At a time when prices of new cars keep climbing out of reach for many households, Italy has launched a surprisingly generous scrappage scheme that makes some EVs almost absurdly affordable. Under the program, low-income buyers who trade in a car registered before 2015 could drive home in a brand-new Dacia Spring for as little as €3,900 (about $4,600 at current exchange rates).

The €597 million ($700 million) initiative is designed to increase electric car sales to at least 39,000 units by June 2026. Right now, fully electric vehicles represent only 5.2% of Italy’s market, far behind the European Union average of 15.8%.

More: The Cheapest Peugeot 308 Has Something You’ll Miss In Pricier Trims

To qualify for the full €11,000 ($12,900) discount, prospective EV buyers must scrap a Euro 5 (or earlier) vehicle, live in an urban area with more than 50,000 residents, and have a family income below €30,000 ($35,200). Households earning up to €40,000 ($46,900) can still access a reduced €9,000 ($10,600) bonus. Small companies also benefit, with subsidies covering 30% of an EV’s cost capped at €20,000 ($23,500) per new vehicle.

Pocket-Sized Prices

Dacia has trimmed the Italian starting price of the Spring EV from €17,900 ($21,000) to €14,900 ($17,500). With the full scrappage bonus applied, the figure falls to the headline-grabbing €3,900 ($4,600). That entry point is for the Essential Electric 45 trim, equipped with a 44 hp (33 kW / 45 PS) motor and a 26.8 kWh battery, good for a range of 225 km (140 miles).

Stellantis has also dropped the cost of the Leapmotor T03 from €18,900 ($22,200) to €15,900 ($18,700), meaning it can be purchased for €4,900 ($5,800) under the same scheme. As reported by Autonews, the Chinese brand claims that the heavily discounted price is “less than what you paid for your bicycle.”

More: Kia’s K4 Just Struck A Killer Blow To The VW Golf

Electric vehicles from other automakers are also eligible under the same scheme. Fiat offers the 500e from €9,950 ($11,700) and the electric version of the Grande Panda from €11,950 ($14,000). The closely-related Citroen e-C3 starts at €12,900 ($15,100), while the spacious e-C3 Aircross SUV is now offered from a discounted €15,790 ($18,500).

These prices are undeniably attractive, but the strict eligibility requirements mean the incentives only reach a narrow slice of the population. For now, the question is whether the subsidy will genuinely reshape Italy’s car market or simply deliver a short-term boost among those who qualify.

Citroen

Porsche is gearing up for the launch of the long-promised Cayenne Electric, a standalone addition to the existing gasoline and plug-in hybrid line-up. The full reveal isn’t due until later this year, but Stuttgart couldn’t help itself and pulled the covers off the interior early, and it’s basically one giant OLED showroom.

The Cayenne Electric ushers in what Porsche calls the “interior of the future,” a design that will eventually filter into other models. Taking center stage is the Flow Display, a curved OLED screen that dominates the middle of the dashboard. Thankfully, not every control has gone digital, with physical switches reserved for essentials like temperature, fan speed, and volume.

More: Porsche’s Big EV U-Turn Wipes Out Billions And Sparks Investor Panic

Still, even with those tokens of tradition, it’s about as far from a classic Porsche cabin as you can get, unless you think Stuttgart’s heritage has always been mood lighting and oversized tablet screens.

Screens, Screens Everywhere

The curved touchscreen pairs with a 14.25-inch OLED digital instrument cluster, an optional 87-inch augmented reality head-up display, and a 14.9-inch passenger screen that allows app control and video streaming. Technology also extends to the Porsche Digital Key, which can be shared with up to seven users, and a new AI-driven voice assistant.

Porsche claims the new Cayenne Electric offers more personalization than ever, with 13 interior color combinations, four interior packages, five accent packs, extended ambient lighting, and five digital themes. Added to that are the new Mood Modes, which coordinate lighting, climate, sound, and seating to match the driver’s preferences.

Porsche

New materials also make the cut. Leather comes in Magnesium Grey, Lavender, or Sage Grey, while the vegan-friendly Race-Tex interior with Pepita-patterned textile is billed as a nod to Porsche heritage.

More: Porsche Gentrifying ICE Is Just The Start Of Rich-Only Features

Then there’s the hardware flex. Among the available options is the largest glass roof ever to be fitted to a Porsche, featuring a sliding front area and a Variable Light Control function with clear, semi-transparent, and matte settings. Another cool feature is the surface heating on contact areas such as armrests and door cards, complementing the heated seats and steering wheel. Finally, the standard-fit electrically adjustable rear seats prioritize passenger space or cargo.

And of course, if all that still feels too ordinary, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and the Sonderwunsch program will happily relieve you of more cash for something “one-off.”

Porsche

What To Expect Outside

Camouflaged prototypes, shown by Porsche and captured by spy photographers, confirm that the Cayenne Electric will arrive in both traditional SUV and coupe-SUV forms. The styling seems to combine the current Cayenne’s proportions with influences from the smaller Macan EV, along with a sharper aerodynamic edge.

More: Porsche Gives Cayenne EV A Fixed Wing And 1,000 HP To Silence Doubters

Beneath the bodywork, the large Electric SUV sits on an evolved version of the Premium Platform Electric (PPE). The flagship version is expected to push out more than 1,000 horsepower, eclipsing the 730 hp of today’s Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid.

Energy will be stored in a 113 kWh battery pack with 400 kW fast-charging, wireless charging capability and a range of over 370 miles (595 km). Photos of the interior reveal a 546 km (340-mile) estimate on the cluster with the battery not quite at full charge.

We also know that the Cayenne Electric will feature Porsche’s Active Ride Suspension and offer a towing capacity of up to 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg) matching the majority of ICE-powered midsize pickups.

With its debut scheduled for the end of 2025, expect Stuttgart to drip-feed more details over the coming weeks and months.

Porsche

The compact hatchback is one of the fiercest battlegrounds in the European market, and Peugeot isn’t letting its 308 go dull. The facelifted hatch and station wagon are already on sale across Europe, but a look through the configurator shows that the humble Style trim not only comes well equipped, it also clings to a feature Peugeot has stripped from the top-spec GT Exclusive.

More: Stellantis SUV Loses Its Logo To Keep Pedestrians Safe

That feature is the physical climate control panel, complete with two rotary dials and a set of tactile buttons positioned beneath the central touchscreen. The same setup can be found on the Style, Business and Allure trims. However, the GT and GT Exclusive models get the “Peugeot i-toggles” touch-sensitive shortcuts. This means that adjusting the temperature requires a glance at the screen and a tap on the right area, a process that feels more distracting on the move.

Buttons Where They Matter

Interestingly, the cheapest 308 Style comes standard with a 10-inch infotainment and 10-inch digital instrument cluster, although it doesn’t get the nicer materials found in higher grades. Equipment also includes dual-zone A/C, rear parking sensors, electrically folding and heated mirrors, and a six speaker audio.

Furthermore, the exterior retains the sporty bumpers and full-LED lights introduced by the facelift, combined with a set of black 16-inch alloy wheels.

On the other end of the spectrum, the flagship Peugeot 308 GT Exclusive trim is distinguished by the diamond-cut 18-inch alloy wheels, the sharper side skirts, the matching front bumper extension, and the illuminated section on the grille which is joined by an illuminated Peugeot shield and Matrix LED headlights.

More: Peugeot Stuffed A Fiat Engine Into Its Sporty 208 And 2008 GTs In Brazil

Inside, the GT Exclusive is equipped with an upgraded instrument cluster featuring 3D graphics, ambient lighting, Alcantara upholstery, and the 360 Vision & Drive Assist Plus Pack suite bringing Level 2 autonomous driving capability. Options include a 10-speaker Focal audio system, a sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, all-season tires, and a retractable towing hitch.

Powertrain Options And Pricing

The facelifted Peugeot 308 is available with mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrain options. The most potent version is the PHEV, with a combined output of 192 hp (143 kW / 195 PS). The Style trim is reserved for the mild-hybrid and fully electric options, so those who want the PHEV and physical climate controls have to upgrade to the Business or the Allure.

More: Stellantis Finds Clever Way To Make EV Batteries Charge Faster And Run Longer

The cheapest Peugeot 308 Style Hybrid 145 currently starts at €28,390 ($33,300) in France, while the range-topping GT Exclusive trim with the same engine costs €33,277 ($39,100). The most expensive option is the 308 GT Exclusive Plug-in Hybrid 195 priced at at €39,780 ($46,700), which is €461 ($540) more than the equivalent Electrique 156.

Fortunately, most automakers have realized that customers want regular buttons and switches for crucial functions instead of having to navigate through complicated infotainment menus or use touch-sensitive controls. In this context, we expect future Stellantis models to feature a practical solution for the climate controls – from their entry-level trim all the way to the range-topping guise.

After 35 years in showrooms, the Subaru Legacy has officially bowed out of production in the United States. While there’s no new generation on the horizon, one independent designer has reimagined the sedan as if it were stepping into the electric era.

The fictional 2027 Subaru Legacy comes from Digimods Design, who shared the concept on his YouTube channel. Up front, the design takes cues from Subaru’s recent EVs, including the new Uncharted, the refreshed Solterra, and the Trailsport / E-Outback. The look is defined by slim LED headlights, a narrow grille, and a sharply contoured bumper.

More: Subaru Plans To Win Europe With Rebadged Toyotas, One Of Which Is An E-Outback

The greenhouse and the sheet metal on the profile are carried over from the outgoing seventh-generation Legacy that debuted in 2019 and received a facelift in 2023. However, the designer has added new alloy wheels and fresh color options.

The rear end of the midsize sedan adopts a more conventional approach. A pair of elongated LED taillights is combined with a modern tailgate and a sleeker bumper. The latter houses a split diffuser, proving that this Subaru doesn’t have a combustion engine up front.

Illustrations Digidmods Design / YouTube

The design study doesn’t include renderings of the interior, but it’s easy to imagine a high-tech digital cockpit similar to the other Toyota-based Subaru EVs.

More: Subaru’s Next Sports Car Might Not Burn Fuel

The outgoing Legacy sat on the Subaru Global Platform, which wasn’t designed with electric powertrains in mind. In a more speculative scenario, however, this hypothetical EV could borrow the dual-motor setup from the Uncharted crossover, offering 338 hp (252 kW / 344 PS) and Subaru’s trademark all-wheel drive.

For now, Subaru has given no sign that a Legacy EV is in the works. The brand’s electric strategy is centered on crossovers and SUVs developed with Toyota, which leaves little space in the lineup for a sedan.

Lancia has stepped into a new chapter, though right now its lineup is limited to the Ypsilon subcompact hatchback. A larger Gamma crossover and the long-awaited Delta are on the horizon, but fans of the Italian marque are still waiting for something more spirited with a sharper edge. Picking up on that idea, Christopher Giroux, a senior exterior designer at Ford, used his free time to reimagine the Montecarlo coupe of the 1970s for a modern era.

More: Lancia Is Reviving Its Most Iconic Nameplate

The Stellantis-owned Italian marque has already flirted with the idea of a sports car through the 2023 Pu+Ra HPE Concept, a Stratos-inspired study that never made it to production. Giroux’s Pu+Ra Montecarlo borrows some of that concept’s signature cues yet carries itself with the realism of a design that could plausibly make the leap to showrooms

A Coupe Reborn

Giroux chose to revive his favorite Lancia on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. The original Beta Montecarlo was introduced in 1975 as a mid-engined rear-wheel-drive sports car offered in coupe and targa bodystyles. Its design came from Paolo Martin at Pininfarina, who gave the car its unmistakable proportions and character.

To bring his vision up to date, Giroux combined traditional hand-drawn sketching with digital techniques such as Photoshop, Blender, and AI-assisted tools to bring it to life. The result is a sharp coupe that nods to Lancia’s storied past while looking unmistakably modern. Key references remain intact, including the darkened nose treatment and the signature flying buttresses, which he reimagined here in transparent glass.

Christopher Giroux

The Pu+Ra Montecarlo wears slim T-shaped LEDs on both ends, staying true to Lancia’s modern styling language. It also incorporates circular elements on the hood, roof and rear deck, similar to the company’s own Pu+Ra HPE Concept.

More: Is Stellantis Secretly Working On A New Lancia Fulvia?

At the front, the pronounced chin, aero blade and sculpted fenders add to the exotic stance of the coupe, while the wraparound greenhouse and the integrated spoiler send strong Stratos vibes. The profile has clean surfacing with a character line originating from the black side gills. At the rear, a thin light strip sits beneath another discreet spoiler, tying the look together.

The Racing Version

The Montecarlo’s history naturally extends to motorsport, as its chassis became the foundation for the legendary Lancia Rally 037, the last rear-wheel drive car to take a WRC crown. In recognition of that heritage, Giroux imagined a rally-ready Pu+Ra Montecarlo finished in the unmistakable Alitalia livery that adorned the Stratos HF.

More: Lancia HF Integrale Returns With White Wheels And Something To Prove

This competition versions rides on different alloy wheels finished in gold and features a redesigned bodykit. Changes include the aggressive bumper intakes with futuristic LEDs, a discreet splitter, a hood scoop, new side gills, a ducktail spoiler, a more prominent diffuser, and a vented rear deck.

Christopher Giroux

The designer has not specified what would sit beneath the skin, though the car’s proportions and styling cues hint at a battery-electric drivetrain. Even so, early sketches showing twin exhaust outlets and the rally car’s vented rear suggest the possibility of a hybrid arrangement with a mid-mounted combustion engine.

Could It Happen?

As tempting as the idea of a new Lancia sports car may be, the brand first needs to secure strong sales to justify Stellantis’ investment. For now, the odds of seeing an Aurelia, Fulvia, Stratos, Montecarlo, or 037 return remain slim. Even so, projects like this design study show just how convincingly a modern coupe could serve as a halo model, reminding us what makes the marque so captivating in the first place

Special thanks to Christopher Giroux for sharing his vision with us!

The ghosts of British motoring past continue to resurface, this time in the form of a pint-sized retro EV from the revived Austin Motor Company. At first glance the Arrow could pass for a vintage roadster, yet it is officially classed as an L7e heavy quadricycle, putting it in the same category as the Citroen Ami and Fiat Topolino urban EVs.

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A prototype was shown back in 2023, but this is our first proper look at the finished production car that just went on sale. Its styling leans heavily on the Austin Seven that debuted in 1922 and went on to be raced by legends such as Bruce McLaren and Colin Chapman.

Classic Cues With A Modern Twist

Key design flourishes include exposed wheels, circular headlamps, a traditional grille, leather bonnet straps, and a tub-shaped body reminiscent of the Morgan Super 3. At just 3.7 metres (145.7 inches) long, the Arrow is shorter than most subcompact hatchbacks, which should make it light on its feet in tight city streets.

The interior is also full-on retro with a wooden steering wheel, leather seats, and analogue dials in the middle of the dashboard. The model is available in both right-hand- and left-hand-drive configurations.

Buyers have plenty of personalization options. The color palette includes eleven shades that can be combined with Nickel or Shadow accents. The company also offers three different finishes for the wheels and seven colors for the leather upholstery.

Austin Motor Company

Small But Spirited

Underneath the nostalgic skin sits a single electric motor delivering 20 hp (15 kW). While that figure sounds comically low, the Arrow weighs only 605 kg (1,334 lbs), allowing it to reach its advertised 100 km/h (62 mph) top speed in brisk 7.8 seconds. In fact, that’s half a second faster than Europe’s base Mazda MX-5 with the 130hp 1.5-liter engine.

Power comes from a 20 kWh battery pack, good for up to 100 miles (160 km) between charges, with a full recharge taking around three hours.

More: Aznom Turns Original Smart ForTwo Into An $25K EV For 14-Year-Olds

The man behind the project is Nigel Gordon-Stewart, whose CV includes stints at Lamborghini, McLaren, Lotus, and MG. Speaking on Instagram, he said the Arrow “really does drive rather well… just lots of fun with a nostalgic technology feel… You certainly stand out from the crowd, and it makes EV driving a wonderful and joyous experience.”

How Much Does it Cost?

Deliveries have already started in the UK, with exports to the US and the Middle East on the way. Prices begin at £31,000 ($41,400), positioning the Arrow above the Mazda MX-5, which is listed at £28,585 ($38,200) in Britain. This makes it clear the Arrow is not aimed at the budget end of the market but at buyers looking for a boutique EV that blends charm, individuality, with a nod to Britain’s motoring heritage.

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Sometimes the best ideas come from looking back before moving forward, and Skoda has been exploring exactly that with a series of digital concepts inspired by its heritage. The latest in the line is a fresh take on the classic 110 R coupe, reimagined with futuristic styling cues and powered by electricity rather than gas.

The original 110 R first appeared in 1970 as the sporty two-door sibling of the 100 sedan. It ran a rear-mounted 1.1-liter engine producing 61 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual gearbox that sent power to the back wheels. It was a modest setup, yet the car carved out a reputation as an accessible, characterful coupe in Eastern Europe.

A Designer’s Tribute

This new digital vision comes from Richard Svec, who joined Skoda in 2023 after studying in Bratislava and completing an internship at Italdesign in Turin. Svec has an appreciation for the original’s clean proportions and pared-back details, but he avoided going down the retro route. Instead, his aim was to capture the essence of the 110 R through its balance of shapes and volumes rather than through nostalgia alone.

More: Skoda Revives A Forgotten Pickup With A Futuristic EV That Looks Unreal

The result is a two-door, two-seat coupe with a low roofline and fastback-style tail. The EV has a compact footprint and a sporty stance. A direct nod to the original comes in the form of its almost melancholic-looking headlights, reinterpreted here with sharp rectangular outlines and retractable body-colored covers. The front end is slightly recessed and adopts the Tech Loop design feature that can also be found in the new Skoda Vision O concept.

Motorsport Cues Revisited

The swollen fenders, large center-lock wheels with integrated aero covers, ribbing on the hood, and roll cage are nods to the motorsport heritage of the classic model. The side intakes are also inspired by the rear-engined 110 R, but here they serve the purpose of cooling the batteries. The rear end looks similar to the front, with concealed taillights and a black ribbon featuring slim LEDs.

More: Skoda’s Smallest Electric SUV Comes With Gas-Car Pricing

Skoda didn’t get into specifics about the fully electric powertrain of the digital concept. However, the most fitting option would be a rear-mounted electric motor, staying true to the layout of the original 110 R. Judging from the current Elroq and Enyaq production SUVs, the motor could generate up to 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS), which sounds more than enough for such a compact and lightweight car.

As is the case with most of these digital-only studies, the 110 R Coupe is not destined for production. However, it shows that Skoda could offer interesting EVs in the future if its mainstream models generate enough profit to allow niche products.

Skoda

Did you know that October 1 is International Coffee Day? You probably didn’t, but now Stellantis has made sure you won’t forget. And what better way than with a special version of the Opel Mokka Electric. The name alone fits the theme, since “Mokka” is the German word for mocha, which in turn traces back to the Yemeni port of Mocha, once a vital center of the global coffee trade.

Coffee Bar On Wheels

From the outside, the Mokka looks standard apart from a small coffee emblem at the back. But flip open the tailgate, and you’ll find two coffee machines, one for ground beans, one for pods. The setup also includes a coffee grinder, a milk steamer, a knock box, and even a fridge. All the gear is integrated into custom drawers and cupboards with Opel branding.

More: The Stellantis Hot Hatch You’ll Never Buy But Can Still Drive At Home

Unfortunately, that means there is no space left for luggage. The company even added a coffee icon in the menu of the 10-inch infotainment display.

Opel says that the Mokka Coffee is designed to “make breaks on holiday trips or in the normal stress of everyday life more pleasant and tasteful”. And since this is an EV, having access to all this equipment can keep you occupied during charging stops.

The automaker could have easily fitted the coffee-making equipment to the performance-focused Opel Mokka GSE with 278 hp (207 kW / 282 PS) and a sharper chassis setup. However, since this project is more aimed towards relaxation, they went for the standard Mokka Electric instead with 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS). As with most of its Stellantis stablemates, the subcompact SUV is fitted with a 54 kWh battery pack, offering a WLTP range of 402 km (250 mile) between charges.

More: Opel Mokka Electric Transformed Into A Two-Seater LCV With Drawer Modules

Interestingly, this is not the first time Stellantis has reimagined the cargo area of the Opel Mokka Electric. Back in 2023, the company unveiled an LCV version of the small SUV with two seats and a racking system designed for professionals.

As you might have guessed, the Opel Mokka “Coffee” will remain a one-off. Still, if you are convinced you need something like this in your life, you can always try a similar DIY conversion based on any vehicle with a decent boot.

Opel

Update: Smart reached out to us and clarified that it has no plans for a direct successor to the original ForFour, and we’ve revised this story to reflect that.

Smart recently confirmed that a next-generation ForTwo is in the works and scheduled to arrive in late 2026 wearing the #2 badge. What caught many off guard, though, was a report about a more versatile four-door, the #4, essentially bringing back the spirit of the discontinued ForFour. Shortly after the story surfaced, though, Smart set the record straight.

Smart’s Global PR Director Jack Bailey told CarScoops: “I’m afraid the information in the Autocar report was incorrect. While we appreciate the interest in smart and our products, there are currently no plans to develop a forfour successor or a #4.” He added that “the positive feedback and enthusiasm from our fans and the public has been hugely encouraging. We are excited to share more details about the #2 soon.”

More: Smart Might Resurrect Its Most Fun Model

The original claim came from Autocar, following a conversation with Smart Europe CEO Dirk Adelmann during the Munich Motor Show. Adelmann was reported as hinting at a new model that “needs to look like a successor” to the last ForFour.

That car ended production in 2021 and was essentially a stretched ForTwo with an added pair of doors, sharing its platform with the Renault Twingo. It was itself a successor to the first-generation ForFour sold from 2004 to 2006, which had a front-engine setup and was based on the Mitsubishi Colt.

European Engineering Roots

Unlike the members of the current Smart lineup that were engineered by Geely in China, the #2 rides in a new platform developed in collaboration with Mercedes in Europe. Adelmann said that this is “very important because this team makes sure that we have a European product that is ready for European customers”.

The European chief reportedly noted that the company decided to expand the lineup with an additional model as they “need the economies of scale”. Smart has been trying to make a new ForTwo since 2019 but it appears they weren’t able to find a partner for joint development.

“We always were trying to make it feasible, but it took us three years longer than expected… Better late than never,” Adelmann explained. He added that the biggest challenge was making the platform small enough for the #2, since it’s “much easier to expand slightly” for a potential #4.

Expanding the Range

The Smart #2 will hold a distinctive spot as the only two-seat EV in Europe’s A-segment. If a #4 had materialized, it would have entered a much more crowded field, facing rivals such as the upcoming Renault Twingo and the production version of Volkswagen’s ID. Every1 concept.

The #2 will expand Smart’s range that currently includes the #1, #3 and #5 models. The naming scheme doesn’t strictly follow size, but even numbers are reserved for regular cars and odd numbers for SUVs. There are also reports about a possible Smart #6 sedan that would be consistent with this naming scheme.

More: This Smart SUV Is Quicker Than A BMW M3 And Nothing Like The Awful ForTwo

In the meantime, Smart is preparing updates for the #1 and #3 crossovers. Both will receive notable hardware changes in 2026 as part of a model-year update, followed by a more substantial facelift in 2027. The #1 launched in 2022 as the first product of Smart’s new era, with the coupe-like #3 arriving in 2023. The boxier #5, introduced in 2024, remains the largest model in the brand’s lineup.

EV fires, notoriously difficult to extinguish once they start, remain one of the toughest challenges for carmakers. Engineers continue racing to design battery packs resilient enough to survive crashes without igniting. In China, however, a very different approach has been showcased: a high-speed ejection system that literally launches the pack away like a projectile from the vehicle during an emergency.

If that sounds less like a safety breakthrough and more like and accident waiting to happen, you’re getting the idea. And yes, it really is that stupid.

Battery Launcher

The unusual demonstration was captured in a video that went viral on Chinese social media. The clip shows a large battery module violently shooting out of the side of an SUV before smoke appears. Safety workers quickly smothered the pack with a special blanket after it landed in a designated area with pillows.

More: See What Happens When Two Cars Hit A Chinese EV At 60KM/H In Triple Crash Test

According to Chinese reports, the system works in much the same way as an airbag. If sensors detect a thermal event in the pack, the system can trigger an ejection in less than a second, flinging the battery between 3–6 meters (10–20 feet) away from the vehicle. The idea is to protect occupants from a potential fire or even an explosion.

Good Luck Everyone Else

Of course, as many commenters pointed out, “somewhere else” could just mean straight into another moving car, onto pedestrians, or across live traffic. A battery pack that weighs hundreds of kilos is about as far from harmless as a projectile can get. And in the kind of heavy crash where fires are most likely, the car’s structure could crumple enough to jam the system anyway, leaving you with both the fire and the deadweight still on board.

Who Staged the Demo?

Here’s where it gets interesting. While we couldn’t find official information, markers on the SUV suggest the test was organized by the China Automotive Collision Repair & Technology Research Center. Stage graphics show it took place during the “Power Battery Launch Technology Demonstration and Exchange Meeting” on September 19, 2025.

More: Chinese Government’s Hunt For Online Car Slander Has Begun

The prototype appears to be based on the iCar 03T, though the automaker quickly distanced itself from the experiment. Posting on its Chinese social media accounts, the Chery-owned brand stated: “This has nothing to do with iCAR, please be rational.” Reports also claimed that Joyson Group may have collaborated on the project, but the company has since denied involvement, according to Epoch Times.

For all the spectacle, the so-called missile-style ejection system is a dead end. Lobbing a half-ton battery into traffic is not a safety feature, it’s a liability with wings. And in the real-world crashes where it might matter, the mechanism itself would likely be wrecked before it ever fired.

Screenshots Weibo

As cars edge closer to taking over more driving duties, the question of how they interact with the people around them becomes increasingly important. Technology may be ready to let drivers take their hands and eyes off the task, but it also raises a new challenge: how does a car signal its intentions to those outside it? In that spirit, Opel has built a Grandland prototype with a lighting system designed to speak directly to pedestrians.

More: Skoda’s Illuminated Grille Shows Pedestrians When It’s Safe To Cross The Road

The test model is equipped with Level 3 driver assistance, which allows the person behind the wheel to disengage under certain conditions. Once the vehicle is in charge, though, a fresh layer of communication is needed to make sure people on the street understand what the car is about to do.

Lights As A Language

The Grandland prototype has been fitted with a new camera system that can detect objects and gestures, combined with an AI-backed “intention prediction” function. This allows it to better recognize real world scenarios like when a pedestrian emerges from parked vehicles or a child steps on the road when chasing a ball.

When operating in Level 3 autonomy (or higher), the SUV’s front and rear indicators shine in cyan. This color was chosen as it is not associated with any other vehicle function. When a pedestrian is detected in the path of the vehicle, it starts braking and the LED headlights change from white to magenta.

Furthermore, a small screen that normally displays Opel’s Blitz emblem shows a warning sign or a pedestrian alongside a halt gesture. When the car has come to standstill, the LEDs turns green and the display shows a walking figure. In more complex situations when the AI algorithm can’t figure out what to do, the driver is prompted to take control of the vehicle.

Rethinking Headlights

Philipp Röckl, Global Lead Lighting at Stellantis, explains the thinking behind the project:

“Headlights clearly play an important part in increasing road safety – but modern lighting systems are capable of so much more. For example, lighting signatures can easily be animated and used for animations. And the illuminated Blitz on the Grandland can be substituted by a display that can both show the illuminated emblem and be used to communicate with other road users and pedestrians. By using existing lighting elements, it makes it easy to add communication features once we will introduce autonomous driving features in our cars”

The Grandland with the unique equipment and lighting features follows a number of prototypes and production vehicles from other brands that examine the same issue.

The model was created in-house in Opel’s Russelsheim headquarters in Germany and was showcased at the International Symposium on Automotive Lighting (ISAL) in Darmstadt. It is the result of a collaboration between the Opel Concept Workshop and students from the TU Darmstadt university.

More: The Stellantis Hot Hatch You’ll Never Buy But Can Still Drive At Home

Stellantis and TU Darmstadt have formed a strategic partnership for joint research into new lighting technologies since 2022. As part of this, the automaker is currently funding three doctoral students at the university’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology.

On her part, Julisa Le, Stellantis’ Lead Innovation Engineer, said:

“We specifically chose colors that are not already associated with other vehicle functions to avoid misunderstandings. For example, red is intuitively understandable, but it is already used for stop lights or the rear lights of cars. Cyan and magenta have been thoroughly evaluated for perception purposes and are currently not present in any traffic situations. Both ensure clear, unambiguous communication with other road users.”

Opel

Making performance more accessible, a new trim of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has landed in Korea with a lower price tag but no major compromises. Badged the Ioniq 5 N Essential, it holds onto the performance hardware and most of the high-end features, proving that an entry-level model doesn’t always mean stripped-down basics.

Same Look, Same Presence

Visually, the Essential is indistinguishable from the standard N. It wears the full body kit, full-LED lighting, and 21-inch forged alloys, so anyone hoping for bare steel wheels is out of luck. Step inside and the cabin follows the same script, complete with dual 12.3-inch displays, sports seats, leather steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and an eight-speaker Bose premium system fitted as standard.

More: Hyundai’s Pickup Plan Could Also Unleash A Rugged Off-Road SUV

Where the Essential trims back is in smaller conveniences. There’s no head-up display, wireless charging pad, or V2L connector, and the spec sheet also skips the digital key, second-row safety power windows, and the intelligent front lighting system. Even the driver assistance package has been simplified, though it still remains broadly equipped for everyday use.

No Change Under the Skin

Unsurprisingly, the underpinnings of the Ioniq 5 N remain unchanged. The two electric motors generate a combined 601 hp (448 kW / 609 PS) and there is a limited slip differential on the rear axle, while the battery pack has a capacity of 84 kWh. Furthermore, the performance EV retains all of the goodies that make it special, such as the N e-Shift, N Launch Control, N Pedal, N Drift Optimizer Pro, N Torque Distribution, and N Active Sound +.

Pricing Advantage

So what does the more attainable N actually cost? Factoring in local incentives, the Essential comes in at ₩74,900,000 ($53,700) in Korea, compared with ₩77,400,000 ($55,500) for the regular version. That translates to a saving of ₩2,500,000 ($1,800) while keeping the same visual impact and performance. For comparison, the sole US-market trim of the Ioniq 5 N currently starts at $66,200.

More: Veloster’s Reincarnation Could Arrive As An Ioniq 3 N Hot Hatch

Hyundai has also updated the Comfort Plus package, priced at ₩590,000 ($420), which now includes heated rear seats, window curtains, and an electrically folding rear bench. Buyers can also add Parking Assist Lite for ₩900,000 ($650), though this option excludes remote parking. Other extras include a protective film for ₩380,000 ($270), an Alcantara interior for ₩550,000 ($400), and a Walk-in Interior package at ₩300,000 ($350).

The Korean brand’s N lineup is expected to grow in the future with electric and combustion-powered models. After the recent debut of the Ioniq 6 N sedan, Hyundai has all but confirmed a smaller Ioniq 3 N hot hatch and a new generation of the i20 N with hybrid power.

Mercedes’ compact car strategy has taken yet another detour, proving once again that long-term plans in Stuttgart rarely stay fixed for long. The new CLA was originally intended to serve as the entry point after the planned phase-out of the A-Class. Those plans have now changed, with the automaker confirming development of a new compact entry. This yet-unnamed car will slot below the CLA and take over from the A-Class once it bows out of production in 2028.

Originally, Mercedes intended to slim down its small car portfolio, positioning the CLA as the gateway into the brand. Built on the new MMA platform, it introduced updated styling, cutting-edge technology, and a blueprint for the next GLA and GLB SUVs.

Chasing Volume Over Exclusivity

However, Mercedes recently decided to step back from its traditional luxury positioning, even phasing out the word “luxury” from its official strategy. CEO Ola Källenius signaled a shift toward wider appeal and higher production volumes, after profits plunged to just a 5.3 percent margin in the first half of the year. With insiders citing excessive focus on costly Maybach and AMG models, Mercedes is preparing a major product push with more attainable compacts and SUVs.

Related: Mercedes Drops The “L-Word” And Is Ready To Flood The Streets With Cars

At the same time, strong demand across Europe has convinced the brand to keep the current A-Class hatchback and sedan alive until 2028. Yet even that extension may not be enough, as Mercedes now hints at a fresh entry-level model to keep pace with customer appetite for smaller, more affordable cars.

Mathias Geisen, Member of Mercedes’ Board of Management responsible for Marketing & Sales, spoke to Automobilwoche about the upcoming model: “We’ll be introducing further models based on our new MMA architecture after the CLA. Believe me: In the long run, there will be an entry-level model in the world of Mercedes-Benz.”

Compact Reinforcements

Geisen acknowledged the strong customer interest in the A-Class, calling it a “highly relevant vehicle” for Mercedes that helps “bind many of our customers to our brand early on.” He said they extended production to “avoid a supply gap,” hinting that the new entry-level offering could arrive by 2028.

More: Mercedes Is Quietly Reversing Its War On Physical Buttons

Details remain scarce. Neither the name nor the body style has been confirmed, and powertrain options are still under wraps. German reports indicate the new car might be a modified and cost-effective version of an existing SUV rather than a completely fresh series. That could mean a reworked GLA or a slightly smaller crossover, but Mercedes is keeping its cards close for now.

Priced To Sell

In any case, the new Mercedes crossover is expected to be competitively priced, answering the calls of German dealers. The current A-Class starts at €34,252 ($40,400) in its home market. By contrast, the fully electric CLA begins at €53,066 ($62,527), which actually makes it more expensive than the C-Class sedan at €42,265 ($49,800). A more affordable hybrid CLA is on the way to help close that gap.

The numbers underscore why this lower rung matters. Mercedes’ compact lineup sold 534,800 units in 2024, making up an important chunk of its overall 1,983,000 passenger car sales. In Germany alone, the A-Class accounted for 17,400 out of 257,900 new Mercedes registrations last year. That customer interest is likely what prompted Stuttgart to rethink its strategy and decide against abandoning the lower end of the market.

Goodbye B-Class

While the A-Class lives on, the B-Class is nearing its final chapter. Sales of the compact MPV have steadily declined, and production is scheduled to end in 2026 after a 22-year, three-generation run.

More: Mercedes Teases New Mini G-Class That’ll Be A Real G-Class In Every Way But One

Speaking about upcoming launches, Geisen remarked, “We’re launching more than 40 new models over the next two years. We’ve never had such a large product offensive. Our cars will set new standards in their categories”. Mercedes recently introduced the new GLC EV, serving as a zero-emission alternative to the GLC and a direct rival to the all-new BMW iX3 Neue Klasse.

Bicycles might be fine for a lazy Sunday spin or a spirited ride, but as everyday transport they fall short. They’ll soak you in the rain, freeze you in the wind, and keep you off the highways. Aiming to dodge those drawbacks, French outfit Cixi is working on the Vigoz, a pedal-assisted three-wheeler with electric muscle and just enough refinement to pass as a proper road machine.

More: Some E-Bikes Can Hit 70 MPH And One State Is Not Having It

The Vigoz sits closer in spirit to small urban runabouts like the Mobilize Duo, Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino, and Microlino, though it is much faster. With a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph), it qualifies in the L5 category, which means it is cleared for all public roads and highways in France, and, depending on local red tape, in other markets too.

Pedals Meet Power

At the heart of the three-wheeler is Cixi’s PERS chainless pedaling system, which lets the rider (or is that driver?) influence acceleration or braking with their legs in a more natural way. Pedal resistance can be adjusted to match the rider’s preference, offering light effort or a more involved workout.

Naturally, there is assistance from an electric motor, with a 22 kWh floor-mounted battery allowing for a range of around 160 km (100 miles). Still, extensive use of regenerative braking and more pedaling input can help it go further. A full charge is completed in roughly 6 hours from a standard household socket.

Compact But Clever

The Vigoz has two wheels at the front and a single wheel at the back, with an active tilting mechanism for improved handling. A fully enclosed body keeps things aerodynamic while providing weather protection, and features include LED lighting, wipers, and twin side doors. At the back, an open cargo area with straps offers room for small loads.

More: Peugeot’s New E-Bike Can Transport Up To 3 Children Or Heavy Cargo At The Front

Inside, you’ll find room for a driver and one passenger. Both seats are fitted with three-point belts, and there are Isofix mounts in the back for a child seat – although the idea of whisking a toddler down the motorway in this contraption feels like something best left to questionable parenting blogs. Instead of a steering wheel, the Vigoz sticks with its bicycle DNA and uses a handlebar with built-in brakes.

According to Cixi, the Vigoz is built to last for at least 15 years before it is recycled and disposed. This is made possible thanks to the sturdy chassis, replaceable body panels, accessible components for repairs, and, surprisingly, over the air updates.

Pay Monthly, Not Own

Unfortunately, the Vigoz is not yet available for purchase. Cixi still has to build a working prototype with a production-ready design before manufacturing begins in France. When it finally hits the road, ownership won’t be an option either, as the Vigoz will only be offered on subscription, with prices set once production costs are confirmed.

We might be living in the age of electrification, with all its highs and lows, but EV and plug-in hybrid drivers still need a shove when it comes to charging discipline. Pure battery-electrics have no choice but to plug in, yet plenty of PHEV owners treat their rides like ordinary gas cars and ignore the socket altogether, according to Toyota’s research arm. It’s baffling really; why pay extra for a PHEV only to use it as a glorified hybrid?

To address this curious habit and encourage better routines, the company has developed an app that applies behavioral science and game-like rewards, turning charging into less of a chore and more of a challenge. The Toyota Research Institute (TRI) says it works, and early findings back that up.

Shaping Better Charging Habits

Toyota explains that technology alone cannot deliver lower emissions. For BEVs and PHEVs to achieve their full environmental potential, owners must charge them consistently and, crucially, at the right times when clean energy sources are available.

More: This Toyota Prius Can Cut Emissions By Up To 90% Thanks To A Clever Trick

The smartphone application that can help reach this goal is called ChargeMinder and was developed by TRI’s Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence division. Being a prototype means it is not yet available for download from an app store, but is already delivering results in research trials.

Similar to a fitness app, ChargeMinder uses push notifications, streak tracking, and motivational messages to encourage owners to plug in at the right time. It also includes short quizzes to keep users engaged, while access to vehicle telematics and charging location data allows for more personalized suggestions.

Studies Suggest It Works

As noted by Dr. Laura Libby who works at the Toyota Research Institute, “small, targeted interventions can have a large impact on people’s decisions and actions”, adding that “behavioral interventions are inexpensive and can be deployed quickly”.

More: Diesel Is Dying And Toyota Already Picked Its Replacement

Toyota’s research arm performed “randomized controlled trials” in the US and Japan with EV drivers from 12 different brands. Findings showed that “behavioral science-based interventions significantly improved charging habits”, leading to lower carbon emissions. In short, an app that provides timely reminders and rewards good behavior can benefit both drivers’ wallets and the wider environment.

Numbers Tell The Story

The company reports that behavioral interventions increased PHEV charging by 10 percent among US drivers. At the same time, satisfaction scores climbed by 16 percent, reaching a perfect 100. In Japan, PHEV and BEV drivers shifted their charging to coincide with peak renewable energy hours by 59 percent, while also plugging in for an extra 30 minutes per day during daylight.

The next step for TRI is to expand ChargeMinder with more personalized, data-driven interventions. While Toyota hasn’t announced a public release timeline, it’s hard to imagine it won’t eventually roll it out to the world.

A glimpse into the future of mobility often starts not with what’s on the road, but with what designers dream up behind (usually) locked studio doors. That’s exactly what GM has done, pulling back the curtain on five totally out there concepts that span everything from rugged off-road EVs to airborne transport. Shared through GM Design’s Instagram account, the images reveal a rare look into the company’s creative process.

More: GMC Hummer HEV Peak Concept Looks Like It Eats Wranglers And Broncos For Breakfast

The machines are not meant for production. Instead, they exist to explore fresh ideas across “road, racing, utility, adventure, and VTOL vehicles.” Without the need for real life prototypes, the design teams leaned on digital renderings and detailed scale models to bring their vision to life.

A Sports Car Without a Windshield

Starting with the P1, it is an open-air sports car with a tub-like body and exposed wheels, calling to mind modern rival of the 1996 Ford Indigo concept. The vehicle has no windshield, featuring a central driving position and two bench seats ahead of a small cargo area. The minimalist design includes slim LEDs on both ends and a pronounced chin.

Moving on to the P2, this low-slung EV is focused on aerodynamic efficiency. The front glass is heavily inclined, leading to a smooth roofline that cuts out on the slightly recessed tail. Despite its length, it only has two upward-opening doors.Decals along the side hint at onboard technology, pointing to an “AI. Pilot” system said to manage driving duties.

Next up is the P3, also known as the Utility Concept. It takes things in a more practical direction. Think of it as a distant descendant of today’s compact hatchbacks and crossovers. Its wheels, capped with aerodynamic covers, sit right at the edges of the monovolume body. The glasshouse is finished in body color, intersected by metallic blades that give it a slightly sci-fi presence.

Off-road Experiment

The P4 changes tone once again, diving headfirst into rugged territory. This electric off-roader uses a capsule-shaped body perched high on oversized tires wrapped in thick tread. Overhangs are practically nonexistent, ground clearance is generous, and details include a heavily raked windshield, full-width LED lighting, roof rails shaped to carry surfboards, and body-colored side glass.

More: Corvette C10 Concept Runs Out Of Gas Yet Fuels Hypercar Hopes

Last but not least, the P5 is a flying vehicle designed for vertical take-offs and landings (VTOL). It looks like an oversized drone with two sets of fans and a flat floor, while the main body adopts similar styling cues to the other concepts.

Overall, the latest group of GM concepts would look more fitting to a video game or a sci-fi movie than the real world. Still, this is the beauty of being able to design something without restrictions.

See Them At Disney

Scale models of all five concepts are displayed at the EPCOT theme park in Florida’s Walt Disney World Resort. General Motors is the official vehicle sponsor of the venue and has recently launched an updated Test Track ride for visitors.

GM Design / Instagram

After years of treating electric door handles as a design triumph, Tesla now finds itself redesigning them for a less glamorous reason: people, including children, keep getting stuck inside its cars. The company has admitted that a new generation of door handles is in development, prompted by repeated cases of entrapment in Tesla EVs. Adding to the urgency is an active NHTSA investigation, which has only piled on the pressure.

More: Cybertruck Nails Crash Tests Until The Lights Go Out

Franz von Holzhausen, Chief Designer at Tesla, acknowledged that his team is looking into the issue, explaining that the new door handles will be more intuitive during “a panic situation”. The proposed solution is to merge the electronic and mechanical door-release mechanisms. These are currently separate, and their locations differ depending on the model and year, making them harder to find in an emergency.

Rethinking the Release

Speaking on Bloomberg’s Hot Pursuit podcast, Holzhausen said: “The idea of combining the electronic one and the manual one together into one button, I think, makes a lot of sense. That’s something that we’re working on.”

The concern arises from situations where Tesla door handles can fail if the low-voltage battery loses power. This is not a problem exclusive to Tesla, with other automakers like Ford having issued software updates to provide clearer “low power” warnings to the driver.

Complaints and Consequences

According to Bloomberg, the NHTSA has logged more than 140 consumer complaints about faulty Tesla doors since 2018. Some incidents have been severe, with injuries and even fatalities linked to occupants being unable to exit their vehicles after an accident.

More: Hate Retractable Door Handles? China Might Finally Make Them Go Away

Nine of these cases involved parents trying to open the rear doors of a Tesla Model Y to reach their children. In four of those instances, parents resorted to smashing their own windows to get inside, as the kids were too young to operate the hidden manual release.

Pressure from China

Meanwhile, China is considering new rules through the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology that could outlaw flush door handles and mandate a mechanical backup on all cars. Holzhausen said Tesla is ready to adapt, describing the forthcoming solution as “really good.”

For now, Tesla has not said when the redesigned handles will arrive, nor whether the update could be retrofitted to cars already on the road.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is dead. Long live the new Eclipse Cross EV. This second generation SUV is a complete departure from its predecessor, pairing the electric foundations of the the Renault Scenic E-Tech with Mitsubishi-specific design elements. Built by Renault in France, the new model will be sold exclusively in Europe.

More: The Most Mitsubishi Thing About Its New Hybrid SUV Might Be The Logo

The Eclipse Cross EV joins Mitsubishi’s growing European lineup of Renault-based models. It follows the Colt (Clio), ASX (Captur), and Grandis (Symbioz) as another example of badge-sharing strategy. Positioned in the compact SUV segment beneath the Outlander PHEV, it also becomes Mitsubishi’s second all-electric model in Europe, after the discontinued i-MiEV city car.

Recasting Renault’s Scenic

The clearest way to spot the Japanese twist on the Scenic is up front. Mitsubishi has reworked the face with distinctive split LED headlights, a redesigned but fully covered grille that looks similar to the Outlander, and reshaped bumper intakes. At the rear, updated LED taillight graphics and a heavier dose of glossy black trim set it apart from the Renault, alongside the fresh branding.

The profile looks familiar but there is a new chrome trim on the D-pillars and more futuristic wheels measuring 19 or 20 inches in diameter. Overall, the new model dropps the coupe-SUV proportions of the first Eclipse Cross, which launched in 2017 and gained a facelift in 2020. In terms of footprint, it is incrementally smaller than its ICE-powered predecessor, measuring 4,470 mm (176 inches) long, although its wheelbase is significantly larger stretching to 2,785 mm (109.6 inches).

Inside, the cabin adopts Renault’s digital setup with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a portrait-style 12-inch infotainment screen running Google’s built-in services. For the sake of differentiation, Mitsubishi has added new options for the interior trim and upholstery. Other cool features include the electrochromic glass roof, the LED ambient lighting, and the Harman & Kardon Premium audio system.

A full suite of driver assistance tech is available, offering semi-autonomous driving on the highway. Finally, practicality is served by two rows of seating and a cargo area that ranges between 478-1,670 lt (16.9-59 cubic feet) depending on the position of the rear bench.

Shared Underpinnings

The Eclipse Cross EV rides on the CMF-EV platform (Ampr Medium) which is already used in the Renault Megane/Scenic E-Tech and the Nissan Leaf/Ariya.

More: Mitsubishi’s New Kei Van Channels Its Inner Pajero

Power comes from a front-mounted electric motor producing 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS), with a 87 kWh battery pack offering a range of approximately 600 km (373 miles). The battery has a water-cooled thermal management system and is compatible with charging speeds of up to 150 kWh.

Mitsubishi has also confirmed that a mid-range version will follow in 2026. This one will most likely use mirror the specs of the entry-level Scenic E-Tech with 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) and a 60 kWh battery.

Designed, Manufactured And Sold In Europe

The new EV will be manufactured at the Douai factory in France as part of the Renault-Mitsubishi-Nissan Alliance, starting in Q4 2025. The same facilities are the home of production for the Renault Megane E-Tech, Scenic E-Tech, R5 E-Tech, Alpine A290, and Nissan Micra EV.

While the new Eclipse Cross is not expected to cross the Atlantic, Mitsubishi has confirmed it will launch another electric crossover for North America in the summer of 2026. This one will be slightly smaller and share its underpinnings with the new Nissan Leaf.

Mitsubishi

A new option has joined the growing ranks of Renault’s retro-inspired EV. The 4 E-Tech is now available in two work-ready versions for the French market, known as Societe Reversible and Societe Van. Both are designed for professionals who want the practicality of a light commercial vehicle without losing the everyday usability of the standard model.

More: Renault’s Retro R4 EV Could Get A Whole Lot More Interesting Soon

Styling remains unchanged from the regular passenger model, as the Societe versions keep their glass rear windows instead of adopting blank panels. This choice keeps costs down, but it also means Renault hasn’t followed through with the van-style look first teased back in 2021.

At the time, the brand hinted at a boxier tail inspired by the classic Renault 4 Fourgonnette, which would likely have boosted both visual appeal and carrying capacity, albeit at greater expense for what remains a niche product.

Work-Focused Cabin

Inside, the crossover has been reworked to meet the demands of everyday business use. The rear seats give way to a molded tray lined with an anti-slip mat, tie-down hooks, and a partition separating it from the front. Total cargo space comes to 1,045 liters (36.9 cubic feet), with a hidden 55-liter (1.9 cubic feet) compartment under the floor. The loading length stretches to 1.20 meters (47.2 inches), and payload capacity peaks at 345 kilograms (760 pounds).

The conversion takes place at the Ampere Manufacture in Maubeuge, France, by a company called Qstomize. The Societe Reversible is classified as a passenger vehicle (M1), while the Societe Van is a light commercial vehicle (N1). The latter has tax benefits but is subject to speed restrictions.

According to Renault, the target group of the Societe versions is tradespeople, delivery drivers, service and concierge companies, rental companies, and professional fleets.

Powertrain and Range

Performance is identical to the passenger version, with a single electric motor producing 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS). Power comes from a 52 kWh battery that delivers up to 409 km (254 miles) of WLTP range. Charging from 15 to 80 percent takes just over three hours on an 11 kW AC unit, or around 30 minutes when connected to a 100 kW DC fast charger.

More: The New Renault 4 E-Tech Makes For A Chic Beach Buggy

In France, the R4 E-Tech Societe is priced from €29,300 ($34,700) for the Evolution trim and €30,900 ($36,600) for the Techno, excluding VAT. Furthermore, buyers benefit from incentives that can reach up to €5,060 (6,000) depending on the variant and the customer profile.

Options, however, can quickly nudge the cost upward. Renault charges between €167 and €917 ($200–1,100) for exterior colors, €167 ($200) for roof rails, and €333 ($400) for the all-weather tires with snow and off-road drive modes. Other extras include a hands-free tailgate at €333 ($400), advanced driver-assist and parking tech for €250 ($300), and a Harman Kardon nine-speaker audio system priced at €500 ($600).

Finding fresh roles for used car batteries is becoming a growing focus in the auto industry, and Stellantis has found a particularly human-centered application. Instead of letting end-of-life EV packs sit idle, the company is repurposing them for mobility solutions outside traditional cars.

More: Stellantis Is Quietly Building A Tri-Motor EV Setup That Can Power Itself

One of the most intriguing examples comes through a collaboration with startup Avathor, which has developed a compact EV tailored for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. Adding another interesting twist in this story is that the vehicle itself was penned by Italdesign, part of the Volkswagen Group.

This indirect and somewhat unusual collaboration between Stellantis and the VW Group likely stems from the fact that both Avathor and Italdesign are based in Turin. The Italian city is also a key hub for Stellantis, home to the Mirafiori facilities and the company’s main European headquarters.

From Road To Renewal

The process begins with Stellantis brands gathering batteries from retired EVs. These packs make their way to Turin, where SUSTAINera, Stellantis’ circular economy branch, focuses on extending their usefulness and cutting down on waste. A local partner, Intent S.r.l., then disassembles the 15 kWh modules, repackaging them for fresh duties.

For the Avathor One, the modules are reconfigured in 1.4 kWh short-range or 2.8 kWh long-range batteries, offering up to 50 km (31 mph) between charges with a top speed limited to 10 km/h (6 mph).

Avathor / Italdesign

What Is The Avathor One?

The Avathor One was launched earlier this year as the production model derived from the futuristic 2019 WheeM-i concept by Italdesign. It has a rear ramp for wheelchair access, a pull-out bench, and joystick controls.

Measuring just 1,486 mm (58.5 inches) in length, the EV comes fitted with car-like features such as LED headlights, a rearview camera, and collision-avoidance sensors that recognize both obstacles and pedestrians. It can handle gradients of up to 20 percent and climb steps up to 8 cm (3 inches) high.

According to the company, the goal is to launch the Avathor in Italy later this year, followed by Spain in 2026 and other markets in 2027.

Beyond Mobility Aids

Beyond the Avathor project, Stellantis SUSTAINera is also working with utility providers and battery integrators. One notable example is the ENEL X Pioneer system, which stores renewable energy at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport and is projected to cut CO2 emissions by 16,000 tons over ten years.

Of course, Stellantis isn’t the only automaker that is active in the circular economy with second-life batteries. Other brands such as Nissan, Renault, BMW, Kia, Geely, Jaguar, Toyota, Honda, Skoda, and Audi have all been involved in similar projects.

Stellantis