Jaguar Land Rover has instructed almost three dozen I-Pace owners in the US to avoid parking their EVs near structures and to limit charging to 80% because incorrectly repaired examples are at risk of catching fire.

This recall follows on from an earlier one impacting 2019 Jaguar I-Pace models. The brand says 34 vehicles in the US have not had software updates correctly installed and have a safety defect that can cause the EVs to catch fire. Impacted models were assembled between February 18, 2018, and March 11, 2019.

Read: Jaguar Is Buying Back 2,760 Faulty I-Pace EVs Over Fire Risk

Jaguar started to audit its previous recall on November 12 and found three vehicles that had not been correctly updated, even though retailers had submitted a claim for the repair to the carmaker. Jaguar has since reviewed the logs across its retail network and found that 34 vehicles continue to represent a safety risk and must be fixed. While there have not been any reports of accidents, injuries, or fires, it’s a fault that owners should take seriously. The recall also comes just a few weeks after Jaguar said it was buying back 2,760 I-Paces in the US that can catch fire.

Dealers will be notified of this latest recall on January 2, while owners will be informed by February 7. Retailers have been instructed to install an interim software update to fix the fault.

Interestingly, JLR first issued this new recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on December 12 and did not tell owners to park their EVs away from structures. However, the recall notice was updated on December 17, warning owners of the dangers.

“In line with recommendations made by manufacturers who have had similar issues and until such time as the safety recall remedy has been completed, retailers and customers should park away from structures,” the recall states. “Where possible, vehicles should be charged outside. Customers should also limit their charge to a maximum of 80% until the recall remedy has been completed. The Owner Manual should be consulted to confirm how to monitor vehicle charge level.”

Analysts predict that between 16.2 million and 16.3 million new cars could be sold across the United States next year. This would mark the strongest year in sales since 2019, up from the projected 15.98 million cars sold this year.

Several factors could contribute to a sales boost in 2025. The Federal Reserve recently cut interest rates for the third time this year, and inventory has started to improve in the second half of the year. Additionally, the average transaction price for new cars in 2024 is $47,465, or 0.8% lower than in 2023. Prices remain 27.2% higher than in 2019 however, when roughly 17 million new vehicles were sold in the US.

Read: Electrified Vehicles Grab Over 20% Of US Market Share With Hybrids Leading The Way

S&P Global Mobility and Edmunds estimate that 16.2 million new vehicles will be sold in 2025. Analysts from Cox Automotive put that figure closer to 16.3 million. This jump could happen despite the estimated price hikes due to the tariffs expected to be enforced by the Trump administration.

Edmunds believes that new tariffs “could dramatically increase vehicle prices” and that the added cost will be passed on to consumers. It’s possible that scrapping the $7,500 federal EV tax credit could slow sales of electric vehicles. However, there may be a temporary increase in EV sales before the credit is ditched as buyers could rush in and get a deal while they can. Cox Automotive says 10% of new vehicles sold next year could be BEVs, and 25% of new vehicle sales will be electrified.

“The tariffs proposed by the incoming president might not be more than negotiation tactics, but if they were enacted they would likely affect the costs of nearly all goods and services — not just car prices,” Edmunds’ head of insights Jessica Caldwell said. “Consumers would have less disposable income and automakers would likely need to increase incentive spending just to move metal. Things could get interesting if automakers consider stop-gap solutions such as reviving used vehicle leasing or subscription services, or devising completely new models in order to offer vehicles at less cost to the consumer.”

If tariffs are enforced, the price gap between new and used cars is expected to grow, pushing more shoppers towards a used vehicle. This year, the average transaction price for used vehicles was $27,252, a 5.4% decrease compared to 2023.

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.

Klaus Pflugbeil thought he had it all figured out. Swipe some trade secrets, make $1.3 million, and quietly build a tech business overseas. Instead, the former employee of a company bought by Tesla is now facing two years in federal prison. Why? Because, unsurprisingly, the FBI has little patience for blatant industrial espionage. His partner is allegedly still at large.

Authorities nabbed Pflugbeil back in March after he allegedly attempted to sell sensitive tech to someone he thought was a buyer. It wasn’t. It was an undercover FBI agent ready to ruin his day. According to the Department of Justice, Pflugbeil “built a business in China to sell the sensitive technology that belongs to a U.S. company.” That’s a sanitized way of saying he and his partner cooked up a scheme to peddle trade secrets while hoping nobody in America would notice. They noticed.

Read: Tesla Settles Lawsuit Against Rivian Over Claims It Stole Trade Secrets

As we noted in our original coverage, the DOJ doesn’t specifically say that Pflugbeil stole these secrets from Tesla. However, several factors, including its acquisition of a Canadian tech manufacturer (Hibar Systems) in 2019, for whom Pflugbeil used to work for, point to Tesla as the “leading U.S.-based electric vehicle company” the official records refer to.

“His actions were bold – he even advertised that he was selling the victim’s products – because he thought, incorrectly, that he was outside the reach of U.S. prosecutors,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message to would-be offenders: My office will do everything it can to protect American innovation and national security no matter where you try to hide.”

In that same vein, it’s worth noting that Pflugbeil’s co-defendant, Yilong Shao, remains at large according to the DOJ. Evidently, the pair were quite blatant in their work. The DOJ says that Pflugbeil sent several documents including trade secrets to Shao and even said things like “[it’s] in a different format, so it looks very original and not like a copy.” The pair then advertised their products, precision dispensing pumps, and battery assembly lines, across the globe.

They showed up at trade shows, sent emails, and even claimed directly that their products didn’t infringe on any patents, copyrights, or other intellectual property. Somewhat ironically, Pflugbeil’s LinkedIn profile features a quote from Benjamin Jowett as his banner: “The way to get things done is not to mind who gets the credit for doing them,” it says. Perhaps he should’ve made sure that Tesla got full credit for the tech he professed to create.

A couple of weeks ago, we brought you the story of a Nissan dealer in Colorado that was offering $5 leases on 2025 Leaf models. Not to be outdone, Larry H. Miller Chrysler Dodge Ram Fiat in Denver, Colorado, is offering a $0/month lease on the 2024 Fiat 500e. Now, before you get too excited about having the opportunity to drive away in a chic EV for free, some taxes need to be paid.

The dealership’s Fiat 500e deal is a 27-month lease and does not require any downpayment. However, $1,297.68 in taxes needs to be paid at delivery, and at the end of the lease, there is a $395 disposition fee. Add those two figures together, and you get $1,692.68, which works out to be just the equivalent of $62.66 each month.

Read: Stellantis Extends Fiat 500e And Maserati Production Halt Again By Two More Weeks As Sales Struggle

It’s also worth noting that the lease is limited to 10,000 miles per year. Any excess mileage will be charged at 30 cents per mile. If, at the end of the lease, you want to keep the keys to the 500e, there’ll be a $17,388.45 payoff.

This deal is quite the bargain and has equivalent monthly payments of less than half the $127.91 available for the recent Nissan Leaf leasing deal. It’s unclear how many Fiat 500e the dealer has available, but it’s likely initiated this deal to help clear some inventory.

It’s no secret that the Fiat 500e has been a slow seller, and the brand appears to be having a particularly hard time selling it in the United States. While numerous ‘special edition’ models have been rolled out in the US, they are not selling either, and Fiat has repeatedly paused EV production in Italy. Just a few days ago, it extended a production halt yet again, meaning no new ones will be produced until at least January 20, 2025.

Despite all of this, the 500e could serve as a good city runabout for anyone living in Colorado, particularly given that it’s now so incredibly cheap to lease. All standard examples have a 42 kWh battery with 117 hp and 162 lb-ft (219 Nm) of torque, giving the car up to 149 miles (240 km) of range.

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

While automakers navigate shifting electrification strategies, the global electric vehicle market continues to grow steadily. November 2024 set yet another sales record, with 1.8 million EVs sold worldwide, bringing the year-to-date total to an impressive 15.2 million units.

More: China’s Growing Love For EVs Has Oil Companies Freaking Out

According to market research firm Rho Motion, November marked the third consecutive month of record-breaking EV sales, with an additional 100,000 units sold compared to October’s previous high. This represents a sharp 32 percent leap from November 2023.

China Leads the Charge

Unsurprisingly, China continues to dominate the EV stage by a huge margin with an astonishing 1.3 million units sold in November, accounting for nearly 70 percent of global sales. Much of this growth came from rising demand for models produced by Geely, Tesla, and Changan, bolstered by China’s aggressive push toward electrification.

Between January and November 2024, China’s EV sales soared by 40 percent year-over-year, reaching a remarkable 9.7 million units and dwarfing sales in all other regions.

The global tally of 15.2 million EVs sold between January and November 2024 represents a 25 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Breaking this down, China was followed by the European Union, EFTA (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) and the UK at 2.7 million (-3%), the US and Canada at 1.6 million (+10%), and the rest of the world contributing 1.1 million (+25%).

Regional Gains and Setbacks

In Europe, major markets like Germany, France, and Italy are experiencing a slowdown, with year-to-date sales shrinking by 3 percent. However, the UK stands out as an exception, posting a 17 percent increase in sales thanks to stronger demand in the second half of 2024. Still, uncertainty looms as the UK government considers scaling back its EV mandate, citing feasibility concerns.

Across the Atlantic, the US and Canada have maintained a steady 10 percent increase in EV sales year-to-date, totaling 1.6 million units sold so far. Donald Trump’s recent election victory is expected to trigger a year-end rush for zero-emission vehicles, as buyers hurry to claim Biden-era tax credits before they risk being cut next year.

Charles Lester, Data Manager at Rho Motion, commented: “This quarter has picked up significantly for EV sales globally as we see record-breaking month after record-breaking month. However, the regional picture is somewhat uneven with Europe shrinking 3% this year so far, and once more China accounts for over two-thirds of the electric vehicles sold in November.”

Toyota is getting ready to launch the 2025 bZ4X, but it’s already sweetening the deal with some hefty leasing and financing incentives, before you even get a glimpse of the new model at dealerships.

The 2025 Toyota bZ4X is currently available with up to $10,000 in lease cash in select US regions, including Los Angeles, Boston, Denver, Portland, and San Francisco, until January 6, 2025. Final lease terms are still under wraps, but Toyota’s offering a deal that essentially amounts to 0% financing, likely in a bid to pull more people that it already has into its electric crossover, developed in partnership with Subaru.

Read: Toyota And Subaru’s Next Joint Electric SUV Coming In 2026

If you want to walk away with an electric Toyota at a compelling rate, you’re not just limited to the 2025 model. The outgoing 2024 version is also offered with an even bigger $16,250 lease incentive in many regions across the country and a money factor equivalent to 0% APR.

According to Cars Direct, residents in Southern California can pick up the keys to one for $219 per month for 36 months with a $2,999 downpayment. That works out to be the equivalent of $302 per month and while it’s not the single cheapest new EV on the market to lease, it is very affordable and even cheaper to lease than a 2025 Toyota Corolla, underscoring Toyota’s aggressive push to make EVs accessible.

Very few changes are expected for the 2025 bZ4X. It may get a few new trim options, but mechanically, it will likely be identical to the model it replaces. It should also hit the market with a largely unchanged exterior and interior. The bZ4X is currently offered with single and dual-motor versions, rated at 201 hp and 214 hp respectively.

For those of you set on grabbing the 2025 model, financing deals are also on the table: 0% APR for 72 months, plus $2,500 in Toyota Financial Services Subvention Cash. It’s not going to set the world on fire, but for what’s essentially a tweak on an existing model, it’s a smart way to move metal while keeping the price competitive.

Henrik Fisker’s attempts to establish his own car companies have ended in complete failure. Twice, he has launched his own car company, and twice, those ventures have ended in collapse. Earlier this year, Fisker filed for bankruptcy while attempting to deliver the all-electric Ocean SUV. The fallout has left owners stuck with vehicles that have not only depreciated significantly but are also riddled with a host of frustrating issues.

The most recent—and perhaps most troubling—issue concerned the risk of unexpected rollaway. In early February, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) began investigating unintended vehicle movement in 2023 model-year Fisker Oceans.

Read: Fisker’s Bankruptcy Plan Approved, Owners Won’t Have To Pay For Recall Repairs

The ODI discovered that impacted vehicles contain a logic that prevents the engagement of the park gear when the park gear request is made while the vehicle is moving at low speeds. Put more simply, if a driver tries to turn on the parking brake while the EV is moving, it’ll reject the request and shift into neutral. According to the safety agency, there’s a risk that drivers may not realize the parking brake hasn’t been switched on, and there’s a chance the Ocean could roll away if just left in neutral.

News of the investigation first emerged late last month. On November 15, Fisker issued a recall covering 7,745 Oceans from the 2023 and 2024 model years to address the problem. Following the issuance of this recall, the ODI has been able to close its investigation.

As part of the software update, the Fisker Ocean will automatically slow to a stop if the driver unlatches their seatbelt while traveling at low speeds. Once stopped, the SUV will automatically switch into park gear and enable the parking brake. Fisker has also introduced an Auto Vehicle Hold function, which will hold the SUV in place even after the driver removes their foot from the brake pedal. This is a standard feature on most cars, and, oddly, the Ocean didn’t have it until the introduction of OS 2.0.

Fisker has been forced to launch several other recalls for the Ocean this year, including due to a sudden loss of drive power, an unprompted reduction in regenerative braking, malfunctioning warning lights, and outer door handles that can stick and fail to open.

In the ever-expanding universe of Tesla accessories, some are genuinely useful, and then there’s this—a bizarre steering wheel tray for the Cybertruck. It’s not just oddly specific; it’s oddly expensive too, leaving you to wonder: Who and why exactly asked for this?

What you’re looking at is a weird steering wheel tray designed specifically for the electric pickup and being sold by Teslaunch, a website specializing in aftermarket accessories for Tesla’s full range of EVs. The tray, which appears to be made from a combination of plastic and rubber, slides around the center of the steering wheel and locks into place.

Read: Tesla Cuts Cybertruck Leasing To $899 Just Weeks After Launching Lease Options

One photo published by the seller shows a coffee and a McDonald’s McMuffin and a cup sitting on the tray. It’s also been shown helping to prop up a phone. The description adds the tray “transforms your Cybertruck into a functional workspace” (presumably when not driving), although it doesn’t appear strong or large enough to support a laptop of a large tablet, so we don’t think many buyers will use it for work. Instead, it’d probably be best used for dining while owners sit at a public charging station and wonder why they didn’t buy a hybrid or why they’re not charging at home.

Pricey for Plastic and Rubber

At $78, this oddball accessory is surprisingly expensive for what is essentially a curved piece of plastic with a rubber base. But, as any Tesla owner knows, accessorizing your ride is never a budget-friendly affair.

Teslaunch isn’t just selling steering wheel trays. The site also offers a range of other aftermarket parts for the Cybertruck, including carbon fiber interior trims, under-seat storage boxes, and a center console organizing tray—items that might actually make the truck a bit more functional. But if you’re looking for accessories that are a little more practical than a steering wheel tray, Tesla itself has plenty of options.

From pet liners for the back seat to a massive cooler box for the frunk and a sunshade for the massive panoramic glass roof panel, Tesla’s official accessory line is stocked with items. And for more serious gear, like tailgate ramps or bumper protectors, it’s probably best to go straight to the source. After all, you don’t want to be caught charging your Cybertruck with nothing but a McMuffin and an overpriced plastic tray.

Two months after Porsche issued a widespread recall of 2020-2024 Taycan models across the United States for a battery defect, a class action lawsuit has been filed against the automaker and is seeking a jury trial in relation to the battery fault.

The lawsuit, filed by Gibbs Law Group, names plaintiff Miodrag Kukrika and alleges Porsche has failed to disclose or adequately repair a “dangerous and widespread” defect in the EV’s battery pack. The law group are seeking to represent a class of owners and lessees of impacted Taycan models and claims Porsche has known about the issue since at least February 2020 after a vehicle fire at a home in Florida.

Read: Porsche Taycan Recall Means You’re Stuck Charging To 80% Until 2025

“Porsche investigated the incident and since then, has learned about several other fires and about numerous owner complaints about the Battery Defect,” the class action states. 

In the recall notice issued in early October, Porsche said the high-voltage batteries of certain Taycans could short circuit, leading to fires. Owners have been asked to cap charging of their vehicles to 80% until early 2025, when an on-board diagnostic system will be installed to detect battery module anomalies. Vehicles shown to have battery faults will have their packs replaced.

This class action lawsuit says the automaker hasn’t addressed the “root cause of the defect” and should repair or replace all of the defective batteries. Kukrika alleges Porsche is guilty of fraudulent concealment and omission, breach of the implied warranty of merchantability, and negligent misrepresentation/omission. He is seeking a jury trial and has requested injunctive relief alongside an award of punitive, compensatory, treble, and exemplary damages for all class members.

“The Battery Defect presents an unreasonable safety risk to drivers and passengers of the Class Vehicles and to people in residential homes and other structures where the vehicles are parked or near,” the lawsuit adds.

The class action was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia on November 29.

Mazda is riding high in the U.S. market in 2024, on track to smash its all-time sales record with expectations to hit over 400,000 units. In an industry still reeling from uncertainty, the Japanese automaker is sticking to its guns, pursuing a multi-pronged approach to powertrain development that spans combustion, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, range-extender, and electric models. It’s a strategy that seems to be paying off, at least for now.

2024: A Year of Record-Breaking Sales

Speaking with Auto News, CEO Masahiro Moro forecasted U.S. sales will reach between 410,000 and 420,000 units by the end of 2024, with growth possibly extending into 2025—up to 450,000 units, no less. Quite the prediction, especially when you consider the volatility in the market. So far, Mazda has moved 384,181 vehicles year-to-date, marking an 18.6% uptick compared to 2023. November alone was a record-setter, with 33,422 units sold, making it the brand’s best November performance to date.

More: Mazda Working On Two-Rotor Engine Tech To Satisfy America’s Thirst For Power

Despite being a relative old-timer, the CX-5 remains the best-selling Mazda with 8,733 units in November and 122,954 units year-to-date. Other key models like the CX-30 (87,640 units), the CX-50 (73,358 units), and the CX-90 (48,681 units). round out the top-sellers.

As for non-SUV offerings, the Mazda3 hatchback and sedan have sold a cumulative 34,830 units so far in 2024. Meanwhile, the MX-5 had its best November since 2006, with 798 monthly sales, representing a 76.9% increase compared to November 2023. However, its year-to-date figure of 7,489 units is down a significant 12.4%.

EV, Hybrid, And ICE Development

While Mazda has made some strides in hybrid and electric technology, Moro remains clear-eyed about the brand’s powertrain direction. His expectation? By 2030, hybrid and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will still make up about two-thirds of Mazda’s U.S. sales. That leaves a third for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and full EVs, a reasonable outlook given the current landscape. In the short term, Moro predicts that hybrids will account for roughly 40% of Mazda’s U.S. sales, a notable shift toward electrification, but still firmly rooted in the present.

EV Investment, But Not a Rush to the Finish Line

Despite the slower-than-anticipated EV uptake, Mazda isn’t abandoning its electric dreams. The company is continuing to pour resources into the development of fully electric vehicles, but with a more measured approach. According to Moro, pushing back the EV rollout gives them “a little more time for technology development,” a reassuring spin on an otherwise cautious strategy.

More: Ford EV Sales Surge 21%, But F-150 Lightning Falls 17%, ICE Mustang Crashes 45%

By 2027, Mazda will have completed the in-house development of its first EV-dedicated platform and its own hybrid powertrain. Furthermore, the company is working on next-gen, high-density lithium-ion batteries, also being developed in-house, with a 2030 target for PHEVs and EVs. Mazda is also building a “very advanced research base” for solid-state battery technology.

The Rotary Is Coming Back

We also have official confirmation that Mazda is developing a twin-rotor rotary engine for the U.S. market, likely to serve as a range extender in a hybrid setup. While Moro didn’t provide a specific launch timeline, he did mention that Mazda is close to meeting the emissions regulation targets.

Skyactiv-Z: Mazda’s Ultimate ICE Engine

Finally, the brand’s focus isn’t solely on electrification. Mazda is deep into developing its Skyactiv-Z powertrain, described by Moro as the “ultimate” combustion engine, with “unprecedented efficiency.” Set to arrive by 2027, the Skyactiv-Z promises to push Mazda’s internal combustion efforts “beyond 2030,” likely extending the lifespan of its gasoline engines in a world that’s increasingly electrifying. Alongside this, Mazda is working on the successor to the ever-popular CX-5, with high hopes of keeping its sales momentum alive for years to come.

Mazda’s rotary engine is coming back in the spotlight, but this time it’s not just a nostalgic callback to the RX-7 glory days. Instead, it’s quietly shaping the brand’s electrified future. Rather than following the well-trodden EV playbook, Mazda is taking an unconventional route by engineering a two-rotor hybrid system to balance power, efficiency, and the ever-tightening noose of emissions regulations.

Mazda’s CEO, Masahiro Moro, recently revealed that the brand’s rotary engine development is accelerating toward a two-rotor configuration, addressing what he described as a critical shortfall of the single-rotor setup: it simply doesn’t generate enough power to meet the needs of the U.S. market.

More: Mazda Confirms Iconic SP Sports Coupe Destined For Production

The news comes on the heels of another revelation, after the brand’s chief designer, Masashi Nakayama confirmed that the Iconic SP has been “designed with real intent to turn it into a production model in the not-so-distant future”. The Iconic SP’s hybrid setup also features a compact, dual-rotor rotary engine working as a range extender alongside an EV drivetrain. When unveiled in October 2023, Mazda boasted the system’s ability to reduce emissions by up to 90% when running on carbon-neutral fuels.

Two Rotors, One Goal: Power and Relevance

In an interview with Autonews, Masahiro Moro spoke about their rotary goals and the challenges of the project: “I want a rotary engine that complies with very stringent emission regulations. That is going to be a significant challenge. We are very close.”

The CEO added: “If we are thinking about the U.S. market, one rotor is not enough. Two rotors are needed to generate more power. We have tested with the single rotor. The next phase will be moving to two. The rotors spin separately in different chambers with one shaft. We need to generate more electricity. Two rotors will generate more power, which is more suitable to U.S. market characteristics.”

What’s less clear is which vehicle will house this new powertrain. While the description vaguely mirrors the single-rotor setup of the Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, a more likely candidate is the dual-rotor hybrid drivetrain of the Iconic SP. With 365 hp (272 kW/370 PS) and an emphasis on efficiency, it seems better aligned with Moro’s aspirations for a vehicle that marries performance with sustainability.

Could the Rotary Engine Do More Than Charge?

While the CEO clearly referred to the twin-rotor rotary engine as a power generator, a patent drawing filed in June 2024 hints that Mazda may be exploring alternative applications for the technology.

The patent, reported by Japanese media Best Car, outlines a two-seater sports coupe featuring a rotary engine mounted behind the front axle, which delivers power to the rear wheels via a rear-mounted transaxle gearbox. The system also includes hub motors in the front wheels, drawing energy from a battery pack located behind the seats. Unlike the range-extender configuration, the electric motors can be switched off, allowing the rotary engine to act as the sole power source.

More: How Mazda’s SUV Lineup Became The World’s Most Confusing Family Photo

This setup would mark a significant departure from the range-extender approach, offering a more traditional sports-car feel, something rotary purists would no doubt celebrate. However, such a design would face the same emissions hurdles Moro mentioned, unless Mazda doubles down on carbon-neutral fuels to make it viable for production.

Mazda’s Multi-Path Approach: Rotary, ICE, and Beyond

Mazda’s rotary developments aren’t happening in isolation. In May 2024, the automaker reaffirmed its dedication to internal combustion engines (ICEs) during the Multi-Pathway Workshop, collaborating with Toyota and Subaru on next-gen powertrains. Prototypes on display included both a twin-rotor range-extender system and a compact single-rotor engine, underscoring the brand’s determination to keep ICE technology relevant in an increasingly electrified world.

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.

There are some absolutely amazing leasing deals available for EVs across the United States, but this one for the 2025 Nissan Leaf might just be among the best yet. If you live in Colorado and can get yourself to Boulder, you could walk away with a brand-new EV for a mere $5 per month. Well, sort of. As with most “too-good-to-be-true” deals, there’s a catch. Spoiler alert: You’ll need a $2,950 down payment or a trade-in of equivalent value.

The fine print reveals this as a 24-month lease through Boulder Nissan, capped at 10,000 miles per year. Crunch the numbers, and the effective cost works out to $127.91 per month, factoring in that upfront payment. That said, it’s worth repeating that putting any money down on a lease is generally unwise; if something happens to the car, that upfront cash is gone. While $5 per month sounds like the kind of deal that gets shouted in late-night TV commercials, the reality is more nuanced—but still attractive.

Read: Sure, You Can Lease The Ariya For $99 A Month… If You’re Cool With Actually Paying $238

We’ll admit, the Nissan Leaf is far from the best EV out there, as it definitely shows its age. However, having the opportunity to drive it around for two years, all while paying just $3,070, is a deal that could be too good to refuse for many.

For the money, shoppers can get behind the wheel of the entry-level 2025 Leaf S. It comes standard with a 40 kWh battery that drives an electric motor at the front axle with 147 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. While the Leaf S only has an EPA-estimated range of 149 miles (240 km), limiting its use for long trips, it’d probably suit many looking for an affordable EV used primarily for urban use or short trips. Boulder Nissan has dozens of these Leaf models available with the $5 per month lease deal.

For those who want the flagship 2025 Leaf SV+, the dealer has you covered, too. It’s offering leases for $50 per month for 24 months, plus the same $2,950 downpayment or trade-in. This works out to be the equivalent of $172.91 per month for 24 months, which is also a good deal.

The Leaf SV+ improves on the standard model thanks to a larger 60 kWh battery pack, an electric motor with 214 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque, and can travel up to 212 miles (341 km) on a charge.

So, is this one of the best leasing deals in America right now? It’s hard to say definitively. However, whether you’re looking to save some cash or are simply curious about stepping into the world of EVs, this offer does make a strong case for taking the aging yet practical Leaf for a spin. Just don’t expect it to dazzle; it’s not that kind of car.

November is crunch time for automakers, with year-end targets looming and holiday deals in full swing. For Hyundai, it was a strong finish as the Korean carmaker posted its best-ever November sales performance in the U.S. with a total of 76,008 vehicles delivered. That marks an 8% increase compared to the same month last year, fueled in part by the rising popularity of its electrified models.

Among the standout performers is the Ioniq 5, which racked up 4,989 sales in November—more than double its numbers from the same time last year. This marks the EV’s best month in the U.S. since its launch, even with the recent announcement of the updated 2025MY landing in dealerships soon. Strong incentives, including attractive lease offers, undoubtedly played a key role in its success.

More: New Hyundai Ioniq 9 Lands With Three-Rows And Massive 110.3 kWh Battery

By comparison, the Ioniq 6 sedan delivered just 1,121 units. While that’s a far cry from the Ioniq 5’s numbers, it’s still a significant improvement over September’s 599 units. Clearly, Hyundai’s electric sedans still have some catching up to do, but the growing consumer appetite for its SUVs is hard to ignore.

Other hybrid and plug-in hybrid models also had strong performances, including the Santa Fe HEV, Tucson HEV, and Tucson PHEV, which all posted their best-ever November sales. Hyundai’s strategy to offer electrified options across its most popular models is paying off.

A Sonata Surprise

Not all the buzz is reserved for the EVs. The biggest surprise came from an unlikely source: the Hyundai Sonata. Long considered a shrinking segment, sedans don’t typically deliver massive sales gains, but the Sonata bucked that trend with a 200% increase year-over-year. A total of 6,971 units sold last month contributed to a 46% boost in year-to-date sales.

Meanwhile, the Palisade maintained its momentum, recording a solid 33% year-to-date sales increase compared to 2023. In contrast, the Santa Fe SUV and Santa Cruz pickup truck struggled to keep pace, with year-to-date sales down by 12% and 11%, respectively.

Looking at the bigger picture, Hyundai’s top three best-sellers in the U.S. market for 2024 remain the Tucson (185,954 units), Elantra (125,113 units), and Santa Fe (105,701 units).

More: New EV Sales Up 7%, Used EVs 64% Up Over Last Year

Hyundai Motor America CEO Randy Parker credits this record-breaking November to the growing success of its electrified models, which have seen a 77% increase in EV sales year-to-date and 104% jump in hybrid sales. Parker’s optimism extends into 2025, as he highlighted the debut of the U.S.-built Ioniq 9, a three-row EV SUV with a massive 110.3-kWh battery that’s scheduled to hit the market next year. “We can’t wait to bring it to market,” Parker noted.

Below is a detailed breakdown of Hyundai’s U.S. sales for November 2024 compared to the same period last year.

HYUNDAI US SALES

General Motors is selling its stake in one of the four huge EV battery plants for the US to LG Energy Solution.

The plant in question is under construction near Lansing, Michigan, and is set to open in the coming months. Work on the site started in 2022, and it was owned by GM and LG through their Ultium Cells joint venture. The duo also has battery plants in Spring Hill, Tennessee, and Warren, Ohio, and GM is also planning a joint venture battery plant with Samsung SDI in New Carlisle, Indiana.

Read: GM And Samsung SDI Building $3.5 Billion EV Battery Plant In Indiana

GM has invested approximately $1 billion in the Lansing site and expects to fully recoup this investment. The site currently employs 100 people, although this will eventually grow to 1,700 staff. It’s understood that under the sole ownership of LG, the plant will supply another automaker with batteries, although specific details haven’t been announced.

“Our EV profitability is rapidly improving thanks in part to our strategic decision to build battery cells in the U.S. with LG Energy Solution,” GM executive president and CFO Paul Jacobson said of the move. “It will be years before some of our competitors approach this level of performance. We believe we have the right cell and manufacturing capabilities in place to grow with the EV market in a capital efficient manner. When completed, this transaction will also help LG Energy Solution meet demand by leveraging capacity that’s nearly ready to come online and it will make GM even more efficient.” 

Other plants operated by Ultium Cells supply batteries to vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and the GMC Hummer EV Pickup and SUV.

Despite this shake-up, General Motors and LG Energy Solution still have a close relationship, and on the same day the split was announced for the Lansing plant, the two companies said they were extending their 14-year battery technology partnership to include prismatic cell development. These new prismatic cells will power future EVs from GM and promise to reduce weight and cost while simplifying manufacturing processes.

“Together with LG Energy Solution, we’ve built Ultium Cells into one of the largest battery cell manufacturers in North America, creating thousands of advanced technology jobs in the U.S. and powering our diverse EV portfolio,” GM vice president of battery cell and pack Kurt Kelty said. “We’re focused on optimizing our battery technology by developing the right battery chemistries and form factors to improve EV performance, enhance safety, and reduce costs. By extending our partnership with LG Energy Solution, we’re taking an important step toward these goals.” 

While the growth in electric vehicle sales has slowed throughout much of 2024, this year is still shaping up to break records for both new and used EV sales across the United States. The shift toward electrification remains one of the most pivotal trends in the automotive world, and even with a few bumps along the way, the market is continuing to evolve.

According to recent data published by Cox Automotive, October saw 106,155 new EVs sold across the country, representing a 2.3% increase from September and a 6.7% rise year-to-date. This solid performance means that over 1 million new EVs have been sold in the USA through the first ten months of 2024.

Read: Global Electrified Sales Soared 31% In September, Driven By China’s Boom

Electric models now make up a significant 7.9% of the total new car market, a figure that highlights the segment’s growing share despite a broader industry slowdown.

Incentives And Leasing Drive the Growth

Two of the key reasons behind this growth are stronger incentives and more attractive leasing options. Cox Automotive reports that incentives on new EVs in October represented 13.7% of the average transaction price. This trend has undoubtedly helped tip the scales for buyers who might have otherwise been hesitant. Speaking of price, the average transaction price for a new EV last month was $56,902, marking a modest 1.2% decrease from the previous month, which suggests that price sensitivity may be easing as the market matures.

It’s clear that price isn’t the only factor driving new EV purchases. Leasing, too, has become a more favorable option for consumers looking to get into the EV game with less financial commitment upfront. This shift, combined with incentives, has helped sustain EV momentum even as broader car sales have slowed.

Used EV Market Grows Rapidly

The used EV market is experiencing a boom of its own. In October, 23,788 used EVs were sold—a 2.7% increase from September and a staggering 39.5% jump year-over-year. Used EVs now make up 1.6% of the overall used car market.

Meanwhile, the average listing price for a used EV in October fell to $37,912, marking a 6.4% decrease compared to the previous year. This decline suggests that as new EVs become more affordable, their used counterparts are following suit, providing a more accessible entry point for buyers. However, this also means current owners are facing higher depreciation.

Supply And Demand Shifts

As the market for both new and used EVs grows, supply dynamics are also shifting. Last month, the average supply of new EVs on dealer lots was 101 days, marking a 6.3% increase from the previous month. However, it’s a 9.3% drop from the same time last year, signaling that EVs are moving faster through dealerships. In comparison, used EVs had an average supply of 48 days, holding steady month-over-month and remaining just two days higher than used internal combustion engine (ICE) models, which averaged 46 days.

More: California To Reinstate EV Rebates If Trump Scraps Tax Credit, Just Not For Tesla

Despite the broader slowdown in 2024, the U.S. EV market remains robust. At the end of the third quarter, EV sales in the country had surged 11% year over year and reached an all-time high of 8.9% of the new car market. This strong rebound indicates that interest, at least for now, in the segment is far from fading, even as overall EV growth momentum wavered earlier in the year.

Uncertainty Ahead

However, it remains to be seen how the EV market will respond next year when the Trump administration takes office. The new leadership has promised to slash federal electric vehicle subsidies, a move that could disrupt the industry’s momentum, even if state-level rebates, like those in California, remain intact.

Headlights are one of the most crucial safety features on any vehicle, but when they’re too bright, they can pose just as much risk as being too dim. Newly delivered 2024 and 2025 Porsche Macan Electric models in the US now require repairs because their overly bright headlights exceed safety standards, potentially increasing the risk of a crash.

Modern headlights have come a long way, offering better performance than their predecessors, but sometimes progress overshoots the mark. Porsche discovered that the high beams on affected Macan Electric models were programmed to European Economic Commission (ECE) standards rather than the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) required in the US.

As a result, when the high beams are activated, they exceed the maximum brightness levels allowed stateside—a classic case of technology failing to dim its enthusiasm.

Read: Porsche To Sell ICE Macan In The US “For The Foreseeable Future”

A total of 2,941 Macan Electric SUVs, built between March 15 and November 4, 2024, are part of this recall. Porsche is concerned that the overly bright beams could dazzle oncoming drivers, reducing visibility and increasing crash risks. While the irony of “too much light” causing trouble isn’t lost on us, this is a safety oversight that Porsche aims to fix promptly.

To remedy the issue, Porsche will reprogram the headlight control unit software on all affected vehicles at no cost to owners. Letters will be sent out to notify customers, with the process beginning no later than January 24, 2025.

All Macan Electric models sold in the US come standard with a 100 kWh battery pack and an 800-volt electric architecture. The entry-level all-wheel drive Macan 4 delivers 402 hp and 479 lb-ft (648 Nm) while the Macan Turbo ups the ante with 630 hp and 833 lb-ft (1,128 Nm) of torque, allowing it to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.1 seconds. This makes it even quicker than a Porsche 911 GT3 off the line. In June, a rear-wheel drive version with 335 hp was added to the Macan Electric family, as was a new 4S with 509 hp.

Interestingly, Porsche also plans to continue selling the Macan in ICE form in the US for the foreseeable future. Porsche had always planned to sell the outgoing ICE version alongside the Macan Electric for at least a couple of years but if demand for the older model is strong enough, it could keep on kicking for longer.

A crash involving a Tesla Cybertruck has left three people dead and one seriously injured in the northern Californian city of Piedmont

The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Police were first alerted to the accident when the iPhone of one of the occupants automatically sent out an SOS at 3:08 a.m., pinpointing the crash’s coordinates. Just two minutes later, officers arrived on the scene to find the electric truck completely engulfed in flames. Local fire crews were quick to respond, arriving at 3:16 a.m., but the damage was already catastrophic.

Read: Elon Musk Boasts About Tesla Cybertruck’s Strength After Devastating Crash

While speaking with the media, Piedmont fire chief Dave Brannigan said that a witness managed to pull the sole survivor from the wrecked Cybertruck before flames consumed the vehicle. The survivor was transported to the hospital, where they remain in critical condition after undergoing surgery. While the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed, their survival is nothing short of remarkable given the destruction at the scene.

The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, but Piedmont police chief Jeremy Bowers hinted that speed likely played a central role.

“It’s safe to say that speed was a factor. Now, are there other factors associated? That is certainly possible, but speed is likely a contributing factor to this collision,” he said, adding there were currently no signs mechanical problems caused the crash.

“We’re very new into this investigation – the California Highway Patrol, us, the Piedmont Fire Department – so there’s no indication that there were mechanical effects that were the primary cause for the collision,” Bowers added. “All that is still very much under investigation at this point.”

The Cybertruck veered off the road, jumped a curb, and smashed into a cement wall before becoming wedged between the wall and a large tree. The impact was so severe that the vehicle caught fire shortly after. Despite initial speculation about Tesla’s lithium-ion battery packs being the cause, Brannigan noted that the blaze resembled a “typical car fire” and was extinguished quickly by local firefighters.

Police have not yet released the names of the victims, but local news outlets, including CBS News Bay Area, have reported that all four occupants were 2023 graduates of Piedmont High School. The group was home for Thanksgiving, visiting family and friends during the holiday break.

Lead screenshot ABC7/YouTube