactly what happened. In response to news of the event, Tesla itself responded on X to say that it’s working with the LPD and FBI to provide security camera footage. “Don’t mess with critical infrastructure,” it concluded.

Restoring Power—and a Bit of Normalcy

Notably, Tesla says it’s also working with Puget Sound Energy to get the Supercharger station back to full functionality so hopefully, those who rely on it won’t be without power for too long. This is, sadly, far from the first example of this sort of damage in recent months.

Protests span across not just the USA, but the world at this point. While most have been peaceful, a growing handful of incidents in the States and abroad are violent and or dangerous. Elon Musk has blamed the surge in Tesla-related vandalism on backlash to his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has become a lightning rod thanks to deep federal budget cuts and significant government job losses. He has also claimed that criticism from Democratic leaders has fueled hostility toward Tesla and its supporters.

It’s becoming clear that some protesters see Tesla as a proxy for Elon Musk himself—an easy, visible target to vent frustration. Unfortunately, that means owners, many of whom have no connection to Musk’s politics or public persona, are getting caught in the crossfire. In response to the uptick in vandalism, the FBI has launched a task force to investigate attacks on Tesla property. Even so, the broader wave of unrest shows no signs of slowing down.

We're on-site with @LaceyPolice and @FBI, and reviewing camera footage. Also coordinating with @PSETalk to get the Superchargers back online asap. Don't mess with critical infrastructure.

— Tesla Charging (@TeslaCharging) April 8, 2025

Credit: Lacey police

Depreciation comes with the territory when it comes to EVs and luxury German cars—everyone knows that. Still, even seasoned car watchers might do a double take at how quickly some of these high-end electrics shed value. Take this 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40, for example. It’s already lost a staggering $31,445, despite having just 714 miles (1,149 km) on the clock. We’re talking about a car that’s barely broken in.

The i5 was recently auctioned off on Cars & Bids where it traded hands for $46,250. That’s an absolute steal for an all-electric German sedan of this quality and way less than the original price tag of $77,695. While we feel a little bad for the original owner, the winning bidder seems to have gotten an excellent deal. However, it’s certainly possible that it’ll continue to depreciate at a rapid rate.

Read: BMW’s Recalls Just Recalled Themselves Because The Brakes Still Don’t Work

This version of the i5 is the eDrive40, the base model in BMW’s electric 5-Series lineup. It’s equipped with an 81 kWh battery that powers a single electric motor, delivering 335 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. According to BMW, that setup should get you around 295 miles of range on a full charge when paired with the optional 20-inch wheels, as seen here. Despite its entry-level status, the eDrive40 still does 0–60 mph in a very respectable 5.7 seconds. And that’s without a rollout for our Tesla readers.

Packed With Options

This particular i5 isn’t just a barebones base model either. The window sticker reveals that this car is fitted with the M Sport Package, M Sport Package Pro, and Premium Package, which add features like a heated steering wheel, interior camera, LED cornering lights, and a head-up display. It also has the Driving Assistance Pro Package and Connected Package Pro, adding real-time traffic updates, BMW remote services, and on-street parking information.

An EV Bargain?

As the car has barely been driven at just over 700 miles, it’s in excellent shape. The only visible flaws are a few minor scratches on the trunk lid—easily fixable with a bit of buffing. Otherwise, it’s practically new.

Aesthetics are subjective, but let’s just say we’re not in love with the styling of the current i5 or its gas-powered 5-Series siblings. Still, that might be easier to overlook when the price is slashed by over 40 percent. So here’s the real question: would you spend $46,000 like this buyer on an almost-new electric BMW with all the bells and whistles, even if it might keep shedding value?

Cars & Bids

Lancia unveiled the redesigned Ypsilon last year, but the company is already updating their new five-door hatchback. This is a boon for consumers as the model is getting more efficient.

Starting with the Ypsilon Electric, the 54 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery now comes with an “enhanced chemistry.” That isn’t the only change as the model also sports a more efficient powertrain.

More: Lancia Ypsilon Range Detailed, Mild Hybrid Starts From €24,900 In Italy

The company didn’t elaborate, but the EV now offers a WLTP range of up to 264 miles (425 km). This is an increase of 14 miles (22 km), which works out to be a roughly 6% improvement.

The Ypsilon Hybrid, on the other hand, gains marketing muscle as the company is being “more transparent about the actual power output.” That’s an odd statement, but the company said the combined output climbs from 99 hp (74 kW / 100 PS) to 108 hp (81 kW / 110 PS).

While that sounds like a healthy increase, Lancia explained the change by saying it was “made in anticipation of the Euro 7 regulation which, starting in November 2027, will require all hybrid models to state their combined output, and not merely that of the combustion engine.” This means that despite ‘gaining’ 9 hp (7 kW / 10 PS), nothing has changed and “everything under the hood is the same.” This includes actual performance and fuel efficiency.

That’s a bit disappointing, but Lancia said the move gives customers “more clarity and greater perceived value.” Speaking of the latter, pricing remains unchanged and both variants are now available.

Americans have been slower to switch on to the idea of owning an electric car than their British, European and Chinese counterparts, and now it looks like what interest they did have has already peaked and is sliding in the opposite direction.

While EV sales were up last year, the rate of take-up has slowed and the percentage of US drivers who either own an EV are open to buying electric has fallen over the last 24 months according to a new study. In 2025 barely more than half of American drivers give consideration to EV ownership, a Gallup poll found.

Related: Just 5% Of Americans Surveyed Want An EV As Their Next Car, But Is That Really True?

In 2023 the percentage of drivers who’d said they’d already switched to an EV or were genuinely think about making their next purchase an EV stood at 59 percent. When Gallup asked the same question in 2025 that number had dropped to just 51 percent.

You’d think that Elon Musk must surely take some credit for that fall. The Tesla CEO’s support for right-wing politicians last year hardly endeared his cars to a traditionally left-leaning EV audience, and this year’s controversial DOGE efficiency drive for the US government has only cemented his toxic reputation.

The Slide Started Before Trump (And DOGE)

And worries that EV tax credits could be axed and charging infrastructure growth stifled under the Trump administration might also look like viable causes for the slump. They’ve surely affected EV sales, but what’s interesting is that Gallup had already detected a slump in EV consideration long before Trump had taken office.

The percentage of US drivers who were open to buying electric had dropped to its current 51 percent level in the 2024 study, meaning that consideration has stayed steady since – despite the factors we just mentioned.

Throwing a magnifying glass on the changes between 2023 and 2025 reveals that women’s interest in EVs declined more than men’s (-7% vs -5%), and that interest among 18-34 year-olds fell by 11 percent compared with between 4 and 5 percent for older groups.

EV consideration among drivers who identified as Democrats slumped 11 percent, and the interest for Independents fell 7 percent. But the percentage of US drivers who aligned themselves with the Republican party and said they either owned an EV or were thinking about buying one grew 2 percent – that White House Tesla informercial clearly reached a few people as well as making everyone else retch.

Hybrid interest is rising

Although America’s interest in EVs seems to have flatlined, that doesn’t mean interest in electrification has done the same. Gallup also polled people on their attitudes to hybrids and found that the percentage who would consider one stood at 65 percent, 14 percentage points higher than for EVs.

The study found that older, wealthier and right-leaning voters were far more likely to consider a hybrid than an EV, whereas the gap between the two power sources was close for younger, less affluent and left-aligned drivers.

Interest in electric cars 2023-2025 – Gallup Poll

Interest in hybrids vs EVs, 2025 – Gallup Poll

Rivian’s not exactly cruising into 2025. The EV startup reported a rough first quarter, with sales down 36% year-over-year and only 8,640 new vehicles delivered. That’s a hard hit by any measure. But if you’re in the market for a Rivian, the silver lining is this: getting behind the wheel of an R1T or R1S has just become significantly more affordable thanks to several new incentives.

Between April 1 and April 30, Rivian is offering what it calls an ‘Electric Refresh’ offer to anyone who trades in a BEV, hybrid, or ICE vehicle from any automaker. This offer is valued at $3,000, cutting a significant chunk off the starting price of both the R1T and R1S. For Canadian customers, the discount bumps up to CA$4,300 upon trade-in.

Read: If You Thought Tesla’s Q1 Was Bad Rivian’s Was Worse

This isn’t the only deal Rivian is offering. In a direct play for Tesla’s customer base, the company is also offering an additional $3,000 incentive to current Tesla owners and lessees. As reported by Rivian Trackr, these two deals can be stacked, bringing the savings up to $6,000. US shoppers who choose to lease a new R1T or R1S will also get a $7,500 EV lease credit, bringing potential savings up to a generous $13,500.

Stacking Deals, But Know the Fine Print

While this deal may sound too good to pass up, it’s worth remembering that dealers will generally lowball you with a trade-in valuation. More often than not, you’ll be able to sell your car privately for more than Rivian will offer at trade-in. However, trade-ins are valuable for those who aren’t comfortable or have the time selling a car themselves, and are certainly a more stress-free way of changing cars.

Until the smaller R2 and R3 models hit the market, the Rivian R1T and R1S remain out of the price range of many shoppers, even with these discounts. The entry-level R1T Dual Standard starts from $69,900, and the range tops out at $99,900 for the R1T Tri version. The Rivian R1S SUV is a little bit pricier, kicking off from $75,900 for the Dual Standard and topping out at $105,900 for the R1S Tri. Quad-motor versions of the R1T and R1S are also just around the corner, but prices have yet to be confirmed.

Tesla is in a very difficult position right now. Since the beginning of the year, its stock price has nosedived by no less than 40 percent, defying analysts’ predictions after Donald Trump’s election win that it would skyrocket. How exactly did that happen?

Well, it doesn’t take a genius to figure out that Elon Musk‘s role at the new Department Of Government Efficiency, where he pushed for many civil servants to be fired over cost-cutting purposes, and his inflammatory rhetoric on several issues have backfired spectacularly, hurting not just Tesla’s image both in the US and abroad, but also its sales and, consequently, its stock price.

More: Calls For Investigation After Trump’s Commerce Secretary Urges Fox Viewers To Buy Tesla Stock

And let’s not forget Trump’s sweeping 25% auto tariffs, along with the broader reciprocal tariffs affecting roughly 90 countries, which helped send the stock market into a tailspin and didn’t do Tesla any favors either.

A New Political Identity With a Price

Not that long ago, the outspoken CEO identified as a Democrat, even though he had not dipped his toes into politics. That all changed seemingly overnight after he witnessed Trump’s reaction during an assassination attempt – or at least that’s what he said. Now a fully-fledged Republican, or rather staunch MAGA and Donald Trump supporter, he poured $277 million into the latter’s campaign. This seemed to be the best investment Elon has ever made; his net worth exceeded $400 billion after Trump’s election win in November, and he made history as the first individual ever to surpass that figure.

While analysts expected his close relationship with Trump to prove beneficial to his companies and revised their projections for 2025, since January, Tesla’s stock has actually plummeted by 40 percent. That’s because Musk may have become the MAGA crowd’s new darling, but this came at the cost of alienating and even frustrating a lot of people who criticized him for his stance.

Of course, Musk does have a lot of supporters, too, and many of them are currently in high places. One such person is the Trump administration’s Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, who, as reported by the Daily Beast, openly defended both Elon and Tesla. He called Musk “probably the best person to bet on I’ve ever met” on March 19 during an interview with Fox News’ Jesse Watters – but he didn’t stop there.

“I think if you want to learn something on this show tonight, it’s buy Tesla,” Lutnick said. “It’s unbelievable that this guy’s stock is this cheap.” He then urged viewers to invest in Musk’s company as its stock “will never be this cheap again”.

More: Musk Could Soon Leave Trump’s Administration, But The Drama May Still Follow Tesla

Apparently, a Cabinet member endorsing a private company’s stock and urging the public to put its money on it may or may not be ethically questionable, depending on where you stand in the whole debate, but no matter anyone’s opinion, it did nothing to stop Tesla’s fall.

On Monday, the stock was trading at $214.80, down from $235.86 when Howard Lutnick urged Americans to go all-in on Musk’s car company. At the time of publishing, it had slightly bounced back to $218. Still, that’s a steep drop from $404 on January 1, and even further from this year’s high of $428 on January 15.

A-List Unsubscribers

While Trump’s Cabinet may try to pump up their President’s new BFF, a lot of high-profile personalities are among his fiercest critics. Acclaimed and hugely successful author Stephen King didn’t mince his words on Musk’s own platform, X, and stated publicly what people were joking about in private:

“You can’t call Elon Musk the President-elect, because he wasn’t elected”, he wrote. “In fact, having been born in Pretoria, he is ineligible to become president. Nonetheless, he is running the show. You know that, but it bears repeating.”

It’s not just King bashing Musk on X, either; many owners have started trading their Teslas for something else in record numbers, either because they’re fed up with Elon’s politics or being targeted by others who spray or vandalize (and occasionally even torch) the EVs just because the company that builds them happens to be owned by Musk.

Moreover, many public figures have vowed to sell their Teslas due to his behavior. According to Business Insider, that list includes actors Bette Midler and Jason Bateman, singer Sheryl Crow, Angel investor Joanne Wilson, podcaster Zach Sang, and Senator Mark Kelly, among others, who have only bad things to say not about the cars, but the man who owns and runs their maker.

Image Credit: CNBC

It hasn’t even been a couple of months since Tesla began US deliveries of the new Model Y Launch Series, and already, here we are—salvage yard, round two. Hot on the heels of the one that crashed after just 197 miles (you know, the one we covered recently), this second barely-driven Launch Series is now up for auction, quietly awaiting its fate. The big question: is it worth saving?

More: Someone Already Crashed A 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper After Only 197 Miles

This particular Model Y is listed through Copart out of San Antonio, Texas. After rolling out of Tesla’s Austin Gigafactory, it seems the car didn’t make it far—state lines likely stayed uncrossed before it was rear-ended. The odometer tells the story as it only covered 106 miles (170 km) before its early retirement.

The damage is significant, and regardless of what you think about Tesla’s bread-and-butter seller, it’s still unfortunate to see a brand-new EV end up like this.

If anyone wants to try and repair this Model Y, they’ll need to order an all-new tailgate, rear quarter panels, taillights, light bar, and rear bumper. Importantly, these are only the parts that we can see are damaged, and some damage may have also been done to the body structure of the new Tesla.

Here’s where things get tricky. Tesla uses gigacasting extensively in the construction of the Model Y, and the whole rear section is cast from a single piece. While this has allowed Tesla to slash production costs, gigacasting can make repairs more difficult and expensive, if available. Admittedly, some methods have been developed to repair Tesla’s gigacasted sections, but even still, it can be quite a complex process and is only something experienced shops should attempt to undertake.

Read: Tesla Finally Launches Cheaper Model Y Juniper

Ultimately, it might not be worth the hassle as The math might not work out for a repair.. While Tesla is no longer selling the Model Y Launch Series in the US, it has started selling the Long Range All-Wheel Drive, pricing it from $48,990, or $41,490 with the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. That makes it a very good option for anyone looking at a new all-electric SUV of this size.

Still, if someone out there wants a project (and likely a headache), Copart’s got the listing and you can check it out for yourself here.

Copart

Toyota helped kick off the electrified era long before it was cool, way back in the late ‘90s with the launch of the Prius. That car didn’t just spark curiosity, it redefined what people expected from hybrids and made Toyota a poster child for practical electrification.

Read: Toyota’s Cheapest EV Ever Costs $15,000, Gets 10,000 Orders In 60 Minutes

But in recent years, as other automakers raced ahead with battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), Toyota found itself lagging behind, seemingly reluctant to join the full-EV sprint. Now, it’s shifting gears and planning a major EV expansion as it works to close the gap with its faster-moving rivals.

EV Production Plans Are Going Global

By 2027, Toyota reportedly wants to have as many as 15 electric models on sale, including those under the Lexus badge. It also aims to ramp up EV production to about 1 million units per year by that point. For context, that would be roughly seven times the number of EVs it built in 2024, a massive jump, if it can pull it off.

Toyota currently only builds EVs in Japan and China, but Nikkei Asia reports that as more of the upcoming EVs launch in the market, production will expand to the US, Thailand, and Argentina. One of the first to hit the market will be an electric version of the Hilux, set to be built in Thailand from October. This model will also be assembled in Argentina.

Toyota Is Facing Increased Competition

Toyota’s urgency makes sense, as it’s facing steep competition from automakers that have already hit their EV stride. Tesla and BYD each moved 1.76 million EVs last year. Volkswagen wasn’t far behind, selling 740,000 EVs globally. Compared to those numbers, Toyota’s electric efforts have been pretty modest so far.

A key piece of Toyota’s upcoming EV puzzle is the new C-HR+ EV, which was revealed about a month ago. This model sits below the larger bZ4X in the Toyota family and will be offered with 57.7 kWh and 77 kWh battery packs. Production of it will start at Toyota’s Takaoka plant in Japan this September, and in addition to being sold throughout Europe, it will be available in the USA and Canada from next year.

More: Toyota And Lexus Unveil 15 New Electric Concepts All At Once

Elsewhere, Toyota is planning to build a three-row EV at its Kentucky and Indiana plants from next year, serving as a rival to the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. Toyota is also continuing its EV partnership with Subaru, and the next result of that collaboration is scheduled to go into production in Japan in February.

As Chinese automakers continue to test Europe’s appetite for newcomers, BYD is making a move to stake its claim in the premium segment. The company has officially launched its Denza brand in Europe, aiming to grow its footprint in the region and challenge established luxury manufacturers. The first model to hit European streets will be the Z9 GT, with sales expected to begin by the end of the year.

Denza was originally formed as a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz back in 2011. But despite the star power behind it, the brand struggled to gain traction, selling just 23,000 vehicles in its first decade. Mercedes-Benz began scaling back its involvement in 2022, reducing its stake to just 10 percent before fully exiting the partnership last year. Denza is now entirely under BYD’s control.

Read: BYD’s Denza Z9 GT Rivals Porsche’s Panamera And Taycan For A Fraction Of The Price

The Chinese maker launched the Denza brand at a special event in Milan, Italy, earlier this week. According to BYD’s special advisor for Europe, Alfredo Altavilla, Denza will target traditional premium car buyers and younger customers with a keen focus on technology.

Back in China, BYD operates Denza alongside two other premium sub-brands, Fang Cheng Bao and Yangwang. According to ArenaEV, BYD plans to consolidate Fang Cheng Bao into the Denza lineup for Europe, starting with the Fang Cheng Bao Leopard 5, which will be rebadged as a Denza. It remains unclear whether Yangwang models will also be brought under the Denza umbrella for the European market.

Denza has not announced prices for its European lineup. However, while speaking with Reuters, Altavilla said the Z9 GT will be followed up by the luxurious D9 van at the end of the year. Both models will be built in and exported from China, even though the automaker plans to start building cars at its new plant in Hungary from October.

On paper, the Z9 GT is aimed at the likes of Porsche’s Taycan Sport Turismo, though it beats the German EV on size. It’s over 7.8 inches (200 mm) longer and rides on a wheelbase that’s 8.8 inches (225 mm) longer. Power comes from three electric motors producing a combined 952 horsepower, fed by a 100.1 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack. In China, the company also offers a PHEV version that combines a 2.0-liter turbo engine and three electric motors for 858 hp.

The Z9 GT’s performance numbers may place it in the same conversation as Porsche’s offerings, but its pricing in China suggests a very different customer base. There, Denza’s model is priced between 334,800 and 414,800 yuan (roughly $45,800 to $56,800), while Porsche’s comparable models, like the Panamera Sport Turismo and Taycan Cross Turismo, start around 1,008,000 yuan ($138,000) and stretch well beyond 1,500,000 yuan ($205,000), depending on trim and powertrain.

Tensions surrounding Elon Musk’s controversial public image continue to spill over—sometimes literally—onto Tesla vehicles. Police in Kentwood, Michigan, are asking for the public’s help in identifying two men believed to be involved in the vandalism of five Cybertrucks. As attacks on Tesla vehicles spread across the United States, some police departments are ramping up efforts to track down those responsible.

The vandalism took place on March 10, when five Cybertrucks were targeted while parked in a lot outside Woodland Mall. Each vehicle was spray-painted overnight, with one bearing the message “Nazis always lose” across its doors, a likely jab at Elon Musk and the widely criticized salute he made during President Donal Trump’s inauguration.

Read: Tesla Vows To Prosecute Vandals Over Swastikas, But Owners Have Little Recourse

Photos published by the Kentwood Police Department and shared by Fox17 show two young men who could be tied to the vandalism. One of them was wearing a green hoodie, blue jeans, and white shoes and was spotted near the area, while another had a blue and white hoodie, a beanie, black pants, and black shoes. Local authorities are urging anyone who recognizes the men to contact them immediately.

This is far from the only recent case of vandals attacking Tesla vehicles and property with Nazi-related messages. In February, a Cybertruck parked on the road in Lower Manhattan had a huge swastika painted across its side, while at around the same time, a Tesla Supercharger was also defaced with a Nazi message and a swastika.

The pattern of vandalism has even extended to Tesla’s own facilities. Police in Grand Rapids, Michigan, are currently investigating a separate incident in which a window was damaged at a local Tesla manufacturing site. According to reporting from MLive, the damage occurred sometime between March 28 and March 31.

Some law enforcement officials appear to be losing patience. Last week, Sheriff Richard Jones from Butler County, Ohio, described Tesla vandals as “fat people that live in their mom’s basement and wear their mom’s pajamas” and warned that anyone caught damaging a Tesla in his jurisdiction could face jail time.

While the motivations behind these attacks vary, police departments across the country are stepping up efforts to identify suspects and prevent further incidents. For now, investigators in Kentwood are hoping the public can help close the loop on their latest case.

JLR has been forced to temporarily pause its deliveries to the US due to Donald Trump’s import tariffs – tariffs that could make life difficult for the all-electric 2028 baby Defender EV that’s been spied testing for the very first time.

Due to launch in 2027, the chunky-looking electric SUV is much smaller than the Defender we know today, which will also get its own EV variant. And while it shares some visual similarities, like the wide hips when viewed from the back, plus flared fenders, an upright tail, and a long, flat roof, it will have its own style.

Related: Smaller ‘Defender Sport’ Will Reportedly Join Land Rover Lineup In 2027

Compared with the current Defender, this Skoda Kodiaq-sized prototype has a sportier rake to its windshield, slimmer headlights, and the C-pillar leans forward, rather than straight up. And under the skin, it’s a totally different animal, riding on the new EMA platform JLR will deploy for various new EVs, including the Evoque, Velar, and Discovery Sport. 

The company has so far only confirmed those three vehicles, but these pictures prove a Defender spinoff is also on the cards, and that move makes perfect sense since the Defender is the strongest sub-brand in the carmaker.

Featuring 800-volt tech for rapid charging that could allow the EVs to chow down on 350 kW for sub-18-minute refills, the models will all be built at JLR’s Halewood plant on Merseyside in the north west of England and use batteries produced in its new Somerset facility several hours further south.

Some rumors suggest the baby Defender could be called Defender 80 or Defender Sport when it hits the road ready to battle Mercedes’ upcoming baby G-wagon. The second of those names would make sense for a couple of reasons. Land Rover already used the Sport suffix on a Discovery spinoff, so buyers should easily understand it, and this prototype’s rising waistline and slanted C-pillar are two design details seen on the Discovery Sport.

Whatever it’s called, we’re expecting the smaller Defender to debut in 2027 as a 2028 MY vehicle, where it’ll undoubtedly be a hit in the UK, which is still lapping up EVs. But unless the current US tariff situation changes, this baby Defender could have a very grown-up sticker price in American showrooms.

Images: Baldauf

It wasn’t long ago that some people were shelling out high-end sports car money for lightly used Tesla Cybertrucks. The hype was real, the prices were wild—and now? Not so much. These days, you can pick up one of Tesla’s electric pickups for well under sticker price, and as time goes on, we suspect prices will continue to fall much further.

Read: Tesla’s Recall Fix Left This Cybertruck With A Burn Mark And Panel Gap

When it first hit the market, a Cybertruck AWD Foundation Series like the one seen here came with a $99,990 price tag before delivery fees and taxes. For those chasing maximum performance, the Tri-Motor Cyberbeast version stretched that figure to $119,990. Recently, this particular Cybertruck AWD Foundation Series crossed the auction block at Cars&bids for $82,000. That’s despite having only 2,600 miles (4,184 km) on the odometer.

Auction Highlights and Extras

The truck sold with a clean Carfax report and remains completely stock. The only modification is a $2,270 ceramic coating, which should make washing it less of a chore—no small feat when the truck in question is a rolling sheet of bare stainless steel. The sale also included a set of accessories, most notably the Cybertruck Cooler. It fits neatly in the frunk and can store up to 90 cans of your beverage of choice.

While the Cybertruck has been very controversial since the moment it was unveiled as a concept in 2019, there are plenty of people who absolutely love it. If you can get over the refrigerator looks, it’s hard not to be a fan of twin electric motors that combine to deliver 600 hp and 521 lb-ft (706 Nm) of torque. That’s enough to send it down the quarter-mile in roughly 12.4 seconds, all while spinning heads and dropping jaws in the process.

Importantly, this example also comes with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving package. And yes, while FSD is still a bit of a misnomer—and the feature remains in beta limbo—having it onboard does offer some future-proofing. If Tesla eventually delivers on its autonomy promises, owners of trucks like this one could be ahead of the curve. Or they’ll still be waiting. Time will tell.

It’s tough to predict what the used Cybertruck market will look like in a few years. What’s clear for now is that Tesla has delivered far fewer than it aimed to—nowhere near the 1 million pre-orders fans were once bragging about. The company hasn’t released official figures, but the recent cant rail recall, which appears to affect every unit delivered through March, offers a useful estimate. Just 46,096 trucks have reached customers so far, a number that proves demand hasn’t matched the early hype.

Aside from issues with the truck itself, the most likely factor is shifting public sentiment toward CEO Elon Musk, whose increasingly visible political involvement and especially his ties to the Trump administration through DOGE, has turned the Cybertruck into a rolling protest symbol. Add in early reliability issues and a growing stack of recalls, and it’s no surprise more are hitting the used market. If that trend continues, prices are bound to keep falling.

Photos Cars & Bids

With Chinese tech companies such as Huawei and Xiaomi making their foray into the automotive industry, legacy carmakers risk being left behind in what is quickly becoming a tech war. A market as large as China, which sees sales of EVs hitting over a million units per month, needs special attention. This is why BMW has teamed up with Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba in a quest to integrate AI into future models.

Read: Want A Ferrari 458 Shell? Alibaba Has One For $28,000

Alibaba may be best known for its online shopping empire, but like many tech giants, it has its fingers in many pies. One of these is AI, with the company doubling down on its ambitions. Alibaba’s Large Language Model (LLM) is known as Qwen, and the company has committed more than $50 billion to the platform over the next three years.

The first models to hit the Chinese market with the new tech will be the Neue Klasse series, set to roll out in 2026.

China’s Tailor-made AI Solution

Qwen is already available on models offered by some Chinese automakers, including Zeekr and Leapmotor. However, the partnership with BMW is a huge step for the platform, adding a global brand to its list.

BMW will be getting two AI agents, Car Genius and Travel Companion, to lead the charge inside the cabin. It’ll bring Alibaba-backed Banma’s Yan AI technology (based on Qwen) into BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA). This smart cockpit solution will enable more humanlike interaction, complex command handling, and seamless integration with digital ecosystems.

The aim will be to deliver an intuitive, AI-enhanced driving experience tailored specifically for Chinese customers. Bloomberg reports that the Car Genius will offer real-time vehicle assistance, while the Travel Companion will provide lifestyle services, intelligent trip planning, and even suggest restaurants based on user preferences, live traffic, and parking data. BMW says this will set a new benchmark in user-centric mobility.

China Matters

China is a critical market for any automaker, but with increased competition from domestic brands, companies like BMW can’t afford to play catch-up. That’s why partnering with Alibaba could be seen as a smart move, with the Bavarian manufacturer getting in on the ground level.

It’s a move that needs to pay off, too. Chinese sales of BMW and MINI brands declined by 13.4 percent in 2024, and this year’s projections don’t look great either. By investing in localized AI integration, BMW is not only hoping to boost its brand appeal but also close the gap with faster-moving domestic players.

For the automotive industry, especially in China, this partnership underscores a bigger shift. Software has become the defining factor in EV competitiveness. Local brands like BYD and Xpeng have surged ahead in the AI race, prompting legacy automakers to seek tech alliances to stay relevant. BMW’s collaboration with Alibaba is a direct response to these market dynamics.

The deal also highlights the growing dependency of European automakers on China for digital capabilities. As Mercedes-Benz’s Georges Massing recently admitted, Europe lacks the cloud and compute infrastructure necessary to train large AI models at scale, leaving traditional OEMs increasingly reliant on partners like Alibaba to deliver cutting-edge cockpit experiences.

In a market where innovation cycles are measured in months, not years, BMW’s tie-up with Alibaba might be the thing that makes a difference. As AI becomes a central battleground for automotive differentiation, those who can integrate it deeply and meaningfully into the driver experience stand to lead the next era of mobility.

With the Neue Klasse set to roll out from 2026 and Qwen-powered agents embedded in its DNA, BMW is betting big that its future in China will be written in code.

Opel, the German brand Stellantis picked up from GM, is preparing to launch a new generation of its largest SUV offering, aiming to appeal to buyers who want a blend of everyday practicality and performance without making (many) compromises in either direction.

Continuing in the footsteps of its predecessor, the range-topping version of the new Opel Grandland is expected to wear the GSe badge. This trim typically carries a slightly sportier look than the rest of the lineup, and new spy shots of a lightly camouflaged prototype recently caught testing in Europe hint at some styling tweaks in the works.

More: Which European Car Should Stellantis Import Or Rebadge For America?

Although the prototype is finished in all black, Opel may opt to paint the bumper cladding, side skirts, and wheel arches in body color to help distinguish the GSe variant visually. The presence of duct tape on the front and rear ends suggests there could be some updates hiding underneath—possibly redesigned bumpers or aerodynamic tweaks.

Another telling detail is the black alloy wheels with a diamond-cut finish appear to be larger and sport a different design than those found on the Grandland GS Line.

SH Proshots

Hybrid Roots, Electric Future

Like its platform-mates, the Peugeot 3008 and 5008, the Grandland benefits from the flexibility of the STLA Medium architecture, which supports mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.

The prototype of the Grandland GSe misses out on the front bumper intake which is found in all trims with a combustion engine under the hood. This suggests that the GSe will likely use a zero-emission powertrain. If that’s the case, it would mark a clear performance step up from its PHEV predecessor.

The GSe stands for “Grand Sport Electric”, so a dual electric motor setup sounds like the most fitting option. Currently, the high-output version of the electric Grandland makes 320 hp (240 kW / 326 PS). This is already more powerful than the plug-in hybrid setups of the old Grandland GSe, which was rated at 296 hp (220 kW / 300 PS), and the new Astra GSe warm hatch/estate that makes 222 hp (165 kW / 225 PS).

More: Opel/Vauxhall Astra GSe Is An Electrified Warm Hatch And Estate With 222 HP

Interestingly, the previous Grandland GSe didn’t offer more power than the regular plug-in hybrid model, instead focusing on a revised chassis setup. Whether Opel sticks to that formula this time or actually turns up the performance dial remains to be seen.

When Will It Arrive?

The Opel Grandland GSe is expected to arrive later in 2025. The SUV could be joined by sportier versions of the Peugeot 3008 and 5008, potentially adopting the iconic GTI badge, which has been confirmed to make a return. As for the upcoming Citroen C5 Aircross twin, it may skip a performance variant altogether, given its comfort-focused character.

SH Proshots

One of the benefits of owning an electric vehicles is reduced maintenance compared to ICE-powered cars. That’s the theory, at least. In practice, one owner has found his Kia EV6 to be less of a technological marvel and more of a recurring electrical problem. His 2024 model has chewed through multiple 12-volt batteries in just a year, prompting him to file a lemon law claim.

While the EV6 has been broadly praised as being an excellent EV, it’s not without fault. Over the years, there are have been several reports of battery failures. We’re not talking about the expensive high-voltage battery pack that powers the motors, but rather the 12-volt battery. According to one Facebook group user, he has gone through three of four of these batteries and says he’s initiated a lemon law claim.

Read: First Look At 2025 Kia EV6 GT With Ioniq 5 N Power And Simulated Gearbox

Most Kia EV6s delivered in the United States come standard with traditional lead-acid 12-volt batteries, rather than AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries, which are generally considered to be far more superior. AGM batteries use a fiberglass mat to hold the electrolyte, offering better cycling performance and longer lifespan.

The most recent battery installed in this particular EV6 appears to have been one of the lower-grade OEM lead-acid units, and it clearly failed well ahead of schedule.

A photo he shared on the EV6 owner’s Facebook page shows acid leaking from the failed battery and corroding the tray beneath it. According to the owner, his EV6 Wind RWD has only about 4,500 miles on the odometer after one year of ownership and yet it’s already gone through multiple 12-volt batteries.

More: Rivian Owner’s DIY Taillight Repair Saves Thousands And Teaches Us A Lesson

The general consensus among other EV6 owners appears to be that the original 12-volt batteries from Kia aren’t up to par, and it’s better to just install an AGM and move on. What’s puzzling is that the dealership handling this particular case hasn’t done so, especially since, according to users on the Kia EV Forums, the Korean carmaker began equipping EV6s with AGM batteries from the factory as of late 2024.

If there’s one automaker that’s decided to go all-in on electric vehicles—and do it quickly—it’s Kia. Few legacy brands have cranked out as many notable EVs in such short order, and Kia’s made it clear they’re not just dabbling. The company’s goal is to sell 1.6 million EVs per year by 2030, and depending on your location, there’s already a variety of sleek, electrified options to choose from.

The EV6 was the first of a new generation of electric vehicles from Kia and quickly proved itself to be a solid Tesla rival. It’s since followed it up with the larger seven-seat EV9, and, more recently, the smaller EV3 and EV5. Of that bunch, the EV5 may turn out to be the most important.

Why? Because while the EV6 is a solid product, it doesn’t follow the traditional SUV formula—it has a more coupe-like styling that puts it somewhere between a crossover and a hatchback. That’s where the EV5 comes in. It’s a more conventionally shaped, all-electric compact SUV, and it undercuts the best-selling Tesla Model Y on price in many markets. To find out how it performs day to day, we spent a week living with the entry-level EV5 Air Standard Range model.

QUICK FACTS

Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

Bargain Price

Perhaps the most important thing about the new EV5 is its price. For many years, legacy brands couldn’t compete with Tesla on that front. Then, new competitors from China started to undercut Tesla’s offerings. The EV5 has done the same thing.

In Australia, prices for the EV5 start at AU$56,770 (~$33,500), including all on-road costs. That makes it significantly cheaper than the entry-level Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive, which carries a AU$64,347 (~$40,300) tag. This also means the EV5 is far cheaper than the EV6, which is priced from AU$78,564 (~$49,200). Indeed, even the flagship EV5 GT-Line, starting at AU$75,990 (~$43,600) is cheaper than the base EV6. It seems inevitable that the EV5 will poach sales from its sibling.

Unfortunately, though, Kia has no plans to sell the EV5 in the United States.

FWD And AWD Options

Three different powertrain configurations are available. The base model, which we tested, has an electric motor at the front axle, rated at 215 hp (160 kW) and 229 lb-ft (310 Nm) of torque. This motor receives its juice from a 64.2 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery and has a claimed WLTP driving range of 400 km (249 miles).

Review: 2025 Kia EV3 Makes Everything We Love About The EV9 More Affordable

To put that into perspective, the cheapest Model Y has a quoted range of 466 km (290 miles). However, Kia buyers who aren’t satisfied with 400 km (249 miles) of range can opt for the 2WD Long Range version, which retains the same 215 hp (160 kW) motor, but uses a large 88.1 kWh battery. This model boosts the range to 555 km (345 miles), and yet, at AU$63,990 (~$40,100), it’s still cheaper than the Tesla.

The EV5 is also sold in Earth AWD Long Range and GT-Line AWD Long Range versions. This models add a 94 hp (70 kW) and 125 lb-ft (170 Nm) motor to the rear axle, resulting in a combined 308 hp (230 kW) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm). They have the same 88.1 kWh pack, but the range drops to 500 km (311 miles) for the Earth and 470 km (292 miles) for the GT-Line. On paper, then, the EV5 sounds like the perfect electric family SUV.

Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

Basic Interior, But Good Tech

Stepping into the EV5 for the first time, there’s no mistaking that this is a base model. But, for most, it will be more than adequate.

Sharp lines and edgy surfaces dominate the design of the cabin. This is most apparent with the dashboard itself, which is very striking. Unfortunately, almost the entire dash is made from hard black plastic, with not a square inch of soft-touch material in sight. It’s a similar story with the door panels. Other than the small arm rests and material near the door handles, the entire door is hard black plastic.

Fortunately, the seats feel a little more premium, neatly combining soft leather inserts and cloth accents. They’re soft, supple, and hugely supportive. Nice headrests, similar to those found in the EV9, are also featured.

Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

Several other parts have been borrowed from the EV9, including the four-spoke steering wheel and the same volume slider and physical switches for the fan speed and temperature control. All EV5 models also come standard with a panoramic display, combining a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. There’s also a 5-inch screen for the climate control between those two 12-inch displays.

More: Check Out The New Kia EV5 From Every Angle As Global Exports Begin

The center console of the EV5 is one of its biggest talking points. Rather than installing a normal item, Kia has extended the material from the front passenger seat across the center of the cabin, making it look like there are three seats up front. There’s then a large armrest and some open storage compartments lower down in the console. It looks pretty cool but has no advantage over a normal console. In fact, it’s worse, as there’s no covered storage area. Not even the chunky armrest opens up to provide any storage.

Fortunately, space at the front is ample and both screens work well, while Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. The second row also offers heaps of space. Unlike the EV6 which has a sedan-crossover body style limiting headroom, the EV5 stands much taller, benefiting rear passengers. It’s also a lot roomier than a Model Y. I’m 6’2” and I had roughly 2 inches of headroom and 4 inches of legroom in the back with the driver’s seat in my preferred position. That means the EV5 is plenty big enough for families. There are also individual air vents in the pillars and USB-C ports on the back of both front seats.

The positives don’t stop there. Much like Honda’s ‘Magic Seats,’ the backrests of the EV5’s rear seats are hinged to the bases, allowing them to be folded down perfectly flat. There’s plenty of carrying capacity at the rear, too, with a rated 513 liters (18.1 cubic-feet) of cargo capacity with the rear seats up.

Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

A Good Daily For The Family

As the EV5 represents a new era of affordable electric vehicles from Kia, it perhaps should come as no surprise that it doesn’t quite feel as polished as the EV6. Even still, it’s pretty good.

Compared to a Sportage, the EV5 rides noticeably firmer. It’s not uncommon for EVs to ride more harshly than their ICE rivals, and weighing in at 1,910 kg (4,210 lbs), the base EV6 is 402 kg (886 lbs) heavier than the entry-level Sportage. As a result, it can feel a little bumpy and unsettled across changing road surfaces.

Those who place an emphasis on driving experience should also be aware that the front-wheel drive EV5 has hot hatch levels of torque steer, even at 70% throttle. With 215 hp (160 kW) and 229 lb-ft (310 Nm), it’s not particularly powerful, but that grunt does tug at the wheel when accelerating in a straight line or while cornering. But, for most drivers, who will rarely ever press the throttle more than 50%, it’s a non-issue.

In wet conditions, the EV5 really struggles to put its power to the ground. Just look at the throttle the wrong way, and the traction control system will quickly cut power, trying to stick the tires to the pavement. Turn off the traction control and the EV5 will furiously spin up its inside front wheel while exiting corners, leaving a thick black line in your wake. The choice of tires is partly to blame for this. They are Nexen Roadian GTXs that simply aren’t up to the task.

Read: US Won’t Get The Kia EV5, But The K5 Might Stick Around For Longer

Overall, this is not an EV that wants to be driven in an aggressive manner. Instead, it responds much better to soft and smooth inputs and remains well-insulated from outside noise even at highway speeds. The steering is light and direct, and as with other EVs from Hyundai and Kia, the braking is excellent. In fact, it’s impossible to detect when the mechanical brakes take over from the regenerative ones.

The level of regen can be adjusted with the paddles behind the steering wheel, and there is a one-pedal driving mode that works brilliantly. From behind the wheel, the EV5 does feel quite big, even though it’s almost exactly the same size as a Sportage, but it remains easy to place on the road.

The EV5 needs roughly 8.5 seconds to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in this guise, which feels more than adequate.

Unlike most other Hyundai and Kia EVs, the EV5 does not use the group’s E-GMP platform and instead, is underpinned by the cheaper N3 eK 400-volt system. This means it’s capped at 140 kW peak charging speeds, and thus needs 36 minutes to charge from 10-80%. During our time with the EV5, we averaged 17.6 kWh/100 km, and depending on how you drive, eking 249 miles (400 km) out of the battery is definitely achievable.

Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

Verdict

As a family SUV, the EV5 feels mostly well-resolved. In this base form, it does not have the same dynamic prowess as the EV6, nor even the much larger EV9 GT-Line, and there are areas of the cabin where it’s clear Kia has tried to save some money. However, at this price point, the EV5 doesn’t really have any compelling rivals that aren’t from China. Even the uninspired Toyota bZ4X is roughly AU$10,000 (~$6,200) more expensive.

We’ve yet to drive the new Model Y, but if the old model is anything to go by, I suspect the new one will ride better and be more enjoyable to drive than the EV5. However, the cabin of the Kia is far more expansive, and for most family buyers, that’ll be more important than having fun behind the wheel.

Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops

It turns out the unstoppable rise of Chinese EV exports might not be so unstoppable after all. For Western carmakers fretting about the growing threat posed by a maturing Chinese industry, we’ve got some welcome news. Exports of EVs from the Asian country have dropped by almost one fifth.

The number of electric vehicles leaving the country was down by 18 percent to 92,625 in February compared with the same month in 2024. That’s according to numbers from China Customs crunched by the analysts at Bloomberg.

Related: Locked Out Of The US, Chinese Carmakers Are Taking Over The Middle East, Latin America, Africa And Asia

A combination of tariffs on Chinese imports in Europe, the loss of government incentives, a rise in demand for PHEVs and a drop in demand for Tesla’s cars through a combination of people waiting for the facelifted Model Y and not wanting to be associated with CEO Elon Musk are partly to blame.

A Bigger Dip in Key Markets

The overall -18 percent figure disguises some much more worrying drops in demand in some key markets. Because while Thailand’s 17 percent slide to 6,252 units tallies with the total reduction, in some countries the number of imports from China halved – and it’s worth noting that some of those exports are of Chinese-built EVs with Western names.

According to Bloomberg, exports to Korea plummeted 51 percent to 3,151 units and Spaniards showed an almost equal disinterest in buying Chinese EVs: exports to Spain were down 49 percent to 2,664. Belgium’s drop in demand wasn’t quite so bad in pure percentage terms, but looks far more serious when you see just what a big player the country is in China’s export program. It accounted for 10,105 of the 92,625 cars exported in February.

Chinese EV exports by country

Exports to the UAE also make for grim reading. They were down 20 percent to 3,231 units, but not everyone was giving China’s EVs the cold shoulder. The number of cars landing in the UK fell a comparatively modest 2.9 percent to 8,362 and the Philippines was only down 0.9 percent to 8,225.

Some countries even experienced a big jump in a positive direction. Indonesia was up 79 percent, Turkiye was up 131 percent and Mexico just couldn’t get the things off the boast fast enough. Exports there were up 623 percent – though only to 7,847, putting it behind Belgium, Britain and the Philippines.

But looking at the numbers according to region rather than specific countries shows exports were down everywhere except Africa, which still only accounts for one in every 73 Chinese exports, so isn’t worth getting too excited about just yet. Asia remains the biggest destination for exports, taking half of all the EVs moved out of China and exports there dropped only 2.7 percent. But in Europe, which takes almost a third of the 93k total, they fell 30 percent, having only been down 14 percent in January.

Chinese EV exports by region

Not too long ago, road rage incidents were mostly fleeting anecdotes – heated moments that vanished as quickly as they came. A decade or so ago, dashcams were still niche gadgets and the idea of catching someone’s highway tantrum on video was far from routine. Of course, bullying Teslas wasn’t as popular then either. Now, the combination brings us a new situation where those who want to bully a Tesla need to recognize that they’re on camera. Several cameras in fact.

Recently in Florida, one Tesla driver experienced this firsthand. While the original video has since been taken down from the Facebook group that shared it, it captured a driver in a Mazda sedan cruising up beside a Cybertruck before abruptly cutting it off on the highway for no appreciable reason. Perhaps they forgot Teslas come equipped with more cameras than a low-budget reality show. Either way, the footage shows the Mazda driver clearly sizing up the truck just before swerving ahead.

More: Driver’s Fiery Road Rage Rant Swiftly Hit By Karma

It then captured the passenger in the Mazda giving the Cybertruck driver the bird. Of course, it also caught the very unique touches on the sedan including a decal on the door, a kayak and storage bin on the roof, and a disc golf goal on the hitch. The driver found the Mazda owner on social media only a few hours later but declined to comment based on their concerns about their safety.

Tesla owners everywhere are making this point all too clear these days. On a separate occasion, a group of people walked by a Cybertruck. Some flipped the Tesla the bird and one person appeared to draw on the vehicle with a black marker. The owner of the pickup has every right to post online and to try to hold these folks accountable.

The only thing better than Brandon Joseph Belez getting arrested and prosecuted for keying this Tesla is knowing this video will be the first thing every potential future employer will see right before offering the job to anyone else not this stupid. pic.twitter.com/crGT7mU0bf

— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) March 20, 2025

In another Cybertruck-related incident, a person vandalized the side of the pickup before walking away. Once again, the cameras caught everything. In this case, though, the owner ended up finding out who the perp was. In fact, the person evidently ended up with two charges of criminal mischief.

Keep in mind that this isn’t only a Tesla-centric thing. Rivian’s vehicles come equipped with full 360-degree recording. BMW offers a similar feature, and automakers like Mercedes and MINI have integrated dashcams available too. Subaru, Toyota, and Lexus also offer built-in options, some more robust than others.

More: Elon Musk Hater Kicks A Cybertruck And Instantly Regrets It

Road rage has never been a good idea, but now it’s not just dangerous, it’s incredibly easy to document. Whether you’re flipping off a stranger, cutting someone off, or dragging a disc golf basket around while doing it, there’s a good chance someone’s camera system is rolling. And depending on the car, it might be recording from multiple angles, all in high definition, ready for both the internet and the authorities.

Screenshot / Video Reddit

Image Credit: A Facebook User

The idea of two American hallmarks of the automotive industry going all-electric might have sounded like a bad sci-fi subplot just a few decades ago, but here we are, watching it happen in real time. The Mustang Mach-E GT Performance and the Dodge Charger Daytona are taking their rivalry to the track in a U-drag race to determine which EV carries its weight (literally) better.

As a reminder, a U-drag race is exactly what it sounds like. At the end of a quarter-mile conventional drag race, the competitors have to turn around and race back to the start line as fast as they can. Essentially, the test helps us understand acceleration, braking, and handling in one convenient competition.

Read: Stellantis Halts Charger Daytona Production As It Temporarily Cuts 5,400 Jobs And Idles Plants

Our entrants are two of the most controversial American cars this side of a Tesla. First up, the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance, which delivers 480 horsepower (357 kW) and 700 lb-ft (948 Nm) of torque. It weighs in at around 4,950 pounds (2,245 kg), making it over 1,000 pounds (453 kg) lighter than its rival.

In the other corner, there’s the Dodge Charger Daytona, weighing in at a hefty 5,974 pounds (2,709 kg). Sure, it’s heavier – by a lot – but it makes up for it with sheer muscle. When the driver hits the special “Powershot” button, the Charger unleashes 670 horsepower (499 kW) and 630 lb-ft (853 Nm) of torque, turning that mass into serious forward momentum.

Numbers vs. Reality

Specs are nice, but we’re here for results. Off the line, the Mustang jumps ahead, its lighter weight helping it put its power down quicker. But it’s short-lived. The Dodge claws back ground almost immediately and overtakes before the first leg is over.

By the end of the quarter-mile, the Dodge is more than a full car length ahead. In the bend at the end, the Mustang is quicker to make the turn, but not quick enough. The Dodge has a large enough lead that it exits the corner ahead and stretches that lead to the finish line.

Round Two: Dodge Power, Ford Control

Race two goes largely the same way, but with one notable change: the Charger struggles during the braking segment and nearly moves into the Mustang’s lane. The consensus is uniform; the Charger is faster, but much more unruly. It feels like an old-school muscle car, says one host.

Of course, that’s not really a good thing in this case. It’s not the performance that we all love about old-school muscle cars, but rather the unwieldy nature that the new Charger mimics. That sounds like it’s in line with other comments we’ve heard about it. Hopefully, we’ll get our first chance to drive one soon.

For now, the Charger wins on speed, but the Mustang makes a case for balance – just not enough of one to cross the line first.

Credit: Edmunds

The Hyundai Motor Group stormed the Seoul Mobility Show with an impressive array of concepts and production models. Besides the redesigned Nexo and facelifted Ioniq 6, Genesis brought a beautiful G90 coupe and convertible.

That brings us to Kia, which introduced a couple of PV5 Spielraum concepts. Named after the German word for “play space,” the vans are built for digital nomads.

More: The PV5 Is Kia’s Idea Of An Electric Minivan

The first is the Spielraum Studio concept, and it’s essentially a store on wheels. The rear doors open to reveal shelves that can display products, while the cargo area has a clothes rack as well as clear cases holding shoes.

The oddities continue inside with a smart mirror, coffee machine, and what appears to be a refrigerator. They’re joined by a round chair as well as an LG Styler, which is billed as a “clothing care solution designed for garment caring, focusing on sanitization and deodorization through TrueSteam technology.”

Since AI is the latest buzzword, artificial intelligence has been incorporated into the concept to monitor your schedule and calculate the remaining travel time to your destination. It also recommends settings for the LG appliances housed within.

The Spielraum Glow Cabin concept goes in a different direction thanks to a lounge-like interior with a wraparound sofa and covered walls. Kia says this variant was “designed to cater to the growing demand for car picnic experiences,” so it features a refrigerator, oven, and wine cellar. We can also see what appears to be a cooktop and storage compartments.

This would make for an interesting tailgating vehicle, and Kia noted the appliances are covered by color-changing MoodUP panels. Users can adjust their look via the LG ThinQ app.

It’s no coincidence that Kia and LG teamed up for the concepts as the two firms have decided to “collaborate on the implementation of mobility space solutions based on PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) technology.” The companies didn’t go into many specifics, but we can expect to find LG’s AI and appliances in PBV vans.

The firms said the tie-up will enable owners to transform their vehicles into a personalized office, studio, or lounge. We can expect to learn more in the future as the partnership is slated to bear fruit in the second half of 2026.