Londoners may soon find themselves riding in the front seat of the future, as Waymo prepares to bring its fully autonomous robotaxis to the streets of the UK. The self-driving tech firm has announced plans to launch in London, taking advantage of new regulations that will permit robotaxis to operate in the city starting in the second half of this year.

Waymo’s UK rollout comes even as scrutiny builds back home. This week, the NHTSA opened an investigation after one of the company’s robotaxis struck a child near an elementary school in Santa Monica, California, during drop-off hours.

Read: People Get Paid $24 Just To Walk Up And Shut A Robotaxi Door

London’s Local Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood has confirmed that Waymo, which is owned by Google-parent Alphabet, will launch a pilot service in April, before launching in full as early as September.

To ensure the robotaxis can handle the intricacies of London’s roads, several of its vehicles are already being tested with a safety driver behind the wheel, helping map the city’s streets.

These test vehicles typically operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are driven in select London boroughs, including Camden, Hackney, Hammersmith and Fulham, Lewisham, Newham, and the City of Westminster.

Data Collection Meets Cybersecurity Requirements

Waymo says it’s currently gathering data across the widest possible range of London streets, using the advanced cameras, lidar, and radar fitted to the Jaguar I-Pace models.

Read: Waymo’s New “Ojaj” Robotaxi Crashed Into Parked Cars, But It Wasn’t Driving Itself

In a statement to the BBC, Minister Greenwood emphasized that all Waymo robotaxis will be subject to strict safety criteria before they’re allowed on the road. This includes resilience against cyber attacks and secure software protocols to protect against hacking.

Once the vehicles have sufficiently mapped London’s roads and meet all regulatory standards, users will be able to request a ride through the Waymo app. The service is expected to carry a “premium” price point, with fares adjusted upward during periods of high demand, though exact pricing has not yet been announced.

Growing Competition

Waymo isn’t the only company eyeing the capital. Both Uber and Lyft have expressed interest in launching robotaxi services in London once the legal framework allows. With regulators clearing a path for autonomous vehicles, the city is shaping up to be a key battleground for the next phase of ride-hailing innovation.

IM Motors, the upscale joint venture from MG and Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba, has pulled the covers off its latest flagship. Named the LS9 Hyper, this SUV builds on the standard LS9 that debuted last year, layering in high-spec upgrades aimed at Chinese buyers who want their tech-laden luxury served in insulated comfort.

Read: ‘IM Presented by MG Motor’ Might Be The Most Ridiculous Car Brand Name Yet

Whereas IM Motors’ smaller offerings like the IM5 and IM6 go all-in on battery-electric power, the LS9 Hyper takes a different route. It’s a range extender rather than a full EV. Under the hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 153 horsepower, but its only job is to recharge the 65.9 kWh battery.

Power is delivered through a single 215 hp electric motor at the front axle, backed up by two 261 hp motors at the rear. This setup offers an estimated all-electric range of 191 miles (308 kilometers). The three electric motors also provide torque vectoring, though we don’t think many owners will be hustling this beast through the corners.

The LS9 Hyper also debuts a clever all-electric, all-wheel 24-degree smart steering system, believed to be a first for a vehicle in this class. It achieves a turning radius of just 4.95 meters (16.2 feet), roughly two meters tighter than a Smart ForTwo.

As you can no doubt tell from the photos, this thing is big. In fact, it is 5,279 mm (207.8 inches) long, 2,000 mm (78.7 inches) wide, and stands 1,806 mm (71.1 inches) tall with a massive 3,160 mm (124.4-inch) wheelbase.

The exterior design isn’t particularly noteworthy, but it does look classy. At the front, a light bar and vertically oriented headlights. It also includes a roof-mounted LiDAR and is available with 20-, 21-, and 22-inch wheels. Adding to the fancy looks are silver accents running along the base of the side and rear windows.

Many of the fancy MG’s best features are found in the cabin, which hasn’t been revealed yet, though it’s expected to mirror the LS9 shown here. There’s a single 27.1-inch display, encompassing the cluster and infotainment screen, as well as a separate 15.6-inch monitor for the front passenger.

Audiophiles will have plenty to enjoy with the Bang & Olufsen sound system, while all occupants benefit from massaging seats and an underfloor heating system. Rear-seat passengers aren’t overlooked either, with access to a 27-inch 5K display that folds down from the headliner.

And in case that’s not quite enough, as with the regular LS9, IM will also offers the option of an integrated shower unit built into the tailgate.

A new electric subcompact has pulled off a quiet revolution in China’s fiercely competitive car market, topping the charts without the backing of Tesla or BYD. The Geely Galaxy Xingyuan, a fully electric hatchback, has officially become the country’s best-selling vehicle for 2025, racking up 465,775 registrations and ending the two-year reign of the Tesla Model Y.

More: Ford Held The Best-Seller Crown, But GM Outsold It On A Technicality

Known as the Geely EX2 in export markets, the Galaxy Xingyuan was introduced in 2024 and measures 4,135 mm (162.8 inches) in length. It sits in the subcompact category, going up against popular rivals like the BYD Dolphin, Wuling Bingo, and Aion UT.

It blends simple, approachable styling with a well-equipped interior and pricing that stays competitive, currently ranging from ¥65,800 to ¥95,800 ($9,500 to $13,800 at current exchange rates) in China.

GM JV Snags Second Spot

China’s second-best-selling vehicle in 2025 was the compact Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, repeating the success of its earlier version from 2021 and 2022. The pint-sized electric hatchback from the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture entered a new generation last year, bringing more playful styling and a new five-door variant. Those updates clearly landed well, helping it reach 435,599 units sold, a huge 82 percent jump over its 2024 total.

Geely Galaxy Xingyuan

The Tesla Model Y, which held the top spot in 2023 and 2024, slipped to third place in 2025. It still put up strong numbers with 425,337 units sold, though that marked an 11.5 percent decline from the year before, even with the launch of a significantly updated version earlier in the year.

More: One in 10 New Cars Sold in Europe Last Month Was Chinese

In fourth place, the BYD Qin Plus sedan registered 387,315 units sold. Available as either a fully electric model or a plug-in hybrid, the Qin Plus had previously held the second spot in both 2023 and 2024 but saw its position slip this year.

The Nissan Sylphy sedan, known as the Sentra in the US, was China’s best-selling model from 2020 to 2022 before Tesla took over. Now down to fifth place with 320,000 sales, it still holds the distinction of being the country’s best-selling non-EV. A new generation has just arrived, which might give it a boost heading into next year.

Source: China Passenger Car Association (CPCA)

Another standout in China’s top 10 for 2025 is the Xiaomi SU7 sedan, which landed in eighth place with 258,164 units sold. The Chinese newcomer made headlines by outselling its direct rival, the Tesla Model 3, which slipped to eleventh with 200,361.

Local Brands Dominate The Charts

According to data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), BYD held onto its lead as the largest manufacturer in China by total volume, selling 3,484,525 vehicles in 2025. Geely followed in second with 2,605,565 units, marking a striking 47% increase over the previous year.

Chinese brands as a whole captured 65 percent of the domestic market, while many foreign automakers that once dominated have struggled to keep up. FAW-Volkswagen secured third place with 1,531,276 sales, but joint ventures from Toyota and Honda have now dropped out of the top five.

Source: China Passenger Car Association (CPCA)

It’s official, Lucid has built its first midsize EV prototypes, the production version of which may be called Earth. The details, including hard platform specs and complete styling, are still largely under wraps. That said, one thing is wildly clear. This is the most important piece of Lucid’s path forward.

The update comes straight from Nick Twork, Lucid’s Head of Communications, who shared that he recently spent time in the brand’s prototype build area watching the first midsize vehicles come together. According to Twork, the new EVs retain the same core DNA as the larger Air sedan and Gravity SUV.

More: Lucid Owner Gets A $50,000 Lesson On Depreciation

In other words, expect the same space efficiency, driving dynamics, and lengthy range. According to Twork, this vehicle pushes things forward thanks to “dramatically improved manufacturability and cost structure.” He also teased that the finished products “are going to surprise people.”

Can Lucid Make It Work at Scale?

That last part may sound like standard corporate hype, but the emphasis on manufacturability is the real key to not just the vehicle itself, but the future of the brand.

Lucid has already proven it can engineer some of the most advanced EVs on the market. What it hasn’t proven, at least at scale, is that it can build them profitably. The Air and Gravity have impressed on paper and on the road, but they’ve also come with premium price tags and heavy cash burn behind the scenes.

Spent time in our prototype build area today watching the first full Lucid midsize vehicles come together. Same Lucid DNA as Air and Gravity – space, efficiency, dynamics, and range – paired with dramatically improved manufacturability and cost structure. These are going to… pic.twitter.com/3K4qQ7b3oC

— Nick Twork (@ntwork) January 23, 2026

Lucid has confirmed that the new platform will underpin three different body styles, none of which will be sedans. In that sense, it’s designed to scale in a way that the Air and Gravity simply can’t, at least in their current forms.

That’s why the company’s focus on simplified manufacturing matters so much. If Lucid can preserve even a portion of its signature advantages while meaningfully reducing production costs, it could give it a foothold for the long term that it desperately needs.

Read: Rivian’s New $45,000 EV Is Coming By June

Production is currently slated for late 2026, placing Lucid’s midsize EV just behind the Rivian R2 that will launch “by June” this year. The fact that we haven’t seen it totally unveiled seems to indicate that Lucid has a lot to manage between now and then. Expect pricing to start around $50,000.

Even the most reliable brands can slip up now and then, and this time, it’s Toyota turn in the spotlight. While known for its solid track record in quality control, the automaker has nonetheless found itself navigating a rather awkward parts mishap involving the bZ4X.

Several units will now face a recall in the United States, all due to a mix-up with replacement taillights. So, what exactly went wrong?

Confused Parts Cross Borders

A recall notice issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that taillights originally intended for service replacements in South Korea were accidentally distributed in the U.S. Some of those may have ended up installed on American-market bZ4X models.

Read: One Tiny Bolt Just Sent 55,000 Hybrids Straight Back To Toyota

Due to differences in automotive lighting regulations between the two countries, the South Korean-spec taillights don’t meet American standards. The key issue lies in the side marker, as the Korean units include a side marker reflector, but U.S. regulations require a side marker lamp to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Toyota first caught wind of the problem in October, when a parts order came through from Canada requesting a Korea-spec left-hand taillight assembly for the bZ4X. That raised a red flag, prompting the company to dig deeper.

The investigation revealed a potential cause of the mix-up. Both U.S. and Korean versions of the replacement parts had been listed in the catalog, but the Korean version also displayed the term “USA” in its description, likely confusing some who purchased a replacement light.

Toyota believes that a total of 79 right-hand and left-hand replacement taillight assemblies designed for South Korea could have ended up in the United States, although it hasn’t specified how many have been fitted to customer cars.

What Happens Now?

Owners who’ve had a taillight replaced on their bZ4X will be notified via mail. Toyota dealers will inspect the installed parts to determine whether the correct U.S.-spec lights were used. If any Korean-spec units are found, Toyota will replace them at no cost.

The Toyota Corolla, the best-selling nameplate in automotive history, is gearing up for a major evolution for its 13th generation. This next iteration of the compact is expected to merge a more futuristic design with a broad range of powertrain options, including hybrid and, for the first time, fully electric. If all goes according to plan, this will be the most ambitious overhaul in the model’s six-decade run.

More: You Won’t Be Seeing These Stretched 2026 Corollas Over Here

Toyota offered a taste of that future with the radical concept unveiled at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. While visually striking, the concept’s design leaned heavily into the avant-garde, raising doubts about how much of it would survive into production.

Is This What It’ll Really Look Like?

In response, digital artist Theophilus Chin stepped in with speculative renderings that balance the bold with the believable. His vision softens the extremes, wrapping forward-thinking design in a more grounded four-door sedan shape.

Theottle

The illustrations are actually based on the Lexus IS, implementing elements from the Toyota Crown Sedan before adding the signature styling features of the Corolla concept.

At the front, the design retains the hammerhead-style headlights introduced on the concept, now joined by additional daytime running lights integrated into the bumper. Below that sits a slim air intake, nestled under a full-width LED bar.

More: We Think We Know What Toyota Teased, And It Could Carry A Familiar Name

According to Toyota’s own designers, combustion-powered variants would require certain functional tweaks. This likely explains some of the more pragmatic adjustments in Chin’s version.

In line with that approach, several of the concept’s more dramatic features have been reined in. The low-slung hood and ultra-modern glasshouse have been scaled back to better suit a road-going car. Wheel sizes are more modest, and the flush door handles have given way to conventional ones. Even so, the side profile keeps its complexity, with angular character lines.

The biggest change is at the rear, where the concept’s futuristic tail has been swapped for a more conventional sedan layout, likely to align with mainstream Corolla tastes. Even so, the clean roofline, slim full-width LED taillights, subtle spoiler, and sharp surface work give it a more contemporary look than the current generation of the sedan

Did The Concept Take It Too Far?

Toyota Corolla Concept

The original concept was developed by Toyota’s European design center in France, signalling a radical shift for the popular nameplate. However, while the prospect of big changes sounds exciting, history suggests automakers tend to proceed cautiously with high-volume, globally popular models.

It wouldn’t be surprising if Toyota tempers the wildest aspects of the concept for the production version. Still, there’s always the chance they’ll take a bigger leap than expected.

What remains unknown is whether the new generation will follow the current model’s multi-body format. At present, the Corolla is sold globally as a sedan, hatchback, and estate, offering broad appeal across markets and use cases.

Toyota Corolla Concept

Besides the futuristic exterior, the concept came with a completely reimagined interior combining the latest technology with more premium materials and added space. Toyota’s messaging suggests they’re looking to elevate the segment, but production models are likely to tone things down for cost, practicality, and manufacturing scale.

Under The Skin

Toyota has not yet released technical specifications for the next-generation Corolla, but it did confirm the model will continue under its “multi-pathway” strategy, supporting multiple types of propulsion.

More: MR2 Is That You? GR Boss Confirms New Mid-Engine Sports Car

The lineup will offer both hybrid and fully electric powertrains to suit a wide range of global markets. Likely options for the hybrid system include new 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engines currently in development, aimed at delivering more power with improved efficiency.

Designers have also stated that interior space will remain consistent across all variants, regardless of the drivetrain.

Given the driver-oriented nature of the current TNGA platform and Toyota’s steady evolution in chassis tuning, the next Corolla could offer a more rewarding experience behind the wheel. Comfort and usability remain priorities, but added sharpness wouldn’t come as a surprise.

A performance version from Gazoo Racing is also a strong possibility, serving as a spiritual successor to the rally-ready GR Corolla.

When Are We Going To See It?

The current 12th-generation Toyota Corolla debuted in 2018, with a mild mid-cycle update arriving in 2022. That timeline suggests the next generation could appear in 2026 or 2027, though Toyota has not yet confirmed a launch date.

Tesla is quietly switching off two of the cars that helped kickstart the modern EV revolution. The Model S sedan and Model X SUV are heading for retirement as the company steers away from cars and toward humanoid robots instead.

CEO Elon Musk made the announcement on an earnings call on Wednesday, explaining that S and X production would end in California next quarter, and the Fremont plant would be repurposed to build Optimus robots.

Related: Worker Says Tesla Robot Knocked Him Out, Now He’s Knocking For $51 Million

“It’s time to bring the Model S and X programs to an honorable discharge because we’re really moving into a future that is based on autonomy,” Musk told investors.

“We’ll obviously continue to support S and X programs for as long as people have the vehicles, but we’re going to take the production space in our Fremont factory and convert that into an Optimus factory with the long term goal of having 1 million units a year.”

Game changer

It feels strange to say goodbye to the Model S, and Musk himself conceded the news was “slightly sad.” When it launched back in 2012, it rewrote the rulebook. Here was an electric car that was not a compromise box on wheels but a sleek, luxury sedan with Aston Martin vibes that could outrun a BMW M5 – and later, supercars – in a straight line. Alongside the Nissan Leaf, it helped drag EVs into the mainstream.

The Model X followed with its dramatic falcon wing doors and family friendly space, though it never quite matched the S for cultural impact. Still, both became rolling symbols of Tesla’s rise from scrappy startup to industry disruptor.

Replacements Overdue

The problem is time waits for no car, especially in the EV world. Sales numbers told the story. The Model 3 and Model Y became Tesla’s volume heroes, while S and X faded into niche status. While Tesla refreshed the S and X over the years, it never gave us all-new versions even as the threat from Western and Chinese rivals grew stronger.

Now, rather then reboot them, Tesla has decided to pivot to something different altogether, something with the potential to make even more money, and have an even bigger impact than the S did a decade ago.

A dust-covered prototype spotted in a California parking lot has stirred plenty of curiosity across forums and social media. Weathered and left behind, it’s another eerie reminder of how unforgiving the EV game can be, especially for startups trying to find a foothold in a market that moves fast, burns money, and doesn’t wait for anyone to catch up.

More: Seres 5 Crushes Tesla Model Y In Comfort But Loses The Battle Where It Counts

The vehicle in question appears to be a near-production evolution of the SF7 concept, which SF Motors first revealed back in 2018. That company would later be rebranded as Seres, eventually spinning off the Aito nameplate in partnership with Chinese tech giant Huawei. And yes, keeping track can be a bit of a challenge.

Still, the Chinese automaker once had big plans for the North American market. In 2018, it purchased a factory in Mishawaka, Indiana, for $160 million, with the intention of building EVs on US soil and going straight after Tesla.

That same year, it also opened a 130,000-square-foot R&D and low-volume manufacturing facility at the McCarthy Creekside Industrial Center in Milpitas, California.

By the following year, however, those plans had been shelved. Officially, it was due to shifting market dynamics and the usual complications of US-China trade. Unofficially, the writing was already on the wall.

The Shape of What Could Have Been

The abandoned prototype, first noticed by forum users and Reddit sleuths, was spotted in the parking lot of the SF Motors facility in Milpitas, California. Compared to the original SF7 concept, this one looks much closer to production, with reworked bumpers, reshaped fenders, and more conventional lighting units.

Overall, it looks like a mix between a sedan and a fastback crossover, with discreet cladding around the wheel arches and a sleek roofline. It also features. US-market details like amber indicators suggest it was being prepped for local homologation.

Inside, there’s a large portrait-oriented infotainment display paired with a digital instrument cluster. The cabin is trimmed in white leather with wood accents, but it’s clearly suffered from exposure, thanks to windows left partially open to the elements.

Specs That Never Saw the Road

Originally, the SF7 was meant to ride on a dedicated EV platform, boasting quad electric motors with a combined output of up to 1,000 horsepower. A liquid-cooled battery was estimated to provide around 300 miles (483 kilometers) of range, putting the SF7 in direct competition with premium electric SUVs at the time.

Although the SF7 never made it to showrooms, the slightly smaller SF5 managed to find a second life. That concept evolved into the Seres 5, which we reviewed, and the Aito M5, developed through the Seres-Huawei partnership.

A Failed Dream

Seeing this derelict development vehicle in California is reminder of how close SF Motors came to offer vehicles in the US. But in the end, those plans never crossed the finish line.

The Mishawaka facility, originally chosen as the production site for the SF5 and SF7, once built the Mercedes R-Class. That likely explains the presence of the white R-Class, sitting on pallets next to the abandoned SF7.

The old Mercedes crossover carries SF Motors emblems and was repurposed as a development mule for a “high-performance electric powertrain.”

From One Collapse to Another

After SF Motors scrapped its US production plans, the Indiana facility was picked up by Electric Last Mile Solutions (ELMS), a startup that later filed for bankruptcy. Mullen Automotive stepped in and took ownership in 2022, but by late 2025, the company handed the plant over to the GEM Group to resolve outstanding legal liabilities.

Photos Reddit / Imgur / Google Maps

The Neue Klasse revolution has barely begun and already BMW has a problem. The good kind. Buyers are snapping up the new electric iX3 so quickly that it’s almost sold out through to the end of 2026, forcing the company to speed up plans for extra factory shifts.

Related: BMW iX3 M Coming As A Quad Motor Performance EV

That’s a big vote of confidence for a car customers haven’t even driven yet. Since its debut last autumn, the iX3 has made up around a third of BMW’s electric orders in Europe. Deliveries only start in March, yet much of the planned output is effectively gone.

To keep wait times from stretching into next winter, BMW is bringing forward a second production shift at its brand new Debrecen plant in Hungary, Auto News reports. The site is BMW’s first factory built purely for EVs, and while it’ll eventually build around 150,000 cars a year, it’s currently still ramping up. Clearly, that ramp needs to get steeper.

This matters far beyond one SUV. The iX3 is the first model on BMW’s all-new Neue Klasse platform and wears a bravely modern Neue Klasse design, as will the upcoming Neue Klasse 3-Series replacement later this year.

If buyers are this enthusiastic about the SUV, BMW executives will be feeling pretty good about the electric sports sedan waiting in the wings.

More Tech, More Color for 2027MY

BMW isn’t wasting time in adding polishing the package to make the iX3 even more desirable, either. From spring, the compact SUV gains an optional 22 kW AC charging upgrade, cutting home and workplace charging times. It also adds Vehicle to Load capability, letting owners power external devices at up to 3.7 kW and making camping trips more sophisticated.

There are fresh paint choices, too, including Eucalyptus Green metallic and Frozen Space Silver, plus some interior trim tweaks and the introduction of new options like a stainless steel loading sill, bright white steering wheel and an M-striped key.

Smaller SUVs Get Some Love Too

And BMW’s older electric crossovers aren’t being ignored this year, even if the iX3 is hogging the spotlight. The iX1 and iX2 receive more efficient silicon-carbide semiconductor components, boosting range by about 25 miles (40 km) depending on version. That’s a handy bump for everyday usability, improving the previously poor range of the best-performing eDrive20 to as much as 319 miles (514 km).

Tesla hasn’t created a Cybervan yet, but someone else just beat them to it. A Russian startup has stepped in with something that looks uncannily like a bulked-up Cybertruck, except it’s an electric van, and yes, it’s heading for production.

Meet the Russo-Balt F200, a stainless steel slab of a van with unmistakable Cybertruck flair. It’s the first model from a newly revived brand that traces its name back to a storied Russian automaker and railway carriage builder that operated between 1869 and 1918. Production plans are already in motion, with initial deliveries scheduled for January 2027.

More: Russia’s Cybervan Looks Like A Sci-Fi Tesla Truck That Gave Up

As we previously reported, the F200 has already been seen roaming public roads in Russia, confirming that it’s more than a rendering or vaporware project. Amusingly, the company even featured a link to our earlier coverage on its own website.

Although we pointed out a resemblance to China’s Weiqiao New Energy V90, Russo-Balt insists the F200 is its own creation and not a rebadge job.

What Is This Thing, Exactly?

The body panels are shaped from unpainted stainless steel, just like the Cybertruck, welded together by hand. Despite the raw-metal finish, buyers can personalize the look with optional polyurethane wraps, available in a full range of colors and graphics.

From its sharp creases to the flat windows and squared-off arches, the F200 borrows more than a few cues from the Cybertruck. Full-width LED lighting front and rear, plus a tailgate design that recalls the styling of Tesla’s electric truck bed cover, round out the visual nods.

While most vans of this size ride on a ladder-frame chassis, the F200 uses a monocoque chassis. This setup supports a payload of up to 1,000 kg (2,205 pounds), which appears to be in line with commercial expectations.

100-Year Warranty

According to the Russian startup, the vehicle falls under the international L3H3 classification and measures 5,950 mm (234.3 inches) in length, 2,000 mm (78.7 inches) in width, and 2,550 mm (100.4 inches) in height, tall enough for most people to stand upright inside.

The standard build includes a 100-year body warranty for the stainless steel panels, which sounds a bit rich for a van that hasn’t hit the road yet in full production form.

Power comes from a single electric motor with 200 hp sent to the front wheels. A 115 kWh battery pack provides a claimed range of 400 kilometers (249 miles), with DC fast charging supported via a port on the front fender.

How Much Does it Cost?

Pricing is set at 6.5 million rubles, roughly $85,200 at current exchange rates. A refundable deposit of just 10,000 rubles (around $131) secures a place in the production queue, though the total planned volume hasn’t been disclosed.

More: Ukraine Turns A BMW 7-Series Into A Luxury Russia-Fighting Rocket Launcher

Standard equipment includes ABS, ESP, climate control, rear air suspension, and a 360-degree camera setup with live streaming capability. Virtually every surface that could be warmed, including seats, steering wheel, mirrors, even the windshield wipers, is heated. This is a vehicle built for Russian winters, after all.

Infotainment is handled by a 14-inch touchscreen, which displays vehicle settings and offers integrated entertainment from Russian platforms such as Rutube, VKvideo, and Yandex.

More to Come from Russo-Balt

Interestingly, the team behind the F200 claims prior experience in manufacturing stainless steel water dispensers, and they plan to carry over the same material and fabrication expertise to the van. Production will be on a made-to-order basis.

A second model, the F400, is already in development. This one will feature a range-extending gas engine and all-wheel drive via dual electric motors, combining for a projected 400 horsepower. It will also add front air suspension, in addition to the rear air spring setup already included on the F200. Pricing details have yet to be announced.

Russo-Balt

Sluggish demand is putting pressure on Ford’s European EV strategy, as two of its newest models struggle to gain traction. The Explorer and Capri have fallen short of sales expectations across the region, prompting the company to scale back shifts and lay off workers at its Cologne factory in Germany.

To rekindle buyer interest in its VW-based EVs, Ford has upgraded the Standard Range versions with added power and extended driving range.

More: The Ford Explorer Just Got A Makeover You Won’t See In America

The 2026 Ford Explorer and Capri Standard Range look the same as before, but benefit from hardware upgrades under the skin. The 52 kWh battery has the same capacity but now features lithium iron phosphate technology, unlocking more range.

According to Ford, the WLTP range figures have been increased by up to 70 km (52 miles). More specifically, the Explorer can travel 444 km (276 miles) between charges, and the more aerodynamic Capri has a range of 464 km (288 miles).

Acceleration Gets a Modest Bump

Furthermore, the rear-mounted electric motor is now making 187 hp (140 kW / 190 PS) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. This represents an increase of 20 hp (15 kW) and 40 Nm (30 lb-ft) compared to the outgoing Standard Range models, allowing the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint to be completed in 8 seconds flat (-0.7 seconds).

More: VW’s Killing The ID.4 To Bring Back A Familiar Name

Those suffering from range anxiety can still get the Extended Range RWD, which comes with a bigger 77 kWh battery and a more powerful 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS) motor, or the flagship Extender Range AWD with a 79 kWh battery and dual motors producing 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS).

The Ford Explorer was introduced in 2023, followed by the Capri in 2024. Both models are produced at the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center in Germany, following a multi-billion-dollar investment to convert the historic Fiesta plant into an EV hub.

Ford has yet to announce pricing for the updated EVs. In Germany, the current Explorer and Capri start from €39,900 ($47,600) and €42,400 ($50,700) respectively. It remains to be seen whether the improved specs will lead to increased customer demand.

What’s Going on With the Competition?

Meanwhile, over at Volkswagen, the German brand is preparing to replace the ID.4 with a refreshed model named ID. Tiguan, while quietly retiring the ID.5.

Ford’s rivals in the segment continue to grow, with the list including the Skoda Enyaq, Renault Scenic E-Tech, Nissan Ariya, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Peugeot E-3008, Opel Grandland Electric, Citroen e-C5 Aircross, Jeep Compass Electric, and the ever-present Tesla Model Y

Ford

Electrified vehicles are no longer playing second fiddle in Europe’s car market. Sales of battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and traditional hybrid models climbed sharply across the continent last year, while demand for gasoline and diesel vehicles continued to shrink.

Read: One in 10 New Cars Sold in Europe Last Month Was Chinese

The shift picked up real momentum in December, when BEV sales pulled ahead of gas-powered cars for the first time in the European Union, even as policymakers were making plans to ease emissions regulations.

That month, BEVs accounted for 22.6 percent of the market, slipping just ahead of petrol cars at 22.5 percent. Hybrids held the largest share overall at 33.7 percent, followed by plug-in hybrids with 10.7 percent. Diesel fell further to 7.2 percent, while alternatives like LPG closed the list at 3.3 percent.

Across the European Union, the UK, and members of the European Free Trade Association, including Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland, a total of 13,271,270 new vehicles were sold throughout 2025. That marks a modest but notable 2.4 percent uptick from the previous year. Within that total, BEVs accounted for 2,585,187 sales, a significant 29.7 percent increase over the 1.9 million sold in 2024.

Hybrids Lead the Charge

Despite the BEV surge, traditional hybrids took the crown as the continent’s best-selling powertrain last year. A total of 4,566,850 hybrids were sold, reflecting a 12.4 percent increase and pushing them past gasoline-powered cars for the first time.

In 2024, petrol models held a narrow lead with 4,273,880 units sold, but in 2025, that number dropped sharply by 18.9 percent to 3,467,041.

Similarly, demand for diesel cars fell by a considerable 24 percent, down from 1,349,899 to just 1,026,354 units. This allowed plug-in hybrids to overtake diesels, selling a total of 1,272,901, or a 33.4 percent rise from 2024.

December’s numbers laid bare the speed of change. BEV registrations soared to 308,955, up 50.3 percent compared to the same month a year earlier. That was enough to edge out gasoline car sales, which declined 17.7 percent to 254,449. Diesel models also slumped in December, with sales falling 23.1 percent to 73,195.

As in the January-December period, hybrids remained the most popular powertrain choice in December, with sales reaching 380,921, up 4.9 percent. Demand for plug-in hybrids also rose 35.8 percent to 123,460.

The Story Behind the Numbers

While it’s easy to conclude that EVs outsold gas-powered cars entirely in December, that’s not entirely true. These figures from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association include full and mild hybrids in the ‘hybrid electric’ category, which led the industry in sales.

The vast majority of full hybrid and mild hybrids on sale use gas-powered combustion engines, whether that’s to drive the wheels, charge the battery pack, or a combination of both, so it would perhaps be more accurate to lump together hybrid electric and gas-powered vehicles into the same category. If that were the case, they would come out well ahead of BEVs.

Electric vehicle technology advances quickly and models tend to get outdated relatively fast. To avoid this, a number of companies make significant changes just a few years after launch.

More: 2025 Mini Countryman Makes For An Electrifying Crossover

We can add Mini to this list as they’ve unveiled an improved Countryman E. While the crossover was introduced less than three years ago, the latest version has significantly improved range thanks to a larger 65.2 kWh battery pack and a new silicon carbide inverter, which minimizes power losses.

The model also benefits from new front axle wheel bearings that reduce rolling resistance and help to improve overall efficiency.

Thanks to these changes, the Countryman E now has a WLTP range of up to 311 miles (501 km). For comparison, the current model has a smaller 64.6 kWh battery and a range of up to 287 miles (462 km). That doesn’t sound like much of an improvement, but it’s an 8.4 percent increase.

The Countryman SE ALL4 benefits from the upgrades as well and this allows for a range of up to 290 miles (467 km). That’s 21.7 miles (35 km) more than its predecessor.

The updated Countryman will be available in Europe this March and will presumably come stateside shortly thereafter. While that remains to be seen, the US-spec Countryman SE ALL4 starts at $45,200 and has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 308 hp (230 kW / 312 PS) and 364 lb-ft (493 Nm) of torque.

This enables the electric crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.4 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h). Buyers can also expect a modest EPA range of up to 212 miles (341 km).

While VW and Xpeng are teaming up to develop new EVs for China, the partnership hasn’t stopped a quiet rivalry from unfolding. Xpeng has just rolled out its latest electric sedan, the P7+, across European markets, and it’s not shy about naming its target, which is none other than the VW ID.7, one of Europe’s top-selling EVs.

Read: Xpeng P7+ Is The Latest Ultra-Efficient EV From China

The P7+ has already spent time on the Chinese market, but it recently arrived in Europe with more than just a new badge. It debuted in European specification at the Brussels Auto Show earlier this month and is now being built locally at Magna Steyr’s contract manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria.

Like the ID.7, it’s a streamlined, low-profile sedan with a strong focus on range and high-speed charging.

A Cheaper Entry, With Compromises

One thing the Xpeng has going for it over the VW is price. In Germany, the entry-level P7+ starts at just €43,600 ($51,200), significantly undercutting the ID.7 that kicks off from €54,105 ($64,900). However, whereas the base ID.7 uses a 77 kWh battery and has a WLTP driving range of 385 miles (619 km), the base P7+ uses a much smaller 62 kWh pack, restricting its range to 283 miles (455 km).

Shoppers who want to travel farther between stops will need to pay at least €49,600 ($59,500) for the long-range model, which boasts a 75 kWh pack and a 329-mile (530 km) range. However, that pales in comparison to the flagship ID.7 Pro S with its 86 kWh pack and 440-mile (708 km) range.

Charging Without Compromise

According to Sven De Smet, head of brand and marketing at Xpeng Europe, who spoke to AutoNews, one of the key advantages of the P7+ is its faster charging capability. The VW tops out at 200 kW for DC fast charging, while the base P7+ can reach 350 kW, and the long-range version peaks at 446 kW.

“We believe charging is one of the pain points,” De Smet said. “A big battery is heavier, which means it consumes more electricity, which means you charge it more.”

Xpeng also points out that the smaller, lighter battery packs in the P7+ should have a positive impact on handling and overall driving dynamics. That could prove appealing to European drivers, who often place a premium on responsiveness and efficiency.

The question now is whether the P7+ can match the ID.7’s strong European sales. Last year, VW moved 76,368 units of the ID.7 across the continent, putting it in seventh place among all EVs sold. That figure put it just 10,000 units behind the Tesla Model 3. Xpeng may be the challenger in this case, but it’s stepping into a crowded field.

Strategic Partners, Not Just Rivals

VW holds a five percent stake in Xpeng following a $700 million investment, but the ties run deeper than capital. The two brands are jointly developing several EVs for the Chinese market, including at least one model built on Xpeng’s Edward platform. VW has also committed to integrating aspects of Xpeng’s tech stack, including its proprietary Turing chip and VLA 2.0 software, into future models.

Xpeng

The recalls keep adding up for the Volkswagen ID.4 and the latest is a major safety issue impacting 670 crossovers. It involves 2023 and 2024 model year vehicles, which have misaligned electrodes that can result in a battery fire.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Volkswagen first became aware of a problem when an ID.4 caught on fire while using a DC fast charger in January of 2024. This kicked off an investigation, but a second fire in a parked vehicle was reported in July.

More: Multiple Fires Spark Urgent Warning For VW EV Owners

A third fire followed in October of 2024, while a fourth came in December. The latter was being driven at the time.

What Caused the Fires?

Due to the “differing nature of these events and the condition of the batteries,” Volkswagen and suppliers had a hard time determining a root cause. However, the company managed to trace the origin of the fires to the battery and found “shifted electrodes” in one of them.

A fifth fire was reported in August of 2025 while using a DC fast charger. Eventually, a tear-down analysis found shifted electrodes and these were confirmed in previous cases via CT images. This sparked a recall in December of 2025, which was amended less than two weeks later as additional faulty batteries where identified.

The companies continued looking into the issue and SK Battery America discovered a second production problem that could result in shifted electrodes. The companies aren’t aware of any field reports related to this specific issue, but they’ve decided to conduct a new recall.

Serious Safety Warning

100 percent of the recalled vehicles are believed to be impacted and Volkswagen is warning owners to “park outside immediately after charging and not leave their vehicles charging indoors overnight until the recall repair is complete.”

On top of that, drivers are being advised not to use DC fast chargers and to limit the battery charge to a maximum of 80 percent.

That’s a big inconvenience, but it beats having your ID.4 burst into flames. To address the issue, Volkswagen will replace high voltage battery cell modules.

A Second ID.4 Recall

Speaking of ID.4 recalls, there’s a second one involving 2023-2025 models. This one impacts 43,881 vehicles and is due to a battery that can overheat.

This is related to the aforementioned problem and is designed to cover “incidents outside of the ranges being recalled for the shifted electrode issues.” Unfortunately, details are hazy as Volkswagen hasn’t found a clear root cause.

That being said, the automaker warned the battery can experience “thermal propagation” in rare circumstances. This can eventually lead to a vehicle fire.

While the root cause remains elusive, “current analysis results show that certain deviations at the supplier of the battery modules may result in self-discharge.” If this issue exists in your ID.4, you might notice reduced range and/or performance.

As part of the recall, Volkswagen technicians will perform a battery health check and install updated self-discharge detection software. The company may also replace some batteries, based on the results of the inspection and software readings.

Only 1% of the recalled vehicles are believed to have the defect, which would equate to around 439 crossovers.

Genesis’s designers have had their hands full lately, dreaming up all kinds of projects that could eventually lead to production cars. Some we’ve already seen up close, like the G90 Magma Performance Wagon and the Magma GT, their mid-engine Corvette rival, but others have stayed behind closed doors. Until now.

See: Genesis Has Some Crazy Ideas, Starting With This Space-Age Minivan

We’ve already told you about the minivan and the hydrogen SUV studies, but there’s one more you wouldn’t usually expect from a premium brand, a project simply known as “The Pickup.” It’s a design exercise for a fully electric model aimed at the North American market. The project has been shelved for now, but it’s not entirely off the table for the future.

Hyundai Motor Group’s Chief Creative Officer, Luc Donckerwolke, recently acknowledged that Genesis had been exploring the idea. Ultimately, though, the team felt “it was not the right time,” choosing instead to focus on performance-focused Magma models.

First Glimpse of a Truck That Might Have Been

Most concepts like this stay buried inside design studios, rarely seeing the light of day. This time, however, Genesis opted to pull back the curtain slightly, sharing official sketches and renderings. The images originally appeared in the January/February issue of Auto&Design magazine, but Genesis has also released them directly to Carscoops.

Visually, the design stays rooted in Genesis’s familiar language. Two-Line LED headlights sweep back into pronounced front fenders, mirrored by the taillight design at the rear. The large Crest grille remains a focal point, flanked by sleek side intakes and a sturdy aluminum skid plate anchoring the front bumper.

More: This Genesis Supercar Isn’t A Pipe Dream, It’s Coming In Multiple Flavors

The profile is defined by imposing proportions, with a tall hood, a sizable rear bed, and an aerodynamic greenhouse. The sketches also show oversized wheels fitted with futuristic alloy designs and chunky, high-grip tires.

Another variation of the concept study features a flip-up panel on the nose that reveals a storage compartment, along with added space in the side skirts for portable batteries or other small items. This version takes a more minimalist approach to the styling, paired with more pronounced fenders for a bolder stance.

Designed for Americans

Genesis confirms the concept was developed with the American market in mind, and had it gone further, it would have ridden on the same ladder-frame chassis as the X Gran Equator Concept. That would mean better off-road capability and hauling strength than you’d get from a unibody setup.

No specific power or range figures have been shared, though it’s safe to assume the EV platform would support all-wheel drive. In one rendering, the truck is shown towing a custom-designed Airstream camper, suggesting it was at least envisioned with serious towing capability in mind.

The cabin gets a brief preview as well. One sketch shows a five-seater layout with a mix of soft, cylindrical forms across the dash, console, and seats. A two-spoke steering wheel and slim digital instrument panel create a minimalistic front row, with a curved passenger display extending the width of the dashboard.

More: Hyundai Boss Says New Midsize Pickup Will Blow Your Mind

Just a few months ago, Donckerwolke talked to Australian media expressing concerns on whether a pickup would be a right fit for Genesis. He specifically suggested they should be careful of not diluting the brand with a utilitarian offering.

The Project Is Not Entirely Dead

However, Donckerwolke’s more recent comments to Auto&Design suggest the idea isn’t entirely off the table. “An electric pickup truck? Why not?” he said. “Then we discarded it because we had to focus on different projects. Maybe in the future, who knows.”

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It wouldn’t be surprising if Genesis revisits the truck segment down the line, possibly sharing underpinnings with one of Hyundai’s upcoming pickups. The Korean automaker is already developing an electric truck that could slot into the Ioniq lineup, along with ladder-frame midsize pickups for the U.S. and Australian markets, some of which may use a range-extender powertrain.

In a comment to Carscoops, a Genesis spokesperson clarified how these internal projects often unfold. “Genesis often undertakes future design exercises to explore possibilities for our ever-expanding portfolio,” he told us. “While some of these concepts ultimately don’t move forward to production, this showcases the broad capabilities and strengths of the Genesis design team.”

Photos Genesis

If the R1S and R1T were the cars that gave birth to Rivian, the upcoming R2 will be the one that decides whether the brand thrives or stays in infancy. And that moment is arriving quickly, as the mid-size SUV appears to be on track to reach its first customer driveways by June, thanks to the rapid expansion of Rivian’s production facility in Normal, Illinois.

The R2 could be make-or-break for the EV startup. If it’s a success, it could establish the EV brand as a serious mass-market player in the US. If it fails, Rivian may remain a niche brand forever.

Read: Rivian’s R2 Spotted With A Very Interesting Rear Window

It will be produced at a new 2.6 million-square-foot section of Rivian’s Illinois plant, and the first validation build vehicles have already started rolling off the line.

These vehicles are production-intent, not pre-production prototypes, and will help validate key factory processes before Rivian can start building customer vehicles at scale.

As reported by WGLT, Rivian built the new manufacturing center in just 11 months, and at full capacity, the site will be able to produce up to 215,000 vehicles a year, including 155,000 R2s.

Rivian didn’t originally plan to build the R2 in Illinois. When the SUV was first announced in early 2024, the company said it would be assembled at a forthcoming $5 billion factory in Georgia.

That site, however, remains in early development, with substantial construction work expected to begin later this year. If completed as proposed, it could eventually build up to 400,000 vehicles per year, primarily R2 and future R3 models.

RJ Scaringe/Instagram

The EV maker has yet to announce final specifications for the R2 and likely won’t do so until closer to its launch. When the SUV first appeared in prototype form two years ago, the company confirmed it would ride on an all-new midsize platform and be offered in single-, dual-, and tri-motor configurations.

We do have a few technical details already. The R2 will use 4,695-type cylindrical battery cells and, in its base form, deliver more than 300 miles (483 km) of range. It will also feature a built-in NACS port as standard, giving it access to Tesla’s Supercharger network without the need for adapters or retrofits.

The Price Question

Perhaps the most important detail is still the price. Rivian initially projected a starting MSRP of around $45,000. That number will be crucial if the company hopes to compete head-on with Tesla’s Model Y. Holding that price point could be key to making the R2 not just another statement piece, but a genuinely competitive offering in the heart of the EV market.

Canada’s recent trade deal with China was bound to cause controversy. The agreement slashes tariffs on Chinese EVs from 100 percent down to just 6.1 percent, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump to threaten 100 percent tariffs on Canada if the deal proceeds. Still, China insists the arrangement is meant to benefit both countries and isn’t a zero-sum game.

Under the new deal, up to 49,000 EVs from China can be imported to Canada at a reduced 6.1 percent tariff rate, though at least half of them must cost $35,000 or less by 2030.

Read: Canada Just Invited China’s Biggest EV Makers To Build Cars On America’s Border

Unifor labor union president Lana Payne argues the deal opens the door for China to quickly capture critical market share. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has voiced similar concerns, warning that Canada could be inundated with low-cost EVs, without any firm commitment from China to invest in the local economy.

Beijing Signals Willingness to Build in Canada

Despite those concerns, Chinese Ambassador to Canada Wang Di says China’s fast-growing automakers are being urged to invest directly in Canada and produce vehicles domestically.

“All these projects will be beneficial to the development of the Canadian EV industry, and will be helpful for job growth in Canada, and will help Canadian consumers to be able to buy higher quality and more affordable cars,” Wang told CTV News. “The character of China-Canada practical co-operation is complementarity and mutual benefit.”

“China encourages and supports Chinese companies to make investments and start-up companies here in Canada, on the basis of the market rules,” he continued. “At the same time, we hope that the Canadian side will provide a fair, non-discriminatory, and predictable business environment for the Chinese companies that come here.”

According to Wang, that is what Beijing ultimately wants to see, if companies choose to take up the opportunity.

“If Chinese companies will come to Canada to work with Canadian partners for investment, for opening factories or for joint ventures, all of these projects will be win-win,” he said.

Is This a Message to Washington?

Perhaps in a thinly veiled swipe at the Trump administration, Wang added that “unlike some other countries, China will not only take into consideration of its selfish interest, we don’t want ‘only we win and others lose.’”

The head of the Canada-China Energy and Environment Forum, Wenran Jiang, would like to see Canadian juggernaut Magna International partner with a Chinese car manufacturer to build EVs in Canada. Recently, it was confirmed that Magna would partner with GAC to build the Aion V, but it’ll be built at the parts giant’s factory in Graz, Austria.

“If they can do that, we can do it certainly here in Ontario,” Jiang said, adding that such cooperation could help bridge regional divides over China policy. “We could do probably better if we leverage our regional advantages and work together as a team.”

Xiaomi has quickly established itself as an automaker to be reckoned with in China, and last year, it achieved something that would’ve seemed unlikely just a few years ago: its all-electric SU7 sedan outsold the Tesla Model 3.

Once the brand of choice for EV-hungry Chinese consumers, Tesla now finds itself outpaced by domestic rivals that are rapidly improving their game. Xiaomi is leading that charge.

Read: Xiaomi’s YU7 Outsold Tesla’s Model Y And Now It’s Getting Personal

Data from the Chinese Passenger Car Association shows that in 2025, Xiaomi sold 258,164 SU7s. That’s nearly double the roughly 135,000 units it moved in 2024, a figure made more impressive given that the SU7 only launched in April of that year.

Perhaps more notably, it overtook the Tesla Model 3, which saw 200,361 deliveries in the same period.

What’s Driving the Switch?

Chinese buyers have responded well not only to the SU7’s design inside and out but also to the technology it packs and the performance it delivers.

The base version undercuts a comparable Model 3 by roughly 9 percent, according to a report from the South China Morning Post, giving it a clear pricing advantage. Strong driving range and well-specced hardware round out the package, allowing the SU7 to compete in a segment Tesla once dominated.

“Tesla’s dominance in the premium EV segment has been eroded by its Chinese competitors that are able to churn out vehicles on par with its technology standards while offering them at lower prices,” a senior manager at the Shanghai-based consultancy Suolei told the outlet. “Xiaomi’s success is a strong boost for Chinese carmakers, which are all trying to move up the value chain.”

What’s in Store for 2026?

This year is shaping up to be even bigger for Xiaomi. In April, an updated SU7 will be launched, complete with more advanced driving assistance functions, including LiDAR across the entire family, and an improved driving range of up to 902 km (560 miles) on the CLTC cycle.

Within the first 15 days of pre-orders opening, Xiaomi reportedly secured 100,000 reservations for the refreshed model.

Also: Ford’s Jim Farley Was “Shocked” After Tearing Down Xiaomi And Tesla EVs

In total, Xiaomi sold 411,800 vehicles last year and is targeting 550,000 in 2026. This will also be the first full year of availability for the YU7 SUV, which could become its best-selling model.

Back in October, the YU7 notched 33,662 sales in a single month, even edging past the Tesla Model Y. Xiaomi’s third model, the YU9, will also make its debut this year as a range-extender EV.

India has long guarded its domestic car industry with near-impenetrable tariffs, making foreign vehicles a rare sight on its roads unless built locally. That’s about to change.The country is now getting ready to lower those duties on European Union cars, dropping them from a steep 110 percent to 40 percent.

Final terms of the trade agreement between India and the EU will be outlined later this week, but the current proposal outlines that tariffs on EU-made combustion-engine cars will fall to 40 percent for up to 200,000 units annually. Over time, that figure is expected to drop even further, eventually settling at 10 percent.

Read: India’s New Renault Duster Looks Like A Rich Man’s Dacia Duster

In order to protect local firms like Mahinda & Mahindra as well as Tata Motors, battery-electric vehicles would be excluded from the tariff cuts for the first five years. After that, European-made BEVs will also qualify for the reduced tariff structure.

Only cars priced above €15,000 (roughly $17,700) would be eligible for the reduction, a threshold designed to limit direct competition with mass-market offerings from firms such as Maruti Suzuki. These models dominate India’s affordable car segment and are critical to local industry stability.

According to Reuters, the deal is still under negotiation, with finer details yet to be finalized. Certain provisions remain subject to revision before the full announcement is made.

A Massive Market, Ripe for Growth

India now ranks as the third-largest new car market in the world, trailing only the United States and China. Yet European brands currently hold less than a 4 percent share of annual sales, positioning India as a key target for future expansion. Around 4.4 million new vehicles were sold in the country last year, with forecasts suggesting that number could climb to 6 million by 2030.

While the trade pact is expected to give EU carmakers a clearer path into the Indian market, it could also make things easier for Indian textile and jewellery exports. Those goods currently face US tariffs as high as 50 percent, and access to a new market could help take some pressure off.