Normal view

There are new articles available, click to refresh the page.
Today — 10 September 2025Electric Vehicles - Latest News | Carscoops

Mercedes Is Preparing A 40-Car Blitz To Reshape Its Future

  • Mercedes has invested more than €2B in its European assembly plants.
  • Important new models include the electric C-Class and multiple AMG EVs.
  • Between 2024 and 2027, it aims to cut its production costs by 10 percent.

The arrival of the new all-electric Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology marks more than just a significant model launch. It also signals the start of what Mercedes describes as the largest product offensive in its history.

Read: Star-Stricken Mercedes GLC EV Has A Grille Big Enough To Swallow A BMW iX3

Over the next three years, the company plans to launch more than 40 new models while working to significantly cut production costs. At the same time, it is making the controversial shift away from a pure luxury focus in order to pursue higher-volume, more affordable vehicles aimed at strengthening its financial position.

To prepare itself for a slew of new models, Mercedes has invested more than €2 billion ($2.3 billion) in its European assembly plants. Once the production ramp-up of the new electric CLA is completed at its Rastatt site in Germany, the brand will start building the GLC EQ in Bremen as well as the all-electric C-Class EQ in Kecskemét.

Expanding the Lineup

\\\\\\\\\\\\\

At the same time, the carmaker’s Sindelfingen plant will begin producing new electric models from Mercedes-AMG, including the production version of the recently unveiled Concept AMG GT XX.

While speaking at the launch of the new electric GLC, Mercedes-Benz chief executive Ola Källenius noted that “with the new electric GLC, the biggest product launch in our company’s history continues to gain momentum.”

Among the lesser-publicized additions is the upcoming VLE, an all-electric luxury MPV developed on the company’s new Van Electric Architecture. Designed to carry up to eight passengers, it highlights Mercedes’ intent to cover a broad range of segments. The lineup also expands with an electric “baby” G-Class SUV, a refreshed S-Class, next-generation versions of the GLA and GLB, and more.

 Mercedes Is Preparing A 40-Car Blitz To Reshape Its Future

Digitialization and AI

As Mercedes ramps up the production of several new models in Europe, it’ll integrate its MO360 and MO360 Data Platform production ecosystems into the plants, allowing for ‘digital twins’ of the sites to be made, where future improvements can be tested and verified before being implemented into the plants.

More: Mercedes Drops The “L-Word” And Is Ready To Flood The Streets With Mainstream Cars

Mercedes-Benz has also said that it will decrease production costs by 10 percent between 2024 and 2027. In addition to using digitalization to help achieve this, Mercedes will use artificial intelligence, increase the use of renewable energy, and push for greater production and logistics efficiency. 

\\\\\\\

VW ID.4 Gets A Stealthy Blackout But Something Bigger Waits In The Shadows

  • Volkswagen has introduced a new Black Package for the 2025 ID.4.
  • It adds black mirror caps and door handles as well as 20-inch wheels.
  • A facelifted crossover is already in the works and can’t arrive fast enough.

Earlier this year, Volkswagen announced the 2026 ID.4 would be getting a minor update, which would see the S Plus trim equipped with HomeLink. That wasn’t exactly a riveting change, but it’s interesting to note as the company has just announced an update to the 2025 model.

The S and S Plus are gaining a new Black Package, which promises to deliver an “even bolder, more distinctive look.” As the name suggests, it adds an assortment of black components including the mirror caps and door handles. Buyers will also find black badging and dark 20-inch alloy wheels. S Plus variants go a step further as they add an auto-dimming driver’s side mirror.

More: Here’s What’s Coming To VW’s 2026 Lineup

The Black Package costs $695 on both trims. However, pricing for the ID.4 Pro S starts at $50,195, while the all-wheel drive-only ID.4 Pro S Plus begins at $57,295.

The rear-wheel drive variant has 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS) and 291 miles (468 km) of range, while all-wheel drive models have 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS) and 263 miles (423 km) of range.

\\\\\\\\\

From ID.4 to ID. Tiguan?

While it’s a little late in the model year for updates, bigger developments are on the horizon. In particular, Volkswagen confirmed a “mid-model-year change” is coming in 2026 and it will see the ID.4 “receive additional features.”

Details are limited, but Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer has previously described the update as a complete “redo” inside and out. He also suggested the changes will be so extensive that the facelifted variant will be a “completely different car – a huge step up.”

We can also expect a revamped interior with a greater emphasis on physical switchgear. Rumors have even suggested the model could be called the ID. Tiguan as the automaker has moved away from alphanumeric monikers and embraced names such as ID. Cross and ID. Polo.

 VW ID.4 Gets A Stealthy Blackout But Something Bigger Waits In The Shadows

Audi’s Sports Coupe Won’t Be Called TT, But It’ll Lie To You Like One

  • Audi’s Concept C becomes a production sports car by 2027 without the TT name.
  • Features may include a virtual gearbox and simulated five-cylinder engine sounds.
  • CEO hints at R8 revival but focus remains on launching the new electric coupe first.

When Audi discontinued the TT, demand for sports cars was very limited and, for a time, no replacement was in sight. However, a successor is finally on its way. The brand’s striking Concept C is “90 percent there” in terms of production planning, according to the four-ring brand’s CEO. Evidently, it’ll roll into showrooms in 2027, along with fake gear shifts and faux five-cylinder noises. Here’s everything we just learned from Audi’s boss.

For those who haven’t being paying attention, the Concept C that made its world premiere this week showcases Audi’s big new design direction. It’s a mix of mostly straight angular lines with a few soft curves here and there. CEO Gernot Döllner said that it’s something in between the TT and the R8, and that’s an apt description of the car from the looks of it.

Beneath the surface, it shares close ties with Porsche’s next 718 EV, a project that is still in development though running behind schedule.

Read: Audi’s Concept C Previews A Porsche-Linked Sports Car Coming Sooner Than You Think

What’s truly interesting, though, is what Top Gear got out of Döllner at the Munich motor show. There, he confirmed that “It’s a fully-functional concept, street legal, you’ll drive it soon.” There’s still one glaring omission, however: a name.

A Car Without a Name

According to Döllner, development moved so quickly that the team didn’t have time to settle on branding.

“It’s not a successor to the TT – it will not have the TT name. We were so fast in developing the concept, we didn’t have time to find a name, so called it Concept C,” Döllner said. “To be honest, it could start with an R or be a name. Sometimes it’s easier to develop a car than find a name for it,” he continued.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink

Virtual Gearbox Plans

That’s not the only new detail. The upcoming production car will almost certainly have a virtual gearbox. “We found that a virtual gearbox and sound really add something to driving an electric car. Even on the racetrack, I’m faster with a car with a virtual gearbox,” he told the magazine. “We’re developing it, I think we’ll have one. The company is quite open to finding innovative solutions in this area.”

Also: Mercedes Boss Says Audi Concept C’s Interior ‘Looks Like It Was Designed In 1995’

Those innovations may extend to sound as well. Döllner hinted that Audi could simulate the iconic growl of its five-cylinder turbo engine, a nod to enthusiasts who still mourn its slow fade.

When asked about the lifespan of the engine that lives under the hood of the RS3, Döllner confirmed that it’ll die at some point soon as Audi will not update it for the Euro 7 emission regulations. On the flip side, he did say “maybe it will come back virtually.” We can’t think of a better car for it than whatever the Concept C turns into. 

Could The R8 Return?

As for the possibility of a new R8 built on the Lamborghini’s Temerario‘s hybrid V8 twin-turbo platform, surprisingly, that door hasn’t been closed. “Of course there’s room for another car, but we need to go step by step. First of all I have to focus now on our core segments and carry this new design language to series production cars,” Döllner explained.

\\\\\\\\\\

Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink

Canada Freezes EV Mandate And GM Boss Can’t Stop Smiling

  • General Motors wants EV policies in Canada to be reflective of consumer demand.
  • Canada had planned for all light-duty vehicle sales to be BEVs or PHEVs by 2035.
  • Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a 60-day review of the country’s EV policy.

It’s not just in the US where the federal government is backing away from previous electrification commitments. Last week, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that the government will no longer implement a mandate that would have required 20 percent of all new vehicles sold in Canada by next year to be electric. Unsurprisingly, this news has been welcomed by GM.

Read: Canada Walks Back EV Mandate Amid US Trade War

While recently speaking at an EV conference in Vancouver, GM Canada president Kristian Aquilina noted that the transition to electric vehicles will be volatile and that policies should reflect customer demand.

Automaker’s Perspective

“When it comes to EV adoption, it’s not going to be linear,” he said. “It’s going to be a lot of noise in the system that causes adoption to be a little bit more volatile than what an idealistic straight-line adoption curve that is enforced by a mandate would suggest.”

“In summary, we would be pursuing a future whereby EV policy in this country is just a bit more reflective of the realities of consumer demand, rather than a forced outcome,” Aquilina added.

 Canada Freezes EV Mandate And GM Boss Can’t Stop Smiling

Canada’s original plan set out a gradual ramp-up of EV sales until 2035, when all light-duty vehicles sold would need to be either plug-in hybrids or fully electric. By scrapping the 2026 mandate, Carney’s government has signaled a shift in approach, though it has also launched a 60-day review of the country’s broader EV program. According to CTV News, internal government documents suggest that annual sales targets may still be amended.

Good for Carmakers, Bad for Drivers?

Not everyone sees the delay of EV mandates in the country as harmless. Adam Thorn, director of transportation at the Pembina Institute, argued that relaxing the mandate helps automakers but undermines long-term benefits for Canadians.

“While automakers are facing serious challenges due to U.S. tariffs, the government could have maintained the overall purpose of the regulation by adjusting existing compliance flexibilities to provide automakers some much-needed breathing room,” he said.

Thorn suggested options like extending credits for plug-in hybrids and charging infrastructure, modestly easing targets, or reconsidering tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, steps that could support the industry without weakening Canada’s overall electrification goals.

 Canada Freezes EV Mandate And GM Boss Can’t Stop Smiling

Tesla’s EV Market Share Just Sank Below 40% But It Might Not Even Care Anymore

  • Tesla once held 80 percent of total EV sales in the United States.
  • The brand now views itself more as a robotics and AI company.
  • Legacy automakers are launching compelling EV rivals to Tesla.

For much of the past decade, Tesla has dominated the U.S electric vehicle market, setting the pace for competitors and enjoying a head start that seemed unshakable. Even in 2025, it still holds a larger share than any other individual brand. But fresh sales data suggests that grip is loosening.

In August, Tesla’s share of U.S. EV sales slipped below 40 percent for the first time since October 2017, hinting that its early advantages may be running thin.

Read: Elon’s $1 Trillion Payday Only Requires A Little World Domination, Nothing Major

New data from Cox Automotive reveals that last month, Teslas accounted for 38 percent of all EV sales in the country. While any legacy automaker would be over the moon to have this kind of commanding domination over a specific market segment, it’s a significant fall from grace for Tesla, which once had an 80 percent share of total EV sales.

New Products, New Pressure

The upcoming Tesla Cybercab could give the company a lift in the U.S. market, but it faces tough odds of replicating the success of the Model 3 and Model Y. With only two seats and no traditional controls, the vehicle leans entirely on autonomous driving, a design choice that severely limits its mass appeal, not to not to mention the legal hurdles. Current regulations in most states still require conventional driver inputs, and the patchwork of laws governing self-driving cars means Tesla would face a slow, uneven rollout.

Meanwhile, rivals have been closing the technology gap and rolling out their own appealing, competitively priced electric models. That steady drip of competition has eroded Tesla’s once-unassailable lead.

 Tesla’s EV Market Share Just Sank Below 40% But It Might Not Even Care Anymore

Chasing an AI Identity

Some analysts argue that Tesla may not be particularly worried about protecting its auto market dominance, Reuters notes. In recent years, the company has been repositioning itself as a robotics and artificial intelligence firm, despite the fact that its automotive business still generates the bulk of its revenue.

“I know they’re positioning themselves as a robotics, AI company,” Cox Automotive director of industry insights Stephanie Valdez Streaty told Reuters. “But when you’re a car company, when you don’t have new products, your share will start to decline.”

The Market Heats Up

Data from August shows that the EV market grew by 14 percent in the US. No doubt a large contributor to this surge is the fact that the federal EV tax credit will be scrapped at the end of this month. While overall EV sales were up, Tesla’s growth slowed 3.1 percent.

Cox Automotive expects Tesla’s market share to keep shrinking as more legacy manufacturers gain traction. “These legacy manufacturers are all benefiting from this sense of urgency, and they’re able to have attractive offerings for their vehicles – and it’s working,” Streaty said. “I think we’re going to continue to see this momentum through September.”

 Tesla’s EV Market Share Just Sank Below 40% But It Might Not Even Care Anymore

China’s $17K Deepal Electric SUV Just Got Euroflated To $46K

  • Deepal S05 debuts in Europe with sharp styling and a minimalist interior.
  • Entry-level models deliver 301 miles of range from a 68.8 kWh battery pack.
  • Range-topping version offers 429 hp and 276 miles of WLTP driving range.

Yet another Chinese electric SUV has launched in Europe, and this one has the potential to be quite popular. Known as the S05, it comes from the Changan-owned Deepal brand and will be available in three different guises, starting from €38,990 ($45,900) in Germany. With a sharp exterior design and a minimalist cabin, could it rock the establishment in the same way that many BYD models have?

All versions of the Deepal S05 to be sold in Europe come standard with a 68.8 kWh battery, which is quite small for an SUV of this size. The base model, known as the RWD Pro, features a single electric motor producing 268 hp and 214 lb-ft (290 Nm) of torque, allowing it a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.5 seconds and a 180 km/h (112 mph) top speed. None of those figures is world-beating, but they are definitely adequate for daily driving duties.

Read: Deepal G318 Is A Range-Extender EV With Up To 424 HP From Twin Electric Motors

The RWD Pro offers an estimated range of 301 miles (485 km) on the WLTP cycle. For those who want a little more equipment, the mid-tier RWD Max, priced from €41,990 ($49,400) in Germany, carries over the same powertrain and quoted range. At the top of the lineup sits the AWD Max.

More Power, Less Range

Thanks to the inclusion of a second electric motor, this model delivers 429 hp and 370 lb-ft (502 Nm) of torque, allowing it to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds. Unsurprisingly, the added power cuts the vehicle’s range down to 276 miles (445 km).

\\\\\\\\\\

Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink

While there’s nothing extraordinary about the exterior design of the S05, it does look reasonably sporty with sharp headlights, taillights, and an attractive shape. Like so many other EVs out of China, the interior is relatively sparse, but it does appear to be clad in some lovely leather. Notably, the vehicle features a 15.4-inch infotainment display, two wireless charging pads, and two cupholders.

Price and Positioning

Compared to the Model Y, the Deepal S05 from Changan is noticeably cheaper, as the Tesla starts at €44,990 ($53,000) in Germany for the base RWD version. However, the S05 is significantly pricier in Europe than it is in its home market, largely due to import tariffs, local taxes, and added fees. In fact, in China, the Deepal starts at just 119,900 yuan, which is the equivalent of just $16,800 or €14,300.

 China’s $17K Deepal Electric SUV Just Got Euroflated To $46K
Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink



Mercedes Teases New Mini G-Class That’ll Be A Real G-Class In Every Way But One

  • Baby G-Class gets downsized styling nearly identical to the full-sized off-roader.
  • The SUV rides on a bespoke ladder-frame-based platform designed for rugged use.
  • Reports suggest the new compact off-roader will launch exclusively as an EV.

You can never have too much of a good thing, and Mercedes-Benz has finally realized this, spending the last couple of years developing a baby version of the G-Class. This new model, currently known as the Mini G, will feature a similar boxy design to the full-size G but will utilize a new platform. With Jaguar Land Rover also developing a smaller version of the Defender, there’s never been a better time to be a fan of the two brands.

Read: This Is Everything We Know About The Mercedes Mini G

Mercedes has remained tight-lipped about the smaller G-Class for quite some time now, but at the ongoing Munich motor show, company boss Ola Kallenius and tech leader Markus Schafer announced some very interesting details about it.

Built From The Ground Up

For starters, Schafer confirmed that it will have an entirely new platform, described as a “miniature ladder-frame chassis,” complete with the suspension and wheel size setup you’d expect from a traditional ladder-frame-based model, albeit “not ladder-frame to [the] extent” of the current G-Class.

“Over time, just looking at the car’s capabilities and what’s needed, I came more and more to the conclusion that everything has to be unique, the whole upper body and everything,” Schafer said according to Autocar. “You know, I can’t even take a door handle from [the current] portfolio, because the G-Class has such unique door handles.”

“So we spent a lot of time tuning this car, and over time we started to develop so many unique components to make sure it’s very, very good-looking car and very capable,” he added.

 Mercedes Teases New Mini G-Class That’ll Be A Real G-Class In Every Way But One
Illustration John Halas/Carscoops

Holding Onto The Classic G Look

Ola Kallenius added that test mules of the new model will “be appearing on roads very soon.” He also flashed a darkened teaser image on a screen, revealing the baby G will have virtually identical taillights to its larger sibling, as well as a rear-mounted spare wheel.

Mercedes design boss Gorden Wagener noted the Mini G will look very familiar, noting “we will give a slightly different tweak: a bit more sharpness, a bit younger graphics, but still circle. So it’s really details,” he said. “But otherwise we stick to the G, and it’s a modern G – even a touch more modern than the big one.”

Electric Future

In every respect the Mini G is being engineered to stay true to the G-Class formula, but the one exception is under the hood, where Autocar reports it will launch exclusively as an electric vehicle, skipping combustion engines entirely. That sets it apart from the full-size G, which still offers both powertrain choices. When asked directly about the plans, Schäfer kept things vague, replying only, “Stay tuned. I don’t want to go into this detail.”

 Mercedes Teases New Mini G-Class That’ll Be A Real G-Class In Every Way But One

Opening image via gwagenspottersclub/Instagram

Polestar Just Benched The Only Fun Thing It Was Making For A Crossover

  • One of Polestar’s most important upcoming models is a new crossover called 7.
  • CEO says the new model will appeal to a broader audience than current offerings.
  • Limited details are known about the second-generation Poletar 2 that’s in the works.

It’s been about three years since Polestar confirmed it would turn the O2 Roadster Concept into a production model called the Polestar 6. The sexy convertible was expected to share its powertrain with the Polestar 5 that was introduced in Munich, serving as a stylish halo car for the brand. That plan, however, has been pushed aside. For now, the EV maker is prioritizing vehicles it believes can move in far greater numbers.

Read: Polestar Teases Next Electric SUV To Be Built Alongside A Mysterious New Volvo

The most important of these is the new Polestar 7. A teaser released a few months back previewed a compact crossover that will be built at Volvo’s plant in Kosice, Slovakia.

Priorities Shift

Polestar chief executive Michael Lohscheller has confirmed that the 7, as well as a second-generation version of the best-selling Polestar 2, will take priority over the all-electric convertible. There’s no word on how far the Polestar 6 has been pushed back, but the marque’s boss confirmed that it still intends to build it.

 Polestar Just Benched The Only Fun Thing It Was Making For A Crossover
Polestar 02 Roadster Concept

A Compact Crossover With Broad Appeal

Speaking with Autocar, Lohscheller noted the Polestar 7’s design will adopt a more familiar SUV shape to other vehicles from the brand, “but at the same time, it will be distinguished and really stand out.”

He is also confident that the smaller 7 will attract more females to the Polestar brand, noting that currently it has “many, many more male” customers than females.

We know that the Polestar 7 will use a technology base from Volvo and be powered by electric motors that have been developed in-house. Working closely with Volvo on the model will help Polestar ensure its new compact crossover is perfect for the European market, which currently accounts for 75 percent of its total sales.

 Polestar Just Benched The Only Fun Thing It Was Making For A Crossover
Polestar 7

“It will have all the Polestar DNA with the right driving characteristics, chassis tuning, and we will bring all these ideas together in a sustainable way,” Lohscheller added.

What Comes Next For The 2

Details about the second-generation Polestar 2 remain sparse. The current version just received updates for the 2026 model year, but aside from incremental changes, it’s essentially the same car that first arrived in 2019.

 Polestar Just Benched The Only Fun Thing It Was Making For A Crossover
Yesterday — 9 September 2025Electric Vehicles - Latest News | Carscoops

Hyundai’s Smallest Ioniq Looks Like A Veloster From Outer Space

  • Hyundai has given us a sneak look at a future electric Golf rival.
  • The Concept Three was unveiled at Germany’s Munich Motor Show.
  • Likely to be called Ioniq 3, the EV will be built in Europe from 2027.

Just when we thought the action from Germany’s Munich Motor Show was winding down, Hyundai goes and drops what could be the car of the show. And the word is the Concept Three will morph into a fully fledged production EV that looks almost identical in 2026.

Likely to be badged the Ioniq 3 when production starts in Europe next year, the compact EV is built to rival the upcoming VW ID. Golf, and at 4,288 mm (168.8 inches) long will be a similar size. But the Golf won’t look anything like as dynamic, based on the coupe-like shape, sloping roofline and sports car-low nose of the Concept Three.

A New Kind Of Hatchback

Hyundai calls the Three an Aero Hatch, saying the combination of the sporty roof, visual tension from the intersecting lines created by the ‘Art of Steel’ design language and the upright rear window blend performance and practicality. We just know it looks awesome, like a de-uglified Veloster for the electric age, this time with two rear doors instead of one.

Related: This Electric Hatch May Be Hyundai’s Best-Looking Ioniq Yet

Regular versions of the production EV won’t look quite as aggressive or feature the gullwing rear doors, Hyundai Design Centre boss Simon Loasby told Autocar, but you can see how elements such as the rear diffuser, transparent rear spoiler and fat fender flares could translate to an N performance version down the line.

\\

Hyundai

Playing With Light

More than most automakers, Hyundai has embraced lighting tech to help give its cars unique identities and the the Concept Three is no different. Parametric Pixel lighting is employed at both ends of the car, but this time the pixels are more sophisticated, a gradient making the upper ones brighter.

Inside, the Concept Three makes a firm break from established Hyundai design themes. There’s no large touchscreen, instead drivers bring their own widgets to mount on the dashboard and customise their experience. The pod-like bucket seats are upholstered in sustainable fabrics and a weird handle on the console makes it look there’s an in-built Dust Buster.

What’s Underneath

Hyundai hasn’t revealed any tech details but logic suggests an Ioniq 3 would be closely related to models like sister company Kia’s EV4, which would mean 400 rather than 800-volt electrics, but a choice of single and dual motor configurations. We expect to see two battery options and around 390 miles (628 km) of range for the best performing models.

\\\\

Hyundai

This Vintage Rolls-Royce Is Now Twice as Powerful and Completely Silent

  • Halcyon will build 60 bespoke electrified Rolls-Royce Corniche models..
  • Each car gets 2,000 hours of restoration and a modern electric powertrain.
  • Upgrade doubles output compared to the original and offers 300 miles range.

The Rolls-Royce Corniche, that grand 1970s land yacht, has been given a new lease of life as an electric convertible by UK-based Halcyon. The company is producing just 60 “remastered” models, each built to order with a specification shaped around the customer’s tastes.

According to the company, the project begins with over 2,000 hours of restoration, stripping the donor vehicle into bare metal. Owners can decide whether to preserve the Corniche’s timeless design or add modern touches such as chrome bumpers, redesigned headlights, fresh alloy wheels, and custom exterior details.

Bespoke Everything

Inside, Halcyon has reimagined the Corniche with natural materials, bespoke detailing, and a surprising degree of flexibility. One early buyer opted for a two-seat layout with a sculpted rear cabin, and the company is even considering offering a custom Louis Vuitton luggage set.

Other updates bring the car in line with modern expectations, including heated and ventilated seats, an upgraded sound system, hidden infotainment, and automatic climate control.

More: Rolls-Royce Turns Its $400K EV Into A Cherry Blossom Diorama For Grown-Ups

The first completed commission seen here is known as “Highland Heather” and it draws inspiration from Scotland’s moorlands. Its Purple Moorland exterior is paired with a white-and-purple interior finished in hand-stitched leather, wood, and metal accents.

\\\\\\\\

Halcyon

Silent But Powerful

Underneath the classic silhouette, the 6.75-liter V8 has been replaced with a fully electric powertrain developed by Evice Technologies. In its most potent form, the setup produces up to 500 hp (373 kW / 507 PS), more than doubling the output of the original Corniche.

More: Rolls-Royce Just Threw A Phantom Into A Pool

Buyers have a choice between two battery packs, delivering 250 miles (402 km) and 300 miles (483 km) of range respectively. Furthermore, the 800V architecture is compatible with charging speeds of up to 230 kW. Interestingly, the company claims that the conversion adds zero weight to the Rolls-Royce Corniche compared to the factory V8 model, which is as wild as it sounds.

Chassis upgrades include a semi-active suspension and an upgraded braking system. Just like modern vehicles, the Corniche has three drive modes named Drive, Spirited, and Touring, which change the powertrain and damping characteristics.

\\\\\\\

The Price Of Silence

The first customer cars are due in the fourth quarter of 2026. Prices kick off at £400,000 ($537,000), not including taxes or the donor Corniche itself, which could add anywhere from $40,000 to more than $80,000, depending on the condition.

So by the time you’re done, you’re paying north of half a million for the privilege of silently cruising around in a 1970s Rolls that looks like it should still smell faintly of cigars and aftershave. But hey, exclusivity has never come cheap, and at least this one won’t leak oil on your driveway.

 This Vintage Rolls-Royce Is Now Twice as Powerful and Completely Silent

New Polestar 5 Doesn’t Need A Rear Window To Put Porsche On Notice

  • Polestar 5 has made its world premiere at the Munich Motor Show.
  • Performance-focused EV has up to 872 hp and 749 lb-ft of torque.
  • It is currently available to order with UK pricing starting at £89,500.

Update: The Polestar 5 has officially hit the stage in Munich, and we’ve added live photos from its world premiere.

Polestar unveiled the Precept concept over five years ago and it’s finally morphed into a production vehicle. While the car is roughly a year behind schedule, the Polestar 5 looks fantastic and is ready to tackle the Porsche Taycan.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink

Billed as a four-door performance grand tourer, the car follows in the footsteps of the original concept and features dual blade headlights with Pixel LED technology. They’re joined by taut bodywork, retractable door handles, and frameless windows.

Buyers will also find 20- to 22-inch wheels as well as a rakish windscreen that flows into a long, sloping roof. The latter ends at a Kamm-style tail, but the car is more notable for eschewing a rear window.

An Elegant And Minimalist Interior

\\\\\

Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink

The interior is minimalist and high-tech as owners will find a 9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9.5-inch head-up display, and a 14.5-inch infotainment system with a portrait orientation. The latter runs a Polestar-specific version of Android Automotive and features Google integration.

The front seats were designed in collaboration with Recaro and can be wrapped in MicroTech or Bridge of Weir Nappa leather upholstery. They also offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions.

More: Polestar Teases Next Electric SUV To Be Built Alongside A Mysterious New Volvo

Polestar says the car was designed primarily as a four-seater and the rear center armrest folds down to reveal controls for the four-zone climate control system as well as the heated, ventilated, and massaging rear seats. The seats also recline and the company noted passengers will find a “foot garage behind the front seats,” which “gives occupants extra foot space and a more natural seating position.”

Elsewhere, there’s a digital rearview mirror, Econyl carpeting, and flax-based trim instead of carbon fiber. A ten-speaker audio system is standard, while a 21-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup is optional. Buyers will also find a massive panoramic glass roof that measures over six feet long.

If you’re more concerned about cargo, the 5 offers 12.9 cubic feet (365 liters) of rear luggage space. There’s also a frunk that provides 2.2 cubic feet (62 liters) of room.

A Bespoke Platform And Powerful Motors

\\\\\\\\\

The 5 rides on a bespoke hot-cured bonded aluminum platform, which is known as the Polestar Performance Architecture. The model also sports a Brembo braking system as well as 11 exterior cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and one mid-range radar. These enable a host of driver assistance systems including available Pilot Assist.

Power comes from a 112 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 738 hp (550 kW / 748 PS) and 599 lb-ft (812 Nm) of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). Drivers can also expect a WLTP range of up to 416 miles (670 km).

When the battery is low, owners will be thankful for a DC fast charging capability of 350 kW. It takes the battery from 10-80% in as little as 22 minutes. At home, the AC charging capacity tops out at 19 kW. Speaking of charging, there’s an indicator on the C-pillar, which tells you the battery status at a glance.

\\\\

Customers can also get a Performance variant, which features an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 872 hp (650 kW / 884 PS) and 749 lb-ft (1,015 Nm) of torque. This lowers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 3.2 seconds, but the range also drops to 351 miles (565 km).

Besides being more powerful, the Polestar 5 Performance has a sportier suspension with adaptive dampers that can react to road conditions within three milliseconds. Buyers will also find gloss black accents as well as Swedish Gold brake calipers, seat belts, and valve caps.

Now Available To Order

The Polestar 5 is currently available to order and German pricing starts at €119,900 for the entry-level model and €142,900 for the Performance variant. In the UK, pricing starts at £89,500 and £104,900.

The initial launch will be focused on 24 markets, but North America isn’t included. While that’s unfortunate, the company said pricing and availability for Canada and the United States will be announced at a later date.

\\\\\\\\\\

Fisker Dealer Is Selling The Cheapest High-Performance EVs You’ll Ever Regret Buying

  • The Fisker Ocean One has plenty of power and a claimed range of 360 miles.
  • Unfortunately, the selling dealer notes that any buyer will be on the hook for repairs.
  • Newport Fisker in California is trying to part ways with well over a dozen Oceans.

Buying an electric vehicle from a carmaker that’s already gone under sounds like the kind of gamble best left to thrill-seekers, yet we suspect that the Fisker Ocean has become so absurdly cheap that plenty of buyers will probably talk themselves into rolling the dice.

Read: This Dealer Is Quietly Selling Dozens Of Nearly New EVs From A Dead Company For The Price Of Used Corollas

In late July, we discovered that Newport Fisker in Costa Mesa, California, was attempting to offload no less than 24 used Ocean, all of which had been heavily discounted to between $22,990 and $27,990. Fast forward to September, and the prices of many of these models have been slashed even further, with no less than four examples now available for just $17,990.

Bargain Pricing With Caveats

The blue Fisker Ocean you see here is one of them. While it officially has a sticker price of $21,990, that falls to $17,990 for those who are eligible to receive the used EV federal tax credit before the Trump administration ditches it at the end of September. This means it’s possible to buy a low-mileage electric SUV for roughly the same price as a new Nissan Versa.

This ultra-affordable Ocean has been driven just 9,200 miles and includes a tow hitch, a Level 2 home charger, and all-weather floor mats. There’s no word on whether the EV has received all of the recall repairs that Fisker has issued.

 Fisker Dealer Is Selling The Cheapest High-Performance EVs You’ll Ever Regret Buying

In terms of performance, it undeniably represents great value for money at under $20,000. This 2023 model is an Ocean One, meaning it has twin electric motors combining to deliver 564 hp, allowing it to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in less than 4 seconds. It also features a large 106 kWh battery pack that gives it up to 360 miles (580 km) of range.

What if Something Goes Wrong?

If the deal sounds to good to be true and you wonder where the catch is, this could be the fact that the dealer notes that “should the vehicle prove defective following their purchase, the buyer and not the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing and repairs.”

In other words, once the Fisker’s keys are yours, so are the risks. If something goes wrong, you’re responsible for footing the bill to get if fixed.

So, would you take the plunge on a bargain-bin EV from a company that no longer exists, or does the thought of hunting down parts for a ghost-brand SUV make you run for the hills?

\\\\\\\\\

Europe’s EV War Just Got A New Contender From Turkey You’ve Already Forgotten

  • Togg has introduced the new T10F at the Munich Motor Show.
  • The electric fastback launches later this month with two batteries.
  • The all-wheel drive variant has 429 hp and 325 miles of range.

Following a preview last year, Togg has introduced the production-ready T10F at the Munich Motor Show. It’s a fitting location as the company has announced both the T10F and T10X will be offered in Germany later this month.

Looking virtually identical to the CES prototype, the production model is a five-door liftback that’s a tad generic. Starting up front, there’s a fully enclosed grille that is flanked by LED headlights. They’re joined by sizable air intakes as well as prominent daytime running lights.

More: President Erdogan Takes Delivery Of Turkey’s First Togg T10X Electric SUV

Continuing down the sides, the T10F has streamlined bodywork and an available black roof. Buyers will also find 17- to 19-inch wheels as well as a drag coefficient of 0.24.

In terms of size, the car measures 190.2 inches (4,830 mm) long and has a wheelbase that spans 113.8 inches (2,890 mm). To put that into perspective, the vehicle is 4.3 inches (110 mm) longer than the Tesla Model 3, but only has an extra 0.6 inches (15 mm) between the wheels.

Cabin Tech And Features

\\\\\

Togg’s interior photos don’t do the car justice, but the model has a panoramic display that consists of a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a 29-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by a lower 8-inch display and controls that would feel more at home in a fighter jet. The company went on to say the model has a six-speaker audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a trunk capacity of 17.8 cubic feet (505 liters).

Higher-end variants are more luxurious and offer vegan leather seats, a wireless smartphone charger, and a 12-speaker Meridian premium audio system. Customers can also get heated front and rear seats as well as an ambient lighting system.

A host of driver assistance systems come standard including advanced emergency braking, forward collision alert, and intelligent adaptive cruise control with stop and go. They’re joined by front/rear parking sensors, high beam assist, traffic sign detection, and emergency lane keeping assistant.

\\\\\\\\\\

Powertrain Options and Range

Most trims are equipped with a rear-mounted motor producing 214 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. It can be paired to either a 52.4 or 88.5 kWh battery pack. The former offers a combined WLTP range of up to 217 miles (350 km), while the latter increases that distance up to 387 miles (623 km).

Depending on the configuration, the model can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in as little as 7.2 seconds. Customers can also go from a 20-80% charge in 28 minutes using a 180 kW DC fast charger.

Drivers looking for better performance can opt for the V2 AWD trim. It features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 429 hp (320 kW / 435 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra oomph, the dash to 62 mph (100 km/h) falls to 4.1 seconds. Unfortunately, the combined range also plummets to 325 miles (523 km).

Rimac’s New Battery Slashes EV Charging To Just Minutes

  • Rimac has showcased new batteries and e-axles at the Munich show.
  • The company will offer a 100 kWh solid-state battery in late 2027.
  • It will be able to go from a 10-80% charge in a mere 6.5 minutes.

Rimac Technology has used the Munich motor show to unveil e-axles and their next-generation solid state battery. These components will arrive in the coming years and be used by various automakers.

Starting with batteries, Rimac teamed up with ProLogium and Mitsubishi Chemical Group to create a solid-state power source that pushes the “boundaries of energy density and safety.” The company’s “Next-Gen” battery appears to have a 100 kWh capacity as well as an energy density of 260 Wh/kg. More interestingly, the battery will be able to go from a 10-80% charge in 6.5 minutes using a fast charger.

More: Rimac Goes Full Circle And Will Power BMW’s Next-Gen EVs

If everything works out, the battery should be available in the fourth quarter of 2027. There’s no word on who will use it, but Rimac has a number of automotive partners including BMW and Porsche.

Rimac also showcased an Evo battery, which is scheduled to arrive in mid-2026. It also has a 100 kWh capacity, but a lower energy density of 213 Wh/kg. Clients can also expect to wait over 16 minutes for the battery to go from 10-80% when using a fast charger.

 Rimac’s New Battery Slashes EV Charging To Just Minutes

Lastly, Rimac showed two hybrid batteries including a scalable unit that will arrive early next year. It appears to offer a capacity of between 1 and 17 kWh. The company also mentioned “interchangeable cell configurations” and an “integrated in cell-to-pack architecture with advanced safety and thermal management features.”

Besides batteries, Rimac introduced the Sinteg 300 and 550 e-axles. Designed for “performance-focused vehicles” ranging from hot hatches to SUVs, they produce between 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 483 hp (360 kW / 489 PS). The company added the 550 unit will go into production next year.

Rimac Technology COO Nurdin Pitarević remarked, “What we’re showcasing at IAA represents the convergence of breakthrough innovation and production readiness. These aren’t simply concept technologies; they’ve been developed to be production-ready solutions that will power hundreds of thousands of vehicles in the coming years.”

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

The Only Space These Cybertruck 24-Inch Wheels Need Is In Your Bank Account

  • Unplugged Performance has launched new wheels for the Tesla Cybertruck.
  • The new rims have nine spokes and a mid-spoke reinforcement ring.
  • They are available in three color variations, with an MSRP of $7,195.

The rumored Tesla CyberSUV might be the talk of the town, but tuners haven’t forgotten the Cybertruck. California-based company Unplugged Performance introduced a new set of alloy wheels for the polarizing truck, aiming to improve its visual appeal.

Dubbed UP Forged Cybrnova, the wheels measure 24 inches across, placing them above Tesla’s standard 20-inch setup but a notch below the oversized 26-inch options some aftermarket shops have showcased. Buyers can pick from three satin finishes, including Bronze, Black, or Titanium.

More: Mexican Tuner Shows Off Widebody Tesla Cybertruck On 26-Inch Wheels

The wheels have nine aerodynamic spokes with an additional reinforcement ring contributing to the rugged looks and the load-bearing capabilities. According to the company, this design was inspired by the blast wave of a supernova and the “straight-edged” styling language of the Cybertruck.

The forged wheels are made of 6061-T6 aluminum and feature pocket-milled relief points behind the spokes for lower weight. The unsprung mass can be further reduced with the optional titanium lug nuts from Unplugged Performance.

Built For Heavy Duty

 The Only Space These Cybertruck 24-Inch Wheels Need Is In Your Bank Account

Each wheel has a load rating of 3,195 lb (1,450 kg), making them suitable for heavy-duty applications. As for the tire fitment, the tuner recommends the 295/45R24 Nitto Recon Grappler for those interested in retaining an adequate EV range, or a wider 315/45R24 set for an even more aggressive stance.

More: Oh Boy, Mansory Tuned The Cybertruck And Named It The Elongation

The 24-inch wheels do not require spacers, as they have been designed to clear the standard brakes and suspension components of the Cybetruck. They are compatible with all trims of the model, including the flagship Cyberbeast.

Premium Price Tag

If you fancy the UP Forged Cybrnova wheels for your Tesla, prepare to dig deep into your pockets. Pricing starts at $7,195 for a set of four, regardless of finish. Add a matching spare, and the bill climbs by another $1,798.75.

The wheels are already available to order through Unplugged Performance’s website, with first deliveries expected in the coming weeks. Buyers can also pair them with the tuner’s body kits and other accessories to create a fully customized Cybertruck.

\\\\\\\\\\\

Unplugged Performance

Skoda Vision O Concept Previews An Octavia Wagon So Good You’ll Forget SUVs

  • Skoda debuted electric Vision O compact wagon at the Munich Auto Show.
  • Ignore the rear-hinged rear doors and you’re looking at the next Octavia.
  • A cousin of 2028’s VW ID. Golf, the Octavia will ride on VW’s SSP platform.

After a slow start, Skoda has fully embraced the SUV body style, but the brand’s new Vision O concept proves it still believes in the traditional Octavia wagon. The low-slung compact previews a production Octavia due by 2028, which is a close cousin of the upcoming VW ID. Golf.

Related: Skoda’s Smallest Electric SUV Comes With Gas-Car Pricing

Like the ID. Golf, the Octavia is going electric, and the Vision O’s long-roof form tells us it’ll be available in practical wagon guise as well as a fastback. Why is Skoda bothering with either car in these SUV-crazed times? Because the current Octavia is the brand’s best selling model and a major cash-cow.

Design That Stands Apart

Skoda’s designers have applied the company’s latest Modern Solid design language to the Vision O and although some of concept’s flourishes – like the rear-hinged rear doors and 3D-printed honeycomb headrests – are pure auto show theatrics, what you see here is mostly what you’ll get in a Skoda dealer in three years’ time.

The prominent body-color B pillar that extends from rear door’s skin reminds us of DS Automobiles’ work and there are hints of Opel Astra about the blocky shapes. Even so, the flat-faced, square-shaped fenders, blacked-out C-pillar and concave rear end with its Skoda lettering picked out in LEDs, plus the aggressive tech-loop nose, give this Vision O way more presence that any production Octavia ever had.

Tech-Heavy Interior

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

If the O looks confident on the outside, it looks even more premium on the inside. Instead of a traditional instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, there’s a 1.2-m (47.2 inches) Horizon Display stretching almost the full width of the car at the base of the windshield.

That’s backed up by a portrait-layout tablet touchscreen floating proud of the dashboard and above a console fitted with dual charging trays and a rotary mode controller that offers haptic feedback. And if you’re too lazy to twiddle a dial, the Laura AI voice-activate digital assistant can handle some of those same tasks.

At 4,850 mm (190.9 inches) long, the concept is 152 mm (6 inches) longer than today’s production Octavia wagon, but still smaller than the Superb flagship. The huge trunk swallows 650 liters (CCC cu-ft) of family junk or salesman’s paraphernalia with the seats up – and that’s not where the practical touches end. In addition to a portable Bluetooth speaker and integrated fridge, the concept has four umbrellas.

New Octavia EV with Rivian Tech?

Whether those features will make it to the production car in 2027 or 2028, and what kind of power output and range figures the SSP platform can deliver, Skoda isn’t saying. But reports say we should expect 800-volt charging tech and advanced software developed with Rivian. And you can bank on Skoda rolling out a hot vRS version with even more attitude than this concept.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Skoda

VW Revives Classic Nameplates With A New Mission To Fight Off China’s EV Surge

  • Volkswagen is realigning its model range around core values and respected badges.
  • Design, quality, innovative tech, and a strong price-performance ratio are the focus.
  • New generation of “true Volkswagens” includes ID. Polo, ID. Cross and ID. Every1.

Volkswagen is going back to its roots and putting a new focus on the core strengths that made us love its cars in the first place. That’s the message the automaker put out at this year’s Munich Motor Show, where it revealed some of the models that make up the new “true Volkswagen” family it hopes will help it fight rivals from China.

Related: VW Revives Polo Name For EV Era And Teases First Ever Electric GTI

Most obviously, the names of the ID. Polo and its GTI twin, plus the ID. Cross, an electric alternative to the popular T-Cross combustion crossover, tells us that VW is putting new energy into its best-known badges and bringing its ICE and electric lines closer together. An ID. Golf will arrive by 2028, and a production version of the ID. Every1 concept, which could be called ID. Up, lands in 2027.

A Broader Commitment

But VW’s commitment to its core strengths goes deeper than simply ensuring familiar badges don’t fade away in the electric age. The automaker claimed it’s now focusing on new design, high standards of quality, attractive price-performance ratio, and innovative technologies.

“Our goal for the next five years is clear,” said VW brand CEO Thomas Schäfer. “By 2030 we want to establish ourselves as the leading high-volume manufacturer for pioneering technology.”

Schäfer’s boss, VW Group CEO Oliver Blume claimed the new family of EVs with improved software and battery tech has what it takes to protect the company from Chinese EVs steadily infiltrating Europe’s car market.

 VW Revives Classic Nameplates With A New Mission To Fight Off China’s EV Surge
VW

“Competition, for me, is very positive,” Blume told CNBC. “It is like in sport: when you have good competitors, you have to be better. That’s what we have been prepared to do in the last years, in terms of improving ourselves. I don’t fear the competition.”

Blume thinks VW can improve on its 28 percent electrified market share, but those qualities that promise to make cars like the ID. Cross a hit won’t be restricted to EVs, the automaker says. The automaker’s Munich stand also featured the facelifted version of the big-selling T-Roc crossover, the T-Cross’s big brother, along with the Tayron SUV launched earlier this year.

 VW Revives Classic Nameplates With A New Mission To Fight Off China’s EV Surge
VW

Ford’s New F-150 Lightning Trim Solves Its Biggest Flaws For Free

  • The new F-150 Lightning STX replaces the outgoing XLT trim level.
  • It adds a larger battery, extended range, and more total power output.
  • STX gains all-terrain tires and off-road running boards from Tremor.

Electric pickups haven’t won over traditional truck buyers just yet, but Ford is determined to push the segment forward. The 2026 F-150 Lightning STX arrives as the successor to the XLT, offering what many customers have been asking for: more range, added power, and a tougher stance, all without a price hike.

More: $30K Ford Electric Truck Coming In 2027 Is Seriously Bad News For Slate

The truck comes standard with a 123 kWh battery pack, good for an EPA-estimated 290 miles (467 km) of driving. That’s a healthy boost of 50 miles (80 km) over the outgoing XLT, which was limited to a 98 kWh unit. For drivers, that translates into fewer charging stops and a more flexible truck for longer trips.

More Power

Besides being able to travel further on a single charge, the STX is also more powerful compared to its predecessor. Dual electric motors produce a combined 536 hp (400 kW / 543 PS), an 84 hp (63 kW) gain compared to the XLT. Torque holds steady at 775 lb-ft (1,051 Nm), delivered to all four wheels through a standard rear e-locking differential.

\\\\\\\\\\\

Tougher Looks

Visually, the STX sets itself apart with a black grille accented in Grabber Blue, STX decals on the hood and bedsides, and unique emblems on the front fenders. It also rides on black alloy wheels wrapped in grippy all-terrain tires, adding a touch of ruggedness alongside off-road running boards borrowed from the gas-powered Tremor.

More: Ford CEO Hints At An Extreme 1,000 HP Off-Road Supercar

Inside, the STX comes with cloth upholstery accented in Grabber Blue and Lightning STX embroidery on the seats. A heated steering wheel is included as standard, while buyers can also opt for a black vinyl floor designed for easier cleanup.

Ford has also refreshed the F-150 Lightning’s paint options for 2026. New shades include Argon Blue, Marsh Gray, and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, joining the existing lineup to give buyers more room for personalization.

Prices Stay Put

Perhaps the most surprising element of the update is what didn’t change: the price The 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX has an MSRP of $63,345, which is identical to the XLT trim it replaces. The first examples of the electric truck are expected to reach dealerships in early 2026. Based on the added features, Ford expects the STX to be one of the top-selling configurations for the 2026 model year.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Ford

Stellantis Is Quietly Building A Tri-Motor EV Setup That Can Power Itself

  • Stellantis files patent WO/2025/184156 for tri-motor EREV with onboard gas generator.
  • Ramcharger’s two-motor EREV layout could evolve into a three-motor system.
  • Chinese EREVs like Maextro S800 and Yangwang U8 show proof of concept.

Stellantis has had a lot going on lately. While the headlines have mostly circled around the return of the Hemi V8, the company hasn’t slowed its march toward electrification. A recently published patent outlines a system designed to manage torque between three electric motors and an additional torque source. That extra source appears to be a gasoline engine, which suggests Stellantis is laying the groundwork for new extended-range EVs.

The patent in question, WO/2025/184156, describes solving a three-dimensional optimization problem to balance torque delivery across each motor and the generator while keeping the battery charged. Essentially, it’s a roadmap for controlling a highly complex EREV platform.

More: Breakthrough EV Battery Patent Could Charge In Minutes And Cross A Continent

Filed by FCA US LLC (yes, Stellantis is still using FCA officially for its North American operations) and published on September 4, 2025, the document represents the first time we’ve heard about this tri-motor EREV configuration from the automaker. The claim itself is very focused on the technical challenges, coordinating multiple drive units and generator output, but the potential application is what we find exciting.

Where Could It Fit?

What could this powertrain end up in? The folks over at CarBuzz think the next-gen Ram pickup is the most obvious answer. The Ramcharger already uses an EREV setup, and a tri-motor version could make for something capable of rivaling the Tesla Cybertruck but with more range. It could potentially tow more, too. Still, we think there could be a better application.

 Stellantis Is Quietly Building A Tri-Motor EV Setup That Can Power Itself

In China, the Maeextro S800 pairs three electric motors with a 1.5-liter turbo generator for up to 1,333 km (828 miles) of combined range, and the Yangwang U8 uses four individual wheel motors plus a 2.0-liter engine to deliver supercar-level performance and nearly 1,000 km 640 miles) range.

A New Chrysler Flagship?

This could be Chrysler’s opportunity to return with a statement vehicle. The brand currently sells only minivans and hasn’t had a proper flagship since the 300. A new Imperial equipped with a sophisticated tri-motor EREV powertrain could mark a dramatic re-entry into the luxury space, positioning Chrysler with something distinctive in a crowded market.

 Stellantis Is Quietly Building A Tri-Motor EV Setup That Can Power Itself

Avatr’s 18-Foot Concept Makes The Ghost Look Petite And Germans Look Twice

  • The futuristic Avatr Vision Xpectra concept broke cover at the Munich Motor Show.
  • It is a gigantic luxury sedan with unconventional proportions and a four-seater cabin.
  • The concept is not destined for production but could influence future Avatr models.

Breaking into Europe is no small task for a newcomer in the premium segment, but Avatr is determined to make its presence felt. The Chinese automaker, already operating a design studio in Munich, chose the IAA Mobility Show to present the Vision Xpectra, a futuristic flagship sedan with proportions and presence akin to Maybach and Rolls-Royce.

According to the design team, the Vision Xpectra marries a “solid” exterior with a “soft” interior. At the front, split LED headlights extend into the profile, linking with a sculpted bumper that signals both strength and precision. The look is consistent with other Avatr products yet more dramatic in execution.

More: The Avatr 11 Blends European Style And Chinese Tech But Still Comes With A Catch

The centerpiece of the exterior is the expansive greenhouse, its slim pillars and plunging windshield creating a seamless flow into the hood. The side profile emphasizes bold proportions with oversized alloy wheels, squared fenders, and a short rear deck that melts into broad shoulders. At the back, a prominent diffuser dominates the bumper, reinforcing the concept’s athletic stance.

Design with a Pulse

True to Avatr’s goal of making vehicles with “emotional intelligence“, the Vision Xpectra senses its surroundings and the user, with illuminating sections of the bodywork creating a welcoming sequence. Furthermore, the prismatic glass cabin radiates a warm welcoming shine from within.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
\\\\\

Avatr / Weibo

The large suicide doors with a pillarless design allows easy access to the interior. The four-seater cabin has dynamic ambient lighting, headrests that look like inflatable pillows, and transparent displays. Another cool touch is the lamella sculptures on the doors that blend with the dashboard as they open and close.

The element on the center of the dashboard is called “vortex” and houses a “living AI entity” that interacts with the occupants. As for the interface, the “cortex” on the center console combines touch and gesture controls in a circular element. Finally, the design team has also created champagne glass and carry-on accessories to match the interior ambiance.

More: Avatr 06 Is Another Stylish Tesla Model 3 Rival Without A Rear Window

The concept stretches to 5,843 mm (230 inches) long, 2,132 mm (83.9 inches) wide, and 1,405 mm (55.3 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of 3,450 mm (135.8 inches). This is a full 823 mm (32.4 inches) longer compared to Avatr’s largest production offering. In fact, the Vision Xpectra’s footprint is similar to the Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase and the gigantic Hongqi Guoli, surpassing the Maextro S800 from Huawei and JAC.

There is no word on technical specifications, but Avart is currently offering models with fully electric and range-extender powertrains, combining Changan underpinnings, CATL batteries, and Huawei tech.

Avatr’s Future

As you might have guessed, the Avatr Vision Xpectra is not destined for production. Still, it sets the tone for the evolution of the brands’ styling language, and some of its features might find their way into a future flagship.

The current lineup of Avart comprises two pairs of mechanically-related sedans and crossovers – the Tesla-rivaling 06 / 07 and the larger 12 / 11. However, this number is expected to grow significantly over the next few years with no less than 17 new products by 2030.

 Avatr’s 18-Foot Concept Makes The Ghost Look Petite And Germans Look Twice
From left to right, the Avatr 11, 07, Vision Xpectra, 06, and 12.

❌
❌