Donald Trump is due to return to the Oval Office next month, and his transition team is already planning numerous changes that will broadly impact the entire automotive industry. As we recently revealed, fuel efficiency standards could be rolled back significantly, EV incentives scrapped, and the federal government and U.S. military could be blocked from purchasing more EVs.

As it stands, the US government must purchase more EVs while replacing its old, gas-guzzling vehicles. Additionally, the government’s fleet of light-duty vehicles must all be zero-emissions cars by 2027. However, Trump is tipped to scrap this mandate. Additionally, he is expected to end Department of Defense (DOD) programs aimed at purchasing or developing electric military vehicles.

Read: GM’s New Tactical Truck Is What Happens When A Silverado ZR2 Goes Full Stealth-Mode

Several battery-electric or electrically-assisted military vehicles have been developed recently. For example, in mid-2023, GM Defense unveiled a Hummer EV-based military concept vehicle called the eMCV. It featured the same 212 kWh battery pack as the road-going Hummer but added a 12 kW diesel-powered generator to help charge the battery.

In October this year, GM Defense also launched its new ‘Next Gen’ tactical vehicle based on the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2, fitted with a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine supplemented by a pair of electric motors. An electric version of GM’s nine-passenger Infantry Squad Vehicle is also being developed. The DOD also currently wants its entire fleet of non-tactical vehicles to transition to EVs by 2035.

Broad industry changes

Documents from the incoming Trump administration reveal a proposal to shift back to fuel economy standards from 2019. This could boost the average allowable emissions per vehicle mile by 25%. Trump is also said to have California in his crosshairs and may move to block the state from setting its own stricter vehicle emissions standards. If he does this, the 17 other states that use California’s standards may have to fall in line with the rest of the country.

Electric vehicles are also facing a shaky future. Trump is widely expected to eradicate the $7,500 EV tax credit, likely triggering a decrease in new EV sales across the country. Reuters also understands the administration wants to pull any leftover funds from Biden’s $7.5 billion pledge to establish a sweeping network of EV charging stations nationwide. Interestingly, Trump may scratch the environmental reviews required for things like charging stations, meaning it could be quicker for private companies to open new stations.

In a decision that probably won’t shock anyone following the EV market, Stellantis has delayed the launch of its all-electric Ram 1500 REV yet again, this time pushing it all the way back to 2026. Why? They’re blaming “slowing industry demand” for electric trucks, which is a polite way of saying customers aren’t exactly lining up to trade their gas-guzzling trucks for battery-powered workhorses.

But don’t worry, Stellantis has a Plan B: the Ram 1500 Ramcharger, a range-extender version of the truck now scheduled to arrive in 2025 to help bridge the gap.

More: Ex-CEO Tavares Personally Killed The Hemi V8, Stellantis Insiders Reveal

Unveiled in early 2023, the Ram 1500 REV was initially promised for a late 2024 market launch as the brand’s first electric offering. However, Stellantis recently pushed the rollout to early 2025, with former CEO Carlos Tavares insisting they didn’t want to rush such an important model. Now, the company has pushed the Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck rival all the way to 2026, revealing the real reason behind their hesitation.

Consumer Preferences Drive Decision

According to Stellantis, the decision to prioritize the range-extender version over the EV was driven by “overwhelming consumer interest,” the need to “maintain a competitive advantage in the technology,” and “slowing industry demand for half-ton BEV pickups.” In simpler terms, customers seem to favor the Ramcharger’s extended range, which also makes it less dependent on the still-developing charging infrastructure.

The Ramcharger runs on a 3.6-liter V6 engine that acts as a generator for the 92 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 690 miles (1,110 km), compared to the 500 miles (805 km) offered by the all-electric version. It’s also packing a bit more punch, delivering 663 hp (494 kW / 672 PS), slightly edging out the 1500 REV’s 654 hp (448 kW / 663 PS), though we doubt anyone would notice the difference.

Production of the Ram 1500 will “primarily” take place at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan, covering both the electrified and traditional ICE versions.

Leadership Shake-Up

This shift in strategy coincides with a change in leadership for the Ram brand. Tim Kuniskis, a 32-year company veteran known for breathing life into Dodge with the Hellcat lineup, has returned to his post as CEO of Ram after retiring in June from his role overseeing both Ram and Dodge. He replaces Chris Feuell, following the fallout from Carlos Tavares’ resignation as Stellantis CEO. Kuniskis steps into his new position at a crucial moment for Stellantis, as the company works to balance its electrification ambitions with the realities of current market demand.

Earlier this year, the first Tesla Cybertrucks started to hit the used market, and to say that some people were paying insane premiums for them would be an understatement. In fact, one of the first Cybertrucks was sold for a frankly ridiculous $244,000. However, since now it’s possible to order a brand new one and take delivery in just a matter of weeks, how has that affected used prices?

After browsing through the classifieds, we’ve found more than 250 Cybertrucks on the market looking for new homes. While most used Cybertrucks are now much cheaper than they were six months ago, there don’t appear to be all that many bargains out there.

Read: Feds Looking Into Fatal Tesla Cybertruck Crash That Killed Three Teens

Quite a lot of them listed for sale through AutoTrader are Foundation Series models. When first launched, the Foundation Series Cybertruck cost $99,990, a $20,000 premium over the standard model that’s now available. The Foundation Series Cyberbeast also commanded a $20,000 premium over the regular Beast. These special-edition models come with a handful of accessories, including an off-road light bar, gear locker dividers, a Powershare mobile connector, a glass roof sunshade, and a center console tray.

There are some dual-motor Foundation Series models listed between $85,000 and $90,000, but plenty are sitting between $90,000 and $100,000. More surprising than that is that dozens of used Cybertrucks still have asking prices over the original MSRP, despite having several thousand miles under their belts. The single most expensive AWD Foundation Series we could find has been listed for sale by Celebrity Auto Group for a frankly ridiculous $189,900. That’s pricier than even the most expensive Cyberbeast Foundation Series on the market, most of which are for sale for between $100,000 and $130,000.

It’s worth mentioning that these are simply asking prices and aren’t completely reflective of what Cybertrucks are currently trading hands for. A look at Bring a Trailer reveals that in November, two Cyberbeast Foundation Series examples were sold for $96,500 and $99,500, respectively. In October, an AWD Foundation Series traded hands for just $75,000.

Image Credit: AutoTrader

In a world where cars are often either all business or all spectacle, Toyota has gone for something a bit different. The automaker has unveiled a one-off electric vehicle designed for the popular Australian children’s music group The Wiggles. Dubbed the Big Red Ute, it combines playful design with Toyota’s off-road heritage, and while it may look like a bit of a gimmick, there’s some genuine engineering at work beneath the colorful exterior.

Designed and developed locally by Toyota’s Product, Planning, and Development division, the Big Red Ute isn’t just a show pony. While this one-off clearly serves a specific purpose, some of its styling elements could hint at the upcoming ‘baby’ Toyota FJ Cruiser.

More: Toyota’s Electric Hilux Goes Beyond The PR Stunt With Real-World Mine Testing

The front end draws from the tough, utilitarian design of Toyota’s classic Cruiser J70, with a playful twist. The headlights, for instance, are LED screens that can display everything from pupils to hearts. Muscular fenders, exposed wheels, and underbody protection reinforce the pickup’s off-road character, while the 3,120 mm (122.8 inches) length keeps it compact enough for the stage without losing presence. The same applies to the chunky tires wrapped around the rainbow-themed 12-inch Turbofan wheels.

The exposed cabin accommodates four passengers, each with their own seatbelt attached to the oversized bull bar. Adding to the fun, there’s an integrated bubble machine at the rear, capable of producing 6,000 bubbles per minute, a feature guaranteed to captivate toddlers.

Toyota Australia

The name Big Red Ute is inspired by the latest song release from The Wiggles, while the colorful livery mirrors the Toyota Hilux featured in the music video.

Despite its toy-like appearance, this one-off is a fully functional vehicle, powered by a 48V electric powertrain, independent coil spring suspension, and drum brakes. Naturally, the top speed is limited to 20 km/h (12 mph), because, really, no “ute” needs to go faster than that on a music stage.

The Big Red Ute made its debut on December 7, when The Wiggles performed in Melbourne. The EV will accompany the band on the remainder of their Australian tour, before joining them for their global tour dates. The Wiggles have been around for three decades, earning the title of “the world’s most popular children’s entertainment group.”

Rivian has quietly removed the under-seat storage compartment from all second-generation R1T and R1S models, a move that’s sure to leave some owners scratching their heads. Oddly, this comes several months after the Gen 2 R1 series launched with a slew of updates, making the disappearance of this small, yet surprisingly handy feature all the more baffling.

Read: 2025 Rivian R1S And R1T Combine Tired Looks With New Tech And More Power

News of the storage bin’s removal began circulating on Twitter, Reddit, and various forums earlier this week, catching new owners off guard. Some were surprised to find the compartment entirely missing, while others received their vehicles with the drawer still in place, sparking confusion and frustration. Carscoops reached out to Rivian for clarification and was informed that the storage bin has been removed from all R1 variants as of “late 2024,” though no specific timeline was provided.

Rivian’s Response

“Yes, we removed the passenger seat storage bin from production on all R1 variants in late 2024,” a Rivian representative told us.

“We are constantly evaluating our design and production strategy and the passenger seat storage bin has a low utilization rate,” the spokesperson explained. “We’ve found that personal items that might be stored in this space (ex: smart phone) won’t fit easily, so passengers would use another storage place instead. There has been no change to the storage bin under the driver’s seat, which remains available for small items like sunglasses and keys.”

Some owners seem disappointed by the removal of this storage area, especially since neither the R1T nor the R1S features a traditional glovebox. There’s also speculation that the under-seat cubby’s removal is part of a cost-cutting effort, though Rivian did not mention this in its response to us. That said, there are other storage areas in both the electric pickup and SUV, including in the door panels and large bins under the rear seats.

Still, it’s hard not to notice that certain small changes, like this one, seem to line up with a broader trend in automakers trimming the fat from vehicles. Rivian isn’t exactly struggling with its pricing strategy, but a few cuts here and there could certainly help the company with future cost efficiency.

What Else Is New With The Gen 2 R1?

Several other significant changes have been made to the second-generation R1 series. For example, the available Large and Max battery packs now feature redesigned modules that are more efficiently packaged, which should make them easier to manufacture and service. Rivian has also installed a new heat pump and a revised electrical architecture, which eliminates 10 ECUs and about 1.6 miles (2.6 km) of wiring. On the performance front, the dual-motor variants now deliver 665 hp, the tri-motor version is good for 850 hp, and the quad-motor models pump out a staggering 1,025 hp.

Rivian hasn’t forgotten about its semi-autonomous driving system either. The company has introduced a suite of new updates, including higher-definition cameras and improved AI prediction technology. The revised system now boasts 11 cameras and five radars, further improving its capabilities.

Lead photos Reddit@mhespenh & Reddit@Kryptonlogic

Tesla’s Cybertruck has only been available for lease for a few weeks, yet the company is already slashing prices. Along with the newly announced cuts, Tesla is now offering shoppers the option to purchase the electric pickup at the end of the lease, though it comes with a hefty price tag. However, while these new terms might seem appealing at first glance, a closer look at the numbers reveals a more nuanced picture.

Leases for the base all-wheel-drive Cybertruck now start at $899 per month for 36 months with a 10,000-mile annual limit, down from the previous $999 per month. However, to get that number, Tesla requires a $7,500 downpayment upfront. If you include this, then the effective monthly cost rises to $1,107, totaling $39,864 over three years.

Read: Tesla Finally Offers Lease Buyout Option, But Is It Really Worth It?

For those avoiding the downpayment, which we always advise buyers to consider, the monthly cost jumps to $1,142, with the lease totaling $41,112 over its term.

Leasing to Owning: The High-Stakes Math

Late last month, Tesla also introduced lease buyouts for the first time in years. In the case of the Cybertruck All-Wheel Drive, the buyout totals a hefty $54,930 plus taxes, fees, and a $350 purchase fee. Add that to the $41,112 you could pay over the life of the lease if opting for no downpayment, and you’ll end up spending $96,392 before unspecified taxes and fees. To put that into perspective, it costs $79,990 to buy the same Cybertruck model outright.

The story is similar for the flagship Cyberbeast model, which Tesla now offers for $999 per month on a 36-month lease with the same $7,500 downpayment. That equates to an effective $1,207 per month, or $43,464 over the term of the lease.

Skipping the downpayment increases monthly payments to $1,277, for a total of $45,972. Want to keep the Cyberbeast at the end of your lease? Be ready to shell out $67,510 for the buyout, bringing the grand total to $113,832—nearly $14,000 more than the $99,990 sticker price.

The Real Cost of Flexibility

Tesla’s revised leasing deals and buyout options give customers more flexibility, but they also come with significant trade-offs. While the lower monthly payments may attract more drivers, the long-term math strongly favors buying the Cybertruck outright if ownership is the goal.

Ten years ago, the idea that two startups would be producing the two most compelling electric pickup trucks on the market would have been inconceivable. However, here we are in 2024 with the Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T leading the charge in the electrification of one of America’s most iconic and popular vehicle segments. But, which of the two is best?

Both the Cybertruck and R1T have their own unique pros and cons so when Motor Trend recently got its hands on the duo, it decided to focus purely on pulling power, arranging the trucks together for a tug of war. However, this tug of war was not performed on the pavement where the Tesla and Rivian would have the best opportunity to put their power to the ground. Instead, it was done on dirt.

Read: Rivian Wants To Give You 3,000 Reasons To Move On From Gasoline

On paper, the flagship Cyberbeast and Rivian R1T Tri-Motor are very evenly matched. A pair of powerful electric motors give the Tesla 845 hp and 864 lb-ft (1,171 Nm) of torque, whereas the trio of motors in the R1T combine to churn out 850 hp and 1,103 lb-ft (1,495 Nm). Both also have max claimed towing capacities of 11,000 lbs (4,989 kg).

As the drivers of the two trucks plant down on the throttles, the two cars start to dig holes in the dirt and pull each other slightly back and forth. The Rivian ultimately does a little better and pulls the Cybertruck a little closer to the line.

A second tug-of-war was also performed. Once again, the Tesla and Rivian performed just as well as each other. Both were ferociously spinning up their wheels as the drivers attempted to gain an advantage. Ultimately, the R1T was awarded the victory, although it only had the slightest of advantages over the Cyberbeast.

It’s still too soon to call whether Volkswagen’s ambitious resurrection of the Scout brand will succeed, but the buzz around its new Traveler SUV and Terra pickup suggests the gamble has already piqued interest. Unveiled in October, these rugged models mark Scout’s return to the automotive scene, blending nostalgic design cues with cutting-edge electrification.

While the cars unveiled by Scout were technically concepts, they have production-intent designs and the finished vehicles should look virtually identical. When order books open, customers will be offered a range of colors to choose from and these renderings preview some that could be available, as well as liveries inspired by the original Scout models built by International Harvester.

Read: These Are The New Scout Terra Truck And Traveler SUV

The crew from the Scout EV Forum whipped up these renderings of both the Traveler and the Terra. Among the colors best suited to the rugged SUV and pickup are a shade of Dark Green/Forest Green, Tamarak Bronze, Concord Blue, and Burnt Orange. Scout has not yet confirmed the official palette for the two vehicles, but here’s hoping it contains some paint jobs similar to these.

We’re particularly fond of the models with the special ‘Rallye’ liveries. This livery was offered in the original Scout and has been imagined in white and black configurations, running down the sides of the new-age models and paired with matching wing mirrors and a painted roof. Given how popular retro-themed finishes for the current Ford Bronco are, Scout may also try to lean into the cult following of the original models.

Both the Traveler and Terra will launch with battery-electric powertrains, catering to the growing appetite for zero-emission vehicles. But Scout isn’t putting all its eggs in the BEV basket. Recognizing the shift in consumer sentiment, the company is also developing an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) variant. This version pairs an electric motor with a small gasoline engine that acts as a generator, stretching range to a claimed 500 miles (805 km)—well beyond the 350-mile (563 km) range of the pure electric models.

This dual approach positions the brand to appeal to both hardcore EV enthusiasts and those with range anxiety, particularly in markets where charging infrastructure remains patchy. With the BEV models offering strong eco-credentials and the EREV variants delivering added flexibility, Scout seems determined to cater to a wide range of drivers.

Scout Traveler

Scout Terra

Image credit: Scout EV Forum

Hearing the words EV and fire in the same sentence might inadvertently trigger some alarm bells, but in the case of the Rosenbauer Panther 6×6 Electric, that reaction couldn’t be further from the truth. This new firefighting truck from Austria is purpose-built for airport operations, pairing a fully electric powertrain with performance that not only aims to surpass its diesel counterparts but does so while delivering zero local emissions.

The Panther Electric is categorized as an ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle), serving as the EV sibling to the diesel-powered Panther 6×6 and a direct evolution of a 2022 concept. Visually, the differences are subtle but meaningful: the EV model gets a distinctive set of LEDs that claim to improve visibility in low-light conditions.

Familiar Firefighting Tools

Despite its electric powertrain, the Panther’s firefighting credentials remain unchanged. It carries over the same robust extinguishing system as its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, including the pump, foam proportioning system, and turret. Its tanks boast a capacity of up to 12,000 liters (3,170 gallons) of water, 1,450 liters (383 gallons) of foam, and 250 kilograms (551 pounds) of powder. That should be more than enough firepower—literally—to tackle high-stakes blazes on runways.

More: Electric Fire Truck Set To Battle Blazes In Arizona

The real revolution, however, is what lies beneath. The Panther 6×6 Electric features four electric motors with a combined output of 980 horsepower, which jumps to a staggering 1,200 horsepower when the boost mode is engaged. According to Rosenbauer, the 0-80 km/h (0-50 mph) sprint can be completed in 19.7 seconds, leaving the diesel-powered Panther 6×6 in the dust.

Of course, comparisons with road cars are tempting, but hardly fair. Sure, a Dacia Spring could beat it off the line, but that’s hardly the point. For a vehicle of this purpose that weighs up to 80,000-85,000 pounds (40-42.5 tons) when loaded, such acceleration is genuinely impressive. At full throttle, the vehicle can reach a top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h).

The battery pack has a capacity of 256 kWh and is said to provide “sufficient energy for the two- to three-minute drive to the operation site, the discharge of the entire extinguishing agent, and the return trip in accordance with the requirements”.

During testing, prototypes reportedly completed “multiple trips” on a single charge, though the company has avoided committing to specific range figures. Given the Panther’s narrow use case—short bursts of high-intensity activity rather than long-haul cruising—this omission is understandable, though it does leave room for skepticism.

More: LAFD Takes Delivery Of First Electric Fire Truck In North America

The Panther supports 300 kW fast charging, allowing it to go from zero to 100 percent in 45 minutes. According to the company, more than 90% of the Panther’s daily duties can be handled purely on electric power. For the remaining 10%, there is an “Energy Backup System” diesel generator, ensuring continuous use of the high-performance pump in emergencies.

The Rosenbauer Panther 6×6 Electric is now available to order, though pricing remains undisclosed. The first pre-series units are expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. Electrified vehicles like this play a crucial role in helping the aviation industry and airport operators progress toward their decarbonization goals.

Everyone who has got their hands on a Tesla Cybertruck since it launched last December has had to buy one. But this month Tesla is opening up a lease option, giving fans of the angular pickup the chance to drive one for as low as $999 per month.

That’s the advertised figure for a three-year, 10,000-mile (16,000 km) lease deal on a Dual Motor. But, as is often the case with these deals, the reality isn’t quite so rosy. By the time you include the $7,500 down payment required at signing, the actual cost works out at more like $1,180 per month before taxes. Alternatively, you can skip the upfront payment entirely and pay $1,249 a month instead, again without taxes—which, let’s be clear, is the smarter move.

Related: Florida Man Smashes Porch Pirate’s Getaway Car With Rental Cybertruck

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: putting money down on a lease is a bad move. In fact, it’s one of the easiest mistakes to avoid when leasing a car. The reasoning is brutally simple. That cash you hand over upfront? It can disappear faster than a donut in the break room if your car gets stolen or totaled. Why hand over thousands of dollars up front just to risk losing it?

In any case, that’s not small change, but we can imagine the new offer tempting a few people who previously didn’t think they could afford to put a Cybertruck on their driveway.

The Dual Motor truck is already pretty brisk, its 600 hp (608 PS), all-wheel drive powertrain getting it to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.1 seconds. But if that’s not enough, there’s also a lease deal available on the top-spec Cyberbeast, whose 834 hp (846 PS) triple-motor drivetrain punches it to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds.

Put the same $7,500 down but tick the Cyberbeast box on the order form and you’ll need to find $1,204 every month ($1,379 factoring in deposit). Or you can skip the down payment, but you’ll need to part with $1,439 from every paycheck to keep the repo man away. Reduce the rental term to 24 months and extend the annual mileage allowance to 15,000 (24,000 km) and the monthly payment rises to almost $1,800.

The Cyberbeast currently costs $99,990 for those paying with cash or via a loan, and the Dual Motor stickers at $79,990, more than double the $39k Elon Musk promised Americans would be able to get into a Cybertuck for a few years back. An entry-level, rear-wheel drive truck is scheduled for launch next year with a price of just over $60k.

But those prices and lack of a lease option until now haven’t prevented the Cybertruck racking up some strong sales results this year. Tesla sold 16,692 of the trucks in Q3, helping it overtake the Ford Mustang Mach-E to become the third-best selling EV in America after the Model Y and Model 3. Ford sold just 7,162 F-150 Lightnings in the same period.

Is $999 (plus $7,500 down) per month to drive a Cybertruck a good deal? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think.

NEWS: The Cybertruck is now available to lease in the U.S.

AWD with $0 down:
• 36 month: $1,249/month
• 24 month: $1,568/month
Cyberbeast with $0 down:
• 36 month: $1,439/month
• 24 month: $1,715/month

AWD with $7,500 down:
• 36 month: $999/month
• 24 month: $1,199/month… pic.twitter.com/fr14LanfGI

— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) November 8, 2024

Since customer deliveries of the Tesla Cybertruck started late last year, we’ve seen photos and videos of a number of examples involved in crashes. However, other than an incident from a few months ago when a Cybertruck crashed and caught fire, we haven’t seen one that’s been as badly damaged as this one. If you’ve ever wondered what a smashed Cybertruck looks like, well, this is it.

This Tesla was destroyed in Guadalajara, Mexico, over the weekend after reportedly crashing into a statue. No exact cause for the crash has been confirmed, although local media suggests that speeding was probably a factor. The extent of the damage speaks to this.

Read: Florida Man Smashes Porch Pirate’s Getaway Car With Rental Cybertruck

Photos shared to social media show the Cybertruck sitting on its roof in the middle of the road with extensive damage to the front and rear fascias, as well as both sides. It’s been so badly damaged that it’s almost unrecognizable and shockingly, three of the wheels and hubs have been torn from the truck, giving us some idea of the forces that must have been involved.

Even Tesla chief executive Elon Musk caught wind of the crash, and shared photos of the destroyed Tesla to X, proclaiming the “Cybertruck is tougher than a bag of nails.”

Cybertruck is tougher than a bag of nails https://t.co/vEHBjSpgE7

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 2, 2024

This Cybertruck is almost unrecognizable. It saved three people’s lives. pic.twitter.com/70jyNJQJ4s

— Nic Cruz Patane (@niccruzpatane) November 2, 2024

Local outlet Monclova reports that there were four people inside the Cybertruck at the time of the crash. One of them, an 18-year-old woman, was thrown from the Tesla and found lying on the pavement. She was taken to hospital in a critical condition. The three other occupants avoided serious injuries, but were also rushed to the hospital.

This isn’t the only recent Mexican crash involving the Cybertruck. A few days ago, a 23-year-old driving the futuristic-looking EV slammed into the wall of a property in San Miguel, Chapultepec. The force of the impact crumpled the front end of the Tesla. Fortunately, the driver did not suffer any significant injuries.

For those counting, that’s two major Mexican mishaps in as many weeks for Tesla’s toughest vehicle.

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Image Credit: LilHumansBigImpact@X

Production of the Scout Traveler and Terra isn’t set to kick off until 2027, but the VW Group is already casting an eye toward what might launch next. According to some reports, a two-door off-roader is on the table, aimed squarely at the likes of the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. A tempting proposition? Or would Scout be better off carving its own path rather than trying to muscle into a market already dominated by some heavy-hitters?

At the unveiling of the two production-intent concepts in Nashville, Scout showed attendees a slideshow about its future plans. On one of these slides included side profile shots of the Traveler and Terra, as well as a mystery third model. Most of this model was covered in a bright orange cover, but some details are still visible.

Read: These Are 7 Details About The Scout Traveler and Terra You May Have Missed

It appears as though this model sits on slightly larger wheels and tires than the Traveler and Terra. It also has an even shorter front overhang than the brand’s first two models and looks to offer slightly more ground clearance. The Autopian, which shared the slide, suggests that this third model may also be shorter than the Traveler SUV, perhaps indicating that it could be a two-door with a convertible roof.

A model like this with the Scout badge wouldn’t be without historical precedent. The original Scout built by International Harvester had two doors, and several models were offered with removable roofs, including a retractable soft-top known as the ‘Sportop.’ If Scout is aiming to evoke nostalgia with a modern twist, a two-door convertible could be just the ticket.

When asked about Scout’s decision to launch the two models with a hardtop and an optional ‘Cabana’ style roof, Shaheen Karimian, the head of product marketing, hinted that there might be a niche audience craving a fully open-top experience in a more compact package. Karimian suggested that while the current lineup caters to practicality, there’s a potential market—albeit a small one—that would appreciate a true open-air option.

“How can we provide an open air feeling with the maximum amount of benefit, with the least amount of compromise? We landed at the cabana roof and glass roof options,” he told The Autopian. “On a two-row vehicle of this size, to deliver on all the other customer needs, the removable panels would be large, heavy, and challenging to provide a high quality experience without creating a higher customer price or an impacted vehicle experience.”

“It is true a smaller subset of customers are saying they want that removable roof experience… Doesn’t mean we can’t do one in the future, on say a vehicle with fewer doors and a shorter wheelbase,” Karimian added.

Of course, the future of a third model from the Scout brand will rest on the popularity of the Traveler and Terra. Scout also needs to get these two models into production and into the hands of customers before it can get too ahead of itself and start investing heavily in future products.

So, what do you think Scout’s next model should be? Cast your vote in the poll below and see where the crowd stands on Scout’s next move.

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POLL

A Cybertruck owner became so frustrated at Tesla’s inability to deal with a problem with his electric truck that he took matters into his own hands and fixed it with a $13 DIY part.

Jay Larson, an Arizona-based podiatrist, posted on his MyCybertruckLife X account about how he was moved to act after being disappointed with a Tesla’s dealers attempts to fix a wind noise issue on his pickup. The truck, which has been perfectly quiet when he first bought it, began making a high-pitching whistling noise after its bulletproof windshield was replaced due to a factory defect.

Related: Tesla Delays Cybertruck Range Extender Battery To “Mid-2025”

Larson was adamant that the Cybertruck hadn’t been making the noise before the screen swap so went back to his dealer in Tempe, Arizona expecting the technicians to put it right. They made one attempt, telling Larson the problem was gone, but he disagreed, so asked them to take another look.

This time they told him that the noise was normal for a Cybertruck and that they couldn’t replicate the sound he was complaining about even at highway speeds. And for those reasons they said there was no available fix despite Larson insisting that it was fine with the original windshield. A classic case of “they all do that, sir.”

Not happy with that answer and still irritated by the wind whistle, Larson began casting around for his own solution. And he found it on Amazon, where he purchased a roll of 9 mm silicone weather stripping that perfectly fitted the gap at the top of the windshield. He removed some of the backing from the adhesive strip, but not all of it, saying that the weather seal was so snug it didn’t need much adhesive. He also had a hunch that it might have been trickier to fit if all of the adhesive surface had been exposed.

Larson says the truck is now whisper-quiet, even at 90 mph (145 km/h), and cost him only $12.99 to fix. But he shouldn’t have had to spend a penny.

Anyone else have a high pitching wind noise in their Cybertruck?? Tesla service center in Tempe AZ said it was normal but I didn’t have the noise before they replaced my windshield so after 2 trips to the service center with no improvement I fixed it myself. @elonmusk @Tesla… pic.twitter.com/1rMnoFXRqT

— MyCybertruckLife (@jaylarsondpm) October 24, 2024

Image credits: Amazon, Jay Larson (@jaylarsondpm)

Chevrolet introduced the 2025 Silverado EV last month, and now they’re getting, well, crabby—in a good way. Taking a page from GMC’s playbook, they’ve decided to add their own version of the Hummer’s famed CrabWalk.

Known in bowtie lingo as Sidewinder, the new drive mode is engaged via the infotainment system and allows all four wheels to turn in the same direction. This enables the electric pickup to drive diagonally at speeds up to 20 mph (32 km/h).

More: Chevy Expands 2025 Silverado EV Range With New LT And Battery Options

Since this isn’t something drivers will use every day, it’s slightly buried. However, Chevrolet said owners can access the new drive mode by tapping the Controls icon and then navigating to Rear Steering. They can then select Sidewinder mode, which is verified by splash scene graphics on the infotainment system as well as a message in the instrument cluster.

Once activated, the Silverado EV RST can be driven diagonally. Chevrolet said this proves helpful in a variety of situations ranging from “tight parking spots to rugged terrain.” During testing on the GMC Hummer EV, we thought it felt gimmicky and a tad unnatural, although effective.

Sidewinder mode comes standard on all 2025 Silverado EV RST pickups. It will also be added to existing Silverado EV First Edition RSTs via an over-the-air update early next year.

Besides the new drive mode, the 2025 Silverado EV gains a new LT trim that starts at $75,195 and offers up to 408 miles (657 km) of range. They’re joined by new battery packs as the RST offers Extended and Max Range batteries, while the fleet-focused WT has Standard, Extended, and Max Range options. The latter gives the Work Truck an EPA-estimated range of 492 miles (792 km).

Scout Motors infuriated VW dealers across the United States last week when it confirmed that the upcoming Terra and Traveler will be available via a direct-sale model rather than through existing dealerships. However, state dealer associations and the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) are already fighting back and looking for ways to block the revived brand’s hotly contested plan.

While Tesla was a trailblazer for direct-to-customer sales in the US, it faced many legal hurdles in skirting regulations designed to protect franchised dealerships. Scout differs from Tesla in that it’s not a true startup and is owned by the VW Group. Its affiliation with the German car manufacturer may complicate its ability to sell vehicles without involving dealers, according to Richard Sox, managing partner at Bass Sox Mercer law firm.

Read: VW Dealers Furious As Scout Sells Terra And Traveler Direct To Consumers

“In the vast majority of states, the OEMs are not permitted to sell direct or compete with their dealers,” Sox told Auto News. “There are some exceptions to that, but those exceptions generally relate to the non-legacy OEMs who do not have and have never had a dealer network, i.e., Tesla. They’re affiliated with Scout, they have ownership. They have potentially some control. It certainly complicates Scout’s ability to sell direct in those particular states that would otherwise allow a manufacturer that is completely separate from a legacy OEM to sell direct.”

Scout has been eager to declare its independence since launching. The company plans to establish dedicated retail spaces across the country, allowing shoppers to place orders online. Scout will also manage all production and maintenance of its vehicles.

The chairman of Pohanka Automotive Group, Geoffrey Pohanka, has rejected the claim that Scout is independent of VW, telling Auto News “it’s the same”. He added that “VW has worked hard to reestablish itself in the United States, and they’re very sincere about that. This is contradictory to all the efforts they’ve made to reinvigorate the brand with new models.”

NADA’s chief executive, Mike Stanton, stated that the association is ready to challenge Scout “in courthouses and statehouses across the country.” While it remains unclear what legal route NADA will pursue, Stanton noted that “everything’s on the table right now.” He predicts that Scout’s plans to manage every aspect of the ownership experience through its app “will fail.”

Read: These Are The New Scout Terra Truck And Traveler SUV

University of Michigan Law School professor Daniel Crane believes dealer associations may first pick states where they have the strongest standing before beginning the legal battles. Richard Sox added that his law firm has already started working with 10 state dealer associations and is looking for the best ways to push back against the direct-to-consumer sales strategy.

Ford is temporarily shutting down F-150 Lightning production as part of a plan to deal with lukewarm demand for electric vehicles that is causing problems for multiple automakers.

The Lightning line at Ford’s Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Michigan will be idled from the middle of November until January 6, 2025, Auto News reports. Granted, that timeframe includes Ford’s regular one-week holiday shutdown, but it’s still an embarrassing fall from grace for a truck that’s supposed to be one of Ford’s halo models.

Related: Tesla Cybertruck Blasts Past Mach-E Into 3rd Place For Q3

And the decision might come as a surprise if you’ve been following Lightning news during 2024. Sales of the electric truck climbed 86 percent in the first nine months of this year versus the same period in 2023, although things weren’t perfect. Early this year Ford was forced to water down its sales predictions and cut jobs at the Rouge plant when it took the Lightning production from two shifts to one. And the F-150’s showy Tesla Cybertruck rival easily knocked it off the top of the electric truck sales chart. Tesla sold 16,692 Cybertrucks in Q3 to Ford’s 7,162 Lightnings.

Ford hasn’t revealed how much F-150 EV inventory it holds (it had 100 days of all F-150 types as of last month, per Cox Automotive), but the fact that it’s shutting the line suggests it has far too many finished Lightnings hanging around and wants to pare that inventory back. And to prevent it finding itself in the same situation with other EVs a couple of years down the road, Ford announced in August that it was delaying the introduction of another large electric truck and scrapping a planned three-row electric SUV. It will concentrate on developing smaller models and hybrids instead.

The electric slowdown has caught many automakers off guard and Ford isn’t the only brand who has been forced to idle production lines to get back on track. Fiat announced in September that it would pause production of its 500e in Italy for one month, but recently extended the shutdown for another three weeks as a result of continued poor sales.

Fortunately for Ford, it hasn’t thrown all its eggs in the electric basket and can still offer buyers combustion-engined trucks. But Fiat killed off its combustion 500 and has now been forced to re-engineer the EV model to accept a hybrid powertrain, a project that will take a couple of years.

We’ve contacted Ford for a comment and will provide an update on this story as soon as they respond.

It’s been roughly a year since Tesla Cybertrucks began rolling off the line and arriving in customer hands, and the electric truck remains, by a mile, the most radical-looking vehicle on the market. But if you thought it couldn’t get any more outlandish, think again—because now there’s a widebody kit, courtesy of a company called Waido.

This is thought to be the first complete widebody kit on offer for the Cybertruck, and the LA-based custom shop Stars In The Ceiling claims to be the first to install it on a privately owned truck. The price tag? A hefty $9,990, and it’s a limited-edition affair with only 100 kits available.

Read: Tesla Delays Cybertruck Range Extender Battery To “Mid-2025”

The kit is made from ABS plastic and does not require any trimming or cutting of the original Cybertruck body panels. The flared front and rear fenders make the most obvious statement, widening the Tesla by an impressive six inches. Importantly, the front fenders include the same rear-facing cameras as the original fenders and have been equally as well hidden.

Retaining these cameras was vital to keep the truck’s Autopilot system in working order, although some modifications were necessary, including new housings for the cameras and extended cables to handle the wider stance. Notably, the factory charge port is also untouched, allowing owners to maintain all original charging capabilities.

Waido’s kit doesn’t stop at just the fenders. It includes an overhauled front bumper that looks a little more aggressive. New skirts have also been designed for the EV as has a large lip spoiler on the decklid and a dramatic rear diffuser.

This particular Cybertruck’s stainless steel bodywork has also been adorned in a special military green wrap, while the bodykit parts are paint-matched in the same shade. It’s also sitting on a set of gargantuan 26-inch black wheels from Forgiato wrapped in off-road tires.

As far as we know, this is the first widebody kit available for the Cybertruck, but we suspect there are others in the works. With demand for customization only growing, expect more outlandish options to emerge soon.

Ford F-150 Lightning sales more than doubled in the third quarter, but CEO Jim Farley appears more excited about the company’s upcoming mid-size electric pickup. Tentatively dubbed the Ranger EV, the model is slated to go into production in 2027 and be based on an all-new platform developed by a ‘skunkworks’ team focused on developing affordable, next-generation electric vehicles.

The automaker hasn’t said much about the truck, but it will be the first vehicle based on the new architecture. The company has also stated the pickup will “cater to customers who want more for their money – more range, more utility, [and] more usability.”

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

While that’s a lot of marketing malarkey, Farley recently talked about the truck during the company’s third quarter earnings call. He said, I’ve seen a lot of game-changing products but the mid-sized truck has “got to be one of the most exciting.”

The executive went on to describe it as an “incredible package” in a segment Ford knows extremely well. More interestingly, he said the model will match the “cost structure of any Chinese auto manufacturer building in Mexico in the future,” suggesting it will be both affordable and profitable.

Speaking of which, Farley said there’s a “global price war” fueled by “overcapacity, a flood of new EV nameplates, and massive compliance pressure.” The executive stated no automaker is immune from the challenges and they’re expecting “roughly 150 new EV nameplates to hit North America by the end of 2026.”

This has resulted in some automakers slashing prices and embracing a ‘race to the bottom’ mentality. Farley isn’t a fan as he said “very aggressive lease tactics” carry “huge residual risk” and can damage brands.

While Ford lowered prices for the 2025 Mustang Mach-E, the automaker was able to cut their costs by $5,000 per unit over the past 24 months. These efforts will help enable the automaker to save $1 billion on EVs this year and Farley said they’re going to stay “laser-focused on cost and getting leaner as a company.”

Toyota is pressing forward with its electric Hilux project, unveiling a new prototype built for Australian roads. This Hilux BEV double-cab marks Toyota’s first venture into the all-electric utility truck market, developed in partnership with mining giant BHPP. This zero-emissions workhorse isn’t just for show, as it’s set for a full-year trial in the unforgiving conditions of Australia’s mining operations. Toyota’s goals is gather raw, unfiltered data to shape the future production model and demonstrate that an electric Hilux can meet the rigorous demands of heavy-duty work.

The original Toyota Hilux BEV concept was unveiled in Thailand in December 2022, featuring a single-cab bodystyle. The new prototype is based on a double chassis-cab Hilux, and it looks just like the ICE-powered version, albeit with a charging port on the front fender. Toyota’s given it a few extra touches too, like a fortified front bumper with embedded LEDs and a sturdy bull bar.

More: Toyota Hilux Transforms Into A 6×6 Military Truck Ready For Battle

BHP will deploy this new BEV prototype at Port Hedland, one of the world’s largest iron ore hubs, situated in Western Australia. For the next 12 months starting in late November, it’ll replace diesel trucks across a “range of applications”. This is no gentle proving ground; if the Hilux BEV can survive here, it can survive almost anywhere.

Toyota is keeping the powertrain details close to its chest. In fact, nearly two years after debuting the concept, we’re still in the dark about the motor’s power output, battery capacity, and expected range.

Matthew Callachor, President and CEO of Toyota Australia said: “Toyota has long advocated a multi-pathway approach towards decarbonization, and when we do something, we want to make sure we do it right”, adding that the trial will provide valuable insights for testing in “harsh and demanding mining environments.”

Geraldine Slattery, BHP President Australia, added: “Our ambition to electrify our light vehicle fleet and lower greenhouse gas emissions across our operations depends on enabling technology that can only be achieved through collaborations like this, with leading suppliers like Toyota. With around 5,000 light vehicles at our sites across Australia, we look forward to putting the Battery Electric HiLux through its paces and seeing the potential it can bring, not only to reduce diesel use in mining but eventually for all HiLux drivers too”.

The announcement follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by Toyota Australia and BHP in August 2023 to collaborate in safety, engineering, and product development, towards decarbonization.

Electric Hilux For Mining And Private Use

This is not the first time we hear about a fully electric Hilux aiming to replace diesel-powered trucks in mining facilities. Last year, SEA Electric and MEVCO announced an AU $1 billion (US $700 million) deal for building 8,500 EVs over the next five years, based on the Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser. A similar project for a BEV-converted Hilux had been under development since 2022 by the Australian-based startup ROEV, before being scrapped in 2024 due to limited funding.

As for factory-backed programs, Toyota began testing ten FCEV prototypes of the Hilux in the UK in mid-2024, after unveiling a hydrogen prototype in September 2023.

More importantly, the first commercially available version of the fully electric truck will arrive by the end of 2025. The BEV will initially roll out in Thailand and could be followed by other markets, including Europe.

The eighth generation of the Toyota Hilux has been around since 2017 with subsequent facelifts in 2020, and 2024. This makes us believe that the fully electric variant could be based on the next-generation model. Depending on the market, the BEV will join more traditional diesel and mild-hybrid powertrain options.

It’s been less than a week since the revived Scout brand officially introduced itself and opened reservations, but the company is already touting “extremely positive” feedback for its new Traveler SUV and Terra pickup. Initial data from the company itself shows that the majority of buyers are leaning toward the SUV, while early polling from a dedicated Scout forum suggests that over 80% of those placing reservations are opting for the optional ‘Harvester’ range-extender powertrain.

The VW-backed brand unveiled the Traveler and Terra to much fanfare, instantly opening the floodgates for reservations. We reached out to Scout for preliminary data on the breakdown between model reservations, and the company told Carscoops that roughly two-thirds of buyers have chosen the Traveler SUV, while the remaining third are snapping up the Terra pickup.

Scout declined to provide specific numbers—whether for total reservations or the split between the standard EV and the range-extender model—but the breakdown between body styles offers an early glimpse into customer preferences.

Read: These Are The New Scout Terra Truck And Traveler SUV

“Consumer response to the reveal of the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra truck is extremely positive, validating what we learned from the Scout community and several consumer product clinics at which we tested various product concepts,” a Scout spokesperson told us. “This has resulted in a high volume of reservations that has surpassed internal expectations.” 

“Presently, two-thirds of reservations are for the Scout Traveler SUV and one-third are for the Scout Terra truck. The Harvester range-extender, connection-focused features like the bench seat, and a return to tactility and utility are resonating with consumers, and we’re seeing that enthusiasm reflected in reservation counts.”

In the lead-up to the unveiling of the Traveler and Terra concepts, the duo were only expected to be offered with battery-electric powertrains. However, Scout caught some people off guard by offering an EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) variant alongside the all-electric version. The EREV model features a small gasoline engine acting as a generator to recharge the battery, promising up to 500 miles (805 km) of range—a more compelling option for drivers who aren’t quite ready to commit to full-electric just yet.

And it seems this decision might be paying off. While Scout hasn’t released official reservation numbers for the EREV, administrators from the Scout EV Forum have compiled data from over 670 members who’ve placed orders. They found that over 80% of these early adopters are choosing the EREV over the fully electric BEV. The forum data also reveals that 45.9% of those reserving a Scout already own an EV, while 54.1% are newcomers to the electric vehicle world. For what it’s worth, the breakdown between SUV (58.2%), truck (34.2%), and both models (7.7%) aligns closely with Scout’s official data.

Of course, since this data is pulled from a small sample of one enthusiast forum, the proportion of EREV models out of total reservations may vary, and unless Scout itself announces official numbers, we won’t know precisely how popular the EREV is proving to be. Nevertheless, it seems safe to say that Scout’s decision to offer the range-extender was a good idea.