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Yesterday — 16 August 2025Main stream

Future Corvette Design Could Be Hiding In These New Concepts

  • Chevy revealed the CX and CX.R Vision Gran Turismo hypercar design concepts.
  • The Corvette CX is a 2,000 hp electric all-wheel drive hypercar with futuristic styling.
  • CX.R adds a twin-turbo V8 and three motors in a race-focused performance package.

Chevrolet has trotted out a handful of Corvette concepts over the past few months and that continues today with the new CX and CX.R Vision Gran Turismo. They’re futuristic supercars that were created by the Chevrolet Performance Studio in Warren, Michigan.

Interestingly, Chevrolet emphasized that while the CX and CX.R are not bound for production, “the pair will serve as inspiration to inform Corvette design language for years to come“.

Unveiled at The Quail, the CX embraces “quintessential Corvette hallmarks” while pushing the car into radical new territory. It features an evolutionary front fascia with aggressive intakes and slender lighting units. They’re joined by sleek bodywork and pronounced wheel arches, which stand out as the car is less than 41 inches (1041 mm) tall.

More: New Corvette Concept Pushes C9 Into Radical New Territory Without A V8

Aerodynamics played a big role in the design and there are a couple of active components including the front diffuser and rear wing. Chevrolet also took a cue from the McMurtry Spéirling as the concept has built-in fans that “draw air through the open-channel bodywork, generating massive downforce and adjusting the airflow over the rear diffuser to refine aerodynamic balance in real-time.”

The jet-like canopy opens forward to reveal a minimalist cabin with Inferno Red sports seats wrapped in premium silicone leather. We can also see milled aluminum components and forged carbon fiber accents.

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On the technology front, the Corvette CX has a motorsport-inspired steering wheel with an integrated display. Chevrolet said it’s used to operate all major controls and keep the driver’s focus on the road ahead. Aiding in this is a ‘digital windscreen,’ which apparently acts as a massive heads-up display.

Since we’re in fantasy land, Chevrolet said the car features four electric motors that generate a combined output in excess of 2,000 hp (1,491 kW / 2,028 PS). They’re powered by a 90 kWh lithium-ion battery and give the concept four-wheel torque vectoring.

Corvette CX.R Vision Gran Turismo

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The Corvette CX.R Vision Gran Turismo follows in the footsteps of the standard CX, but was designed for racing. As a result, it wears a black and yellow livery as well as a more extreme aero package.

The changes immediately stand out as we can see a larger front splitter, revised intakes, and sportier side skirts. They’re joined by a fixed rear wing and a ventilated engine cover.

Drivers will find a lightweight carbon fiber dashboard and purpose-built seats wrapped in suede. The cabin also has a revamped steering wheel and yellow accents.

Chevrolet envisions the race car would use a twin-turbo 2.0-liter V8 engine that runs on e-fuel and produces 900 hp (671 kW / 913 PS). It’s connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels.

The car has also been outfitted with three electric motors as there’s one for each front wheel as well as a third in the aforementioned gearbox. The company said this would provide “instant torque” as well as a combined output of 2,000 hp (1,491 kW / 2,028 PS).

Both cars will come to Gran Turismo 7 later this month as Chevrolet worked with Polyphony Digital to incorporate them into the iconic racing game.

Before yesterdayMain stream

EV Repairs Are Getting Cheaper, But Still More Expensive Than ICE

  • Electric vehicles are becoming cheaper to repair after accidents.
  • The drop comes as more shops gain experience with EVs.
  • However, they cost 15-20% more to fix than ICE-powered vehicles.

New vehicles come with a bit of a learning curve and that’s especially true of EVs. This applies not only to owners, but also to people and companies that service them.

Unfortunately with anything ‘new,’ costs tend to be high – at least initially. That’s particularly true when it comes to electric vehicle repairs, but prices are starting to fall.

More: EV Crash Claims Jump 38%, And Repairs Are Pricier Than Ever

According to the German Insurance Association (GDV), comprehensive insurance claims for electric vehicles were 20-25% higher than those for comparable combustion models last year. However, the average claim has now dropped to 15-20% higher than ICE-powered models.

The Deputy General Director for the GDV said, “The more electric cars there are on the road, the less their claims differ from comparable cars with combustion engines.” Anja Käfer-Rohrbach went on to explain, “A broader model range reaches a larger customer base, and workshops, towing companies, fire departments, and appraisers now have more experience with damaged electric cars.”

 EV Repairs Are Getting Cheaper, But Still More Expensive Than ICE

She said these developments are helping to drive down repair costs as EVs are becoming the “new normal.” It’s also worth noting the latest study period was from 2021-2023, so EVs are far more common today.

On that note, the GDV said there were approximately 1.65 million electric vehicles registered in Germany at the beginning of the year. That’s a fivefold increase from 2021 and EVs currently account for 3.3% of all vehicles registered in the country.

 EV Repairs Are Getting Cheaper, But Still More Expensive Than ICE

The First Autonomous Robocar You Can Own Hides Its Steering Wheel Until It Wants You To Drive

  • Tensor has unveiled an autonomous vehicle designed for private ownership.
  • It’s a large luxury crossover that features pedals and a steering wheel that retract.
  • A launch is scheduled for 2026 and the EV will be built in Vietnam by VinFast.

While a number of companies are focused on robotaxis, Tensor has unveiled the first “fully autonomous L4 robocar that you can own.” That’s a bold claim from a company that can’t seem to cobble together a proper press kit, so forgive us if we’re a little hesitant to hand over the keys to our survival.

From the hodgepodge of information that the company released, we can see their robocar is actually a “luxury crossover SUV” that looks like a bloated Toyota Prius. It features an awkward-looking front end with sensors and SignalScreens. The latter are used to communicate with other road users via CarMoji.

More: GM Doubling Down On Autonomous Driving Efforts

Moving further back, we can see streamlined bodywork, aerodynamic wheels, and digital side mirrors that help the model to have a drag coefficient of 0.253. The robocar also sports double-laminated glass as well as rear coach doors for easy entry and egress. Speaking of the doors, they have PalmRead technology that allows people to access the vehicle without keys or their phone.

In terms of size, the robocar measures 217.5 inches (5,525 mm) long, 89 inches (2,261 mm) wide, and 78.3 inches (1,989 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 124 inches (3,150 mm). This means the model is significantly larger than other electric crossover such as the Cadillac Vistiq and Tesla Model X.

A Transforming Cabin

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The interior looks basic, but it’s notable for having retractable pedals and a retractable steering wheel. When the latter is tucked into the dash, a display slides over so it’s in front of the ‘driver.’

Speaking of screens, there’s a front passenger display as well as a dual-screen rear entertainment system. Tensor also said the model comes nicely equipped with a heated steering wheel as well as heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. Other highlights include suede and fabric upholstery, a 128-color ambient lighting system, and dual wireless smartphone chargers.

 The First Autonomous Robocar You Can Own Hides Its Steering Wheel Until It Wants You To Drive

While the interior is pretty bland, the company claims the model is the “world’s first AI agentic car” and goes “far beyond a basic voice assistant.” In particular, they said an “AI agent continuously processes data from in-cabin cameras, microphones, and other sensors.” The company claims this will enable owners to say something along the lines of “Pick up Mom from her house and bring her here” or “Drop me off at the airport and then return home.”

Despite all the monitoring equipment, Tensor said they’re focused on privacy and all data is processed and stored locally. However, they noted “users can access their data via the end-to-end encrypted smartphone app” and, let’s face it, anything connected to the internet isn’t 100% safe. On the bright side, if you’re concerned about privacy and security, there are physical camera covers and microphone off switches.

Electric And Autonomous

Powertrain details are sparse as the company said the model is an EV with a 112 kWh battery pack. When the battery is low, it can go from a 20% to 80% charge in as little as 10 minutes. Tensor also mentioned the crossover has four-wheel steering and an air suspension.

The real star is the Level 4 autonomous driving technology that allows the vehicle to “operate entirely without driver input under defined conditions.” This is enabled by over 100 sensors including 37 cameras, 5 lidars, 11 radars, 22 microphones, 10 ultrasonic sensors, 3 IMUs, GNSS, 16 collision detectors, 8 water-level detectors, 4 tire-pressure sensors, and 1 smoke detector.

Of course, if you prefer to drive yourself, you can still take the wheel and operate it like any other car.

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Since the robocar is designed for normal people who won’t spend time prepping it for every journey, Tensor had to develop a way to protect and clean the various sensors. As a result, there’s an intelligent cleaning system with dedicated wipers and nozzles as well as protective sensor covers that deploy when the vehicle is not in use. The car also has self-diagnosis to ensure everything is in working order.

The sensors feed data to an onboard supercomputer with 8,000 TOPs. There’s also a “dual-system AI” that “mirrors human cognition.” The company said, “System 1 delivers fast, reflexive responses through imitation learning from expert drivers, while System 2 uses a sophisticated multimodal Visual Language Model to reason through rare and complex edge cases.” The end result is supposedly confident navigation even in rain or fog.

Tensor went on to say their “advanced electrical and electronic architecture delivers full-stack redundancy – across power, communications, and control – ensuring fail-operational performance in any scenario.”

Could Arrive As Early As Next Year

While a number of questions remain, the company has partnered with VinFast, who will build the robocar at their Hai Phong factory in Vietnam. If everything goes according to plan, the first deliveries will occur in the second half of 2026 and the model will be offered in Europe, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates.

Lastly, the company has partnered with Marsh to offer the “world’s first insurance policy for robocars.” This promises to deliver cheap rates as “data shows that L4 autonomous vehicles are safer, and your insurance premiums should reflect that.”

 The First Autonomous Robocar You Can Own Hides Its Steering Wheel Until It Wants You To Drive

Chevrolet’s Newest EV Sure Looks Familiar

  • The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt has been spied undisguised, ahead of a debut later this year.
  • Despite going away for a few years, the ‘new’ model is essentially a facelifted Bolt EUV.
  • The upcoming crossover will have LFP batteries and a Supercharger-friendly NACS port.

Chevrolet recently kicked off the teaser campaign for the 2027 Bolt and now spy photographers have caught the model completely undisguised. However, there isn’t much to get excited about as it’s essentially a facelifted version of the previous Bolt EUV.

The model is instantly recognizable, but adopts a new front fascia with an X-like accent. The intake has also been updated as it trades horizontal lines for a more stylish honeycomb mesh pattern. Furthermore, the lighting units receive subtle tweaks, while there’s a less pronounced nose with a small bowtie logo.

More: GM Brings Back America’s Cheapest EV With A Few New Tricks

The profile appears straight out of 2022, but we wouldn’t be surprised if there are small changes. This could include new wheels and lightly revised cladding.

The prototype was spied testing alongside the Bolt EUV and this allows for an easy rear end comparison. The liftgate and spoiler appear to carryover, but there are new taillights with a more eye-catching appearance. They’re joined by a classier bumper, which features additional paint and slimmer reflectors. We can also see a thin section that appears to have a black geometric pattern.

 Chevrolet’s Newest EV Sure Looks Familiar

Chevrolet hasn’t said much about the model, which originally went out of production in December of 2023. However, they recently confirmed it will have a NACS charging port and “some other cool stuff.”

The Bolt will ride on the BEV2 platform and feature lithium iron phosphate batteries that are initially sourced from CATL. This has been billed as a “two-year stopgap” measure until US production ramps up.

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We’ll learn more in the coming months, but the 2023 Bolt EUV had a 65 kWh battery pack that powered a front-mounted motor developing 200 hp (149 kW / 203 PS) and 266 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque. This setup enabled the model to have an EPA-estimated range of 247 miles (398 km).

Chevrolet has said the Bolt will become their most affordable electric vehicle and this means it will slot beneath the popular Equinox EV. The crossover starts at $33,600 before a $1,395 destination fee.

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Trump Administration Rolls Out Updated EV Charger Program

  • US updates EV charger program to streamline approvals and expand funding access for states.
  • New rules let states deploy charging stations with fewer regulatory and planning requirements.
  • Transportation Secretary criticizes subsidies yet commits to implementing federal charger program.

Earlier this year, the Federal Highway Administration effectively paused the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program. At the time, state transportation directors were told the Trump administration had “decided to review the policies underlying the implementation of the NEVI” program and its guidance would be updated to better align with their latest priorities.

Many people feared that would mean disastrous things for the $5 billion program, which was part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. However, the Trump administration is now reluctantly moving ahead with plans to support electric vehicle charging.

More: Trump Administration Hits Pause On EV Charger Funding

The Department of Transportation unveiled revised guidance for the program, which they claimed will “streamline applications, provide states with more flexibility, and slash red tape left by the Biden-Buttigieg Administration.” The Trump administration went on to claim their predecessors “wasted time, money, and public trust in implementing the program.”

Fewer requirements, more flexibility

Political mudslinging aside, the government said the changes minimize the content necessary in state plans, while also simplifying their approval process. States can also expect more flexibility to determine the appropriate distance between charging stations.

 Trump Administration Rolls Out Updated EV Charger Program

DOE DC fast charger map

While it’s hard to argue with those updates, the government also noted the changes eliminate “requirements for states to address consumer protections, emergency evacuation plans, environmental siting, resilience and terrain considerations.”

This sounds like a terrible idea as a lack of charging stations on emergency evacuation routes could be a matter of life or death. However, the government said states “should … address emergency and evacuation needs, snow removal and seasonal needs, and ways for EV charging to support those needs.”

A quick deadline ahead

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said, “While I don’t agree with subsidizing green energy, we will respect Congress’ will and make sure this program uses federal resources efficiently.” He added, “Our revised NEVI guidance slashes red tape and makes it easier for states to efficiently build out this infrastructure.”

With the updated guidance released, the clock starts ticking as the government said states should submit their EV Infrastructure Deployment Plans within 30 days. That’s a quick turnaround and one that could prove bumpy.

 Trump Administration Rolls Out Updated EV Charger Program

Lucid Prepares An SUV That’s Built For More Than The Highway

  • Lucid will introduce a new concept at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
  • The model appears to be an off-road inspired EV with cladding and a roof rack.
  • It’s based on the 828 hp Gravity Grand Touring, which begins at $94,900.

Lucid will use Monterey Car Week to introduce a new concept that is based on the Gravity Grand Touring. The company isn’t saying much at this point, but implied it’s an off-road focus model designed for “electric exploration.”

While the automaker is staying tight-lipped, they released a handful of teaser images that appear to show chunky side skirts and gloss black wheels. We can also get a glimpse of a roof rack that features integrated auxiliary lights.

More: Lucid Gravity SUV Finally Goes Into Production

The mysterious concept will be unveiled on August 14, before making a public debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on the 17. Little else is known about the model at this point, but the Gravity Grand Touring starts at $94,900 and features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system developing 828 hp (617 kW / 840 PS). It enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.4 seconds and travel up to 450 miles (724 km) on a single charge.

Besides eye-popping numbers, the crossover has LED lighting units, a frunk, and a power liftgate. They’re joined by staggered wheels that measure 20 inches front and 21 inches rear.

The standard five-seat interior sports PurLuxe upholstery as well as heating and 12-way power adjustment up front. Buyers will also find a 34-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment system as well as a 12.6-inch lower display. Other niceties include a ten-speaker audio system, a wireless smartphone charger, and an ambient lighting system.

Besides showcasing the concept, Lucid will offer demonstration drives of the Air and Gravity to the public. Attendees can also visit their booth to learn more about the vehicles as well as enjoy wellness drinks, a “cryo-fueled refresh,” and a “scent journey inspired by California’s iconic terrains.”

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Camaro ZL1 Could Return As Tri-Motor Electric Crossover Packing Hypercar Power

  • New report claims the Camaro will return next year as a performance electric crossover.
  • It could battle the Mustang Mach-E while using familiar GM-sourced electric components.
  • We’re a little skeptical, but there’s word of a tri-motor ZL1 with around 1,000 horsepower.

When Chevrolet announced plans to phase out their sixth-generation muscle car, they were adamant it was “not the end of [the] Camaro’s story.” We’ve heard quite a few rumors since then and the latest is claiming the model could return in the fall of 2026 as a Ford Mustang Mach-E competitor.

This stands in stark contrast to a recent report indicating Chevrolet is working on a sporty sedan, which could debut in 2028 to challenge the Dodge Charger. It’s believed that model would effectively replace both the Camaro and Malibu, and feature a hybrid powertrain.

More: Chevy’s Biggest Surprise Might Wear A Classic Name And Look Nothing Like The Original

While everything should be taken with a grain of salt, MotorTrend is reporting the Camaro crossover will ride on the Ultium platform and likely raid the GM parts bin. As a result, the model could be offered with 85- and 102 kWh battery packs sourced from the Blazer EV.

The crossover could also use familiar electric motors as the rear-wheel drive variant may have one producing 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS) and 325 lb-ft (440 Nm) of torque. The all-wheel drive model could also mimic the Blazer EV by offering 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS) and 355 lb-ft (481 Nm).

 Camaro ZL1 Could Return As Tri-Motor Electric Crossover Packing Hypercar Power

An SS variant is also rumored and it would presumably share its powertrain with the Blazer EV SS. That means we could be looking at a combined output of 615 hp (459 kW / 623 PS) and 650 lb-ft (880 Nm) of torque.

More interestingly, the report suggests the Camaro ZL1 could return with a tri-motor powertrain sourced from the GMC Hummer EV lineup. This could result in a mind-blowing crossover as the professional grade model offers outputs of 830 hp (619 kW / 842 PS) and 1,160 hp (865 kW / 1,176 PS).

 Camaro ZL1 Could Return As Tri-Motor Electric Crossover Packing Hypercar Power

Mercedes’ Entry-Level Crossover Is Getting An Electrifying Makeover

  • The redesigned Mercedes GLA has been spied undergoing testing in Europe.
  • Despite heavy camouflage, we can see a streamlined and more upscale design.
  • The crossover will ride on the MMA platform and offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric options.

Mercedes teased the redesigned GLA nearly two years ago and now spy photographers have snapped the first pictures of the entry-level crossover. Spotted in the distance, the model will usher in some big changes including a fully electric variant.

Dressed in heavy camouflage, the prototype appears to sport a fully enclosed grille that is flanked by angular headlights. We can also get a glimpse of slender air intakes and a more expressive front bumper.

More: New Mercedes GLB Spied With A Wild Tail Light Design

Continuing further back, the model has pronounced fender flares and streamlined bodywork that’s edgy and taut. Designers also gave the crossover flush-mounted door handles, an angular beltline, and a more dramatic greenhouse.

The rear end has been completely revamped and looks far more interesting. It has a sculpted liftgate with an angular rear window and a wraparound spoiler. They’re accompanied by bold taillights that incorporate a star motif. The bumper looks a little plain by comparison, but it sports a new license plate recess as well as a lack of exhaust cut outs.

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The interior appears to be camouflaged, but it will likely follow in the footsteps of the CLA. This means we can expect a minimalist design focused on screens. The latter should include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, and a 14-inch front passenger display. They’ll run the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System and have artificial intelligence from both Microsoft and Google.

Powertrains should also echo the CLA and this means we can expect an EV with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing a combined output of 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque. It should also have an 85 kWh battery pack and a DC fast charging capability of up to 320 kW.

The MMA-based crossover should also have a hybrid powertrain that consists of a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 1.3 kWh battery, and an electric motor that is integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. A plug-in hybrid variant is also expected, meaning customers won’t have any shortage of options.

 Mercedes’ Entry-Level Crossover Is Getting An Electrifying Makeover

Jeep Doubles Down On Hemi Power And Will Add New V8 Models

  • Jeep’s CEO has revealed the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 is sticking around.
  • More V8 models are in the works, hinting at a possible SRT variant.
  • The Wrangler and Gladiator will be getting new customization options.

In 2024, Jeep launched the Wrangler 392 Final Edition as a last Hemi hurrah. Unfortunately for buyers, it wasn’t so final as the model returned for 2025 due to “popular demand.”

Fast forward to today and Jeep is changing their tune entirely. Speaking at a media event in Detroit, CEO Bob Broderdorf confirmed the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 isn’t going anywhere.

More: It’s Got A Hemi! 5.7-liter V8 Returns In 2026 Ram 1500

That’s great news for Wrangler fans as the almighty V8 pumps out 470 hp (350 kW / 476 PS) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque. This enables the SUV to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.5 seconds and run the quarter mile in 13 seconds flat.

While it’s nice to see the engine sticking around, Broderdorf confirmed additional V8 models are on the horizon. With the return of SRT, this has us hopeful for a new Grand Cherokee SRT8 or Trackhawk. It’s also not hard to imagine the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 returning to the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L.

 Jeep Doubles Down On Hemi Power And Will Add New V8 Models

Only time will tell what happens, but Broderdorf said other powertrains are in the works. We got a glimpse of one earlier today as the teaser image for the 2026 Grand Wagoneer suggested it will have a range-extended powertrain. The company has also previously confirmed plans for a hybrid Cherokee and a plug-in hybrid Gladiator 4xe.

Broderdorf said powertrains are the “heart and soul” of vehicles, so the new options should get customers excited. He also believes they’ll open up new opportunities for the brand as well as usher in new buyers. We’ve already seen this play out as the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe quickly established themselves as some of the most popular plug-in hybrids in America.

Wrangler And Gladiator Will Get More Options

 Jeep Doubles Down On Hemi Power And Will Add New V8 Models

Besides talking about powertrains, Broderdorf told us the Wrangler and Gladiator will offer more personalization and customization in the future. We can also expect additional options including larger tire sizes.

The exact specifics remain to be seen, but the executive suggested buyers will be able to order uniquely colored components such as fender flares. This will enable Jeep to tap even deeper into the highly profitable market for customization.

 Jeep Doubles Down On Hemi Power And Will Add New V8 Models

Jeep’s New Grand Wagoneer Shows Its Face But Hides Something Even Bigger

  • Jeep has teased the facelifted 2026 Grand Wagoneer, ahead of its debut this fall.
  • New design inspired by Wagoneer S features light bar and illuminated grille.
  • The luxury SUV could be offered with an all-new range-extended powertrain.

During a media briefing in Detroit, Jeep officials revealed four new models are coming in the next four months. This includes the redesigned Cherokee, the facelifted Grand Cherokee, and the all-new Recon. While we’ve already seen those vehicles before, Jeep has now released the first picture of the 2026 Grand Wagoneer.

Set to arrive this fall, the full-size SUV adopts an all-new front fascia that draws inspiration from the Wagoneer S. It features a minimalist seven-slot grille with an integrated LED light bar. They’re flanked by slimmer headlights that have horizontal daytime running lights.

More: Jeep Launches A $76,535 SUV For Value-Conscious Consumers

The changes continue below with an edgier bumper, which has a larger air intake with linear accents. They’re accompanied by new lights that give off a bit of a Volvo vibe.

Eagle-eyed observers will also notice a charging port on the front fender, indicating this is likely the Grand Wagoneer 4xe. The range-extended variant was announced over a year ago and it’s expected to use the same powertrain as the Ram 1500 Ramcharger.

This means we can look forward to a 3.6-liter V6 engine, a dual-motor all-wheel drive system, and a roughly 92 kWh battery pack. This setup gives the truck 663 hp (494 kW / 672 PS) and 615 lb-ft (833 Nm) of torque as well as a range of up to 690 miles (1,110 km).

If you’re not ready to embrace electrification, there should be a familiar twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six. It currently develops 540 hp (403 kW / 548 PS) and 521 lb-ft (706 Nm) of torque.

While the Grand Wagoneer got off to a less than stellar start, Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf sounded upbeat on the future of their full-size SUVs. He also revealed the standard Wagoneer will follow shortly after the flagship and implied there could be greater differentiation between the two models. That remains to be seen, but it would be nice if the Grand Wagoneer didn’t look virtually identical to the mainstream variant.

 Jeep’s New Grand Wagoneer Shows Its Face But Hides Something Even Bigger

GM And Hyundai Team Up For Five Joint Models

  • GM and Hyundai are teaming up to jointly develop five new vehicles.
  • South and Central America will be getting two trucks, a car, and a crossover.
  • The only model for North America is an electric commercial van.

Following months of rumors, General Motors and Hyundai have officially announced plans for five co-developed vehicles. However, many of them are destined for Central and South America.

The companies were tight-lipped on specifics, but confirm plans for a compact car, a compact crossover, and a compact truck. There will also be a mid-size pickup, whose development will be led by GM. Hyundai will take the lead for the remaining vehicles and all of them will have the “flexibility to use either internal combustion or hybrid propulsion systems.”

More: GM And Hyundai Want To Make Cars Together, Sign Agreement To Explore Opportunities

The only model for North America is an electric commercial van. Rumors have suggested GM could get a version of the Hyundai ST1 or Kia PV5 to serve as a successor to the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana.

If everything goes according to plan, the companies could sell more than 800,000 co-developed vehicles annually. The automakers added that while the vehicles will have a lot in common, each version will have “unique interiors and exteriors consistent with their respective brands.”

 GM And Hyundai Team Up For Five Joint Models

Design and development is already underway, and models built for Central and South America will be launched in 2028. The commercial van could arrive as early as 2028 and will be built in America.

Aside from new models, the companies are planning “joint sourcing initiatives in North and South America for materials, transport, and logistics.” They’re also eyeing other areas of collaboration including on raw materials, components, low-carbon emissions steel, and “complex systems.”

Hyundai CEO José Muñoz said the “strategic collaboration with GM will help us continue to deliver value and choice to our customers across multiple vehicle segments and markets. Our combined scale in North and South America helps us to more efficiently provide our customers more of what they want – beautifully designed, high-quality, safety focused vehicles with technology they appreciate.”

 GM And Hyundai Team Up For Five Joint Models

Those sentiments were echoed by GM senior vice president Shilpan Amin, who said “By partnering together, GM and Hyundai will bring more choice to our customers faster, and at lower cost. These first co-developed vehicles clearly demonstrate how GM and Hyundai will leverage our complementary strengths and combined scale.”

In a glorified blog post, Amin said the commercial van will be a “smaller sibling” to the Chevrolet BrightDrop EVs. He added the partnership makes a lot of sense as the companies can reduce costs, streamline manufacturing, and launch new vehicles faster by teaming up.

 GM And Hyundai Team Up For Five Joint Models

Amin went on to say the collaboration will enable GM to broaden their lineup. This is a not so subtle hint that going alone on an electric commercial van wouldn’t make much sense, especially after BrightDrop’s dismal failure.

Of course, GM is no stranger to van collaborations as the company used to offer the Chevrolet City Express. It was a rebadged Nissan NV200, which saw lackluster demand and was discontinued in 2018.

Chevy EVs Just Hit Two Huge Milestones And Elon Won’t Be Happy

  • A 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV recently traveled 1,059.2 miles on a single charge.
  • While impressive, the lightly modified truck was driven in one-hour shifts at low speeds.
  • The Equinox EV had the best monthly sales of any non-Tesla EV in July.

The Lucid Air Grand Touring recently traveled 748.8 miles (1,205 km) to set a new Guinness World Records title for the “longest journey by an electric car on a single charge.” Now, less than a month later, Chevrolet has blown past that by traveling a whopping 1,059.2 miles (1,704.6 km) on a single charge.

The feat was set using a 2026 Silverado EV Max Range Work Truck, which has an EPA-estimated range of up to 493 miles (793 km). However, this wasn’t a one and done thing as the company acknowledged the team drove the truck on public roads in “one-hour shifts.”

More: Chevy’s Electric Truck Just Got A Major Off-Road Boost

That isn’t the only caveat as “drivers were advised to maintain an average speed of 20-25 mph and to minimize any hard braking or quick accelerating.” The spare tire was also removed to lighten the vehicle, while the wheel alignment was optimized and an accessory tonneau cover was added for smoother airflow. The team also kept the climate control system off, which isn’t exactly a realistic thing to ask owners to do in summer.

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This means that while the distance is impressive, it’s not as fantastic as it sounds. It also seems far less remarkable than the Air’s record, which saw the car travel between St. Moritz and Munich using a mix of alpine passes, highways, and secondary roads.

Chevrolet Equinox EV Hits New Sales Record

In other news, GM said they hit a new record for electric vehicle sales in July. Americans bought more than 19,000 GM EVs last month and that’s up 115% from a year ago.

The affordable Equinox EV was responsible for nearly half of all sales as consumers snapped up more than 8,500 units. While the automaker didn’t release hard numbers, they said the crossover had the best ever monthly sales for a non-Tesla EV in the United States.

GM went on to say “Industry-wide EV demand is surging, boosted in part by the upcoming expiration of the U.S. federal consumer tax credit program.” Of course, once the credit expires, EV sales could dry up like a Texas creek in July.

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Genesis’ Flagship SUV Is Hiding A Secret Worthy Of Rolls-Royce

  • The upcoming Genesis GV90 is stripping down and revealing new details.
  • The latest prototype is equipped with Rolls-Royce style coach doors.
  • The electric crossover is expected to ride on a new platform and feature the latest tech.

This month marks the third anniversary of the first GV90 spy photos, but the wait is almost over. That’s clear from the latest batch of pictures, which reveal a modestly camouflaged prototype with coach doors.

Caught undergoing testing in Europe, the brand’s flagship crossover follows in the footsteps of the Neolun concept and features a triangular grille with split lighting units. They’re joined by a sizable lower intake, which is divided into two different sections each sporting a unique diamond mesh pattern.

More: Genesis’ New Flagship Looks Like A Giant Minivan

The profile closely echoes the original concept, but the road-going model sports traditional mirrors and flush-mounted door handles. The latter are placed front to back, just like a Rolls-Royce.

Other notable highlights include a pronounced shoulder line, bright window trim, and a rear-mounted charging port. It’s also worth mentioning the visible part of the third-quarter glass is significantly smaller than the window itself.

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Out back, there’s a large liftgate with a rectangular window. They’re accompanied by split taillights and a bumper with a large recess.

While the exterior looks a little dull, the interior aims to be a luxurious oasis. Previous spy photos have shown an elegant second-row with captain’s chairs separated by a large center console. The latter appears to house a wireless smartphone charger as well as an integrated tablet.

 Genesis’ Flagship SUV Is Hiding A Secret Worthy Of Rolls-Royce

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We can also expect a minimalist cockpit that eschews a traditional instrument cluster. Instead, there will be a large center-mounted display that mimics Tesla’s setup.

Genesis has been tight-lipped about the crossover, but it’s rumored to ride on the new eM platform. It’s expected to be an evolution of the existing E-GMP architecture, and this means the GV90 should be more advanced than the similar Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9.

The latter features a 110.3 kWh battery pack as well as a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing up to 422 hp (315 kW / 429 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. With that powertrain, the model has a range of 311 miles (501 km).

 Genesis’ Flagship SUV Is Hiding A Secret Worthy Of Rolls-Royce

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VW’s Ill-Fated Electric Sports Car Still Looks Great Nearly A Decade Later

  • Volkswagen Design spokesperson Stepan Rehak has revealed an electric sports car concept.
  • The model was sketched in 2017 as a possible addition to the ID. family of EVs.
  • The car drew inspiration from the SP2 and would have rode on the MEB platform.

Audi is gearing up to preview the TT successor at the Munich Motor Show, but Volkswagen was working on an electric sports car concept of their own years ago. It drew inspiration from the 1970’s SP2 and would have been a member of the ID. family.

Quietly revealed by Volkswagen’s Stepan Rehak as part of a Blast from the Past series, the sketch was created in 2017 and features a retro-futuristic design that “pays tribute to Giugiaro’s iconic style: clean surfaces, strong proportions, and bold graphics.” It was envisioned to ride on the MEB platform and would have undoubtedly been an eye-catching addition to the lineup.

More: VW Shows Near-Production Prototype Of The Axed Second-Gen Phaeton

While Rehak didn’t say much about the car, it features an SP2-inspired front end with a small Volkswagen emblem that is flanked by slender headlights. The model also sports angular bodywork, which is contrasted by circular wheel arches.

 VW’s Ill-Fated Electric Sports Car Still Looks Great Nearly A Decade Later

Other notable highlights include aerodynamically optimized wheels and a sporty greenhouse. They’re accompanied by flush-mounted door handles, minimalist mirrors, and a wraparound rear light bar.

The SP2 isn’t widely known, but the sports car was created by Volkswagen do Brasil and launched in 1972. It featured a 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine that reportedly developed 64 hp (48 kW / 65 PS) and 89 lb-ft (121 Nm) of torque. It was paired to a four-speed manual, which allegedly resulted in a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 15 seconds flat.

 VW’s Ill-Fated Electric Sports Car Still Looks Great Nearly A Decade Later

Image credits: VW & Stepan Rehak | H/T to Motor1

Maserati’s Salvation Could Come From Alfa Romeo

  • Maserati is struggling, but they could get a boost from closer ties to Alfa Romeo.
  • The two companies could share platforms, engines, software, and electronics in the future.
  • The upcoming Giulia and Stelvio could serve as the basis for the next Quattroporte and Levante.

Maserati’s lineup is a bit of a mess as the brand discontinued key models such as the Ghibli, Levante, and Quattroporte. This has left them with the overpriced Grecale and an assortment of sports cars.

That wasn’t supposed to be the case as Maserati was working on a new Quattroporte. However, development was reportedly halted in 2023. The model was then postponed, before Stellantis scrapped a huge investment in the firm, putting its future in further doubt.

More: Stellantis Pulls The Plug On Maserati’s Future After Cancelling $1.6B Investment

Hope might not be lost as a new report suggests Maserati could raid the Alfa Romeo parts bin and cobble something together. In particular, the redesigned Giulia and Stelvio could serve as the basis for the next-generation Quattroporte and Levante.

Speaking with Autocar, Alfa Romeo and Maserati CEO Santo Ficili said they’re pushing for “synergies” between the two brands and this could make their vehicles more closely related. This suggests the upcoming Quattroporte and Levante could be based on the STLA Large platform, which also underpins an assortment of other models including the Dodge Charger and Jeep Wagoneer S.

 Maserati’s Salvation Could Come From Alfa Romeo

While the next Quattroporte was originally slated to be electric-only, Maserati now appears to believe that would be a mistake. As Ficili explained, “We need to talk with our customers, because they are a bit confused at this time” with so many options including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric vehicles.

He went on to say going electric-only is a “question of timing,” but they’re not ready yet. As a result, he said “we need to consider MHEV and PHEV engines, depending on the development of the technology we want to follow.”

This could make the Giulia and Stelvio a prime base for future models as they’re slated to be offered with gas, plug-in hybrid, and electric options. The benefits wouldn’t end there as relying on Alfa Romeo and the STLA Large platform would speed development, while also cutting costs.

 Maserati’s Salvation Could Come From Alfa Romeo

However, there are risks to this strategy as Alfa Romeo and Maserati models could become too similar. Alfa is no stranger to this as the Tonale is virtually identical to the Dodge Hornet.

That being said, Ficili acknowledged the need to keep Alfa Romeo and Maserati “separated.” However, he believes they can share a lot including “platforms, electronic architectures, software and probably powertrains.”

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Ford Bracing For A $2 Billion Blow From Trump’s Tariff Legacy

  • Tariffs have already cost Ford $800M and could hit $2B by year’s end.
  • It posted record $50.2B Q2 revenue but still recorded a $36M net loss.
  • US market share rose to 14.2% as demand surged for larger SUVs.

Ford has become the latest automaker to report a hefty blow from tariffs enacted by the Trump administration. In their second quarter earnings report, the company revealed the increased fees cost them around $800 million.

More: Trump’s Tariffs Are Crushing VW’s Bottom Line

That’s substantially less than GM’s $1.1 billion hit, but the damage is far from over. If everything pans out as expected, tariffs could cost Ford about $2 billion this year alone. That would be enough to pay 20,000 employees $100,000 each or, possibly, address their embarrassing recallathon.

Strong Revenue, But Special Charges Drag Earnings

Beyond the tariff toll, Ford posted record second-quarter revenues of $50.2 billion. Despite this, the company “incurred a net loss of $36 million as a result of special items.” The company chalked the latter up to a “field service action and expenses related to a previously announced cancellation of an electric vehicle program,” which presumably refers to their axed three-row SUVs.

 Ford Bracing For A $2 Billion Blow From Trump’s Tariff Legacy

Ford has also adjusted its full-year outlook. The company now expects an adjusted EBIT of $6.5 to $7.5 billion, a drop from its earlier projection of $7.0 to $8.5 billion. This change reflects ongoing challenges, including those tied to supply chains, shifting demand, and the broader effects of trade policy.

Despite some mixed news, Ford CFO Sherry House said they’re transforming the Blue Oval into a “higher-growth, higher-margin and more durable business – and allocating capital where we can compete, win and grow.”

 Ford Bracing For A $2 Billion Blow From Trump’s Tariff Legacy

Trucks, Broncos, and a Boost in Market Share

Financial numbers aside, Ford said their truck portfolio delivered its best performance in 20 years and they also set a new record for Bronco sales. The automaker went on to cite high demand for the redesigned Expedition and Navigator, while the Ranger plug-in hybrid has been “well received across Europe.” Back in America, market share has climbed 1.7 points to 14.2%.

Ford noted electrified vehicles now account for nearly 14% of U.S. sales and they’ll be hosting an event on August 11. The company isn’t saying much at this point, but revealed they’ll “share more about our plans to design and build breakthrough electric vehicles in America.”

Kia’s Hot Electric Hatch Might Be Hiding More Power Than You’d Ever Expect

  • Spy photographers have snapped the first pictures of the Kia EV4 GT Hatchback.
  • It could arrive sometime next year with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system.
  • Besides colorful brake calipers, we can expect sportier bumpers and a revamped interior.

The 2026 Kia EV4 won’t arrive in the United States until early next year, but spy photographers have already caught a high-performance hatchback in Europe. It combines performance and practicality in a bid to battle rivals such as the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX.

The prototype is heavily disguised, but we can see a few telltale signs indicating this isn’t your typical run-of-the-mill model. The most notable are the neon yellow brake calipers, which have been a fixture on the EV6 GT and EV9 GT. They’re joined by two-tone wheels that could be unique to the model.

More: 2026 Kia EV4 Arrives To Take On The Tesla Model 3 And VW ID.3 

While the black disguise hides most of the design, we wouldn’t be surprised to find sportier bumpers and additional body color accents. The EV4 GT could also come equipped with a revamped interior featuring a sport steering wheel, special seats, and plenty of GT badging.

The standard EV4 rides on the E-GMP platform and offers a 58.3 or 81.4 kWh battery pack. They’re joined by a front-mounted motor producing a modest 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS). In sedan form, this should allow for ranges of 235 miles (378 km) and 330 miles (531 km).

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The EV4 GT will undoubtedly kick things up a notch, and we can expect it will have an 81.4 kWh battery that feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system. This could enable the car to have an output over 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS), and some are speculating it could have up to 480 hp (358 kW / 487 PS).

Regardless of the final power figure, we can expect a sportier driving experience thanks to a retuned suspension. We also wouldn’t be surprised to find a virtual gear shift feature, which simulates shifts with engine sound effects, visuals, and a tactile sensation through motor torque adjustments.

 Kia’s Hot Electric Hatch Might Be Hiding More Power Than You’d Ever Expect

Audi Will Preview A New Sports Coupe This Fall And It Could Be A Porsche In Disguise

  • Audi is gearing up to introduce an electrifying new concept this fall.
  • It’s being billed as a TT Moment 2.0, although the model won’t be a new TT.
  • Instead, the car will be larger and likely based on the Porsche 718 Electric.

The Audi TT went out of production in 2023 and we’ve heard countless rumors about its return. Spy photographers have even snapped a possible mule based on the upcoming Porsche 718 Electric.

While the model was believed to be a ways off, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner recently revealed a new car is coming and it will be their TT Moment 2.0. Speaking to Bild, Döllner said the electric concept will debut this fall and that likely means an unveiling during the Munich Motor Show.

More: This Porsche 718 Could Be Hiding Audi’s Next TT

Little is known about the “identity builder,” but an image of the car suggests it will be larger than the TT. In fact, it looks more like a shrunken down version of the A5 Coupe/Convertible. This kind of makes sense as Motor1 noted Döllner said it would be “something in between” a TT and R8.

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That certainly sounds like a new model based on the Porsche 718 Electric and the car is slated to go into production in the next two years. If everything turns out as expected, the TT successor could be considerably sportier and offered with an available dual-motor all-wheel drive system.

Details are hazy, but the 718 Electric has been plagued by problems and reports have suggested the car has been pushed back to 2027 due to battery issues. That could be a big problem as Porsche has already confirmed the current 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman will go out of production this October.

 Audi Will Preview A New Sports Coupe This Fall And It Could Be A Porsche In Disguise

Hyundai’s About To Hatch An Affordable EV

  • Spy photographers have snapped the first photos of an affordable Hyundai EV.
  • Expected to be called the Ioniq 2, the model looks like a hatchback version of the Kia EV2.
  • The car could have around 201 hp and slot above the Inster.

Kia has introduced a slew of affordable electric vehicles including the EV3 and EV4. The company has also shown an EV2 concept, which is headed for production.

Hyundai, on the other hand, has been focused on larger and more expensive vehicles such as the Ioniq 6 N and the Ioniq 9. However, an affordable model is on the way as spy photographers have caught what is believed to be the Ioniq 2.

More: Kia EV2 Spied As An Affordable Electric Box

The prototype is heavily disguised, but appears to be roughly the same size as the EV2. Despite the similarities, the Kia is positioned as a crossover while the Ioniq 2 is a more traditional hatchback. It sports an upright front fascia with a wide lower intake. They’re joined by an angular sensor and what appears to be slender lighting units.

The profile screams hatchback and the car features a gently sloping roof. We can also see a compact greenhouse as there’s a curvaceous sweeping beltline, which is contrasted by angular upper window frames. Hyundai also gave the prototype a set of modestly sized wheels, which are wrapped in Hankook iON GT rubber. These are summer tires designed specifically for compact electric vehicles.

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The rear end isn’t as tall as the camouflage suggests, but it appears the Ioniq 2 will have an upright rump with a relatively plain bumper. We can also get a glimpse of LED taillights and an angular rear window.

Little is known about the car at this point, but it will presumably have a lot in common with the EV2 as well as the EV3. This means it should ride on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and have a 58.3 kWh battery pack. They could be joined by a front-mounted motor producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS).

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Mary Kay’s Iconic Pink Cadillac Is Going Electric

  • Mary Kay will apparently replace the Cadillac XT5 with the electric Optiq crossover.
  • The cosmetics company has used pink cars since 1968, starting with a Coupe De Ville.

Mary Kay and their iconic pink Cadillacs are entering the electric era as the company unveiled an Optiq at their annual seminar in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The model features a pink pearl exterior, which is contrasted by black accents and chrome flourishes. We can also see some relatively subtle Mary Kay badging on the front doors.

More: Cadillac’s Baby V-Series Charges At Tesla Stations And Hits 60 In 3.5 Seconds

The crossover is the latest in a long line of pink Cadillacs, which started in 1968, when Mary Kay Ash purchased a Coupe De Ville. A dealer painted it to match Mary Kay’s pale pink lip and eye palette, and the hue would later become known as Mary Kay Pink Pearl.

The Optiq will apparently replace the pink XT5 as part of Mary Kay’s Career Car Program. It rewards top sellers with the use of an eye-catching Cadillac.

Mary Kay described the change as a “significant step forward” and one that reflects their “commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and meeting expectations of the next generation.” They added that the “transition from internal combustion to electric symbolizes more than just a vehicle upgrade, it marks a recharged vision for the future of the iconic beauty brand.”

The 2026 Optiq starts at $50,900 and features a host of upgrades, including a native NACS port for access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Buyers will also find two new powertrains, including a rear-wheel drive variant with 315 hp (235 kW / 319 PS) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.

Customers can also opt for an upgraded all-wheel drive model that develops 440 hp (328 kW / 446 PS) and 498 lb-ft (674 Nm) of torque. It’s a huge improvement over the previous rating of 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS) and 354 lb-ft (479 Nm).

 Mary Kay’s Iconic Pink Cadillac Is Going Electric
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