Developing and launching an electric vehicle is challenging enough for any mass-market brand, but for a smaller automaker like Ferrari, stepping into the world of electric cars is no easy task. While Ferrari undoubtedly has the engineering expertise, its rich motorsport legacy could make it a tough sell to its loyal fans who may not be ready to embrace the shift to electric.

Read: Ferrari Elettrica Coming In October After Years Of Development

This year, Ferrari’s first EV will finally make its debut. Currently dubbed the Elettrica, it’s expected to take the form of a hatchback-crossover. Two recently uncovered patent filings discovered by Motor1 suggest Ferrari is determined to ensure the car delivers on the emotional front.

How? By possibly incorporating artificial gear shifts, similar to the ones found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, along with a sound reproduction device that mimics the unmistakable growl of an internal combustion engine. Obviously, silence just doesn’t cut it for Ferrari enthusiasts.

Virtual Gears: A Nod to Tradition

These two systems have been detailed in a pair of patents recently filed in Europe. The first patent describes a set of ‘virtual gears’ that Ferrari has developed for the Elettrica that uses an electric motor to simulate the changing torque of a traditional engine and transmission. These virtual gears could be operated using dedicated shift paddles, or they could be activated automatically depending on the throttle and brake outputs.

According to Ferrari, the virtual gears can change in as little as 200 milliseconds or as much as 600 milliseconds. It sounds strikingly similar to Hyundai’s setup for the Ioniq 5 N, a system that’s now also in the Kia EV6 GT. While some critics argue that EVs should focus on smooth, uninterrupted power, successfully recreating an ICE experience is a win for driving enthusiasts.

Sound That Satisfies. Sort Of

The second patent centers on a device that works in tandem with the virtual gears to provide an ICE-inspired soundtrack. This isn’t the first time Ferrari has ventured down this road. In 2023, the brand patented a “sound reproduction device” designed to bring an auditory thrill to its future EVs.

Recent spy videos of Ferrari’s debut EV have offered a glimpse of this sound system in action. The footage reveals a deep, bassy rumble that eerily resembles the growl of a powerful ICE engine. Whether that sound will be enough to ease purists’ pain over the absence of the iconic Ferrari engine roar, however, remains to be seen..

SHProshots

EV startups have become a regular occurrence in recent years, but the success rate for these companies in the U.S. is far from impressive. Enter Slate, a new contender aiming to change that. The company is promising to deliver a back-to-basics electric truck, which can also be reconfigured into a five-seat SUV or a fastback utility vehicle that channels the spirit of a Jeep Wrangler. Best of all, prices will start at under $28,000, or around $20,500 if you factor in the $7,500 federal incentive, an unusually rare sight in the EV world.

Read: Slate Auto Teases 3-Door SUV That Looks Like A Range Rover Classic

Slate unveiled several prototypes at an event in Los Angeles this evening, and while the brand is new, it already has serious financial backing and has apparently raised over $100 million. Amazon head honcho Jeff Bezos has even provided some funding, giving the company an important starting point before it hits the market.

A “Blank Slate” for Customization

The automaker describes its vehicle as a ‘blank’ Slate and as such, it’s simply called the Truck. Customers will be offered extensive personalization options, allowing them to make their perfect EV.  

The truck is underpinned by a skateboard architecture and will be offered with two battery packs. The base pack is a 52.7 kWh unit that will provide the Slate with an estimated range of 150 miles (241 km). Those who need to travel a little further can opt for a larger 84.3 kWh pack that boosts the range to 240 miles (386 km). All models use a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 201 hp (150 kW).

As standard, the basic Slate has a 5-foot bed, a NACS connector, a 1,000 lbs (453 kg) towing capacity, which is half that of the least capable Ford Maverick, and a max payload of 1,400 lbs (635 kg). It supports 120 kW DC fast charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 20-80% in approximately 30 minutes.

Why Is It So Cheap?

A key reason why Slate will be able to sell its electric truck for so cheap is that it lacks much of the tech we’ve come to expect from modern EVs. It has no radio, no speakers, and no infotainment screen. All you will find inside is a basic dashboard with a small digital instrument cluster and a simple steering wheel. It even features physical window winders. A dedicated phone holder is positioned next to the steering wheel, and Slate is developing an app for it to provide some entertainment options while on the move.

All Slate models will leave the factory in this back-to-basics configuration. However, customers will have hundreds of accessories to choose from to personalize their vehicle. These will include kits to convert it into an SUV or as an open-top two-door.

If you want to pump some tunes while driving, you’ll have to opt for the optional Bluetooth speaker system. If you want any color other than grey, you’ll have to get the Slate wrapped, which the company says can be done in just 30 minutes, thanks to its simple shape. If you want wheels different than the standard steelies, they’ll be sold as an accessory, too. It’s a novel way of marketing and selling an EV, and only time will tell if it proves to be a good idea.

While the Slate lacks many creature comforts, the company is determined to achieve five-star safety ratings. It comes standard with traction control, ESC, automatic emergency braking, airbags, a reversing camera, forward collision warning, and auto high beam.

When Can I Get One?

Slate says its EV will be built at a new manufacturing facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. Until that date arrives, it’ll continue testing and developing this unique EV, and trying to convince US buyers that this should be their next vehicle.

Slate wants to build as many as 150,000 electric trucks each year. Those who wish to secure an allocation can do so with a $50 deposit.

As the EV market continues to evolve, battery technology is quickly becoming the battleground for major automakers. Most of the electric cars currently available use either lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) or nickel manganese cobalt (NMC or NCM) batteries, with some manufacturers exploring sodium-ion options.

Now, Ford is taking things a step further, announcing a new battery chemistry it plans to incorporate into its EV lineup over the next decade. Enter Lithium Manganese Rich (LMR) batteries, developed at the Blue Oval’s Battery Center of Excellence in Michigan.

Read: Ford’s Experiment In EV Distribution Hubs Is Over

In a LinkedIn post this week, Charles Poon, Ford’s director of electrified propulsion engineering, explained that the LMR batteries offer a higher energy density than traditional high-nickel batteries. This, according to Poon, translates to greater range for Ford’s EVs, which means customers can travel farther on a single charge, reducing that all-too-common “range anxiety” that plagues so many EV drivers.

The LMR battery has been engineered to achieve a safety profile similar to LFP batteries, and they promise to be “significantly” cheaper than current mid-nickel batteries. Poon went on to describe the LMR batteries as the answer to “what next?” with Ford already selling LFP and NCM-powered EVs.

Ford said this new battery will also help it achieve cost parity between EVs and gasoline-powered vehicles. There’s no word on whether Ford collaborated with any of its existing battery partners on the development of the LMR chemistry, such as CATL, LG, or SK On, with Poon simply crediting the more than 135 “world-class chemists, manufacturing engineers and scientists,” at the Ford site.

“This isn’t just a lab experiment. We’re actively working to scale LMR cell chemistry and integrate them into our future vehicle lineup within this decade. The team is already producing our second-gen LMR cells at our pilot line,” he added.

The development of this new battery comes despite Ford slowing many of its EV plans last year, including axing a three-row electric SUV and delaying a new electric version of the F-150. However, it is still working on an electric mid-sized pickup and a new electric van, among other consumer-focused EVs.

In May of last year, it was reported that Nissan had hit the pause button on two electric sedans that were originally set to be built in the United States. Now, it’s been confirmed that those models are officially canceled, with an internal memo adding that the company is also shifting gears on its plans for two all-electric crossovers.

Earlier this month, Nissan Americas chairperson Christian Meunier stated that “the sedan market is shrinking” and that the company needed to “face reality.” After an internal memo made its way to the press, the automaker confirmed that shifting market conditions had forced it to reassess the EV projects originally planned for its Canton, Mississippi site.

Read: Nissan’s New Frontier Pro Plug-in Hybrid Wants To Take On The World

“In response to recent changes in industry market conditions, we have decided to revise our plans for the Canton EV family projects,” Nissan said in a statement, as reported by Auto News. “We have made the decision to cancel development of the LZ1F/LZ1E [sedan] projects and to reassess them as part of a new vehicle program.”

These two cancelled models were intended to replace the Maxima and Altima sedans. Alongside them, an electric crossover codenamed the PZ1L, roughly the size of the Rogue, was also in the works. However, that too has been scrapped. The good news? Nissan isn’t entirely abandoning its EV plans at the Mississippi plant.

New Focus on Electric SUVs

In January 2028, Nissan plans to begin production of a new electric SUV, known internally as the PZ1K. This model will have a “brawny” design similar to the Xterra crossover. It will be joined by an Infiniti version, known internally as the PZ1J, which will enter production in May 2028. These new vehicles will be built on a flexible platform capable of supporting crossovers, sedans, and potentially even a lightweight pickup truck.

The new platform will also feature upgraded electric motors and offer faster charging capabilities. Additionally, these vehicles will use lower-cost lithium-ion batteries.

Interestingly, Nissan recognizes there’s still demand for electric sedans in certain markets, including China. This week, the company unveiled the all-electric N7 that has been jointly developed with its local partner Dongfeng. With a 400-volt architecture, the N7 will be available with 58 kWh and 73 kWh battery packs, as well as electric motors producing 215 hp and 268 hp.

While the Tesla Model Y has been the world’s best-selling car for the past two years, even Tesla understands that sometimes shoppers need some encouragement. As such, it started offering a five-year, zero-interest financing option for the new Model Y. Unfortunately, this deal is only for China.

Tesla offers the new Model Y in rear-wheel drive and long-range dual-motor guises in China, priced from RMB 263,500 (~$36,000) and RMB 313,500 (~$42,800), respectively. Through the new financing program, a new Model Y can be secured with monthly payments as low as RMB 3,060, the equivalent of just $418.

Read: Why Tesla Pulled The Model S And X From China

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. While that monthly payment is completely reasonable, there is a minimum down payment of RMB 79,900, or just over $10,000.

CNEVPost reports that the zero-interest financing deal is available with any version of the new Model Y delivered in China by June 30. A similar five-year financing incentive is also available for the Model 3 for the same period.

Will The US Get The Same Deal?

While it’d be nice to see Tesla offer a similar financing option for the Model Y in the US, we’re not getting our hopes up. While America’s EV market is growing increasingly competitive as brands release compelling new EVs, it’s nowhere near as cutthroat as in China.

There are numerous direct rivals to the Model Y in China, including the Xpeng G6, Zeekr 7X, BYD Sealion 7, Leapmotor C10, Deepal S07, and the list goes on and on. Xiaomi will also soon launch its YU7, the SUV version of its hugely popular SU7 sedan that’s become a social media sensation across China. If Tesla wants to convince Chinese shoppers to buy from an American brand, it needs to offer deals that are too good to refuse.

If you’re a car enthusiast with a burning desire to own a piece of automotive history (and, let’s be honest, an ample bank account to match), Renault is about to offer you the opportunity to splurge. The company has just announced that the all-electric Renault 5 Turbo 3E will carry a price tag starting at €155,000 (about $177,000 at current exchange rates) or £135,000, with deliveries set to begin in 2027.

For those keeping track, that’s more than the price of a new Porsche 911 GTS ($169K) in America or two new BMW M2s (£68K) in the UK. In fact, for the price of this limited-edition hot hatch, you could buy a BMW M2 ($65K), a Hyundai Ioniq 5N ($66K), and a VW Golf GTI ($32K), totaling $163K in the US! And, because this is a limited-edition model, only 1,980 of these hyper hatchbacks will roll off the production line. So, if you’re planning to snatch one up, you better move fast, or prepare to pay even more.

A Throwback to the Turbo Legends

Renault lifted the lid on the new R5 Turbo 3E late last year after first previewing it as a concept in 2022. It’s been conceived as a modern-day interpretation of the legendary Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2. It looks absolutely brilliant and packs quite a punch, too, but interested shoppers had better be quick to secure an allocation, or they may end up paying even more.

Read: Renault 5 Turbo 3E Is An Electric Hyper Hatch With Over 500 HP

According to the French brand, the factory price of €155,000 (~$177,000) or £135,000 is limited to the first 500 units. That price also comes before any options, accessories, and personalization choices. What’s more, those who want to secure an allocation must hand over an eye-watering €45,000 (~$51,000) downpayment. Oh, and by the way, that amount is non-refundable, so you’d better be sure you really, really intend to buy it.

It seems Renault needs this money to finish the car. In a press release, Renault said that funds secured from downpayments from private customers, as well as any dealers securing an allocation, will “contribute to financing the development of Renault 5 Turbo 3E.”

Customization and Delivery Timeline

From early 2026, shoppers will be contacted by their selected dealer and can then customize their car. They’ll also be given a chance to meet with Renault designers to create a bespoke exterior and interior livery, should they wish.

Underpinning the 5 Turbo 3E is a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque chassis with two in-wheel electric motors at the rear. It delivers 540 hp and can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.5 seconds. Providing the motors with juice is a 70 kWh battery pack. The electric uber-hatch an 800-volt architecture, allowing it to be charged from 15 to 80% in just 15 minutes. It sports a quoted range of over 250 miles (400 km).

A Few Rivals, Sort Of

The R5 Turbo 3E doesn’t have any direct competitors, but if we’re being real, the closest comparison might be the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Sure, it’s not limited edition, doesn’t have a carbon fiber chassis, and lacks the R5 Turbo’s legacy, but it does offer more power and costs about half as much.

But, for those who hold nostalgia in high regard (and we know you do), the Ioniq 5 N is missing something crucial: a bit of history and flair that the Renault 5 Turbo packs in spades.

After a lackluster first quarter, where Tesla’s global sales took a nosedive, the EV giant has now reported its earnings for the same period. And, unsurprisingly, the results aren’t impressive. Revenue fell short of where it was expected to be by analysts, not just because of sluggish sales, but also due to uncertainty across industries and challenges in global supply chains.

But not everything is doom and gloom for Tesla, there’s some good news tucked in there, too. The company insists it’s on the cusp of launching more affordable models.

More: VW Finally Beats Tesla In EV Sales Across Europe

Let’s start with the figures. In Q1, Tesla’s total revenue fell to $19.3 billion, a 9.4% decline from $21.3 billion in Q1 2024. When compared to Q2, Q3, and Q4 of last year, the drop is even more significant, with revenue sitting at $25.5 billion, $25.1 billion, and $25.7 billion, respectively. Even worse was Tesla’s automotive revenue, which dropped from $17.3 billion in Q1 2024 to $13.9 billion this quarter, a 19.6% decline, and peaked at $20 billion in Q3 2024, a 30.5% decrease from that high.

Declining revenue isn’t the only thing that could concern shareholders of the EV brand.T otal income plummeted by 71%, dropping to $409 million, down from $1.39 billion in Q1 2024 and $2.1 billion in Q4 2024.

Why Did This Happen?

Tesla has blamed its decline in revenue on the obvious drop-off in deliveries during the first quarter. As we reported earlier this month, Tesla delivered 336,681 vehicles, down 13 percent from the year prior. It says deliveries fell in part because it was updating its four factories to start building the new Model Y. Tesla also says average vehicle selling prices dropped last quarter.

“Uncertainty in the automotive and energy markets continues to increase as rapidly evolving trade policy adversely impacts the global supply chain and cost structure of Tesla and our peers,” Tesla said. “This dynamic, along with changing political sentiment, could have a meaningful impact on demand for our products in the near-term. We remain committed to expanding our business model to include delivering autonomous robots across multiple form factors and use cases – powered by our real-world AI expertise – to our customers and for use in our factories, as we navigate these headwinds.”

New, More Affordable Models Are Coming

Falling revenue and deliveries don’t make for pretty reading, but Tesla does have some interesting things around the corner. New production vehicles, including more affordable models, will start in the first half of 2025, echoing a statement Tesla made in January and contrary to recent reports of these new models being delayed.

Read: Tesla Reportedly Delays Cheaper Smaller Model Y, Plans Stripped-Down Model 3

Details about these affordable versions are limited, with some suggesting they’ll be stripped down versions of the Model 3 and Model Y. Tesla says they will “utilize aspects of the next generation platform as well as aspects of our current platforms and will be produced on the same manufacturing lines as our current vehicle lineup.”

Elsewhere, Tesla announced that production of the Cybercab is scheduled to begin in 2026. The company also shared that the next-generation Roadster has moved from the “development” phase to “design development,” though it has yet to provide any details on when it will actually launch. Just a reminder: it’s been 7.5 years since the Roadster was first revealed.

Musk Winding Down DOGE Work

Finally, in news that may actually make some shareholders breathe a sigh of relief, Elon Musk will start scaling back his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Starting next month, Musk will devote more of his attention to Tesla, where he’s needed most. Perhaps this will bring more stability, though, knowing Musk, expect a few distractions along the way.

Tesla has settled a wrongful death lawsuit involving the 2021 death of a Model Y driver, likely in an effort to avoid the drama of a high-profile trial. While the exact terms of the settlement remain under wraps, it seems Tesla decided it was easier to pay up than continuing to fight it in US courts.

In April 2021 2021, 72-year-old Clyde Leach was driving his Tesla Model Y in Ohio when it apparently accelerated unexpectedly and speared off the road. It then slammed into a pillar at a gas station. Leach reportedly died from burns, blunt force trauma, and other injuries. His estate filed the wrongful death lawsuit against Tesla, with the case initially scheduled to go to trial in April 2026.

Read: Someone Already Crashed A 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper After Only 197 Miles

In a filing with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, both Leach’s estate and Tesla confirmed that a settlement had been reached for all claims.

The original lawsuit alleged that prior to the deadly impact, the Model Y’s automatic emergency braking system did not engage, nor did it deploy any other automation and safety mechanisms. Additionally, Leach’s estate claimed Tesla was aware of “numerous complaints of sudden acceleration” in its vehicles prior to the 2021 incident.

As we have seen in other instances in the past, Tesla denied the allegations, maintaining that Leach was solely responsible for the crash.

In October last year, Leach’s estate asked a San Francisco judge to sanction Tesla for stalling efforts to reach a settlement. They said a deal had been reached for a confidential amount, but later learned Tesla’s designee could not approve a settlement on his own.

This is not the first time that Tesla has settled a wrongful death lawsuit in the United States. In April 2024, the company settled a lawsuit filed by the family of Walter Huang, who was killed in 2018 while driving his Model X with the Autopilot features engaged.

Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil producer and fourth-largest company by revenue, knows that the days of relying solely on oil are numbered. In a bid to future-proof itself, the company has entered into a partnership with BYD, the world’s second-largest manufacturer of electric vehicles, to collaborate on new energy vehicle technologies.

A Joint Development Agreement was signed by Saudi Aramco Technology Company and BYD this week. It “aims to foster the development and innovative technologies that enhance efficiency and environmental performance” as they are seeking “new energy vehicle breakthroughs.”

Read: This Tiny Engine Turns EVs Into Gas Hybrids

Limited details have been announced about the partnership, but it could have far-reaching effects across the automotive industry. As two titans of their respective industries, Aramco and BYD have huge amounts of power and can set trends and redefine markets that their competitors will have to follow.

Aramco says it is working to optimize transport efficiency, exploring advanced powertrain concepts and working on lower-carbon fuels. The Saudi giant believes that “multiple approaches” are needed for a practical energy transition.

“At the crossroads of technological innovation and environmental protection, BYD always believes that true breakthroughs come from openness and collaboration,” the company’s senior vice president, Luo Hongbin, said according to a Business Inquire report.

“We expect that SATC and our cutting-edge R&D capabilities in new energy vehicles will break the boundaries of geography and mindset to incubate solutions that combine highly-efficient performance with a lower carbon footprint. We are confident that this will support the world’s efforts to address the climate challenge.”

BYD no longer sells any consumer vehicles without a plug. Last year, it sold 4.27 million new energy vehicles. Of these, roughly 1.7 million were BEVs, while the remaining 2.48 million were PHEVs.

More: BYD’s Concepts Are All About Gold, Dragons, And Video Games

In China, the term new energy vehicles refers to those that are powered in part or primarily with electricity and alternative fuels. They include plug-in hybrids, battery electric vehicles, and fuel-cell EVs. Aramco will logically be eager to grow the reach of BYD‘s plug-in hybrid models, which retain an internal combustion engine running on gasoline.

This partnership with BYD isn’t the only move Aramco is making in the automotive industry. The Saudi juggernaut also owns a stake in Horse Powertrain, the partnership between Renault and Geely that aims to develop and produce innovative new combustion engines. Earlier this week, Horse unveiled a hybrid powertrain concept that can add a small combustion engine to existing electric vehicle platforms.

It feels like a new electric SUV is being unveiled every other day, and now, Land Rover is jumping on the bandwagon with its own version: a smaller, electric Defender. This upcoming model, which could be called the Defender Sport, was recently spotted during testing earlier this month. Once it hits production, it might look something like this.

Read: This Is Land Rover’s New Defender Baby EV

The renderings of the baby Defender based on recent prototype sightings give us a glimpse into Land Rover’s potential styling direction for the new model. While the prototype we spotted was heavily camouflaged, it was pretty clear the vehicle shares a boxy shape with its full-sized sibling, the Defender.

Exterior Design

Created by Nikita Chuyko for Kolesa, the front end of the vehicle features headlights that resemble those of the current Defender, albeit with a twist, as they appear to have been “cut in half” to match the smaller profile of the baby Defender. Gone is the traditional grille, replaced with a series of non-descript slits similar to those on the larger Defender, along with larger air intakes on either side of the bumper.

Much like its bigger brother, this electric Land Rover also sports flared arches at both the front and rear. The prototype was shown with blacked-out wing mirrors and pillars, except for the color-matched C-pillar, which adds a nice touch of contrast.

The rear of the baby Defender may be the most intriguing part of its design. Much like the controversial new Hyundai Santa Fe, the taillights of the Land Rover have been positioned very far down, sitting just above the bumper. While this gives the vehicle a distinctive look, we think it would look better if the lights were placed a little higher.

What Powertrain Will It Have?

The mini Defender EV is likely to be built on Jaguar Land Rover’s new EMA platform, which will also underpin the next-gen Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Land Rover Discovery Sport models. This platform is designed to support an 800-volt electric architecture, meaning it’ll come with the capability for 350 kW fast charging.

We expect the baby Defender to come with all-wheel drive as standard, with twin-motor configurations likely aimed at retaining the off-road prowess that’s synonymous with the full-sized Defender.

What Rivals Will The Baby Defender EV Have?

The baby Defender EV’s most direct rival will be a smaller version of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also in the works for production. The ‘Little G’ will be available exclusively with an electric powertrain, though specifics about its setup are still under wraps at this stage. While the practicality of all-electric off-roaders remains up for debate, we’re definitely excited to see these two newcomers hit the market.

When Can We Expect It?

Land Rover is likely to launch the new baby Defender EV in 2027, as a 2028 model, with the smaller G-Class expected to arrive around the same time, if not a bit earlier. As for pricing, expect the mini Defender to be significantly more affordable than the current Defender, which starts at $60,800 for the four-door Defender 110 and $56,900 for the two-door Defender 90.

A teenager from Kansas City is facing federal charges after allegedly setting a Tesla Cybertruck on fire at a local Tesla facility. Owen McIntire, a 19-year-old student from the University of Massachusetts Boston, appeared in court last week. His arrest comes after a stern warning from U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who made it clear that individuals firebombing Tesla properties will spend time behind bars.

The incident took place on March 17, around 11:16 p.m. A Kansas City Police Department officer noticed smoke coming from a Cybertruck parked at the Tesla Center. The officer also found a Molotov cocktail burning near the vehicle. By the time the Kansas City Fire Department arrived, the fire had spread to a second Cybertruck, and two charging stations had also been damaged.

Read: Tesla Under Siege As Multiple EVs Set On Fire And Vandalized Across The US In One Day

Before the Kansas City Fire Department could respond to the scene, the fire spread to a second Cybertruck. Two charging stations were also damaged by the blaze.

“ATF’s Special Agents and forensic experts recovered and analyzed key evidence—including Molotov cocktails—used in this deliberate and dangerous arson attack,” said Dan Driscoll, Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). “This wasn’t vandalism — it was a violent criminal act.”

McIntire is now facing charges for unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device and malicious damage by fire of property used in interstate commerce. He appeared for his initial hearing at the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts. McIntire, a student at the University of Massachusetts Boston, is now awaiting further legal proceedings.

In response to the arrest, Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, “Let me be extremely clear to anyone who still wants to firebomb a Tesla property: you will not evade us. You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars. It is not worth it.”

This marks the second arrest in just a week involving suspects allegedly tied to attacks on Tesla facilities or vehicles. FBI Director Kash Patel noted, “These actions are dangerous, they are illegal, and we are going to arrest those responsible. We will work with our partners at the Department of Justice to hold accountable anyone who commits such crimes. I commend our FBI teams in Kansas City and Boston for their work.”

Screenshot via KMBC 9

In 2017, Leapmotor, a relatively obscure Chinese car company, introduced the LP-S01, an odd four-seat electric coupe that caught few eyes at the time. Fast forward a few years, and the company has become a proper contender in China’s expanding EV market, thanks to models like the T03 city car and the C11 electric crossover. Now, Stellantis’ Chinese partner it’s readying its first electric sedan.

Showcased for the first time in photos shared by both Leapmotor and China’s trademark office ahead of its public debut at the Shanghai Auto Show later this month, the sedan is named the B01. Not to be confused with the B10, Leapmotor’s electric SUV, the B01 bears a strong resemblance to the former, with the key difference being, of course, that it’s a sedan. In a world where more and more SUVs hit the market, it’s nice to see a new electric sedan hitting the market.

Read: Stellantis Suddenly Ends Leapmotor EV Production In Poland Amid Tariff Tensions

However, if you were hoping that Leapmotor would throw out the rulebook and design a new car unlike any other, you may be sorely disappointed. Like so many other new sedans to hit the market, there’s nothing particularly extraordinary about the B01. In fact, it all looks rather bland. But if you’re the type of person only interested in driving an appliance from Point A to Point B, that might be fine.

Much like the B10, the front of the B01 includes narrow headlights, an LED light bar, and a blacked-out bumper section. The sides are quite simple, with only a few creases and flush door handles. Found at the rear of Leapmotor’s electric sedan are LED lights and (you guessed it) a light bar.

Two powertrains will be offered, and both will use lithium-iron phosphate batteries from CALB. The entry-level model will rock a 177 hp (132 kW) electric motor while the flagship model will have a 214 hp (160 kW) motor. There’s no word on the size of the battery pack and how far the car will be able to travel on a charge.

However, one thing that can’t be overlooked is the price. As with most EVs coming out of China, the B01 is expected to be affordable, with local reports suggesting a price tag ranging from 100,000 yuan to 150,000 yuan (roughly $13,600 to $20,400). And because we’re talking about a Chinese EV, you can even opt for a roof-mounted LiDAR system, just in case you’re feeling extra fancy.

Nio’s mass-market Onvo brand is venturing into the world of three-row electric SUVs and this is its new entry. Known as the L90, it launches as the brand’s second model after the Tesla Model Y-rivaling L60, which premiered in 2024. Think of it as a bit like a Chinese version of the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9, except it promises more performance.

Information from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in China reveals the L90 is 5,145 mm (202.5 inches) long, 1,998 mm (78.6 inches) wide, and stands 1,766 mm (69.5 inches) tall, with a 3,110 mm (122.4-inch) wheelbase. Visually, it shares some similarities with the much smaller L60, but it does seem as though Nio’s designers have copied some of the homework of Genesis as well.

Read: Onvo’s L80 SUV Could Look Something Like This

The SUV’s front end is quite simple, with no traditional grille and only a small one located towards the base of the bumper. The split LED headlights share an uncanny resemblance to those from Genesis models, although the L90’s lights do have a subtle curve, making them stand out.

This particular L90 is finished in a classy shade of subtle gold with silver-colored wheels and silver trim around the side windows. Like the L60, the taillights of the three-row SUV are thin LED units. We don’t yet have any images showing the cabin, but we expect to see it dominated by large screens and premium surfaces.

Onvo will reportedly offer the L90 with both nickel manganese cobalt and lithium-iron phosphate battery packs. It’s unclear what kind of driving range is to be expected from the SUV, nor do we know how quickly it can charge. However, like all other Nio models, the L90 will support battery swapping, meaning that ultra-fast charging isn’t as important as it is in other EVs.

All versions of the L90 will ship with a pair of electric motors. These consist of a 134 hp (100 kW) unit at the front axle and a 456 hp (340 kW) one at the rear, resulting in a combined 440 kW (590 hp). That’s a lot more than the flagship Ioniq 9 Performance that has 429 hp and the Kia EV9 GT with its 501 hp.

Many car enthusiasts often gripe about electric vehicles lacking “soul,” mainly because they don’t feature an engine that churns out thousands of mini-explosions every minute. And of course, they don’t need an exhaust system, since there are no emissions to expel. But one man is trying to change that, well, kind of. He’s created an exhaust system for the Tesla Model Y. And no, it’s not what you’re expecting.

Rather than blasting out smoke, soot, or toxic fumes into the atmosphere, this exhaust system sends for the Model Y spews out nothing but bubbles. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it might just be the perfect way for the Tesla to show off a little personality. The best part? It seems like other owners might be able to get in on the action too.

Read: Tesla Finally Launches Cheaper Model Y Juniper In America

A video showing the bubble exhaust in action was first shared on Reddit and attracted quite a lot of attention from Model Y owners wanting something similar. The man who created the kit has since published a Facebook Marketplace listing for it, promising to sell the bubble exhaust for $700, including installation.

The listing states that the kit includes a small reservoir installed in the trunk that is filled with the bubble solution. The system is then operated by a wireless remote control and sends out bubbles from two silver tailpipes installed into the rear bumper. Its creator says his son came up with the idea, and thanks to his engineering background, he was tasked with making it a reality.

The bubble exhaust kit can be purchased and installed in Weston, Massachusetts, a short drive from Boston. However, in a Reddit post, a neighbor of the kit’s creator mentioned that more units will be produced soon. The plan is to ship them out to customers across the lower 48 states.

It’s hardly a secret that many EVs plummet in value faster than a rock skipping across a pond, even more so when it comes to premium German brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. Even Porsche and its Taycan haven’t escaped that unfortunate fate. While that’s a gut punch for sellers, it’s a jackpot for buyers looking to snag a six-figure electric Porsche on the cheap.

More: Someone Snagged A Steal On This 1k-Mile Porsche 911 T Coupe

The Taycan is closely related to the Audi e-tron GT, the prices of which have collapsed on the used market over the past year or so. So far, it hasn’t depreciated to the same extent as the Audi, likely owing to the fact that, as a brand, Porsche is more desirable and exclusive than its sibling in the VW Group. However, one 2023 Taycan recently sold on Bring a Trailer for just $54,000 despite having an original MSRP of $109,310 before taxes and fees.

The Taycan’s Core Features Still Hold Up

This may be the entry-level Taycan, but it’s still a very good EV. It’s equipped with a single rear-wheel electric motor that delivers 469 hp and 263 lb-ft (357 Nm) of torque, powered by a hefty 93.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. When it changed hands, it had around 27,000 miles (43,400 km) on the clock and came with a clean CarFax, so it wasn’t a junkyard special.

While the Turbo S and Turbo GT versions tend to steal the spotlight, the interior of the entry-level Taycan is nearly identical to those models, and this particular example came with some appealing options.

Among them are the 20-inch Sport Aero wheels, the upgraded 93.4 kWh battery (a $5,780 option), Porsche’s InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system, and the $5,960 Premium package. The latter adds a surround-view camera, power-folding wing mirrors, a $1,200 Bose audio system, a fixed panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, power-ventilated front seats, and Lane Change Assist.

Ouch for the Seller, Win for the Buyer

We can’t help but feel bad for the individual who lost $56,000, or more than half of the original price, after just two years of ownership. But on the flip side, the new owner has likely walked away with a pretty sweet deal. The big question now is whether the price drop will continue as the heavily revised 2025 models start showing up on US roads.

More: Seller Refuses $64K For Brand New Dodge Durango Hellcat Sitting For 4 Years

The lesson here? Smart buyers can skip the sticker shock of a new Taycan and dive straight into a used one for a fraction of the price. Just make sure you get one with a remaining warranty, or better yet, an extended one, because if something critical goes wrong, it could end up costing more than the car itself.

Bring a Trailer

Electric vehicle sales may not have skyrocketed in 2024 like some had hoped, but 2025 is off to a much stronger start. New data shows that electrified vehicles are moving in record numbers across all major global markets. The momentum is clear, though looming policy changes, particularly cuts in subsidies and new tariffs under the Trump administration, could start to cool things down as the year progresses.

According to global sales data, about 4.1 million electrified vehicles, including both battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), were sold during the first quarter of the year. That’s a solid 29 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, based on numbers from Rho Motion.

Read: US EV Sales Jump In Q1, But The Biggest Losers Might Surprise You

In North America, roughly half a million electrified vehicles were sold in the first quarter of this year, marking a 16 percent increase over the same period last year. The breakdown between EVs and PHEVs isn’t disclosed at the regional level, but earlier data from Cox Automotive and Kelley Blue Book shows that 296,227 pure electric vehicles were sold in the USA during Q1. That represents an 11.4 percent increase year over year.

Overall, demand for electrified vehicles continues to climb, though other global markets are seeing even sharper growth.

Europe saw stronger growth, with about 900,000 electrified vehicles sold through January, February, and March. That’s a 22 percent increase overall. Battery electric vehicle sales alone rose by 27 percent, while plug-in hybrid growth was slower at 10 percent. Some countries stood out with particularly sharp gains, including Italy with a 64 percent jump, Germany up 34 percent, and the UK growing 42 percent.

China continues to lead as the largest individual nation of EVs and PHEVs. This year, no less than 2.4 million electrified vehicles have been sold in the country, up 36% from last year. The rest of the world has been lumped together in a single category, with sales increasing 27% to around 300,000 vehicles sold.

Q1 2025 vs 2024 EV & PHEV SALES

According to Rho Motion, roughly three-fifths of EV and PHEV models sold in the US are produced domestically, with the rest typically coming from Japan, Korea, and Mexico. As new tariffs go into effect, prices for these imported models are expected to rise. ICE vehicles will see price increases as well.

“This quarter, while turbulent, has seen a strong rate of growth globally for the EV market,” Rho Motion data manager Charles Lester said. “Some countries, such as the UK, had a record-breaking March as drivers continue to go electric. The removal of subsidies in France has had a shrinking effect on sales which are down 18%.”

Buying a brand-new car is supposed to bring excitement, not the slow-burning dread of a major failure before the odometer even hits four digits. But for one unlucky Acura ZDX owner, that sense of new-car bliss barely lasted 400 miles (643 km). That’s when things went south.

A customer from Criswell Acura in Annapolis, Maryland, was informed their 2024 Acura ZDX needed an entirely new battery pack. Now the dealership itself is suing American Honda Motor Company in an effort to recover its losses from the ordeal.

More: New Lawsuit Might Force Ford To Change Mustang Mach-E Door Handles

According to the lawsuit, Criswell Acura purchased the ZDX wholesale for $69,207 in May 2024, then sold it to a customer shortly after. But just 400 miles into ownership, the new owner discovered that the electric SUV could no longer fully charge. Once the problem was reported, the dealership followed Acura’s recommendation and ordered a replacement battery pack. While the customer waited, the situation worsened. The ZDX eventually stopped charging altogether, and even the doors became inoperable.

One Fix Leads to Another

The dealership installed the new battery pack, but that wasn’t the end of the problems. After the install, a rear wheel sensor started playing up, and after being replaced, an error code still appeared. Acura’s tech line told the dealer to install a new harness from its inventory. Despite following these instructions, the error code remained, Auto News reports.

Criswell Acura claims that subsequent “requests for assistance from Honda have been virtually ignored. ” Nearly eight months later, the ZDX remains at the dealership, still undriveable. While the exact cause of the issues remains unknown, the dealer suspects the problems stem from the “result of bad design, manufacturer’s defect, installation, or pre-delivery damage.”

Under the terms of its dealer agreement, Honda is supposed to be responsible for any alleged manufacturing or design defects in Acura products. The lawsuit argues that this obligation hasn’t been met. The vehicle is “completely undriveable and unable to be repaired,” it states.

Criswell Acura is seeking damages for breach of contract and unjust enrichment. The dealer has been forced to take a total loss on the SUV, claims it has lost profits from the sale to a customer, paid licensing and registration fees, and incurred considerable repair costs.

The case highlights the potential risks dealers face as EVs become more complex, especially when support from the manufacturer falls short.

As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, one thing has remained constant: Tesla’s commanding lead, even as it faces recent setbacks. That dominance, according to Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe, has less to do with brand loyalty and more to do with the lack of compelling alternatives, especially for buyers looking in the sub-$50,000 range.

But that may be about to change. Rivian’s upcoming R2 and R3 models are expected to come in below that price point, and with more automakers entering the space, consumers could soon have some real competition to consider

Rivian, much like Tesla in its early days, has taken the approach of launching with higher-end vehicles before branching into more affordable territory. In a recent interview with Fox Business, Scaringe emphasized that increasing consumer choice is key to growing EV adoption. More options, he said, will help drive the industry forward and increase EVs’ share of overall vehicle sales.

Read: Rivian Stacks Discounts Like Pancakes To Steal Tesla Owners After Q1 Sales Crash

“If you’re looking at buying an electric vehicle for under $50,000 today, there’s really very, very few highly compelling choices,” Scaringe said. “And for that reason, you’ve seen Tesla with very significant market share for a long time now, over 50% of the market share, and that’s actually a reflection of limited grade choices. And so what we need to see to go from 8% to 15 to 20 to eventually 100% of vehicle sales being electric, a lot of choice.”

More Models, More Buyers

Scaringe also noted that “choice” doesn’t just mean more brands offering EVs. It includes variety in styling, form factor, feature sets, and design. The broader and more diverse the lineup across the industry, the more likely consumers are to find something that fits their needs – and to leave internal combustion behind.

The Rivian CEO’s comments reflect a growing belief in the industry that EVs need to meet buyers where they are. While early adopters were often willing to pay a premium or compromise on certain features, mainstream customers are looking for affordability, practicality, and familiarity. Rivian’s push into sub-$50K territory could help shift that balance and bring more first-time EV buyers into the fold.

Tariff Troubles

The conversation with Fox also turned to trade policy, where Scaringe discussed the impact of tariffs introduced during the Trump administration. Although Rivian builds its vehicles in the United States, including motors, software, batteries, and electronics, it still depends on a complex international supply chain.

“One of the things with automotive is the supply chain is so complex, where we have hundreds of suppliers providing parts from, say, a headlight or a tow hook or tires or the structure under the skin here that are coming from not only a set of suppliers that supply to us, but those suppliers have suppliers, and then in turn, those suppliers have suppliers, so there’s tier two, tier three,” he said. “So in our case, it is a mix. Given the new environment from a tariff point of view, we’re working really hard to see what we can change, but they’re difficult to change.”

While Rivian may be less exposed than some of its competitors to US tariffs, it isn’t completely insulated. Scaringe also raised concerns about trade restrictions on rare earth elements, especially those processed in China. Though rare earths are mined in many regions, China controls a large share of the refining process, creating a chokepoint in the EV supply chain.

“When we think about the tariffs, of course the 25% auto tariff hits everybody,” Rivian’s boss added. “We do rely on a supply chain that across its tiers has a number of components that come from other countries and then, importantly, the trade restrictions and what we’re seeing in terms of rare earth metals out of China, that’s a real challenge for electric vehicles.” 

Electric vehicles have come a long way since the Nissan Leaf first rolled onto the scene as the first mass-produced EV. Back then, it was a trailblazer. Today, it’s starting to feel like a relic. With new automakers crowding the EV space and established brands launching models that outperform the Leaf in nearly every way, Nissan’s once-groundbreaking EV is clearly overdue for a major refresh. Fortunately, a next-generation Leaf is on the horizon, and it’s promising to be much better.

Read: All The New Nissan Models Arriving By 2027, From Sentra To Frontier

The new-generation Nissan Leaf will transition into a crossover, taking design inspiration from the Chill-Out Concept. That means a more spacious cabin, a fresh look, and a big step forward in technology. Perhaps most importantly, Nissan plans to give the new model a much longer, more practical driving range. But how much longer?

A Major Range Boost

Speaking with Car and Driver at the New York Auto Show, Nissan senior vice president and chief planning officer Ponz Pandikuthira revealed it’ll have a driving range of over 300 miles (482 km). Like the current Leaf, the new model will probably be offered with different battery pack sizes, and this range figure may only be for the long-range version.

Still, the quoted “over 300 miles” of range is a healthy amount more than the peak 212 miles (341 km) offered by the current Leaf SV Plus. The driving range of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 varies between 245 miles (394 km) and 318 miles (512 km), depending on configuration, so the Leaf should land somewhere in this region.

Nissan is also promising faster charging capabilities and will equip the new Leaf with a standard NACS port. One notable omission, though, is all-wheel drive. Nissan says there won’t be a dual-motor version, so front-wheel drive will remain the only option for now.

Spy shots of the 2026 Leaf testing last year give us a hint of what’s coming. The new model sits higher than the current version, emphasizing its crossover shift, but it will still be smaller than the Nissan Ariya. Interior details haven’t been revealed yet, but expect it to follow the lead of other new Nissan models, likely featuring a digital instrument cluster and a large central infotainment display.

Baldauf

This year will be an important one for Ferrari. Not only could it enjoy some success in Formula 1, but it will also unveil its first EV. While the idea of an electric car from Ferrari may rub plenty of people the wrong way, the groundwork for the car has been laid for many years, and it’ll be shown to the world at its Capital Markets Day on October 9.

So far, we have spotted the Ferrari EV testing on a handful of occasions, but Maranello has remained tight-lipped about it. While speaking during the company’s recent annual shareholders’ meeting, both Ferrari’s chairman John Elkann and CEO Benedetto Vigna referred to the model as the Ferrari Elettrica and said the car has been years in the making.

Read: Ferrari’s First EV Spied Up Close While Charging

“Electrification has been a path that we’ve been pursuing now for decades, starting in Formula One and then from our race cars to our sports cars,” Ferrari Chairman John Elkann said during the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting, according to Reuters. “We are very excited about unveiling the Ferrari Elettrica (electric)”.

Elkann also emphasized the company’s commitment to keeping its innovation in-house even with EVs. “Now, we can also claim that all our key electric components are developed and handcrafted in Maranello,” he said.

It’s unclear if the Elettrica name will stick for production, but some think there’s a good chance it will. After all, Ferrari isn’t a stranger to using very literal Italian words in the names of its vehicles, just like it’s done with the new 12Cilindri.

To get ready to build its first EV, Ferrari has ramped up its investments in electrification. In April 2024, it opened its new E-Cells Lab with the University of Bologna and NXP. This research center has been created to enhance the automaker’s knowledge of materials and the “chemical and physical properties of lithium cells”. It says it has filed 200 battery-related patents in the past year.

In June last year, it also opened its e-building, which is where the next generation of Ferrari cars will be built. Purists will be pleased to know that Ferrari remains as Italian as ever, and this will not change with the Elettrica. Indeed, the brand says all of its “battery modules, electric axles, inverters, and electric engines are developed and handcrafted in Maranello.”

Ferrari’s EV will not be positioned as an out-and-out sports car. Instead, spy shots of test mules have shown it could take the shape of a hatchback-like crossover complete with four doors. It is also shaping up to feature a trick “sound reproduction device” that the company patented back in 2023, allowing it to mimic the soundtrack of an ICE powertrain.

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