Normal view

There are new articles available, click to refresh the page.
Today — 21 April 2026Electric Vehicles - Latest News | Carscoops

Porsche’s GEN4 Formula E Car Is Chasing Championship Glory

  • The new Formula E race cars will be capable of delivering up to 805 hp.
  • Each car will come with a 51.25 kWh battery pack and hit 62 mph in just 1.8 seconds.
  • Porsche currently leads the drivers’ and teams’ titles in the 2025/2026 season.

Formula E will introduce its fourth generation of cars for the upcoming 2026/2027 season, and Porsche has become the latest company to unveil its entrant. Looking more like a concept out of a Tron film than a car that will actually race, the 975 RSE delivers far more downforce than previous entrants, which should slash lap times.

This year, the powertrains used across the Formula E grid will be uprated to deliver 805 hp in Attack Mode with permanent all-wheel drive and new tires ensuring that power is sent to the tarmac efficiently. During regular racing, power will be capped at 604 hp, and all cars will use a 51.25 kWh battery pack. The GEN4 car can sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 1.8 seconds, and the 975 RSE weighs just 2,103 lbs (954 kg).

Read: Liberty Walk Gets Its Hands On A Formula E Single-Seater

Elsewhere, the new cars offer up to 700 kW of recuperation power thanks to the regenerative braking system at the front and rear axles. They also support ultra-fast charging at up to 600 kW. But it’s the design of the GEN4 cars that will really catch the attention of fans of the single-seater, all-electric racing series.

A Racer From The Future

\\\\\\\\

The front end has been overhauled and sports an all-new nose cone with an intricate multi-level splitter and complex aero elements ahead of the front wheels. The aerodynamics have also been revised along the sides, while a flowing wing is positioned at the rear. Importantly, the livery shown is for testing only, and the racer will look a little different when the season starts.

Halfway through the current 2025/2026 season, Porsche leads the current drivers’ and teams’ championships and will look to build on this success for the next season. Porsche also won the teams’ titles in 2024-2025, while current-championship leader Pascal won the drivers’ championship for the brand in 2023-2024.

“The 975 RSE and its competitors are a massive step forward for the sport,” Porsche factory driver Nico Müller said. “I’m a big fan of how aggressively you can drive. Especially in qualifying, when everyone is pushing to the limit, it should be spectacular – particularly because of the strong acceleration out of the corners. I’m glad I was involved in the simulator work from the beginning. Pascal and I share the testing duties. That’s good, because it allows us to tailor the 975 RSE precisely to our needs.”

\\\\\\\\\\

Honda Couldn’t Give Away Its Electric SUV In Europe, So Now It’s Killing It

  • Honda is withdrawing the e:Ny1 SUV from most European markets.
  • Global EV plans, including the Sony Afeela, have been canceled.
  • A new Super-N hatchback will arrive in Europe and the UK in July.

Honda is preparing to pull the plug on its only fully electric model currently sold in Europe. As part of a rethink of its EV strategy, the automaker will take the e:Ny1 off sale just three years after it arrived. That sounds abrupt, and it is. This is not a full EV retreat, though. The new Super-N hatchback is waiting in the wings, set to step in where the e:Ny1 leaves off, even if it targets a very different slice of the market.

A product of Honda’s joint venture with Dongfeng, the e:Ny1 arrived in Europe in mid-2023 as the electric counterpart to the local-spec HR-V. It looks closely related to the hybrid crossover, but its roots trace back to China, where it has been sold as the e:NS1 and e:NP1 since 2022.

More: Honda’s 1.2 Million-Car China Peak Is Now A 720,000-Car Retreat

As reported by German newspaper Handelsblatt, the e:Ny1 has already disappeared from configurators in several major markets, including Germany, Italy, and Spain. The SUV remains available to order in France and Austria, but Honda is reportedly directing remaining stock toward the UK and Nordic regions, where demand has been stronger.

The model struggled to gain ground against newer, more affordable rivals from both European and Chinese brands. Even after a price cut in Germany from €47,590 ($56,100) to €38,990 ($46,000), Honda managed to sell just 105 units of the e:Ny1 last year.

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

The e:Ny1 rides on the “e:N Architecture F” platform and uses a single electric motor producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS). A 68.8 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of 412 km (256 miles). Compared with the EU-spec HR-V, it features a redesigned front end with a charging port integrated into the grille, clear taillights, and a 15.1-inch portrait touchscreen inside.

Honda Takes A Step Back

This European scale-back mirrors a wider global pivot. Honda recently confirmed it has canceled several planned EVs intended for North America, including the Acura RSX, the 0 Series Saloon and SUV, and the Afeela sedan and SUV from the Sony Honda Mobility joint venture.

More: Honda Plans To Sell 3,000 Rebadged Chinese EVs As The New Insight In Japan

Despite the gloomy outlook for its larger EVs, Honda isn’t pulling the plug entirely. The Super-N will reach UK and Europe shortly after its initial roll-out in Japan. The pint-sized electric hatchback draws inspiration from the Honda City Turbo II, pairing a sporty body kit with a 94 hp motor. Pricing is expected to start below £20,000 (€23,000 / $27,100), aiming to attract buyers with a more accessible entry point and a distinct character.

The rest of Honda’s European lineup is exclusively available with self-charging hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, as all ICE-only offerings were phased out in late 2022.

 Honda Couldn’t Give Away Its Electric SUV In Europe, So Now It’s Killing It
Honda Super-N

Honda’s 1.2 Million-Car China Peak Is Now A 720,000-Car Retreat

  • Honda and GAC will reportedly close one of the plants they operate together.
  • The report comes as Honda continues restructuring after betting big on EVs.
  • Honda’s Dongfeng joint venture may also see a plant closure due to low ICE sales.

Hot off the back of Honda’s $15.7 billion restructuring costs and a broader EV strategy overhaul announced last month, things aren’t looking good for Honda’s Chinese venture either. At least one of its automobile manufacturing plants in China will be closed by the end of June, according to a recent report.

The plant in question is part of their joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), following Honda’s China sales fall by some 24% in 2025 to just under 647,000 vehicles, roughly half of the 1.2 million sold in 2023.

Read: Honda Went To China, Saw The Future, And Reached Back To The 1960s

According to Reuters, another plant from Honda’s other JV with Dongfeng Motor may be shut soon, as the Japanese automaker tries to keep pace with a rapidly changing market. Demand for traditional petrol vehicles has dropped significantly, and local electric vehicle brands are increasingly taking market share from foreign manufacturers, putting them under increasing strain.

A Turning Point For Honda In China’s Evolving Market 

 Honda’s 1.2 Million-Car China Peak Is Now A 720,000-Car Retreat

Honda has six plants as part of its alliances with GAC and Dongfeng, but sustaining ICE production looks increasingly difficult. Estimates indicate that closing a single ICE plant in each joint venture would halve Honda’s petrol car production capacity in China, dropping from 960,000 to approximately 480,000 cars per year. This would also reduce Honda’s total annual vehicle capacity in the country from 1.2 million to around 720,000.

This comes on the heels of a rough year for the automaker in China, where it posted a steep drop in sales. As yet, there have been no official announcements of closures by the company or its partners, but analysts expect some slowdown.

Honda’s ICE offerings have seen some impressive offers, indicative of their poor sales performance. For instance, GAC Honda was offering returning customers a hefty discount of $14,610 (100,000 yuan) off a new Accord e: PHEV earlier in the year.

The bigger picture is to shift investment toward electric vehicles, although Honda’s EV growth in China will likely remain slow, as competitors already outpace them in tech and consumers increasingly prefer cars better optimized for local integration and cutting-edge software.

 Honda’s 1.2 Million-Car China Peak Is Now A 720,000-Car Retreat

40,000 RAV4s Sell Every Month In The US, But An Electric Version Isn’t Coming

  • Toyota has ruled out an all-electric RAV4 in favor of purpose-built EV platforms.
  • The RAV4’s hybrid architecture can’t support a battery-electric conversion cleanly.
  • Instead, Toyota’s bZ lineup, led by the bZ, carries the company’s full EV ambitions.

As the world shifts to electric cars, Toyota has seemingly ruled out an all-electric variant of one of its best-selling SUVs. The move is an indication of a strong course by Toyota, which is opting to invest more in its broader electrification plan rather than turning one of its most successful cars into a battery-powered model.

Review: The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Finally Feels Like The SUV It Was Meant To Be

The report comes despite growing interest in EVs worldwide, particularly in Australia, where the bZ4X has seen a 300% increase in sales.

Toyota Shifts Focus Toward Dedicated EV Platforms

 40,000 RAV4s Sell Every Month In The US, But An Electric Version Isn’t Coming

It’s not just the bZ4X that has seen an uptick in numbers. With geopolitical tensions pushing more people towards EVs, Australia, one of many countries hit by rising fuel costs, recorded a record number of new EVs in March, accounting for 14.6 percent of new car sales and representing an 88.9 percent year-on-year increase.

On paper, an EV version of the hot-selling RAV4, which sees 40,000 units shifted in the US each month alone, would seem like a match made in heaven.

But speaking to CarSales, RAV4 chief engineer Yoshinori Futonagane confirmed that we won’t be seeing an all-electric version of his car. Rather, Toyota is concentrating on its purpose-specific electric range under the bZ brand. The models (e.g., the Toyota bZ) are being introduced as core EVs and are designed from the get-go to improve driving range and overall performance.

Designed Without An EV In Mind

 40,000 RAV4s Sell Every Month In The US, But An Electric Version Isn’t Coming

Futonagane went on to explain that simply converting the RAV4 to a full EV will not fit within the company’s existing product roadmap. The RAV4 is based on a hybrid and plug-in hybrid platform, and Toyota’s EVs are built on separate bespoke platforms.

Toyota has opted for multiple pathways in its electrification strategy. The car manufacturer has invested heavily in hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen vehicles rather than fully converting to battery-electric cars.

Is Toyota’s strategy the right move, especially against Chinese offerings, such as Jaecoo? Time will tell, but for now, Toyota isn’t in any way rushing to change track.

 40,000 RAV4s Sell Every Month In The US, But An Electric Version Isn’t Coming
Illustration Thanos Pappas for Carscoops

Hyundai’s Ioniq 3 Looks Like Someone Crossed A Veloster With A Pontiac Aztek

  • The Hyundai Ioniq 3 is a fully electric “aero hatchback”.
  • The new model is the baby brother of the Ioniq 5.
  • It shares its underpinnings with the Kia EV3 and EV4.

Hyundai has unveiled a new gateway model for its electric Ioniq range in Europe. The Ioniq 3 develops last year’s Concept Three into a new production model described as an “aero hatchback” though it does come with various crossover styling cues.

More: Hyundai’s Ioniq Concepts Forgot They Were Supposed To Look Like Hyundais, Especially The Lambo One

Measuring 4,155 to 4,170 mm (163.6 to 164.2 inches) in length, depending on the version, the EV is roughly the same size as the Hyundai Bayon. Its 2,680 mm (105.5-inch) wheelbase, however, matches the Elantra. Within Hyundai’s zero-emission lineup, it sits above the Inster and below the Kona Electric, effectively taking on the role of a junior Ioniq 5.

\\\\\\

The more experimental bits from the concept have quietly disappeared. No Veloster-style asymmetrical doors here. Just a regular five-door layout that is easier to live with and, more importantly, easier to sell. Up front, split LED lighting is paired with four illuminated dots that echo across the rear, spelling out an “H” in Morse code.

Speaking of the rear, the stubby silhouette flirts with some less flattering comparisons, not least the infamous Pontiac Aztek. A split rear window, bisected by a thick horizontal bar that holds a rear wing, does it no favors, though to be fair, it still comes off better than the much-derided Pontiac effort.

 Hyundai’s Ioniq 3 Looks Like Someone Crossed A Veloster With A Pontiac Aztek
The Pontiac Aztek

Elsewhere, the production model adds visual weight through chunkier surfacing and more plastic cladding than the concept suggested. Hyundai claims a drag coefficient of 0.263, which is respectable given the shape.

Hyundai showed the range-topping N Line, set apart by sportier bumpers, an integrated diffuser, a rear spoiler, and model-specific 19-inch alloy wheels (base model rides on 16-inch wheels). Those elements are finished in black, tying in with the roof, A-pillars, side skirts, and the cladding around the wheel arches.

Xavier Martinet, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, said that the Ioniq 3 is “Built for people’s real everyday needs”, combining “segment-leading driving range and aerodynamics with extraordinary levels of space, comfort and practicality”.

High-Tech And Spacious Interior

Inside, the centerpiece is a 14.6-inch free-standing touchscreen, while lower trims make do with a smaller 12.9-inch display paired with a compact digital instrument cluster. Both run Hyundai’s new Google-based Pleos infotainment system, making its debut in a production model. Thankfully, there’s a row of physical switches mounted above the climate vents and additional tactile controls on the N-branded steering wheel.

\\\\\\\

Hyundai designers integrated the gear lever on the right stalk, freeing up space on the slim two-story center tunnel for cup holders, storage cubbies, and a wireless charging pad. Other highlights include a practical tray on the dashboard, heated and ventilated Relaxation Seats, rear climate vents, a panoramic sunroof, a Bose Premium audio system and a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense ADAS suite.

More: Hyundai Is Charging Koreans A Fee To Put Pikachu On Their 2027 Kona’s Dashboard

The boot has a double floor with a Ford Puma-style Megabox underneath. Total capacity stands at 441 liters (15.6 cubic feet), which is competitive for something this size.

Two Electric Powertrain Options

Underneath, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 rides on a 400-Volt version of the E-GMP architecture, just like the Kia EV3 and EV4 siblings. At launch, it will be offered in two front-wheel-drive configurations.

The Standard Range model comes with a 144 hp (108 kW / 147 PS) electric motor and a 42.2 kWh battery offering 214 miles (344 km) of WLTP range. The Long Range features a slightly less potent 133 hp (100 kW / 135 PS) electric motor and a larger 61 kWh battery, stretching the range to 308 miles (496 km) on a full charge. Both variants have the same 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque.

What About A Proper Hot Hatch?

\\\\

For those after something with a bit more edge, Hyundai’s N division is reportedly exploring a baby hot hatch spun from the Ioniq 3. It is an easy leap, given the platform already supports dual-motor setups delivering up to 288 hp (292 PS / 215 kW), as seen in the range-topping Kia EV3 GT-Line.

More: New Elantra N TCR Undercuts The Civic Type R By $7,000 With A Bigger Wing

Besides the extra punch, the Ioniq 3 N will likely benefit from a more aggressive stance along with a unique setup for the chassis and the electronics, borrowing a few tricks from the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N stablemates.

Market Availability

The Hyundai Ioniq 3 is set to launch in Europe later this year, with production based in Turkey. That also explains its absence from the US market, where tariffs would push pricing beyond what makes sense for a car in this segment.

It will step into a crowded field, going up against electric subcompact SUVs like the Kia EV3, Mini Aceman, Renault 4 E-Tech, Ford Puma Gen-E, Jeep Avenger, Alfa Romeo Junior, Volvo EX30, and Opel Mokka Electric. On the hatchback side, it will also face off against the Renault 5 E-Tech, BYD Dolphin, MG4 EV, and the upcoming VW ID. Polo.

Lynk & Co’s First GT Concept Looks Like It Could Actually Happen

  • Lynk & Co will debut its first GT concept car at the Beijing auto show.
  • The performance-focused study adopts a sleek two-door coupe stance.
  • Volvo will take over European commercial operations for Lynk & Co.

Lynk & Co’s production range has, until now, played it safe with SUVs and sedans. That may be about to change. The Geely-owned brand is preparing to show something with a bit more bite, announcing a two-door GT concept set to debut at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show on April 24, previewed by a single teaser.

The shadowy image suggests a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car, with proportions that land somewhere close to the now-departed Jaguar F-Type. There is a long dash-to-axle ratio, a low, sculpted profile, and planted rear shoulders. A sloping roofline flows into full-width LED taillights, while the rising beltline brings to mind the Lynk & Co 10+ sedan.

More: This Chinese SUV Now Boasts Europe’s Longest Electric Range In A PHEV

Details remain thin, as expected at this stage, but the concept will almost certainly sit on existing Geely architecture. That opens the door to either a fully electric setup or a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Interestingly, the GT appears closer to production than the 2022 Next Day concept, which shared a similarly low-slung, sporty silhouette but stretched things further with a longer body and four suicide scissor doors. If it gets the green light, this new model could find itself taking aim at the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-AMG GT, as well as China’s MG Cyberster.

 Lynk & Co’s First GT Concept Looks Like It Could Actually Happen
The official teaser of the new GT Concept by Lynk & Co.

The GT highlights the racing pedigree of Lynk & Co that has been quite successful in TCR. The company entered the TCR championship in 2019, taking the reigns from the defunct Volvo Polestar racing program.

Volvo Takes Over Sales And Service In Europe

Beyond the showroom floor, Lynk & Co is undergoing a structural shift in its global operations. Volvo Cars and Geely Auto recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the former take over the commercial and brand operations for Lynk & Co in Europe.

More: Volvo’s Favorite Tuner Just Crossed Over Into China’s EV Scene

Under this new arrangement, Volvo becomes the exclusive importer and distributor for Lynk & Co across the Old Continent, using its retailer and service networks. This means that the Geely-owned brand moves away from its previous subscription-heavy model toward a more traditional retail structure.

 Lynk & Co’s First GT Concept Looks Like It Could Actually Happen
Lynk & Co 08

Smart’s Tiny ForTwo Is Back. Sort Of

  • Smart previews Concept #2 as modern two-seat city EV.
  • Original 1998 ForTwo spirit returns with same silhouette.
  • Concept debuts at Beijing alongside China-only #6 sedan.

Some cars try to dominate the road, but Smart’s greatest hit barely took up half a parking space. Now the brand is teasing its icon’s comeback act with the Concept #2, a preview of the long-awaited successor to the legendary ForTwo, which went out of production in 2024.

Having dropped disguised images of a prototype testing last year, Smart has now released sketches and extreme close-up teaser images of the new concept ahead of a global brand event at the Beijing Auto Show later this month.

Related: Smart’s First Ever Sedan Is Much Bigger Than You Think

While full design and tech details remain hidden, it’s clear from what we can see that the #2’s profile closely echoes the original’s, but that this time the the arches are much fatter. The front end also adopts the family face from other new-generation Smarts like the #1, #3 and #5. Slightly confusingly, the #2 will be much smaller, and probably less expensive, than the #1.

Fashion Inspiration

Smart says the concept uses a matte white and warm gold two-tone finish, along with details inspired by fashion accessories, including buckle-like elements and leather touches. This is definitely no Citroen Ami-style no-frills economy EV.

\\\

We can see some of that white and gold coloring in the teaser shots, though whether those “fashion” ideas will find their way onto the production car is another matter. That design direction makes sense, though. The modern Smart brand isn’t selling bare-bones transportation anymore. It now pitches itself as a premium EV maker, with larger models like the #1, #3, and #5 already moving the company far beyond its original microcar roots.

ForTwo Legacy

CEO Tong Xiangbei previously admitted that building a truly tiny EV on a fresh platform is harder than making a larger car. Packaging batteries, safety systems, and decent practicality into something this small is engineering Tetris at expert level. But the #2 matters emotionally. It’s the car enthusiasts actually associate with Smart, the machine that made city motoring weird and fun long before everyone else discovered quirky mobility.

We’ll see the full concept in Beijing on April 22, where it shares the stage with the new China-only #6 EHD fastback sedan. The #6 was designed by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design team, and is shaping up to be a bit like a cut-price Mercedes EQE.

\\\\\\\\

Smart

Yesterday — 20 April 2026Electric Vehicles - Latest News | Carscoops

Toyota Was Mocked For Going Slow On EVs, Honda And VW Are Now Paying For Going Fast

  • Automakers in the US are taking sharply different paths toward EV adoption.
  • Some, like Toyota and Mercedes, continue with a measured approach to new EVs.
  • Others, such as Honda and Stellantis, are cutting back on their planned EV launches.

The auto industry is at a crossroads with EVs, and this is becoming increasingly evident. Nearly every automobile manufacturer has been forced into some level of self-reflection as far as electric cars are concerned. Some are forging ahead in hope, while others are slowing down and reassessing their plans as market demand fluctuates and prices rise.

Also: These Are The Best-Selling EVs In America This Year So Far

The recent developments in the industry portray the picture of how fragmented everything has become. Some have already abandoned or delayed EV projects since it has emerged that the growth they were envisaging was not that imminent. Others are in the process of doubling down and are taking this as a chance to leapfrog, as competition takes a breather.

Slow And Steady Wins The Race?

Toyota is one of the companies that continues to go on the offensive. It will launch four electric models in the U.S. towards the end of the year, including the bZ, bZ Woodland, C-HR, and a three-row Highlander EV.

 Toyota Was Mocked For Going Slow On EVs, Honda And VW Are Now Paying For Going Fast

Speaking to Automotive News, analysts from iSeeCars and Edmunds expressed positivity on Toyota’s approach. Toyota had attracted criticism for its slow approach towards EVs, but its measured approach seems to have left it in good standing. The ratio of hybrids, gas cars, and EVs the company has had over the years is finally starting to pay off because it will be able to be flexible as the market readjusts.

Pull Backs And Uncertainty

One of the biggest shifts in EV planning has to have been from Honda. The Japanese company has scrapped a number of future electric models and is shifting to hybrids. This move comes with a financial hit, but the company believes that it is a more prudent short-term decision since EV demand has not yet evened out.

Read: Toyota’s bZ Outsold The Prius, And Now A Second US-Made Electric SUV Is Coming

Stellantis is taking the same route, scrapping its electric Ram pickup and delaying other EV plans in Europe. Ford and General Motors are not giving up on electric vehicles, but instead, they are streamlining their production to suit demand rather than overloading it too soon. It is not about quitting but timing things.

 Toyota Was Mocked For Going Slow On EVs, Honda And VW Are Now Paying For Going Fast

Meanwhile, Volkswagen has canceled its production of the US-made ID4 electric crossover. Besides the ID Buzz minivan, there are no plans to expand the VW EV lineup stateside for the next couple of years. On the other hand, Mercedes-Benz still plans to introduce more EVs to the US, but their approach will continue to incorporate gas and hybrid options too.

See Also: A 96% Sales Collapse Is Why VW Just Killed US ID.4 Production

These different avenues are reduced down to the situation of the firms, according to industry analysts. Some have the financial cushion to keep on investing, but others are choosing to save and avoid incurring more losses.

 Toyota Was Mocked For Going Slow On EVs, Honda And VW Are Now Paying For Going Fast

Toyota’s bZ7 Is Bigger Than A Model S And Cheaper Than A Model 3. China Ordered 3,100 In An Hour

  • Toyota grabbed 3,100 bZ7 orders during first launch hour.
  • China-only flagship EV priced below smaller Tesla Model 3.
  • Cabin features Huawei HarmonyOS and zero-gravity seats.

We’re seven months out from Black Friday, but Toyota could be forgiven for thinking it’s November already. The automaker was bombarded with 3,100 orders for its new electric sedan in just the first hour after it went on sale, which sounds nuts until you learn how much it costs.

The bZ7 is Toyota’s new flagship EV for China, launched through its GAC-Toyota joint venture. It’s big and full of clever tech, but it’s also ridiculously cheap. Prices begin at ¥147,800, or about $21,500, and rise to ¥199,800, roughly $29,000.

Related: Toyota’s Flagship Electric Sedan Undercuts Tesla Model S By Nearly $96,000 In China

China’s domestic market is so competitive that buyers’s aren’t short of bargains, but even so, the bZ7 looks like incredible value for money. At 5,130 mm (202 inches) long and with a 3,020 mm (118.9 inches) wheelbase, it is bigger than a Tesla Model S, but it’s priced below even the Model 3, which starts at ¥236,500 ($34,500) in China.

More Tortoise Than Hare

The biggest bZ is no Model S Plaid, with a peak power output of 278 hp (282 PS / 207 kW), but battery choices include 71 kWh and 88 kWh LFP packs delivering claimed CLTC ranges of up to 440 miles (710 km) depending on trim. Toyota also says fast charging can add 186 miles (300 km) in 10 minutes.

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

And although it won’t win many drag races, it will impress plenty of drivers with its tech. Available zero-gravity front seats offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions. A floating 15.6-inch center display dominates the dash, backed by a smaller driver screen and head-up display.

Sensory Overload

The cabin runs Huawei’s HarmonyOS system on a floating 15.6-inch center display, and there’s integration with Xiaomi’s smart-home ecosystem, meaning drivers can interact with household devices from the car. You can also spec a cutting-edge driver assistance pack with roof-mounted lidar, five millimetre-wave radars, 11 high-definition cameras, and 10 ultrasonic radars.

That’s 27 sensors to keep you safe, or just 27 electrical headaches for a used owner a decade down the road, depending on your point of view.

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

Toyota GAC

Before yesterdayElectric Vehicles - Latest News | Carscoops

Toyota Flooded With 3,100 Orders In 1 Hour For New EV, See The Price And You’ll Know Why

  • Toyota grabbed 3,100 bZ7 orders during first launch hour.
  • China-only flagship EV priced below smaller Tesla Model 3.
  • Cabin features Huawei HarmonyOS and zero-gravity seats.

We’re seven months out from Black Friday, but Toyota could be forgiven for thinking it’s November already. The automaker was bombarded with 3,100 orders for its new electric sedan in just the first hour after it went on sale, which sounds nuts until you learn how much it costs.

The bZ7 is Toyota’s new flagship EV for China, launched through its GAC-Toyota joint venture. It’s big and full of clever tech, but it’s also ridiculously cheap. Prices begin at ¥147,800, or about $21,500, and rise to ¥199,800, roughly $29,000.

Related: Toyota’s Flagship Electric Sedan Undercuts Tesla Model S By Nearly $96,000 In China

China’s domestic market is so competitive that buyers’s aren’t short of bargains, but even so, the bZ7 looks like incredible value for money. At 5,130 mm (202 inches) long and with a 3,020 mm (118.9 inches) wheelbase, it has a similar footprint to a Tesla Model S, but it’s priced below even the Model 3, which starts at ¥236,500 ($34,500) in China.

More Tortoise Than Hare

The biggest bZ is no Model S Plaid, with a peak power output of 278 hp (282 PS / 207 kW), but battery choices include 71 kWh and 88 kWh LFP packs delivering claimed CLTC ranges of up to 440 miles (710 km) depending on trim. Toyota also says fast charging can add 186 miles (300 km) in 10 minutes.

 Toyota Flooded With 3,100 Orders In 1 Hour For New EV, See The Price And You’ll Know Why

And although it won’t win many drag races, it will impress plenty of drivers with its tech. Available zero-gravity front seats offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions. A floating 15.6-inch center display dominates the dash, backed by a smaller driver screen and head-up display.

Sensory Overload

The cabin runs Huawei’s HarmonyOS system on a floating 15.6-inch center display, and there’s integration with Xiaomi’s smart-home ecosystem, meaning drivers can interact with household devices from the car. You can also spec a cutting-edge driver assistance pack with roof-mounted lidar, five millimetre-wave radars, 11 high-definition cameras, and 10 ultrasonic radars.

That’s 27 sensors to keep you safe, or just 27 electrical headaches for a used owner a decade down the road, depending on your point of view.

\\\\\

Toyota GAC

H/t to Car News China

Porsche’s New Patent Turns Racing Stripes Into A Battery Gauge

  • Porsche patented body panels that can change color electronically.
  • The system could add racing stripes in different drive modes.
  • Future EVs might display battery charge through exterior color changes.

It’s a question that dates back decades. Do you option your fancy sports car with or without visual flourishes like rally or racing stripes? Once you choose, changing your mind isn’t exactly an easy task. Installing or removing stripes is a painstaking process on one’s own and can cost thousands when a professional does the work.

Porsche owners might not have to make that choice in the near future. A new patent would allow them to switch from stripes to no stripes with the push of a button.

More: Tesla Files New Seat Patent For A Supercar That’s Been Sitting Since 2017

According to the newly published patent application that was first spotted by Jalopnik, Porsche’s system would use an “actively controllable, optically variable coating” applied to exterior body panels. When voltage is applied, the coating changes appearance.

The company says the technology could rely on either so-called electronic paper or paramagnetic coatings, both of which can alter their color when electricity is introduced. This kind of tech already exists, but it’s not used in this fashion.

Plenty of automakers use it for glass panels which allows the occupant to make the glass appear transparent or opaque on command. The big change here is using it on a body panel instead. According to the patent, Porsche owners would see the “rally stripes” appear when the car goes into Sport mode. Additional accents could also light up around areas like the diffuser or the side blades behind the rear wheels.

An EV Battery Indicator Too

\\\\\

Porsche says the idea is partly cosmetic, but there is a functional side too. The company notes that racing stripes could help identify one car from another during competition, especially when multiple identical cars are on track at the same time. Porsche also believes the same coating could act as an exterior battery gauge on EVs.

Instead of opening an app or looking at the dashboard, owners could glance at the car and instantly know how much charge remains. A panel might glow green when the battery is nearly full, yellow when it is running low, and red when it is close to empty.

While there’s no way to know for sure if or when Porsche gives this idea the green light, it’s very much the kind of tech we see popping up more and more across the bleeding edge of the industry. Sooner or later, someone will probably put it into production. Here’s hoping Porsche makes it happen and lets other automakers license the tech.

 Porsche’s New Patent Turns Racing Stripes Into A Battery Gauge

Credit: WIPO / Porsche

Porsche’s Macan Turbo Electric Lost Over $33,000 In Value After Just 1,500 Miles

  • Nearly-new Macan Turbo Electric struggled to excite auction bidders.
  • High-specification, 1,500-mile car failed to sell on the Cars&Bids site.
  • Porsche is also struggling with a fall in demand for new examples.

Hype and market reality are very different. Just check out the tale of this Porsche Macan Electric. A 2025 MY car in desirable Turbo trim bought for over $120,0000 when the Macan EV was still bathing in the glow of the model’s launch buzz, it stalled at just $88,500 in bids on an auction website this month.

This particular example, finished in Ice Grey Metallic and with just 1,500 miles (2,414 km) on the clock, originally stickered at $121,855 including destination when sold through Porsche Edison, NJ. That’s some serious money for a compact luxury SUV, even one wearing a Porsche badge.

More: Porsche’s Next Gas Macan Is Already Testing In An Audi Disguise

But then it also offers some serious go. The Macan Turbo Electric packs dual-motors pushing around 630 hp (639 PS / 470 kW) and a massive 833 lb ft (1,130 Nm) of torque through all four wheels. It’ll hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 3.1 seconds and still promises nearly 300 miles (483 km) of EPA range.

RS Wheels And Bottom Coolers

A bare-bones Turbo would have cost $105,300, but this car’s first owner splashed out another $15k on goodies like the 22-inch RS Spyder Design wheels ($3,900), head-up display ($2,630), Sport Chrono package ($980), and $600 of fake engine sounds. It also has a $1,310 Premium Package that included four-zone climate, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.

\\\\\\\\\\\

It’s the kind of EV most of us would love to see on our driveways, but Cars&Bids visitors didn’t like it enough to put in on theirs. The C&B listing shows bidding stopped short of the unknown reserve at $88,500, which would have represented a $33,355 haircut, and that was obviously too much for the seller to handle. The seller, by the way, claims he bought the car 100 miles (160 km) ago, so we don’t know how much he would have lost had the final bid secured a sale.

New Macan Sales Struggling

Macan Electric owners looking to exit aren’t the only one struggling to find buyers for the EV. So are Porsche dealers. Global Macan sales are already sliding, down 23 percent overall, and the electric version is taking an even harder hit. Deliveries dropped 43 percent year over year in Q1, while the combustion version most buyers prefer goes out of production this summer and won’t be replaced until 2028.

\\\\\\\\\\

Cars&Bids

Dacia’s New $21,000 EV Looks Like A Twingo Without The Fun

  • Dacia’s upcoming electric city car has been spied undergoing testing.
  • The small hatchback is due later this year with pricing under €18,000.
  • EV is based on the Renault Twingo E-Tech, but features unique styling.

Last month, Dacia unveiled their 2030 roadmap, which called for a “confident and decisive entry into electric mobility.” This will see them launch four new EVs by the end of the decade.

The first arrives later this year and will be an A‑segment electric hatchback based on Renault’s RGEV Small / AmpR Small platform. The model has been developed in less than 16 months and will cost less than €18,000 (about $21,200 / £15,700 at current exchange rates).

More: Dacia Confirms Four New EVs, Including Model That Costs Around $21k

That’s impressively cheap and spy photographers recently caught a prototype undergoing testing in Europe. Camouflage hides a number of details, but it’s pretty clear this is a reworked version of the Renault Twingo E-Tech.

Despite this, the Dacia has a unique front end with far more traditional headlights. We can also see a different front bumper that appears to have a wide lower intake as well as rugged body cladding.

\\\\\\\\\\

Baldauf

The profile appears to carryover largely untouched, while the rear end features new taillights that are mounted higher up than on the Twingo E-Tech. We can also see a unique bumper as well as what appears to be a more conventional liftgate.

The single interior image doesn’t reveal much, but we can get a glimpse of a floating infotainment system as well as a Dacia-branded steering wheel. However, the model could echo the Twingo and adopt a 7-inch digital instrument cluster as well as a 10-inch central display.

 Dacia’s New $21,000 EV Looks Like A Twingo Without The Fun

Baldauf

We can also expect sliding rear seats that adjust up to 6.7 inches (170 mm). This enables owners to balance passenger space and cargo capacity. When luggage is what matters, there’s up to 12.7 cubic feet (360 liters) at your disposal. If that’s not enough room, the rear seats can be folded down to provide over 35.3 cubic feet (1,000 liters) of space.

The powertrain will likely carryover as well and this means we can expect an electric motor developing 80 hp (60 kW / 82 PS) and 129 lb-ft (175 Nm) of torque. This enables the Twingo to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in a leisurely 12.1 seconds, before topping out at a mere 81 mph (130 km/h).

To help keep costs down, the Twingo uses a small 27.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack. It provides a WLTP range of up to 163 miles (263 km), which isn’t much but likely fine for a city car.

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

Baldauf

Audi Just Greenlit More Models For A Brand That Can Barely Sell One

  • Audi’s AUDI brand is preparing to launch several new models.
  • E7X debuts at Auto China and will be followed by new car in 2027.
  • Three to four more are planned thanks to expanded SAIC partnership.

Audi’s AUDI brand has been struggling as of late, but the company still has faith in the Chinese offshoot. That’s clear today as the automaker is deepening their collaboration with SAIC and preparing to launch an assortment of new models.

The brand, as you may recall, was launched with the E5 Sportback in 2025. The E7X crossover will debut at Auto China later this month, while a third model is scheduled to arrive in 2027. Little is known about the latter, but officials have previously suggested it could be a sporty limousine.

More: Audi’s China Brand Is Cutting Prices And Losing Sales, So It’s Building A Sporty Limo

More vehicles will follow as the latest agreement between Audi and SAIC “focuses on the full value chain for AUDI’s future models, encompassing R&D, with a dedicated AUDI Innovation & Technology Center to be established in Shanghai.” The latter will be led by Audi and tasked with the “development of China-specific, intelligent electrification technologies and whole-vehicle development across the entire value chain of intelligent connected vehicles.”

The companies did not share many specifics, but said customers can look forward to “AI-powered, immersive smart cabins” as well as advanced driver assistance systems designed specifically for Chinese consumers.

 Audi Just Greenlit More Models For A Brand That Can Barely Sell One

That still leaves plenty of open questions, but the partnership will spawn four new AUDI models in the coming years. However, it’s not clear if that number includes the car coming in 2027. Regardless, upcoming models will be based on the next-generation Advanced Digitized Platform. The luxury brand added the vehicles will “extend and complement Audi’s existing portfolio.”

Audi Chairman Gernot Döllner said, “Audi’s ambition is to remain a strong player in China through the ICV era. Our partnership with SAIC and our NEV brand AUDI has been instrumental, allowing us to connect with new customer groups and expand our product offerings to meet their evolving needs. Following the successful launch of AUDI and its first model, we are ready to take the next step: establishing a dedicated Innovation and Technology Center in cooperation with our long-trusted partner SAIC to drive Vorsprung in China.”

 Audi Just Greenlit More Models For A Brand That Can Barely Sell One

Ford’s Cancelled Three-Row EV Finally Surfaced, And It Looks Nothing Like A Ford

  • The aerodynamic crossover would have offered over 350 miles of electric range.
  • A range-extended version was planned with a potential range of 550 miles.
  • Ford confirmed the prototype is now used to “inform” its next-generation EVs.

When automakers kill a project, it rarely sees the light of day. However, there have been a few exceptions as Volkswagen showed a near-production prototype of the second-generation Phaeton in 2022. A handful of ill-fated Saabs also appeared after their demise including a 9-3 prototype and a Subaru Tribeca-based 9-6X.

See: Mystery Sporty Ford Or Lincoln Model Spotted At Dearborn Development Center

We can add one more to that list as Ford’s Doug Field has quietly been showing the company’s axed three-row EV on LinkedIn. The surprising discovery was first noticed by Ford Authority and a Blue Oval spokesperson told The Drive it’s the “3-row SUV we cancelled in 2024.” They added the model is “now a research vehicle that is informing our next generation of electric vehicles” and we’ll see “its significant influence” on future EVs.

 Ford’s Cancelled Three-Row EV Finally Surfaced, And It Looks Nothing Like A Ford
A prototype believed to be the three-row EV was spied back in 2023 (Photos Baldauf)

The model is apparently a “development prototype” and it looks like nothing else in the Ford lineup. As you can see, the crossover has an extremely aerodynamic design with a rounded front end and a rakish windscreen that flows into a long, sloping roof.

Designers also gave the crossover streamlined bodywork and minimalist door handles that appear to echo those found on the Mustang Mach-E. They’re joined by aerodynamically optimized wheels and a nearly vertical rear end.

\\\

The model vaguely recalls the Honda 0 SUV, which was axed last month. However, Ford billed it as a seven-passenger “bullet train” that would have a range in excess of 350 miles (563 km). When the battery was low, a DC fast charger could provide up to 100 miles of range in as little as six minutes. There were also apparently plans for a range-extended variant that would have been able to travel 550 miles (885 km) without stopping.

More: Flip-Flopping Ford Delays Electric Truck And Axes 3-Row EV Plans, Will Build Hybrids Instead

Of course, none of that came to pass and the automaker has significantly dialed back its EV plans. However, Ford is still working on a range of affordable electric vehicles including a $30,000 pickup.

 Ford’s Cancelled Three-Row EV Finally Surfaced, And It Looks Nothing Like A Ford

Bentley’s New Uniforms For EV Workers Contain A Material You’d Expect In The Car, Not On The Staff

  • Bentley has developed new carbon fiber workwear for production staff.
  • The new clothing will work in electrostatically protected areas of the plant.
  • Underpinning the firm’s first EV is the VW Group’s PPE platform.

Later this year, Bentley will launch its very first EV. The new model, a mid-size SUV expected to be dubbed the Barnato, will slot below the Bentayga and arrive in the US in 2027. In addition to all the development of the vehicle itself, building an EV also prompted a rather unusual change at Bentley’s Crewe factory.

To get ready to start manufacturing the Barnato, Bentley has designed new workwear for those who’ll be working with electrostatically protected areas of the plant. According to Bentley, the new pieces of clothing include carbon fiber in their construction, not in an effort to reduce weight, but instead to dissipate static electricity.

Read: Bentley Just Told Us What The Barnato SUV Will Cost, Sort Of

The British automaker hasn’t mentioned working with external clothing suppliers for the new kit, but notes it focused on using specific materials and construction methods to reduce environmental impact. When the clothing is ready to be replaced, Bentley will recycle every single piece, which will then be repurposed into new items.

Several photos released by the company show workers posing in the new clothing. They may be smiling, but we suspect they were eager to actually get back to the job of building cars, not pretending to look busy for the camera.

A Bentley With VW Tech

\\\\\\

Bentley’s second SUV is an important vehicle for the brand. It will launch at a time when EV sales are contracting in the United States, but rising in Europe, and it remains to be seen how receptive Bentley buyers will be to an electric SUV.

With that being said, the electric Rolls-Royce Spectre has established itself as their second-best-selling model after the Cullinan, meaning there’s a good chance those shopping for a Bentley will also appreciate the smoothness and quietness of an electric powertrain.

Underpinning the Barnato will be the same PPE platform as vehicles like the Audi A6 e-tron, Q6 e-tron, Porsche Macan Electric, and Cayenne Electric.

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

SH Proshots

Mugen’s Super-One Looks Like A Race Car. Its Motor Disagrees

  • Mugen reveals upgrades for the Honda Super-One EV platform.
  • A widebody kit with carbon aero parts adds visual aggression.
  • Changes focus on style and dynamics rather than outright power.

The new Honda Super-One taps into a growing appetite for retro-flavored EVs, borrowing heavily from the irreverent charm of the City Turbo II from the ’80s. While the standard model already leans into a sporty aesthetic, Mugen has taken it further with a more aggressive bodykit, interior tweaks, and a set of performance dampers to back up the look.

Starting with the exterior, the Japanese tuner injects a dose of motorsport attitude into the Super-One. Up front, it gains a black chin spoiler and a vented hood, but the real standout sits along the sides, where vented wide fender extensions are mounted over the already flared arches.

More: Mugen Turns Honda’s Tiny EV Into A Pocket-Sized Street Fighter

Those arches are complemented by carbon mirror caps, deeper side skirts, and a set of 16-inch forged aluminum wheels with a five-spoke design. Around back, Mugen adds a sizeable roof spoiler and sharper extensions to the rear bumper.

\\\\

Inside, the front seats have been swapped with semi-buckets from Recaro, complementing the track-ready stance. Buyers can also get special floor and luggage mats, scuff plates, and protective door trim with Mugen branding, which can also be found on the rim of the two-spoke steering wheel. Other accessories include the hydrophobic mirrors and the window visors.

More: The Manual Honda That Thinks It’s A Baby Type R

Under the skin, Mugen is offering Performance Dampers developed in collaboration with Yamaha, which are said to improve handling and reduce vibrations. Note that the Super-One has a more aggressive chassis setup compared to the N-One e: kei car, featuring a lowered suspension and wider tracks.

\\\\\\\\

Unfortunately, the zero-emission powertrain is left untouched. The Super-One sticks with a single electric motor producing 94 hp (70 kW / 95 PS) in Boost Mode. It is not a headline-grabber, though Honda tries to add some theatre with an Active Sound Control system that pipes in simulated gearshifts and engine noise through the speakers.

More: Honda’s Tiny £20k Super-N EV Lands In UK Like A Half-Scale Ioniq 5 N

Mugen has yet to put a price on any of these upgrades, as they remain under development. A market launch in Japan is scheduled for late May 2026.

Beyond Japan, the Super-One is headed to the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia, which raises the prospect of a one-make series. It would suit the car rather well.

 Mugen’s Super-One Looks Like A Race Car. Its Motor Disagrees

Mugen

Mercedes’ EV Push In America Has Nothing To Do With What American Buyers Want

  • Mercedes will continue offering EVs across US for the foreseeable future.
  • The company expects pockets of demand despite lost federal tax incentives.
  • US supply remains tight as Europe and China continue to absorb inventory.

Mercedes-Benz is not stepping back from electric vehicles, despite competitors scaling back amid slower adoption rates. The news comes as US demand for EVs cools following the rollback of federal tax credits.

Instead, during the next three years, Mercedes will introduce a number of new electric models to the United States, including three AMG performance EVs and battery-powered versions of popular models such as the GLC crossover, E-Class and the C-Class sedan that was previewed today.

The Global Need To Go Electric

The update to Mercedes’ plans came from Adam Chamberlain, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, speaking to AutoNews, who explained the company’s position. Mercedes is sticking to its EV plans due to the requirement from global markets, said Chamberlain. Strict international regulations, especially in China and Europe, mean that for a brand selling worldwide, it is impossible to turn its back on EVs.

Also: Mercedes Heard ‘Too Many Screens’ And Built A New C-Class EV That’s One Giant Screen

However, unlike other manufacturers, they won’t be pushing electrification on consumers, hoping they’ll switch. Instead, Mercedes has moved to flexible vehicle platforms. Rather than their initial approach of offering a separate line of EVs, Merc’s current plan is to design cars compatible with gasoline engines, hybrids, or full battery-electric power.

American Demand For EVs Remains

 Mercedes’ EV Push In America Has Nothing To Do With What American Buyers Want
The upcoming Mercedes-Benz C-Class with EQ Tech.

Mercedes predicts pockets of demand among US consumers for EVs in the foreseeable future, despite the loss of federal incentives. While the company predicts EVs to constitute approximately 5 percent of its retail sales in the U.S. this year, that’s partly down to limited production and strong demand from Europe and China.

On the national scale, approximately 14 percent of consumers indicate that they would give serious consideration to an EV next time. In California, it grows to 28 percent. So, there is demand, but it is unevenly distributed. In fact, according to the report, Mercedes US have only been able to allocate around 200 electric CLA’s for customers, all units of which have been spoken for.

Read: Mercedes’ Future EVs May Be More Chinese Than You Think

Chamberlain thinks the U.S. EV sales would rise to 10 to 15 percent in the year 2021, with the supply increasing and more mainstream electric models coming into the market, such as battery versions of the GLC and C-Class. Nevertheless, profitability is still its focus. He made sure it was evident that Mercedes is not going to produce tens of thousands of vehicles without confirmed demand in its bid to achieve market share.

 Mercedes’ EV Push In America Has Nothing To Do With What American Buyers Want

Ford’s Biggest Product Push In Years Will See 80% Of Its American Lineup Refreshed By 2029

  • Ford plans to refresh most of its global vehicle lineup by 2029.
  • A new internal group will unify design, EV, and software teams.
  • UEV platform focuses on weight reduction and system simplicity.

Ford is preparing one of its most aggressive product overhauls in years, and it is reorganizing itself to get there. The company plans to refresh 70 percent of its global portfolio by 2029 and, to support that effort, has created a new end-to-end internal organization that integrates its EV, digital, and design teams with its global industrial system.

According to Ford, this structure will “deliver one of the most intensive product, software, and services rollouts in Ford’s history.”

The new group, called Product Creation and Industrialization, will be led by Kumar Galhotra. Beyond the global target, Ford says 80 percent of its North American portfolio by volume will also be refreshed by 2029. That includes a next-generation F-150 and F-Series Super Duty, alongside a new mid-size pickup built on Ford’s Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform.

Read: Jim Farley Promises A New Affordable Ford EV To Take On Tesla’s Model 3 And Y

Developed by a skunkworks team, the UEV platform uses unicastings to reduce weight and complexity. It also features an ultra-efficient powertrain and a fully zonal electrical architecture, supported by in-house software and advanced driver assistance systems.

More Electrified Options

 Ford’s Biggest Product Push In Years Will See 80% Of Its American Lineup Refreshed By 2029

As part of Ford’s product updates, nearly 90 percent of its global nameplates will offer electrified powertrains by 2030, including hybrids, extended-range EVs, and full EVs. Interestingly, Ford notes that work on its UEV platform will benefit its hybrids, too, thanks to the new high-efficiency motors developed.

“This is the culmination of years of work and progress to create the modern Ford – a talented, unified organization capable of scaling high-quality, software-defined vehicles with a choice of propulsion, distinctive digital experiences and features, and a personalized ownership experience that improves over time,” Ford chief executive Jim Farley said in the announcement.

Doug Field Exits

Ford’s sweeping internal reset comes with a notable departure at the top. The company confirmed that Doug Field, who joined five years ago to steer its push into electrified, connected, and software-defined vehicles, will leave within the next month.

Field played a central role in shaping the newly formed Product Creation and Industrialization organization, the same group tasked with streamlining development across hardware, software, and manufacturing. His exit lands at a critical moment, as Ford leans on this structure to execute its broad product overhaul and move toward an 8 percent adjusted EBIT margin by 2029.

 Ford’s Biggest Product Push In Years Will See 80% Of Its American Lineup Refreshed By 2029
Ford Super Duty sketches from the past.

Mercedes Heard ‘Too Many Screens’ And Built A New C-Class That’s One Giant Screen

  • The new electric C-Class adopts a full-width digital dashboard layout.
  • A 39.1-inch Hyperscreen dominates the cabin with few physical controls.
  • Mercedes promises improved space, long-distance comfort, and sportiness.

Mercedes is getting ready to reveal its all-electric C-Class on April 20, but the interior has already made an early appearance. Front and center is a massive MBUX Hyperscreen stretching almost the full width of the dashboard, uninterrupted and unmistakably similar to what we have already seen in the GLC EV.

The company describes the new interior of the electric sedan as a “driver-oriented refuge”, though it reads more like a rolling digital billboard from where we’re sitting. The display appears to mirror the 39.1-inch Hyperscreen from the GLC EV, which makes the recently updated EQS and S-Class flagships feel either a step ahead or already behind, depending on your perspective.

More: Mercedes’ Electric C-Class EQ Is Running Out Of Camouflage

With approximately 10 million pixels, the giant display aims to reduce the need of menus, having everything within reach. Even so, experience keeps reminding us that glass can’t replace the certainty of a proper button or dial. There are at least a few holdouts here, with physical controls still present on the center console and steering wheel, the latter seemingly lifted straight from its SUV counterpart.

 Mercedes Heard ‘Too Many Screens’ And Built A New C-Class That’s One Giant Screen

Besides the attention-grabbing Hyperscreen, Mercedes also mentions the Superscreen, which is a more conventional triple-screen layout reserved for lower trim levels of the sedan. Both setups offer the option between ten ambient styles with different colors to fit your mood.

More Space And Comfort

The company promises that the electric sedan will be the best and sportiest C-Class yet, while offering more space than ever before. It will also bring “exceptional” long distance comfort thanks to the new seats, the optional star-shedded panoramic sunroof, the sophisticated climate control system, and the extensive sound insulation.

 Mercedes Heard ‘Too Many Screens’ And Built A New C-Class That’s One Giant Screen

The front seats come with electro-pneumatic four-way lumbar support, 4D sound, massaging and ventilation functions. These are coordinated with the Energizing Comfort programs designed for “mental and physical rejuvenation” while on the go. Furthermore, the climate system features a multi-source heat pump that can heat the cabin twice as fast as a combustion vehicle while using 50% less energy.

More: C-Class Facelift Mirrors A Direction Mercedes Has Already Taken Elsewhere

The electric C-Class will also offer a vegan-certified interior with soft-touch surfaces. Other options include the Softtorino leather grain, the Twisted Diamond Nappa leather, and the 3D-relief stainless steel speaker grilles for the Burmester 3D sound system.

 Mercedes Heard ‘Too Many Screens’ And Built A New C-Class That’s One Giant Screen
A lightly camouflaged prototype of the electric C-Class. Photo: Baldauf

In terms of exterior design, we already know that the model will adopt a large illuminated grille flanked by aggressive headlights with star-shaped LED graphics.

Recent spy shots have also revealed the sleek surfacing of the profile, looking like an evolution of the EQE and EQS sedans albeit with more pronounced front and rear volumes to avoid an egg-shaped silhouette. Expect sportier bumpers and different wheels for the AMG Line trims.

Any Specs?

Mercedes has yet to announce the technical specifications of the electric C-Class, but the model will most likely ride on the same 800-volt MB.EA platform with the GLC. The SUV produces 483 hp (360 kW / 490 PS) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque from dual electric motors, with a 94 kWh battery offering a WLTP range of 673 km (418 miles).

More: AMG Built A Sedan That Growls, Revs, And Shifts Like It Has A V8. It Doesn’t

In terms of the chassis setup, the company claims that the sedan “raises performance and driving dynamics”, making our appetite for future AMG-branded versions.

We will learn everything about the new model at its official debut in South Korea on April 20. The EV will be joined by a facelifted version of the ICE-powered C-Class, also expected to be unveiled later this year. It’s biggest rival is the new BMW i3 Neue Klasse sedan that debuted last month.

\\\\\\\
❌
❌