A Waymo robotaxi initially came to an unexpected stop in the middle of the road.
Shortly after the driver of a G-Class approached it, the car made an illegal left turn.
When it stopped again, an officer checked it out, but couldn’t hand out a ticket.
A Waymo self-driving robotaxi in Los Angeles recently found itself in a bit of a pickle after stopping abruptly in traffic, making an illegal left turn, and then being pulled over by a police officer in the heart of Los Angeles. While a human driver might have ended up with a ticket, fully autonomous vehicles currently dodge that fate in California since there’s no person behind the wheel to hold accountable.
A clip of the incident was recently shared on social media. It shows a white Jaguar I-Pace stopped in the middle of a road in Beverly Hills, much to the dismay of a Mercedes-Benz G-Class driver behind it.
According to the individual filming, the man slapped the rear of the car, either purely out of frustration, or in the hope it would get the car to start moving. Not the most reliable method, but hey, it occasionally works on stubborn toasters at home.
Maybe it did in this case too, because moments later, the robotaxi began moving again. But its next moves didn’t exactly smooth things over. A police officer in a Ford Explorer pulled in behind it, just as the Waymo SUV slipped in front of an electric Mercedes and made an awkward, and illegal, left turn.
After appearing to get confused by the flashing red and blue lights behind it, the robotaxi eventually pulled over to the side of the road.
It’s unclear what happened after the officer stepped out and approached the Jag, but they likely spoke with a human operator over the phone as there was no one onboard at the time.
No Ticket, But Not Off the Hook for Long
In the end, Waymo’s car probably without a ticket. According to The Washington Post, autonomous vehicles are currently exempt from receiving moving violations in California, as these must be issued to a human driver.
However, this policy is set to change. Starting in July 2026, police will be able to issue “notices of autonomous vehicle noncompliance” when a self-driving vehicle breaks the rules of the road. Not a moment too soon, if we may add.
The Chevrolet Spark EUV is a small fully electric SUV for South America.
The model is essentially a rebadged version of China’s Baojun Yep Plus.
It shares the same specifications, but has a much higher starting price.
Update: Chevrolet has opened pre-sales for the Spark EUV in Brazil, pricing the electric vehicle at R$159,990 (approximately $28,600). That’s more than twice the cost of the identical Baojun Yep Plus sold in China. The original story continues below.
Chevrolet has found a clever (read: cost-effective) way to make the most of its SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture by rebadging one of China’s most charming EVs, the Baojun Yep Plus. This fully electric urban SUV made an unexpected debut during a special event celebrating Chevrolet’s 100th anniversary in the Brazilian market.
The new model, set to be sold in Brazil as the Chevrolet Spark EUV, is essentially a Baojun Yep Plus with a Chevy badge stuck on the grille—no other major changes to speak of. Despite sharing a name and compact proportions, the Spark EUV has absolutely nothing in common with the Spark EV, Chevrolet’s short-lived electric hatchback sold in select states in the US from 2013 to 2017 before being phased out for the Bolt.
Inside, the Spark EUV borrows the modern digital cockpit of the Baojun Yep Plus, comprising a 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a free-standing 12.8-inch touchscreen. It is also expected to inherit the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) of the Chinese twin, developed by none other than drone-maker DJI.
The EV measures 3,996 mm (157.3 inches) long with a 2,560 mm (100.8 inches) wheelbase, making it Chevrolet’s smallest offering. While the Baojun lineup includes a five-door version, a three-door variant, and even a pickup concept, it’s unclear if GM plans to bring any of these alternative body styles to the Brazilian market.
Predictably, the Spark EUV borrows its electric powertrain directly from the Chinese-spec twin. A single rear-mounted electric motor generates 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS) and 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) of torque. The 42 kWh battery pack offers a respectable 401 km (249 miles) of range on China’s CLTC cycle. The Baojun Yep Plus is also available with 32 kWh and 54 kWh battery options, but we don’t know if those will be eventually offered in the Chevy.
One would think that the most compelling aspect of this tiny off-roader is its affordability. Still, the Chevrolet Spark EUV starts at R$159,990 ($28,600) in Brazil, which is more than double the ¥93,800 ($13,000) price of the identical Baojun model. The little Chevy is also more expensive than the rival BYD Dolphin Mini (Seagull EV) which starts at R$115,800 ($20,700) in the same market.
The Nevera R was presented last year and makes the standard model seem a little slow.
Rimac has snatched the 0-400-0 km/h record away from the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut.
Zero to 60 mph takes just 1.66 seconds, and hitting 186 mph is done in 7.8 seconds.
Rimac and world records go together like jelly and peanut butter. Two years after the Nevera set 23 performance records in a single day, the Croatian brand has outdone itself yet again, this time setting world records in 24 categories with the Nevera R. Th flagship version of the all-electric hypercar was unveiled last year with more power and aero and less weight.
Perhaps the most important record of all was the sprint to 0-400-0 km/h (0-249-0 mph). The original Nevera had held this record at 29.93 seconds, snatching it away from the Koenigsegg Agera RS that set a time of 31.49 seconds back in 2019. However, last year, the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut snatched this record away from the Nevera, setting a time of 27.83 seconds.
Nevera R Takes the Crown Back
Now, the Nevera R is the 0-400-0 km/h king with a blistering time of 25.79 seconds. That’s 2.04 seconds quicker than the Jesko and beats the standard Nevera by 4.14 seconds. Additionally, the R beat out the Nevera’s 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of 1.74 seconds, completing the sprint in 1.66 seconds and 100 km/h (62 mph) in 1.72 seconds.
The records don’t stop there. The Nevera R ran from 0-100 mph (160 km/h) in 2.96 seconds, an improvement of 0.25 seconds, 0-200 km/h (124 mph) in 3.95 seconds, (0.47 seconds faster), and did the 0-300 km/h (0-186 mph) run in just 7.89 seconds, or 1.33 seconds quicker than before. It also takes the Nevera R just 17.35 seconds to run from 0-400 km/h (0-250 mph), which is a massive 3.96 seconds quicker than the standard car.
Rimac’s new Nevera R also set a new EV top speed record, hitting an impressive 268.2 mph or 431.45 km/h.
Where the Extra Speed Comes From
Whereas the standard model delivers 1,888 hp from its four electric motors, the Nevera R ups that to 1,989 hp. It also weighs 35 kg (77 lbs) less, comes standard with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and produces 15 percent more downforce thanks in part to a large rear wing.
“When we first introduced Nevera it almost seemed like the pinnacle of hypercar performance had been reached,” Mate Rimac said. “In a single generation, we had created a performance jump that previously would have taken decades. But now, through relentless innovation, Nevera R goes even faster, while still maintaining much of the comfort and practicality that makes the Nevera a real, useable daily car.”
Buick shared a teaser of a new model from its upcoming Electra sub-brand.
The new electric sedan closely resembles an earlier concept model from Buick.
It will be based on the new Xiao Yao EV platform, developed specifically for China.
While Buick’s presence in the US is now all about crossovers and SUVs, the brand is taking a different route in China, where the traditional sedan still has a place. A new all-electric model from Buick’s recently introduced Electra sub-brand is about to join the lineup, with a teaser image offering us a first look.
The new model retains much of the design language introduced in the concept, though a few features have been streamlined for production. The lighting signature at both ends has been reworked, with more practical LED graphics. The sleek, flush door handles and traditional side mirrors replace some of the show car’s more experimental elements, bringing it closer to real-world usability.
Inside, a Tech Showcase Awaits
While Buick hasn’t yet shown the cabin, it’s expected to include a total of eight screens, a massive 50-inch augmented reality head-up display, and an array of AI-driven features. All of this will run on Qualcomm’s 8775 chip, which supports high-end infotainment and connectivity. Advanced driver assistance will come from Chinese tech company Momenta, which has developed a suite of sophisticated ADAS capabilities.
Buick / Weibo
This sedan is just one of six new energy models Buick plans to launch in the next year, likely alongside production versions of Electra’s SUV and minivan concepts. All three will be built on Buick’s Xiao Yao architecture, a flexible platform designed specifically for China.
The platform is compatible with fully electric, plug-in hybrid, and range-extender powertrains, with configurations that drive the front, rear, or all four wheels. Performance can reach up to 443 horsepower (330 kW), and the EV variants will be equipped with CATL-supplied battery packs capable of ultra-fast 640 kW charging.
Buick hasn’t announced a date for the full reveal of the Electra sedan, but it’s expected shortly. As with other Electra-branded models, this one is likely to stay exclusive to China, so a US launch doesn’t seem to be in the cards.
Bentley debuted the new EXP 15 concept that hints at the styling direction for their first EV.
The study is a lifted three-door sedan with three seats and an integrated dog bed.
The production EV will be a Luxury Urban SUV built on the Cayenne Electric platform.
Bentley is gearing up to introduce their first electric vehicle in 2026 and they’re previewing its styling language with the new EXP 15 concept. It’s a big departure for the brand and it’s billed as an “elevated sporting sedan.”
While we weren’t expecting Bentley to follow in the footsteps of the Toyota Crown and Volvo S60 Cross Country, the EXP 15 is part coupe, part sedan, and part crossover. It’s an unusual combination, but Bentley Design Director Robin Page offered some context.
“It’s clear that SUVs are a growing segment and we understand the GT market – through four generations of the Continental GT – but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it’s changing,” he explained. “Some customers want a classic ‘three-box’ sedan shape, others a ‘one-box’ design, and others again something more elevated. So this was a chance for us to talk to people and get a feeling.”
A New Shape for the Brand
They’ll likely get plenty of feedback as the resulting concept doesn’t even resemble a Bentley. Instead, it’s an anonymous edgy blob that looks part Volvo with a dash of Jaguar.
That’s probably not what designers were going for, but the EXP 15 has an Upright Elegance front end, which is dominated by a large enclosed grille. The latter uses lights to mimic the appearance of a traditional grille, while also turning the unnecessary component into a “piece of digital art.”
Elsewhere, there are vertical headlights and Bentley’s new winged emblem. They’re joined by an illuminated hood ornament as well as a frunk, which is accessed via “piano-style hinged engine covers.”
Moving further back, we can see a relatively flat hood that meets rakish black A-pillars. They flow into a sloping black roof, which contrasts with the shimmering silver-gold body.
The concept has streamlined bodywork that mixes taut surfaces with edgy lines and rounded wheel arches. They’re joined by muscular rear haunches and a slender greenhouse. We can also see aerodynamically optimized wheels and a considerable amount of ground clearance.
The EXP 15 is an oddity due to its three-door arrangement, which has a single door on the driver’s side as well as two doors on the passenger side. Even more strangely, there are two front doors despite the car only having one front seat.
The rear end is less offensive, but a tad generic aside from two active spoilers that are mounted onto the roof. They’re joined by an active diffuser and stylish taillights, which vaguely recall Dodge’s racetrack design.
Bentley didn’t go into many specifics, but confirmed the concept is over 196.9 inches (5,000 mm) long. This suggests it could be smaller than the Flying Spur, which clocks in at 209.3 inches (5,316 mm).
While the production EV will be a far cry from the concept, Bentley said it “provides hints to the design” of future models. They suggested we can expect more modern and sculpted bodywork as well as efforts to reduce “visual weight.”
An Odd And Flexible Interior
The weirdness continues inside as the EXP 15 has a three-seat interior with “innovative in-cabin storage for treasured pets and/or hand luggage.” As part of this effort, Bentley developed a dog bed that can be strapped where the front passenger seat would normally reside. Drivers can also opt to have two suitcases next to them, presumably stuffed with cash.
The quirkiness doesn’t end there as the passenger-side seat can be moved into three different positions. There’s the Standard rear position, a reclined Relax mode, and a Co-Pilot mode that sees the seat moved up alongside the driver. The seat can also swivel 45 degrees outwards to improve entry and egress.
Bentley noted there’s plenty of legroom in rear-mounted seating positions due to the lack of a front passenger seat. The company also mentioned a Concertina Floor Storage system, which has a footrest that folds downward into the floor when not in use.
Putting the seats aside, there’s a ‘Wing Gesture’ dashboard that can act as a full-width digital display. It features a slender digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system that is represented as a “Mechanical Marvel.” The latter is billed as a “clock-like device with multiple movable and illuminated fingers … which can indicate the car’s direction of travel, the state of its electric charge and much more.” They’re joined by a lower passenger side display, which feels out of place due to the lack of a front passenger seat.
Interestingly, the displays can be switched off to reveal a veneered wood surface that is visible underneath their glass. That isn’t the only cool touch as we can see a stylish steering wheel and some avant-garde switchgear as Page said, “We think people are going to get fed up with a fully digital experience and are pining for physical mechanical elements too.”
Bentley didn’t say much about the rear seats, but they’re separated by a console that has an integrated display as well as a stylish lamp. The console also houses a refrigerator and dedicated controls.
Given that the concept is part crossover, the EXP 15 has a spacious boot that can double as an upmarket picnic area. Part of the liftgate folds down to reveal two small seats that add some much needed cushioning. The rear lamp and fridge from the console can also slide back to the boot for an elegant evening under the stars.
The Electric Bentley
While the production model is coming next year, the company was coy on powertrain details. However, the ultra-luxury brand said the concept was “conceived as having a fully-electric, all-wheel drive powertrain with a long range and recharging speeds commensurate with the convenience customers have come to expect of a Bentley.”
That’s not much to go on, but Bentley teased their EV in 2024 and billed it as a “Luxury Urban SUV.” It will only incorporate cues from the EXP 15 as the production model will have a lot in common with the upcoming Porsche Cayenne Electric.
A Tesla Cybertruck driver hit several parked cars in a Miami neighborhood overnight.
Witnesses on the scene claim that the driver was racing a Lamborghini before crashing.
It remains unclear what charges are pending as police have not released a report yet.
A Tesla Cybertruck and a Lamborghini Urus were reportedly racing down a Miami road, only for the EV to crash into not just one parked car but nine. That’s the story according to witnesses on the mangled scene. Racing or not, it’s clear from video taken at the scene that a Cybertruck can do a lot of damage.
A Tesla Cybertruck and a Lamborghini Urus were reportedly racing down a Miami street when the EV slammed into not just one, but nine parked cars. That’s the account from witnesses at the mangled scene. Racing or not, video footage makes one thing clear: the Cybertruck can cause a whole lot of damage.
The crash happened just after midnight on Sunday Morning near the area of Northwest 10th Street and Eighth Street Road in Miami. Google Street View shows the road to be relatively tight with cars parked on both sides of the one-way street. It’s unclear if there really was a race or not, but the aftermath is undeniable.
The social media account “Only In Dade” posted a video of the scene showing cars on the right side of the road mangled. At the very start of the line of damaged cars is a Toyota Corolla with its driver-side wheel ripped all the way off. Ahead of it is a Kia Sportage with the rear end so crumpled that it’s likely a write-off.
At the front of the pack, the Tesla Cybertruck with teal-painted wheel covers sat idle while touching the last car it hit. In total, reports state the vehicle hit nine parked cars before coming to a stop. Exactly how the driver lost control remains unclear.
Eyewitness Account Suggests Street Race
Jose Zelaya, who owns a Suzuki damaged in the crash, told WSVN that the Cybertruck appeared to be racing a Lamborghini Urus before the driver lost control. “The Cybertruck was racing a Lamborghini Urus, and the Cybertruck lost control and hit every single car,” he said.
At this stage, local authorities haven’t released any information on the crash, the cause, or the charges that the Cybertruck driver could be facing. Fortunately, it appears that no one was injured in the incident, which may be the only silver lining in an otherwise costly and chaotic scene.
The Cayenne Electric has active suspension and a useful 7,716 lbs tow rating, Porsche says.
Former Top Gear man Richard Hammond got to try the SUV’s tow skills in a YouTube video.
A pro driver then used the Cayenne EV to smash a British hillclimb record by over 4 seconds.
Porsche is set to unveil its first electric Cayenne later this year and will preview a camouflaged version at this month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. But the EV has already been seen in action at another British hillclimb where it smashed an SUV record by 4 seconds and jumped off the line as fast as the slick-shod purpose-built racecars running at the same event.
The location for the runs was the historic Shelsey Walsh hillclimb, which claims it’s the oldest motorsport venue in the world still using its original course – it held its first event in 1905. Gabriela Jílková, a development driver for the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team, hurled the EV up the twisty 1,000-yard (914 m), 16.7 percent grade road in 31.28 seconds, destroying the 35.53-second record previously set by a Bentley Bentayga.
Official time-keeping data also showed the Cayenne covered the first 60 yards (18.3 m) in only 1.94 seconds, a time equaled at the event only by single-seater racecars with slick tires, despite the Porsche making do with road-legal summer rubber.
Porsche didn’t reveal how much power the record-breaking Cayenne prototype had at its disposal, but we do know some key details thanks to a video in which former Top Gear host Richard Hammond got to try the EV before handing it over to the Jílková for the Shelsey runs.
Hammond confirms that the Cayenne features Porsche’s Active Ride suspension, a system that appears on the Taycan, but not on the Macan EV whose platform the Cayenne shares. He also notes that the synthesized sounds the EV makes in its Track mode sound a bit like a combustion V8’s and says he was told the power output would be greater than the 730 hp (739 PS / 544 kW) generated by the punchiest of the ICE Cayennes, the turbo E-Hybrid.
Potentially of more interest to anyone with boats or trailers to haul is the news that the Cayenne Electric – depending on spec – has a towing capacity of 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg). While certain EVs like the GMC Hummer can pull more (12,000 lbs / 5,440 kg), the Cayenne Electric’s rating matches the tow rating of both the Rivian R1S and the combustion Cayenne which will continue to be sold alongside the new EV.
To prove the point Hammond used the Cayenne to drag his heavy, vintage Lagonda, and claimed the electric motors made light work of hills.
Hyundai plans a new electric SUV to slot between the Inster and Kona models.
It will be previewed by a concept model at this year’s Munich Auto Show.
The new EV will be the first to feature the Pleos Connect infotainment system.
In just a few years, Hyundai has built an impressive lineup of electric vehicles that rivals, and in some cases surpasses, what many long-established automakers have brought to market. With options ranging from the retro-styled Ioniq 5 to the spacious new seven-seat Ioniq 9 and the compact Niro EV, Hyundai is covering a lot of ground. And the brand isn’t slowing down, as another electric model is on the way.
This upcoming addition will slot in above Hyundai’s Inster, the battery-powered version of the compact Casper. While the Inster’s charm lies in its tiny footprint, it may be a bit too small for some buyers. That’s where this new model fits in.
A new report points to a debut in concept form at the Munich Motor Show this September. The vehicle is expected to land between the Inster and the Kona in terms of size, aligning closely with the Bayon, which is currently offered in European markets.
Few details are known about the new model at this stage. However, Auto News speculates that it could be dubbed the Ioniq 2 if it is to use the automaker’s well-established E-GMP platform. Styling remains a mystery, but regardless of what the concept looks like, recent Hyundai history suggests that the eventual production model should resemble it closely.
One of the more significant updates is expected inside the cabin. This SUV is likely to be the first Hyundai equipped with the new Pleos Connect infotainment system. Unveiled earlier this year, Pleos Connect is based on Android Automotive and features a large, freestanding touchscreen mounted at the center of the dashboard. It’s a layout that recalls Tesla’s approach and echoes what’s becoming common in many Chinese EVs.
This new setup could prove controversial. Most current Hyundais feature sleek digital instrument clusters and infotainment systems, sometimes housed within a single curved display. While tablet-like displays often have great functionality, they’re not particularly appealing to the eye.
Shared Roots with Kia
0Underneath, the new model is expected to share much of its architecture with the forthcoming Kia EV2. That vehicle will ride on a shortened version of the E-GMP platform and be offered with a single electric motor. If Hyundai follows a similar path, it could help keep costs manageable while still delivering competitive performance in the growing sub-compact and compact EV segments.
As Toyota continues pushing forward with its multi-pathway strategy in Europe, the brand is gradually building out its electric lineup alongside its well-established hybrid offerings. During a presentation in Greece, we had the chance to get an early look at three upcoming models: the refreshed bZ4X, the new C-HR+, and the all-electric Urban Cruiser. All three are headed to European roads later this year.
Out of the trio, it was the smallest one that stood out. The Urban Cruiser, which made its debut in December 2024, is Toyota’s latest entry in the competitive B-SUV (subcompact) segment. Specifically developed for European buyers, this small EV will begin reaching customers in autumn 2025.
Toyota Looks to Suzuki for Its Smallest EV
While the Urban Cruiser acts as an electric counterpart to the Yaris Cross Hybrid, the similarities end with the badge. Underneath, it rides on Suzuki’s Heartect-e platform, shared with the upcoming eVitara, instead of Toyota’s e-TNGA architecture. Much of the exterior and interior design also mirrors the Suzuki, with only minor tweaks to differentiate the two.
Photos Thanos Pappas / Carscoops
At the front, Toyota adds its own identity through a hammerhead-style lighting signature and a more refined bumper design. These give the Urban Cruiser a cleaner, more cohesive look compared to its Suzuki twin. Apart from Toyota’s emblems and new taillight graphics, the rest of the body panels are essentially unchanged.
Inside, Space Outranks Luxury
Despite its shared features with the Suzuki, the Urban Cruiser aligns well with Toyota’s design language, thanks to its chunky front end, muscular fenders, and darkened taillight cluster. The SUV measures 4,285 mm (168.7 inches) in length, placing it between the 4,180 mm (164.6 inches) Yaris Cross and the 4,360 mm (171.7 inches) C-HR. However, its EV-specific packaging allows for a 2,700 mm (106.3 inches) wheelbase, which is longer than both of those models as well as the larger Corolla Cross.
Photos Thanos Pappas / Carscoops
This extra length pays off inside. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and a sliding bench, making the cabin feel roomier than the Yaris Cross. That said, headroom in the back is more limited, particularly for taller occupants. The fixed sunroof and the floor-mounted battery take up vertical space, which might be noticeable for those who prefer sitting upright.
Predictably, the rest of the interior is virtually identical to the Suzuki eVitara, with Toyota’s influence being limited to the emblem on the steering wheel and the Urban Cruiser lettering on the floor mats. The perceived quality is not bad despite the liberal use of hard plastics.
I’m not a fan of the glossy black finish of the floating center console, but the ambient lighting, the unusual texture on the door cards and the seat upholstery look pretty modern. Luckily, there are a few physical controls under the digital cockpit comprising a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment.
FWD and AWD Options, Up to 400 km Range
Under the skin, the Urban Cruiser offers the same range of powertrains as the eVitara. Buyers can choose between two battery capacities and three drivetrain options. The front-wheel drive version with the larger 61 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery delivers a targeted range of around 400 km (249 miles). A dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup increases output to 182 hp, though the estimated range drops slightly to about 350 km (217 miles).
We’re looking forward to seeing how these figures translate to real-world driving once we get behind the wheel.
QUICK SPECS
Drivetrain
Battery
Output
Target WLTP Range
FWD
49 kWh
142 hp (106 kW / 144 PS)
approx. 300 km
FWD
61 kWh
172 hp (128 kW / 174 PS)
approx. 400 km
AWD
61 kWh
182 hp (135 kW / 184 PS)
approx. 350 km
SWIPE
So What’s With The Land Cruiser Reference?
The name Urban Cruiser may sound like a playful nod to the Land Cruiser, evoking a sense of off-road spirit in a much smaller package. Toyota underscores the Urban Cruiser’s light off-roading potential with features like Downhill Assist Control and Trail Mode for slippery surfaces.
Still, no one expects the eVitara-based EV to be as capable as a Suzuki Jimny (never mind the Land Cruiser) off the beaten track. After all, Toyota is working on a baby Land Cruiser for more serious off-road applications.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Toyota has used the Urban Cruiser name. It debuted on a 2006 concept, followed by a production model based on the Yaris sold in Europe from 2008 to 2014. That model also had a twin in North America, where it was known as the Scion xD. More recently, Suzuki-built models under the Urban Cruiser name have appeared in global markets, mostly aimed at India and other emerging regions.
A Growing EV Lineup
The Urban Cruiser is just one piece of Toyota’s growing electric strategy in Europe. During the same event in Greece, it sat alongside the facelifted bZ4X (simply called the bZ in North America) and a prototype of the C-HR+, both of which are expected to launch in 2025. Though they share some design language at the front, each model serves a different purpose.
The C-HR+ leans into a more upscale and sporty image, with a coupe-like roofline and sharper styling that positions it at the heart of the C-SUV (compact) segment. It shares a few cues with the standard C-HR but is noticeably larger and bolder. In contrast, the refreshed bZ4X keeps things more family-friendly and adds some light trail capability thanks to its Subaru-sourced X-Mode AWD system.
Toyota plans to round out its European EV portfolio next year with the bZ Woodland, a sibling to the Subaru Trailseeker. That will bring the total to four electric models in the region, quadrupling Toyota’s zero-emission options in just two years.
Having four EVs might seem like a lot for a company whose president has openly questioned their environmental benefits, but some markets are getting even more options. China, for example, offers five electric Toyotas: the bZ3, bZ3X, bZ4X, bZ5, and bZ7.
North America is expected to eventually match that number, though with a different lineup. US buyers will have access to the C-HR+, bZ, bZ Woodland, and an upcoming three-row SUV that will be built locally.
AMG is developing a production version of its all-electric Concept GT XX that’s expected next year.
In a new interview, tech chief Markus Schafer said the car will evoke emotion through simulation.
Along with engine sounds from speakers, it will include simulated gearshifts and built-in vibration.
Electric or not, Mercedes-AMG’s latest concept makes a strong first impression. The AMG Concept GT XX doesn’t just aim to keep up with combustion-powered predecessors; it wants to make sure you hear and feel every bit of its presence.
Strongly hinting at a production car that may launch in 2026, it boasts 1,341 horsepower (1,000 kW), four doors, and a top speed of 223 mph (359 km/h). That’s not all, though, because we know it’ll also come with fake sounds. Now, in a new interview, we’re learning more about that and new insights on how AMG will evoke emotion from its drivers.
From the outset, Mercedes-AMG confirmed that the production car, likely the next AMG GT 4-Door, will have speakers to make engine noises. Sure, placing them at the front of the car in the headlights does seem a bit odd, but we digress. We’ve actually heard the fake engine noises already, too. They’re the main feature in a new Instagram post from Mercedes.
Engineering Emotion
That said, tech chief of Mercedes AMG, Markus Schäfer, is still dropping new information in an interview with Autocar. There, he says that evoking emotion is a paramount concern for AMG.
“How does the car feel in terms of noise, in terms of sound level, in terms of the vibration, in terms of the gearshift?,” he asked. “It has to touch the emotional side of you. And if it doesn’t, it doesn’t do the job. This is what AMG cars do, and that’s exactly what we transferred piece by piece into this AMG GT XX.”
Apparently, Mercedes is taking this lightly. “It has to be authentic when it comes to power and drivability and track performance,” Schäfer remarked, “but the AMG is also an emotional experience from an acoustic standpoint, from noise and vibration harshness, and that’s exactly what you should expect in this car as well.”
At this point, it’s fair to expect the first all-AMG EV to rumble, shake during simulated gear shifts, and deliver a soundtrack that mimics the drama of a combustion engine. That actually sounds pretty promising. Interestingly, it’s also not far off from what Hyundai has already achieved with the well-received Ioniq 5 N.
Ultimately, this shouldn’t be all that shocking. Whether electric vehicles end up taking over or not (ed’s note: they likely will, since automakers have already invested too much and will want to recoup it), they’re a part of the auto industry for the foreseeable future. It’s also pretty clear that they have enormous performance potential. Still, a brand like AMG would be putting itself at great risk by not at least planning for what EV models would look like. By extension, that same logic applies to how an AMG EV would sound and feel.
Thankfully, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N proves that an EV can indeed be genuinely fun. If a Korean automaker, mostly known for everyday people carriers, can manage it, surely AMG can too. We can’t wait to see and, more importantly, experience whatever it dreams up.
The lightweight mid-engined supercar will be offered with two flat-six engines and up to 1,200 hp.
Customers will also be able to order the HF-11 with an all-electric powertrain with 850 hp.
Oilstainlab equips the car with a six-speed manual and seven-speed sequential gearbox.
How does an almost unknown brand launch a supercar in 2025? Well, Oilstainlab thinks it has the answer with its HF-11, a mid-engined beast to be sold as an ICE and an EV, complete with a design that looks like a mix between a Porsche 911 and an Aston Martin Valkyrie. Several months after the car was first announced, some enticing powertrain specs have seen the light of day.
Oilstainlab names the likes of the Porsche Carrera GT, Sauber C9, and Gordon Murray T.50 as competitors for the HF-11. So, it’s no surprise that it’s working on some very exciting powertrains for it. Those who want an ICE will have a choice between a 4.6-liter flat-six or a larger 5.0-liter flat-six, both of which will be mid-mounted right behind the carbon fiber passenger cell.
The “entry-level” 4.6-liter model will pump out 600 hp, a very solid figure considering the car only weighs 2,000 lbs or 910 kg. But, 600 hp is nothing compared to what the 5.0-liter model will have. According to the firm, it’ll have a whopping 1,200 hp, presumably achieved through a pair of turbochargers bolted to the flat-six.
Despite the flagship engine’s big displacement, considering it only has six cylinders, it’ll reportedly rev all the way to 12,000 rpm. When combined with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed sequential, this engine should make the HF-11 an absolute animal capable of proper hypercar speeds. Both ICE versions will be rear-wheel drive.
Oilstainlab is also developing an all-electric version. It will pack around 850 hp, and customers will be able to order both the ICE and electric powertrains, as they’re switchable via a subframe swap.
The small American company plans to build just 25 examples of the HF-11. The standard model will cost around $1.85 million, but those wanting both the ICE and electric powertrains will need to cough up $2.3 million.
A new Xiaomi YU7 Max’s brakes caught fire on track, reaching over 600°C under heavy use.
The brand says organic materials in the pads ignited, but braking function remained intact.
The SUV reportedly wasn’t using regenerative braking, increasing strain on friction brakes.
Things are looking pretty bright for Xiaomi these days, but even a hot streak hits a bump now and then. Fresh off an impressive Nürburgring showing by the SU7and a hefty 289,000 pre-orders for its upcoming SUV, the YU7, the company now finds itself doing a little damage control.
This time, it’s about a different kind of heat; specifically, the kind coming off the YU7 Max’s brakes during a track test for the media that raised a few eyebrows. Here’s a quick look at what happened and how Xiaomi is responding.
Last Friday, a video of a YU7 Max in a race track pit lane with brakes on fire surfaced. That’s not a great situation since this is the brand’s high-end super SUV that makes 682 horsepower (691 kW) and 639 lb-ft (866 Nm) of torque from a dual-motor setup. Naturally, this provides plenty of oomph, but it must be accompanied by great brakes, because inevitably you also need to slow down or come to a halt at some point, right?
In the video, we see technicians standing inches away from the open flame on a caliper as one measures the temperature. According to the device he’s using, the brake pads were sitting at 619 degrees Celsius. That’s 1,146 degrees Fahrenheit, or just 50 or so degrees shy of where aluminum begins to melt.
Notably, these flames aren’t the same type that we’ve seen in the past from supercars sporting carbon ceramic setups. Instead, Xiaomi’s statement toCarNewsChinaclarifies that these brakes caught on fire due to organic materials in the low-metallic pads.
Evidently, this is totally normal when the brakes exceed 600 degrees Celsius (1,112 F) and supposedly, it’s no big deal here because they continued to function properly.
In addition, it’s worth noting that Xiaomi says the car in question wasn’t using its regenerative brakes properly. The YU7 Max has a ‘Master Mode’ with ‘Enhanced Energy Recovery.’ When using that system, the friction brakes don’t have to do as much work since the regen can provide up to 0.2G of braking force.
Instead, it seems that this YU7 was relying solely on the friction brakes. Given that it weighs some 2.3 tons, it’s no wonder the brakes were pushed to their outer limits.
Interestingly, this situation seems separate from the major brake failure seen on other Xiaomi cars. In cases from late last year, two different SU7 sedans had major crashes when their brakes failed completely. Those instances appear related to brake components not intended for track use at all. In contrast, the pads and rotors on the YU7 in this new video are up to the task.
Tesla’s Robotaxis are part of a program that modifies Model Ys for safety.
The initial fleet uses only these modified crossovers that have extra features.
That’s despite Musk claiming they are identical to the EVs the public can buy.
Tesla has officially entered the deep waters of robotaxi service but is doing so in its own, distinctive way. The service is very limited as of this writing; it comes with a silent Tesla employee in every front passenger seat and consists of Model Ys that were secretly modified. It’s not exactly what you might think at first, but it’s interesting nonetheless.
Elon Musk has several times mentioned that the Model Ys in Robotaxi service are the same ones that everyday folks can buy. According to a new report, that’s not exactly true, and before anyone asks, no, it doesn’t appear that the Robotaxis have a brake built into the front passenger handle. What they do have is another set of safety measures, though.
According to Business Insider, Tesla has a program called Halo that modifies these cars. Every autonomous car gets self-cleaning cameras and additional protection for the cameras to keep them from getting damaged. In addition, they have not one but two telecommunications units built into the car, each providing detailed GPS data and allows Tesla’s remote operators to control the car if needed. That said, it’s worth noting that these modifications aren’t all that odd.
Tesla’s system relies so heavily on camera clarity that keeping lenses safe, clean, and in perfect working order is paramount. In addition, the standard Model Y already comes with a telecommunications unit, so in this case, Tesla is simply doubling up, likely to increase redundancy should one become non-operational.
That's a wrap! In the last 36 hours, I've taken a total of 20 @Tesla Robotaxi rides and traveled 92 miles. No interventions, no critical safety issues. All my rides were smooth and comfortable.
Thank you, Tesla, for letting me be a part of this experience—and congrats to the… pic.twitter.com/VNpSUVMuz6
It’ll be interesting to see how the court of public opinion rules out on this one. Will it praise Musk for adding safety measures to the robotaxi program, or will it chastise him for not being 100 percent accurate when he said these cars were identical to the ones that the general public can buy?
Optics aside, does it really matter? What does is that people who take a ride in a Tesla Robotaxi can breathe a little easier knowing that the cars come with extra safety equipment built into them. And we wouldn’t be surprised if, at some point in the not-so-distant future, those features make it into Model Ys that we can actually purchase.
👀What an interesting interaction. A Waymo ended up in the wrong lane, and a Tesla Robotaxi handled it like a pro.
The current generation of the Lexus IS has been in production since 2013.
These illustrations for a successor were created based on Lexus’ 2021 concept.
It adopts the styling language from the larger ES, hinting at hybrid and EV options.
The Lexus IS has been part of the automaker’s lineup since 1999, as a rival to the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. With the current generation in its twilight years, fans of the nameplate are hoping for a new model that could revive the sporty spirit of the original. Independent digital artist Theophilus Chin came up with a new rendering, proposing a sexier future for the Japanese sedan.
The illustrations are based on the 2021 Lexus Electrified Sedan Concept, which sparked speculation about a fully electric successor to the IS. In order to bring the model to 2025 standards, Theottle updated the exterior design using features from the more recent Lexus ES that debuted earlier this year.
The speculative front end in these renderings is sharp and aggressive, with angular LED headlights and sporty, triangular intakes on the sculpted bumper. The small opening on the nose hints at a hybrid powertrain, an interesting shift away from the fully electric concept. But the real win here is the Spindle grille, which has been updated to look much more refined and palatable than previous iterations.
The profile of the car stays true to the radical lines of the concept, maintaining the roofline and proportions of the original. However, it introduces more conventional surfacing, with character lines borrowed from the larger ES. A new set of alloy wheels, standard mirrors, and regular door handles bring the design closer to reality, as if the car were nearing the end of its sketch phase.
Theottle
Lexus
The rear of the car is where things get more interesting. With a ducktail spoiler above a slim, full-width LED bar, this design is a sharp departure from the fastback tail of the ES, offering a more athletic and coupe-like rear end. The shoulders are more pronounced, and the rear windscreen is noticeably sportier. It still manages to look like it could make its way into production without losing that concept car flair.
Will The Production Model Look Anything Like The Renders?
As promising as these illustrations are, it’s worth noting that we can’t exactly count on the production model looking exactly like these renders. Production cars are subject to the harsh realities of packaging constraints, and things are bound to change as the design gets finalized.
Lexus has kept things under wraps for now, with camouflaged prototypes still a ways off. However, given that the current IS has been around since 2013, and has already seen two facelifts in 2017 and 2020, we can reasonably expect that a new version is on the horizon.
Lexus recently released the Climax and Ultimate Editions of the IS 500 in Japan and the US, signaling that the naturally aspirated V8 engine’s days are numbered. But Toyota’s commitment to hybrids and multiple powertrains suggests that the next IS will offer hybrid options, and possibly even a fully electric variant.
Competition in this segment is only getting fiercer, especially with electric and range-extender sedans gaining ground in markets like China. The new IS will have to face off against the likes of the Audi A5, BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse 3-Series and i3, and even the ICE and electric versions of the next Mercedes C-Class.
A Xiaomi SU7 Ultra prototype just lapped the Nurburgring in 6:22.091.
That’s almost 24 full seconds faster than the previous record it set in 2024.
It’s officially the third fastest prototype to ever lap the famous race track.
Xiaomi clearly isn’t content with simply being one of the fastest cars to ever lap the Nurburgring. It just went and made that record even faster. Less than a year after securing a top-five finish for its prototype and taking the number one spot for production electric cars, the company returned for another round. This time, not only did the team succeed, but they shaved nearly 24 seconds off their previous time at the hands of driver David Pittard.
For reference, that record was 6:46.87 for the SU7 Ultra prototype. If you’re scratching your head a bit, don’t worry; it’s not just you. Xiaomi has been setting separate record times for both the prototype SU7 and the production version of the same car, which can certainly make things a little tricky to follow.
The production car arguably has an even more impressive record, despite going slower (7:04.957) because it’s the sole leader in the production EV category. To achieve that, it beat the Porsche Taycan and none other than the Rimac Nevera. Yes, the bonkers hypercar was slower than this four-door Chinese sedan. All of that said, this new prototype record is no joke.
The New Record: 6:22.091
The not-for-sale stripped-down SU7 Ultra managed a 6:22.091 lap. That usurps the Lotus Evija X prototype that did it in 6:24.04. Now, the SU7 Ultra sits in third place, and that’ll likely be where it stays. Bumping the second-place finisher, the VW ID.R down would mean going faster than 6:05.33. First place is out of reach for just about everyone. That’s the record set by Timo Bernhard of 5:19:546.
Special Editions: Track Package and Nurburgring Edition
Still, Xiaomi’s performance here is deserving of praise, provided everything is above board. That said, the brand is celebrating the new record with two new special editions. The first, simply called the Track Package, will cost 100,000 yuan (approximately US$13,950 at current exchange rates). It adds a track-grade high-power battery pack, upgraded cooling, optimized brakes, Nurburgring-tuned suspension components, and a top speed of 217 mph (350 km/h).
An even more exclusive version is on the way, dubbed the Nürburgring edition. This special model comes with unique underbody panels, a new roll cage replacing the rear seats, and aerodynamic tweaks on the exterior to set it apart from the rest of the SU7 lineup.
Priced at 814,900 yuan in China (around $114,000), Xiaomi will produce just 10 examples for 2025, with total production capped at 100 to “ensure exclusivity.” Sure, that’s a hefty sum no matter where you are, but the level of performance you’re getting in return is undeniably impressive.
Under the slinky Porsche-esque design, you’ll find three electric motors that make a combined 1,527 hp (1,138 kW) and 1,306 lb-ft (1,770 Nm) of torque. It’s one thing for a brand to claim that it’s capable of building fast cars and a very different thing to put hypercar makers on notice.
Mercedes revealed the AMG GT XX concept previewing next year’s production performance sedan.
It features a high-tech battery and a tri-motor axial flux powertrain producing more than 1,341 hp.
The concept rides on the AMG.EA platform made of aluminum, steel, and fiber composite materials.
Mercedes-AMG is going electric and they’re doing it in a big way with the GT XX concept. It’s an insane four-door coupe with three axial flux motors producing a combined output in excess of 1,341 hp (1,000 kW / 1,360 PS).
Designed to preview the redesigned AMG GT 4-Door, the concept is a huge departure from its predecessor. Besides going electric, the model has an odd exterior that will undoubtedly attract a mixed reaction.
The fish-like front end is dominated by a massive grille that spans nearly the entire width of the vehicle. It’s so wide that designers had to incorporate the auxiliary lights into it.
Further above, there are stacked headlights and a motorsport-inspired hood with split air outlets. Elsewhere, we can see a subtle splitter that flows into the outside edges of vertical air curtains.
Designers gave the concept a rakish windscreen, which meets a coupe-like roofline. This results in a compact greenhouse, which is notable for eschewing a rear window like the Polestar 4.
Aside from gun slit windows, the model has flush-mounted door handles and 21-inch aero wheels. The latter have sections that open and close to balance aerodynamics with brake cooling. They’re joined by sporty side skirts that have “luminescent paint segments,” which “emit light in response to an alternating current.”
The rear end is a little plain, but features muscular haunches and an active airbrake. They’re joined by a carbon fiber diffuser and six circular LED taillights. However, the concept is more notable for being equipped with an MBUX Fluid Light Panel, which has more than 700 programmable RGB LEDs. This enables communication with the outside world via text or animation.
Rounding out the highlights are exterior speakers tucked into the headlights, designed to “emit driving sounds”. Mercedes hasn’t shared any specifics, but a recent teaser showed a prototype of the production car pumping out fake engine noise that sounded like a V8.
The concept, finished in a vibrant Sunset Beam orange paint, also boasts an impressively low drag coefficient of 0.198.
A Minimalist Interior Lacking In Luxury
While Mercedes used to be all about leather and wood, the interior of the GT XX resembles a racing simulator. This feel is amplified by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, and a compact steering wheel inspired by the AMG One.
Elsewhere, there’s a unique center console with illuminated orange tubes that are designed to recall voltage cables. The concept also has carbon fiber seats, an exposed carbon fiber roof, and a floor covering made from 100% recycled materials.
Designers gave the car a minimalist dashboard and metal components that are part computer, part Back to the Future. They’re joined by lightweight door panels that have integrated bars as well as orange pull loops.
A Powertrain That Hints At The Future
While the styling will undoubtedly draw attention, the most important details are hiding under the skin. That’s clear as the concept rides on the new AMG.EA platform and features a high-performance battery developed from scratch.
The three axial flux motors come from Yasa and offer a high output in an extremely compact package. They’ll go into production next year and be found on an assortment of upcoming AMG models including the new GT 4-Door and SUV.
Mercedes didn’t reveal many details about the motors, but confirmed one is mounted up front while two reside out back. This gives the concept a fully variable all-wheel drive system as well as a combined output in excess of 1,341 hp (1,000 kW / 1,360 PS). That’s enough to enable the car to hit a top speed of more than 223 mph (359 km/h).
The motors aren’t the only interesting development as the concept has a high-performance NCMA battery that has an anode with silicon content. Mercedes said It offers an energy density of 300 Wh/kg as well as a long lifespan.
Delving a little deeper, the battery has cylindrical cells and a laser-welded aluminum cell housing. These developments promise weight savings as well as rapid heat dissipation. Speaking of the latter, the battery also has a “high-tech coolant” that “flows around each individual cell to maintain the optimum temperature.”
Fast applies to more than just acceleration as the concept can gain approximately 249 miles (400 km) of range in around five minutes. That’s impressively quick and this was made possible thanks to a “very high average charging power of more than 850 kW.”
Since that’s many times higher than traditional DC fast chargers, Mercedes teamed up with Alpitronic to develop a prototype charging station. While the production model likely won’t be nearly as impressive, the company said they’ll expand the Mercedes‑Benz Charging Network with next-generation chargers that deliver “extremely fast charging times.”
As for the AMG.EA platform, it uses a mix of aluminum, steel and fiber composite materials to offer lightness and “exceptional rigidity.” Mercedes also noted the electric skateboard architecture enables the battery to be centrally integrated into the structure to offer a high level of crash safety.
Tesla launched its robotaxi service in Austin with vetted users and influencers only.
The new service runs daily from 6 a.m. to midnight and charges a flat fee of $4.20.
Early users access rides through a dedicated app and control features from the screen.
While some Democratic lawmakers urged Tesla to delay the rollout of its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, the program officially kicked off on Sunday. It’s believed that around 12 Tesla Model Y robotaxis have hit the city streets and are operating in a small, geofenced area. And while the vehicles are indeed driving themselves, the company is keeping a light foot on the accelerator when it comes to public exposure.
Videos from early users, mostly influencers, reveal that each Robotaxi comes with a “safety driver” seated in the passenger seat. Yes, the passenger seat. It’s not entirely clear why Tesla made that choice, except maybe to reinforce the optics of a driverless experience.
After all, someone behind the wheel would be a dead giveaway that the system still needs supervision. Putting them in the passenger seat keeps up appearance, technically driverless, but not totally.
Among the first people to use the service were vetted customers who received early-access invitations from Tesla. As reported by TechCrunch, many of these are strong supporters of the Tesla brand. Evidently, the electric car manufacturer doesn’t yet want the general public to experience the service, obviously aware that mistakes or hiccups with the service could instantly draw a lot of criticism.
A $4.20 Ride with a Side of Caution
Early rides are priced at a very on-brand $4.20 flat rate, and the service runs from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, unless bad weather rolls in. In that case, the robotaxis are grounded. Probably a wise move considering even humans struggle with Texas thunderstorms.
The service appears to operate in a very similar way to Waymo’s. Users need to download a specific Robotaxi app and can then order a ride. Once inside, the vehicle’s rear passenger display will display navigation details and the expected arrival time. Additionally, passengers can control the audio through the rear screen.
For the most part, the system appears to perform quite well, navigating certain roads in South Austin with relative ease. However, one video shared to YouTube by a TechCrunch reporter shows a Model Y Robotaxi unnecessarily braking and coming to a stop twice, after passing several parked police cars at a nearby crime scene.
The popular EV has been fitted with a distinctive rear end and new 21-inch wheels.
Tesla is expected to unveil the Model Y Performance in the coming months.
Like the Model 3 Performance, the new model includes a special badge on the rear.
The wait for Tesla’s next high-performance electric crossover is nearly over, and it looks like the final pieces are falling into place. Shortly after our spy photographers snapped a camouflaged prototype at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, a prototype has been filmed completely undisguised while testing in the German Alps.
It appears this fuzzy, rolling shot of the Model Y Performance prototype was taken by the exterior cameras of another Tesla that was passing by. Just like the prototype we recently spotted, this one also appears to be rocking the same front bumper as all refreshed Model Ys.
The footage, which appears to have been recorded by the external cameras of another Tesla driving nearby, gives us our clearest look yet at the updated Performance trim. Like the refreshed Model Y Juniper we’ve already seen, the front bumper carries over the same design.
Spin around, though, and you’ll see that it has a unique rear bumper. Like the standard Model Y, it’s blacked out, but there are two small diffusers. While their aerodynamic effects will probably be tiny, they do make the Performance easy to pick from lesser versions. A new badge has also been added to the tailgate, likely mimicking the ‘Plaid’ badge found on the Model 3 Performance.
The sporty EV also has some other noticeable changes. For starters, we’re given another look at the 21-inch wheels that will be fitted exclusively to the Model Y Performance. Visible at the rear is also a much larger lip spoiler, giving the Model Y some much-needed sporty appeal.
Then there’s the color. This Model Y looks like it has a unique shade of burnt orange, but that might not be the case. The side cameras of Teslas with the HW3 self-driving computer often make red cars appear orange, reportedly because they lack an infrared cut filter. So, while this tester looks orange, it’s very likely Tesla’s existing shade of red.
In terms of performance, the new model should have the same basic dual-motor system as the Model 3 Performance, delivering 510 hp and 554 lb-ft (751 Nm) of torque. That should allow it to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in just over three seconds. Quick enough to justify the badge, and probably quicker than most owners will ever need.
🔥🔥 New Tesla Model Y Performance spotted uncovered in the Alps!
The new Mercedes-AMG will rival the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT.
The super sedan is expected to deliver over 1,000 hp thanks to Yasa motors.
AMG will follow the sedan launch with an electric SUV shortly after.
How does an enthusiast-focused brand like Mercedes-AMG create an electric vehicle that genuinely excites drivers and buyers? Well, if you’re AMG, you apparently take a page out of Hyundai’s book, injecting a combustion engine-inspired soundtrack and throwing in a simulated dual-clutch transmission. Love it or hate it, this electric AMG promises to be unlike anything we’ve seen from the brand before.
The brand has been testing and teasing its all-electric Porsche Taycan rival for months now and will unveil it later this year. While one could argue that AMG is a little late to the party in offering a Taycan and Audi e-tron GT rival, it will launch this vehicle before BMW and Audi enter the race with an electric M3 and an electric RS6.
Familiar Soundtrack
Teasers, as well as a concept from back in 2022, have provided us with a good idea of what to expect from the new AMG’s design, but it’s not until now that AMG has previewed what it will sound like. A teaser shared on Instagram first shows a heavily camouflaged prototype doing some high-speed donuts, all while its powertrain remains completely silent, just like most EVs. However, the video then cuts to a second and more interesting clip.
It shows the electric sedan accelerating towards the camera, and we can hear the simulated gearbox going up through the gears, before downshifting when the car comes to a stop. Accompanying the fake shifts, and what sounds like someone pulling paddle shifters, is a deep bellowing soundtrack, inevitably inspired by some of AMG’s fabled V8 engines.
It doesn’t necessarily sound bad, but there are plenty of folks who want EVs to be EVs, rather than EVs trying to mimic a combustion-powered car.
Regardless of how AMG customers respond to the electric sedan and its fake sounds, we don’t expect to hear any complaints about its performance. Power is expected to come from as many as three axial electric motors, each capable of delivering roughly 480 hp and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. That means it could easily surpass the 1,000 hp mark, delivering truly insane performance stats.
To keep up with the Taycan Turbo S and RS e-tron GT Performance, AMG’s new sedan will need to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in around 2.5 seconds, all while remaining comfortable and doubling as an excellent cruiser.
The Taycan Turbo GT annihilated Porsche’s previous record by almost 7 seconds.
Porsche’s electric four-door is less than 1 second slower than the 911 GT3 RS.
A set of sticky Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires funnels all 1,019 hp to the ground.
Porsche’s Taycan Turbo GT is on a mission to claim back some bragging rights in the electric car arena. After Xiaomi’s recent announcements about snatching the record at the Nurburgring and Shanghai, Porsche has wasted no time making sure its own electric sedan gets the spotlight.
Last month, the all-electric sedan was taken to Road Atlanta and, with Patrick Long behind the wheel, set a storming best lap of 1:27.15. That easily toppled the Taycan Turbo S that had once held the EV record, and proves just how focused the Turbo GT is.
For the record run, Porsche used a Taycan Turbo GT with the optional Weissach Package, which removes the rear seats, transforming the four-door sedan into a four-door two-seater. The car was also fitted with ultra-sticky Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS NF0 performance tires developed specifically for it.
In recording a best lap of 1:27.15, the Turbo GT smashed the Turbo S’s previous record of 1:33.88 by a massive 6.73 seconds – an age around a circuit. Porsche says the lap was recorded with the tire pressures set at 37 psi, the battery charged at 97%, and most of the track dry, although there were a few damp patches.
The Taycan Turbo GT is still some way off the production car lap record of 1:22.80 set by the new 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 earlier this year, but no one in their right mind would expect an electric sedan to get close to that. The Taycan’s time is a little closer to the Porsche 911 GT2 RS’s 2019 1:24.88 run, which, at the time, was a record. Porsche’s EV also came close to upsetting the 991 GT3 RS which has posted a 1:26.24 lap at the same track.
Speaking after the record run, Long said, “I expected the steering feel, connection, and feedback, but I didn’t expect how powerful the Active Ride suspension would be in counteracting pitch, roll, and squat.”
Earlier this year, the Taycan Turbo GT set a new EV lap record at Interlagos and, in 2024, did the same at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca track and the Shanghai International Circuit. It also previously held a record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife.
However, in recent months, Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra has snatched away the Taycan’s records in Shanghai and at the ‘Ring. It seems like Porsche is not happy with the Chinese stealing the limelight and is on a mission to show just how quick the Taycan can be.
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