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Today — 25 October 2025Main stream

Porsche Profits Plummet As Three ICE-Powered Models Are About To Bow Out

  • Porsche’s operating profit has plummeted 99% in the first nine months of the year.
  • Deliveries and sales revenue fell 6%, while tariffs could cost them $814 million.
  • The ICE-powered Macan is slated to be phased out next year, but a new model is coming.

Porsche has used their third quarter earnings call to reveal time is almost up for three different vehicles including the current gas-powered Macan. This is worth noting as the crossover is the brand’s most popular vehicle as 64,783 units have been delivered in the first nine months of the year.

During the call, Finance and IT Board Member Dr Jochen Breckner said the current ICE-powered Macan will be offered “throughout 2026 and, in some markets, even in 2027, based on a final stocking that we will do.” He went on to say the exact end of production hasn’t been decided, but it will be “more or less in the middle of 2026.”

More: This Audi Q5 Could Actually Be The New ICE Porsche Macan

However, it sounds like the company will stockpile vehicles in important markets to help buy time until the redesigned crossover arrives. Speaking of which, the second-generation Macan will be offered with conventional and plug-in hybrid powertrains. They will be sold alongside the current Macan Electric.

Previous reports have suggested the upcoming model will be based on the Audi Q5 and spy photographers caught a prototype being tested by Porsche earlier this year. The move makes sense as the brand is throttling back their EV push as part of a product realignment that will see “additional models featuring combustion and plug-in-hybrid powertrains.”

 Porsche Profits Plummet As Three ICE-Powered Models Are About To Bow Out

As Breckner noted, “Starting in 2028, a more balanced drivetrain offering will further strengthen our market position and support sustainable long-term growth.” This effort will be supported by ICE-powered versions of the redesigned 718 as well as the next Macan, which is apparently being referred to as the “B-SUV.” Furthermore, Porsche’s flagship SUV has abandoned electric power and will instead offer gas and plug-in hybrid options.

Getting back to the 718, the current Boxster and Cayman are quickly approaching the end of the line. Production wraps up later this month and Breckner said “we are producing the very last cars these days.” However, the automaker will still have a handful of models in inventory to help tide things over until the next-generation sports car arrives.

 Porsche Profits Plummet As Three ICE-Powered Models Are About To Bow Out

Porsche Is Having A Terrible Year

As for the financials, they weren’t pretty despite record deliveries in the United States. Through the first nine months of the year, Porsche’s operating profit plummeted from over €4 ($4.6) billion in 2025 to a mere €40 ($46) million this time around.

The company blamed the massive drop on a variety of factors including their product realignment strategy, challenging market conditions in China, and “one-off effects” relating to battery activities. Tariffs also played a role and it sounds like they’ll cost the company around €700 ($814) million this year alone.

 Porsche Profits Plummet As Three ICE-Powered Models Are About To Bow Out

To help offset the impact of tariffs, Porsche will “further strengthen” their pricing position throughout 2025 and 2026. The company has also increased prices to keep their margins at a “decent level.”

Despite terrible looking numbers, Porsche noted automotive net cash flow increased from €1.24 ($1.44) billion to €1.34 ($1.56) billion. The company said this “demonstrates the resilience of the business operations and shows that Porsche is performing robustly even under challenging conditions.”

Porsche Q3 Overview
Q1-Q3 2025Q1-Q3 2024Change
Sales revenue€26.86 billion€28.56 billion-6.0%
Operating profit€40 million€4,035 million-99.0%
Operating return on sales0.2%14.1% 
Deliveries to customers212,509226,026-6.0%
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Another Gas Sports Car Dies So An Electric One Can Live

  • Alpine will build the final 1,750 second-generation A110 sports cars.
  • Production wraps up in mid-2026 after nearly 30,000 units were made.
  • A new A110 successor arrives next year as a proper electric sports car.

Lightweight, relatively affordable, mid-engine sports cars are almost unheard of these days, but the Alpine A110 has been serving enthusiasts ever since 2017. However, its time is coming to an end as the French automaker has announced the final units are going into production.

Alpine’s Dieppe Jean Rédélé plant will only build 1,750 more cars including 50 units of the extreme A110 R 70. Production is scheduled to wrap up in mid-2026 and, by that time, nearly 30,000 second-generation A110s will have been built.

More: Alpine Introduces New A110 GTS And R 70 Special Edition

While it’s sad to see the car go, it won’t be the end of the A110 story. Quite the opposite as a third-generation model will be introduced next year. It will ride on the all-new Alpine High Performance Electric Platform (APP) and be a “proper electric sports car.”

As for the current model, Alpine offers the A110, A110 GTS, and A110 R 70. The entry-level coupe starts at €66,900 in France and features a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine developing 248 hp (185 kW / 252 PS) and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque.

It’s connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which enables the 2,429 lb (1,102 kg) coupe to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.5 seconds.

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The €79,900 A110 GTS has an upgraded engine producing 296 hp (221 kW / 300 PS) and 251 lb-ft (340 Nm) of torque. This lowers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 4.2 seconds, while the top speed climbs up to 170 mph (274 km/h).

Buyers will also find a sportier suspension, an active sports exhaust, and 18-inch forged wheels.

Sitting at the top of the lineup is the €122,900 A110 R 70, which celebrates the brand’s 70th anniversary. It’s limited to 770 units and features an assortment of carbon fiber components including the hood, roof, wheels, and rear spoiler.

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Yesterday — 24 October 2025Main stream

F-150 Lightning Production Halted Indefinitely As Ford Bets On Gas Trucks Again

  • Ford plans to recover lost production after a fire at an aluminum supplier.
  • A third shift in Dearborn will build over 45,000 additional F-150 trucks.
  • F-150 Lightning production will stop as it prioritizes gas and hybrid models.

A fire at a Novelis aluminum plant has disrupted operations for several automakers, including Ford and its top-selling F-150. The setback has been costly, but the Blue Oval plans to bounce back next year by ramping up truck production.

Under the plan, the Dearborn Truck Plant will add a third shift with roughly 1,200 employees. This will be supported by more than 90 new workers at Dearborn Stamping as well as more than 80 additional employees at Dearborn Diversified Manufacturing.

More: 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning Solves Its Biggest Flaws For Free

Thanks to these workers and the extra shift, Ford aims to produce an additional 45,000+ F-150s in 2026. They’ll have traditional powertrains as the F-150 Lightning hasn’t lived up to expectations.

Assembly of the electric truck will “remain paused” indefinitely as the company is prioritizing production of models with gas and hybrid powertrains. The automaker added these types of trucks are “more profitable for Ford and use less aluminum.”

 F-150 Lightning Production Halted Indefinitely As Ford Bets On Gas Trucks Again

Due to the pause, hourly employees at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center will transfer to the nearby Dearborn Truck Plant to join the third shift. The shift will also consist of new hires as well as some transfers from other plants.

To increase production of the popular F-Series Super Duty, the automaker is investing $60 million into the Kentucky Truck Plant. These funds will help speed up the production line, so that one additional truck will be built every hour. That might not sound like much, but it will result in more than 5,000 additional pickups.

 F-150 Lightning Production Halted Indefinitely As Ford Bets On Gas Trucks Again

The funds will also be used to help train new employees. Speaking of which, the plant is expected to add more than 100 jobs.

In total, the automaker will increase production by more than 50,000 units and create up to 1,000 new jobs. Ford’s Chief Operating Officer, Kumar Galhotra, said “The people who keep our country running depend on America’s most popular vehicle – F-Series trucks – and we are mobilizing our team to meet that demand.”

Novelis Fire Could Cost Ford $1 Billion

 F-150 Lightning Production Halted Indefinitely As Ford Bets On Gas Trucks Again

Novelis

The announcement to ramp up production comes as Ford revealed the “Novelis headwind” could cost them up to $1 billion in losses between 2025 and 2026.

CEO Jim Farley has already visited the damaged plant and said, “We are working intensively with Novelis and others to source aluminum that can be processed in the cold rolling section of the plant that remains operational, while also working to restore overall plant production.” This has enabled them to “minimize the impact in 2025 and recover production in 2026.”

Given the fallout of the fire, Ford now expects to finish the year with an adjusted EBIT of $6 billion to $6.5 billion as well as an adjusted free cash flow of $2 billion to $3 billion.

It wasn’t all bad news as third quarter revenue reached a record of $50.5 billion. That’s up 9% from a year ago and the company posted a net income of $2.4 billion. Unfortunately, Trump’s tariffs cost the automaker roughly $700 million.

 F-150 Lightning Production Halted Indefinitely As Ford Bets On Gas Trucks Again

Nissan Turns Sunlight Into Free Miles With Its Smart EV Upgrade

  • Nissan to unveil Ao-Solar Extender at the Japan Mobility Show.
  • Dual solar panels generate up to 500 watts of clean power.
  • Adds around 1,864 miles of driving range to Sakura EVs yearly.

A number of automakers and suppliers have played around with the idea of using solar panels to charge electric vehicles. This makes a lot of sense as cars spend a lot of time outside, where they could be charging underneath the sun.

Nissan seems to agree, as they’ll use the Japan Mobility Show to introduce a Sakura EV equipped with an Ao-Solar Extender. The device takes the form of a roof-mounted box with a 300W solar panel sitting neatly on top.

However, the real coup de grâce is an expandable section that deploys from the front to reveal an additional 200W panel when parked.

More: Mercedes’ Solar Paint Could Give EVs Thousands Of Miles Of Range Every Year

This means you could easily deploy the panel when you arrive at the office, and then retract it when you’re ready to go home.

While the Ao-Solar Extender’s usefulness would vary by location and weather conditions, the company estimates that owners could capture enough solar power to drive 1,864 miles (3,000 km) annually.

That doesn’t sound like much, but the average American drives less than 40 miles (64 km) per day, so you’re looking at more than a month and a half of range from the sun alone.

Nissan said they studied the usage patterns of Sakura drivers and found that many customers only travel short distances. For some, the Ao-Solar Extender would be able to “virtually eliminate the need for external charging.”

That’s pretty nifty, and Nissan noted that when the panel is extended, it effectively acts as a sunshade. This helps to keep the Sakura’s interior cool, which reduces power consumption by the air conditioner when you return.

And in true Japanese fashion, Nissan has given it one more layer of usefulness, allowing the Ao-Solar Extender to function as a backup power source during emergencies.

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Before yesterdayMain stream

13,000 Teslas Could Lose Power Without Warning

  • Tesla is recalling nearly 13,000 vehicles that could lose drive power.
  • The issue is being blamed on bad contactors with InTiCa solenoids.
  • The recall impacts the 2025 Model 3 and 2026 Model Y EVs.

The elimination of the clean vehicle tax credit isn’t Tesla’s only problem as the automaker is recalling 12,963 EVs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says they may be equipped with a battery pack contactor that can fail, causing a loss of drive power.

The issue impacts thousands of vehicles including the 2025 Model 3 and 2026 Model Y. However, only 1% of them are believed to have the defect.

More: EU Regulators Say Drivers Are Dying Inside Cars With Electric Door Handles

According to the safety recall report, the vehicles have a battery pack contactor with an InTiCa solenoid. The latter can “suddenly open” due to a poor coil termination connection, which can lead to a loss of propulsion.

This increases the risk of a collision and drivers won’t receive any warning prior to losing drive power.

Tesla launched an investigation in August, following multiple reports about vehicles that wouldn’t shift into drive from park. These were found to have a high coil resistance on the pack contactor, which caused Tesla to replace the component.

 13,000 Teslas Could Lose Power Without Warning

The company examined the contactors and eventually blamed them for causing the issue. While details are limited, Tesla is aware of 26 field reports and 36 warranty claims related to the issue. Thankfully, no accidents or injuries were reported.

To address the problem, customers will need to take their vehicle to a Tesla service center where technicians will replace the contactor with one that doesn’t include an InTiCa solenoid. Letters are scheduled to go out on December 9 and repairs will be performed free of charge.

 13,000 Teslas Could Lose Power Without Warning

Jaguar’s Future GT Has No Rear Window And No Patience For Cargo

  • Jaguar’s electric GT is stripping down, ahead of its debut later this year.
  • Latest spy photos give us a look at a small liftgate that lacks a window.
  • EV rides on an all-new platform and should have 430 miles of range.

Jaguar is slowly recovering from a devastating cyberattack, but the company is looking forward to a brighter future. It’s inching closer as the production version of the Type 00 concept is scheduled to debut late this year.

Things are starting to get down to the wire and testing continues on the Nürburgring, where a slightly less camouflaged prototype was being put through its paces.

While the car is still heavily disguised, the latest pictures give us a more revealing look at the front air intakes. We can also see production headlights, which are significantly larger than those found on the concept.

More: This Is The Electric GT That Will Either Save Or Kill Jaguar

The rest of the design echoes previous prototypes, but spy photographers managed to snap some pictures with the liftback open. As you can see, the model will follow in the footsteps of the Polestar 4 and 5 by eschewing a rear window.

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Baldauf

While that’s notable, it appears the packaging will be pretty terrible as there’s a relatively small opening and a tall sill. The latter is waist high on the man in the picture, which forces him to lean in and bend over to access things.

Needless to say, the experience doesn’t exactly look ultra-luxurious or female-friendly. Short people could also have a difficult time accessing items stored in back.

The automaker hasn’t said much about the car lately, but the company has previously said the “electric four door GT” will ride on the new Jaguar Electrical Architecture.

The model is also slated to have a range of up to 430 miles (692 km) as well as a fast charging capability that can deliver 200 miles (322 km) in as little as 15 minutes.

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shproshots

GM Kills Electric Van Leaving Over 1,000 Canadian Workers In Limbo

  • GM has ended production of BrightDrop electric delivery vans.
  • The slow-selling vehicles were part of GM’s bad bet on EVs.
  • Over 1,000 workers are out of a job as CAMI’s future remains unclear.

General Motors has ended production of their slow-selling BrightDrop vans. The models were made at CAMI Assembly in Ingersoll, Ontario and the company said the “commercial electric delivery van market developed much slower than expected.”

The automaker began producing the vans in late 2022, but the launch was a mess as BrightDrop was its own brand and had a tiny dealership network.

BrightDrop vans were eventually folded into Chevrolet last year, which promised to significantly expand sales beyond seven locations in the United States.

More: BrightDrop Becomes Part Of Chevrolet

Things didn’t pan out and unsold vehicles started piling up. GM recently offloaded 59 vans by donating them to the American Red Cross, but that was a drop in the bucket and the company paused production earlier this year.

Production was originally supposed to resume in May, before stopping again to allow for retooling for the 2026 model year. While production did briefly resume in May, BrightDrop is now dead and there will be no 2026 models.

 GM Kills Electric Van Leaving Over 1,000 Canadian Workers In Limbo

GM blamed the move on a variety of factors including slow sales, a changing regulatory environment, and the elimination of tax credits in the United States.

They added the axing was part of “broader adjustments” being made to electric vehicle capacity in North America.

Needless to say, blue collar employees are getting the shaft for GM’s bad bet on EVs. In this case, the company said “hourly employees will receive six months of salary and the potential for lump sum payments and other benefits.” Furthermore, CAMI Assembly will be “assessed for future opportunities.”

The Unifor union was outraged and claimed the decision was the result of the Trump administration’s “dangerous and destabilizing auto policies.” Of course, that’s glossing over the fact that sales have been terrible for years.

 GM Kills Electric Van Leaving Over 1,000 Canadian Workers In Limbo

However, this didn’t stop Unifor National President Lana Payne from saying, “The reality is that CAMI was hit from both directions by Trump as he aggressively acted to undo EV supports and hit Canadian auto assembly plants with a 25% tariff. Now more than 1,000 workers and their families are paying the price for Trump’s political interference and GM’s failure to hold the line.”

Other union officials said GM “abandoned” their employees, who “deserve a future at CAMI – not a dead end.” The anger is being further flamed by the decision to eliminate a shift at Oshawa Assembly in January, “heightening concerns about GM’s long-term manufacturing footprint in Canada.”

 GM Kills Electric Van Leaving Over 1,000 Canadian Workers In Limbo

Given these developments, Unifor said they will meet with GM and the Canadian government to immediately “press for a new product mandate and ensure CAMI remains a pillar of Canadian auto production.”

GM Canada President Kristian Aquilina said, “The decision to end production of the BrightDrop electric delivery van is driven by market demand and in no way reflects the commitment and skill of our workforce at CAMI.” He added, “This continues to be an uncertain time for our workforce at CAMI, and we are committed to working closely with our employees, Unifor, and the Canadian and Ontario governments as we evaluate next steps for the future of CAMI.”

 GM Kills Electric Van Leaving Over 1,000 Canadian Workers In Limbo

Michigan Just Made It Even Costlier To Own An EV

  • The cost of registering an EV in Michigan is climbing by $100.
  • State is now tied for having the highest EV fee in the country.
  • EV owners were already paying more than drivers of ICE cars.

Between tariffs, inflation, and the elimination of the clean vehicle tax credit, going electric isn’t cheap. Michigan is now piling on with additional fees to help pay for road funding, as a massive tax on marijuana wasn’t enough.

The details are pretty convoluted, but MLive reports that Michigan recently decided to eliminate the sales tax on gas and introduce an increased fuel tax.

The increase is the same as the one that was removed, so they essentially cancel each other out. That’s a roundabout move, but it will result in more money going towards repairing Michigan roads.

More: Some States Give Up To $9,000 To Buy An EV, Others Charge You Hundreds

However, there are other implications as the publication noted “state law requires an increase of $5 to the EV registration fee, and an increase of $2.50 to a [plug-in] hybrid vehicle registration, per 1 cent raise of the state’s gas tax.”

So while drivers of traditional gas-powered vehicles pay the same, eco-friendly vehicles get hammered by higher fees.

This reportedly means registering an EV will now cost Michigan drivers an extra $100 annually, which brings the fee to $260, on top of regular registration costs. Likewise, the fee for electric trucks will presumably increase to $360.

 Michigan Just Made It Even Costlier To Own An EV

Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council policy principal Sophia Schuster told the publication, “By raising EV fees to the highest in the country, the state is discouraging adoption and signaling to automakers that Michigan is not serious about leading in transportation electrification.”

The organization noted that before fees were increased, Michigan EV drivers were already paying around $20 more in state taxes than people with ICE-powered vehicles.

They also pointed out EVs are typically driven 4,500 miles (7,242 km) less annually than ICE vehicles, so owners are “paying more for roads they use less.”

Help could be on the way as there’s a proposal to significantly lower fees for plug-in hybrids and EVs. Of course, only time will tell if these changes are adopted.

 Michigan Just Made It Even Costlier To Own An EV

Ford’s Electric Pony Car Gets A Classic Gas Mustang Package

  • Ford has introduced the Mustang Mach-E GT California Special.
  • It features a hood graphic, two-tone wheels, and a blue interior.
  • The 480 hp electric crossover will set you back nearly $56,000.

The Ford Mustang has a long history of offering California special editions and we can add one more to that list. The latest is based on the electric 2026 Mustang Mach-E GT and will go up for order on October 22.

Sporting a subtle makeover, the California Special is distinguished by an illuminated Rave Blue pony emblem as well as special 20-inch wheels with a carbonized gray and black finish.

They’re joined by special badging as well as a hood graphic inspired by the California coastline. The latter is dark and dull, but Ford exterior designer Stefan Taylor said it has “radiating sunset lines in layered gray, black, and a blue accent representing the ocean.”

Review: Ford’s Electric Pony Car Gets Better With Age

The upgrades extend to the cabin, which has performance seats wrapped in Navy Pier ActiveX upholstery as well as a Miko material. The navy color can also be found on the steering wheel and center console, with the latter sporting “GT/CS” badging.

Elsewhere, there are special floor mats with blue and silver stitching that matches the design found on the seats.

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Since the special edition is based on the Mustang Mach-E GT, it features a 91 kWh battery pack as well as a dual motor all-wheel drive system producing 480 hp (358 kW / 487 PS) and 600 lb-ft (813 Nm) of torque.

This setup enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.8 seconds and travel up to 280 miles (451 km) on a single charge.

While the upgrades are minor, the price tag isn’t as the California Special package costs $2,495. That means customers will need to shell out at least $55,890 before factoring in the destination fee.

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Jeep’s Wagoneer Is Dead. Long Live The Overhauled 2026 Grand Wagoneer

  • Jeep has introduced the 2026 Grand Wagoneer, which starts at $62,145.
  • The facelifted model replaces both the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.
  • It features a revamped front fascia and a new range-extender powertrain.

Long before there was the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator, the Grand Wagoneer reigned supreme. With this pedigree and Jeep’s upmarket push, Stellantis thought they had a winner on their hands when they brought the model back in 2021.

Things didn’t exactly pan out as expected, so the entire Wagoneer lineup is being revamped for 2026. As part of the makeover, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are merging into a single model, which features an updated design and a brand-new range-extender powertrain.

More Modern Design

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The new look was previewed earlier this summer, and the 2026 Grand Wagoneer cribs heavily from the electric Wagoneer S. As part of the makeover, the model adopts an all-new front fascia with a minimalist seven-slot grille. It’s illuminated and visually flows into new headlights.

Further below, there’s a more pronounced central intake that is flanked by new T-shaped LED daytime running lights. Elsewhere, the Wagoneer badging on the hood has been replaced by a Jeep logo.

The rest of the design largely carries over, but there are new full-width LED taillights as well as rear Jeep badging. The model also eschews chrome, while sporting restyled wheels in sizes ranging from 18 to 22 inches.

Minor Interior Updates

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Jeep barely mentioned interior changes, but there’s a new heads-up display on higher-end variants. It features a “significantly larger field of view and a virtual image distance twice that of previous versions.”

The Grand Wagoneer also features a larger 12-inch Uconnect5 infotainment system. It replaces the previous 10.1-inch display, which used to come standard on the Wagoneer.

An All-New Range-Extender Powertrain

 Jeep’s Wagoneer Is Dead. Long Live The Overhauled 2026 Grand Wagoneer

Under the hood, there’s a familiar twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six producing 420 hp (313 kW / 426 PS) and 468 lb-ft (635 Nm) of torque. Unfortunately, Jeep has apparently dropped the high-output variant that developed 540 hp (402 kW / 548 PS) and 521 lb-ft (706 Nm).

The big news is an all-new range-extender variant known as the Grand Wagoneer REEV. It borrows heavily from the Ram 1500 REV, which used to be known as the Ramcharger, and features a 92 kWh battery pack as well as a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that acts as a generator.

It’s slated to be the quickest and most powerful Grand Wagoneer ever created as the company is estimating a combined output of 647 hp (482 kW / 656 PS) and 620 lb-ft (840 Nm) of torque.

This should enable the SUV to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in five seconds flat and have a range in excess of 500 miles (805 km).

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer will go into production later this year and be followed by the range-extender variant. The latter will have “late availability,” so expect to learn more closer to launch.

 Jeep’s Wagoneer Is Dead. Long Live The Overhauled 2026 Grand Wagoneer

Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

PROS ›› Comfortable ride, 303 mile range, $29,990 base priceCONS ›› Tight second row, charging quirks, FWD only

The elimination of the clean vehicle tax incentive in the US is expected to slow electric vehicle adoption, but newcomers are still on the horizon. This includes the redesigned Nissan Leaf, which seems perfectly designed for the post-credit era.

When it arrives at dealerships in the coming weeks with a starting price of $29,990, it will be the most affordable electric vehicle in America. A cheaper variant is also in the works and it’s rumored to begin at $25,360.

Also: Nissan Says It’ll Build A Leaf NISMO If Enough Of You Shout Loud Enough

In both cases, the 2026 Leaf lands well below Tesla’s most affordable offerings yet, the larger Model 3 and Model Y Standard, which shed more features than we can comfortably count just to hit their $36,990 and $39,990 price points respectively.

However, unlike those models, the Leaf is so much more than a cut-rate EV. It’s comfortable, quiet, and surprisingly quick. The model also incorporates lessons learned from the previous two generations, giving it a leg up on a number of competitors.

QUICKFACTS
› Model:2026 Nissan Leaf
› Dimensions:173.4 in (4,404 mm) Long

71.3 in (1,856 mm) Wide

61.3 in (1,557 mm) Tall

105.9 in (2,689 mm) Wheelbase
› Battery:75 kWh
› Output:214 hp and 261 lb-ft
› Curb Weight:4,187 – 4,369 lbs*
› Range:259 – 303 miles*
› Price:$29,990
› On Sale:Fall 2025
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*Manufacturer

A Crossover-Inspired Design

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Photos Mike Gauthier / Carscoops

When the original Leaf was launched in 2010, it looked like an other-worldly hatchback. The second-generation arrived seven years later with a more conventional design, but the timing couldn’t have been worse as crossovers recently began outselling cars.

That trend has accelerated since then, so it comes as little surprise the third-generation Leaf has been transformed into a crossover. This was a no-brainer and the model looks surprisingly upscale as it incorporates a number of high-end features including flush-mounted door handles and a dimming panoramic glass roof.

The latter is typically reserved for ultra-expensive vehicles such as the Cadillac Celestiq and McLaren 750S Spider, but Nissan made one standard on the $38,990 Leaf Platinum+. While it’s not as fancy as some of the other roofs on the market, it quickly transitions from transparent to opaque at the press of a switch. This is done in a sweeping pattern that mimics a traditional sunshade.

The dimming roof is a cool and surprisingly practical addition as officials noted it allows for improved aerodynamics and increased headroom, when compared to a traditional moonroof. The company also noted it provides improved heat and cold protection, which helps to increase efficiency.

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Photos Mike Gauthier / Carscoops

Putting the roof aside, the 2026 Leaf has a streamlined face with LED headlights that can be connected by a thin illuminated strip. This helps to emphasize the crossover’s width, which has grown by 0.8 inches (20 mm).

All of the other dimensions are smaller than before as the crossover is 3 inches (76 mm) shorter, while 0.4 inches (10 mm) has been shaved from the wheelbase. Height was also dropped by 0.4 inches (10 mm), meaning the old hatchback was taller than the new crossover.

Interestingly, ground clearance falls from 5.9 inches (150 mm) to 5.3 inches (135 mm). This is surprising and designers deserve a lot of credit for making the model look more rugged and capable than it really is.

Design trickery aside, the Leaf adopts soft curves and flowing surfaces. They’re joined by hidden rear door handles and a pronounced spoiler. These elements help to lower the drag coefficient from 0.29 to 0.26.

Rounding out the highlights are 18- or 19-inch wheels and an available motion-activated power liftgate. The model also offers a stylish two-tone paint job as well as 3D holographic taillights. The latter have a “2-3” iconography, which is pronounced as “ni-san” in Japanese.

A Nice, But Cramped Cabin

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Nissan adopted a ‘class above’ strategy for the latest Leaf and that’s clearly visible inside as the model feels surprisingly premium. That’s certainly true of our range-topping Platinum+ tester, which features dual 14.3-inch screens as well as a bright heads-up display.

They’re joined by heated Zero Gravity front seats that are wrapped in TailorFit upholstery. Nissan says the covering is softer than traditional leather, while also being more durable and eco-friendly as it’s made with 65% recycled materials.

The front seats are nicely bolstered and feature an interesting pattern that helps to elevate the cabin. They’re joined by power adjustment and lumbar support, making it easy to get comfortable.

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Unfortunately, the rear seats leave a lot to be desired as legroom was tight for this 6’2” scribe. There’s a mere 31.8 inches (808 mm) of real estate, although the model offers plenty of headroom. While things are a mixed bag, the rear seats are heated and occupants will find two USB-C charging ports as well as air vents.

Speaking of space, the Leaf holds 20 cubic feet (566 liters) of luggage behind the second-row. That can easily be expanded to 55.5 cubic feet (1,572 liters) by pulling the releases on the second-row, which are accessible from the cargo area.

While there’s a decent amount of cargo room, the Leaf trails the Kona Electric and Niro EV by 8.2 cubic feet (232 liters). Both models also have a far more spacious second-row with over 36 inches (914 mm) of legroom.

Moving back up front, the Leaf sports a perfectly positioned wireless smartphone charger and a Bose premium audio system with speakers integrated into the front headrests. Other highlights include a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 64-color ambient lighting system, and a heated steering wheel.

The 14.3-inch infotainment system is fast and responsive, and features Google built-in. This provides easy access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. The latter is worth mentioning as owners can download entertainment apps such as Prime Video and HBO Max. They can then watch movies or shows on the infotainment system, while their vehicle recharges.

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Photos Mike Gauthier / Carscoops

The Google integration provides other perks as it makes long distance trips far less stressful. Once users enter their destination, Google Maps will recommend charging stops along the route and estimate how much charge they’ll have left once they arrive. Users can also adjust their desired charge level, so you could arrive at your hotel with an 80% charge instead of 30%.

Nissan continues to embrace ‘digital’ switchgear and there’s a row of high-tech climate controls below the infotainment system. I’ve had mixed feelings about these in the past, but the company has been working to improve them and they feel more natural than those found on the Murano.

Further below, there’s a push button shifter and dedicated audio controls. Buyers will also find a camera button, which offers a dizzying array of options. Highlights include a new Front Wide View, an Invisible Hood View, and an Intelligent Around View Monitor. The latter offers eight different angles, so you can see a virtual representation of the Leaf in its real-world environment.

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Photos Mike Gauthier / Carscoops

Despite its affordable price tag, the cabin feels relatively upscale as there are soft touch plastics, metallic accents, and a stylish cloth accent on the dashboard. Controls are also intuitively laid out and fairly conventional.

That might sound minor, but EVs used to be purposely weird. This is no longer the case and the traditional approach should make the crossover more appealing to newcomers. That’s important as Nissan is expecting roughly 75% of Leaf buyers to be new to EVs, and they want to make the transition as easy as possible.

An Impressive Powertrain With 303 Miles Of Range

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Electric vehicles have been getting better and that’s especially true of the Leaf, which can now travel up to 303 miles (488 km) on a single charge. That’s 91 miles (146 km) more than its predecessor and a whopping 230 miles (370 km) more than the first-generation EV.

A large part of this is due to the car’s new 75 kWh battery pack, which is significantly bigger than the previous 40 and 60 kWh options. It will eventually be joined by a smaller 52 kWh battery, which will power the entry-level S trim and be paired with a motor developing 174 hp (130 kW / 177 PS) and 254 lb-ft (344 Nm) of torque.

The rest of the lineup uses the 75 kWh battery as well as a motor producing 214 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 261 lb-ft (353 Nm) of torque. That’s 11 lb-ft (15 Nm) more than the old model, but you’re looking at a weight gain of around 331 lbs (150 kg).

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Photos Mike Gauthier / Carscoops

While the S+ breaks the 300 mile (483 km) mark, the mid-level SV+ has 288 miles (463 km) of range. That drops to 259 miles (417 km) on the Platinum+, largely due to its 19-inch wheels. However, even in range-topping guise, the model offers 47 miles (76 km) more range than its predecessor.

Of course, most people travel less than 40 miles (64 km) per day. This means many owners could go a week without charging, so range anxiety shouldn’t be an issue.

That’s especially true nowadays as the Leaf features a NACS charging port and access to the Tesla Supercharger network. The latter consists of more than 20,000 fast chargers in the United States and they’re supported by a Plug & Charge capability.

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Oddly enough, the NACS port is DC-only. For home charging, there’s a CCS (J1772) port on the driver’s side. This is a strange setup, but the Leaf was already in development when automakers started adopting the NACS standard so it’s kind of a half step.

Quirks aside, the Leaf has a 150 kW DC fast charging capability and this will enable the battery to go from a 10% to 80% charge in 35 minutes. Buyers will also find an improved 7.2 kW onboard charger and a portable charging cable that has 120V and 240V plugs.

The Leaf comes standard with a vehicle-to-load capability that transforms the EV into a giant battery pack. An adaptor can plug into the CCS port and provide 1,500 watts of power. The Platinum+ also offers a 120V outlet in the cargo area, which allows the car to put out a combined 3,450 watts. This should make the Leaf pretty handy during power outages and camping trips.

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Getting back to the battery, Nissan focused on improved cold weather performance. As part of this effort, the battery is insulated and features an enhanced thermal management system. The model also captures waste heat from the motor and on-board charger, and repurposes it to warm the battery. This helps to increase range and charging performance.

On the topic of cold climates, the SV+ and Platinum+ offer a dedicated battery heater for $300. Those two trims also come with a heat pump, which warms the cabin more efficiently.

A Well-Rounded EV

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

While the Leaf is no lightweight, its 214 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) electric motor propels it with ease. It’s reasonably quick off the line and the motor’s instantaneous response further enhances the experience.

If you floor it, you’ll get a bit of torque steer. However, the overall experience is well-rounded and should feel familiar to those coming from ICE-powered vehicles.

Despite being around for nearly two decades, the 2026 Leaf is the first to ride on a dedicated electric vehicle platform. It’s the CMF-EV architecture, which also underpins the Ariya.

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Michael Gauthier / Carscoops

This helps to deliver “segment above comfort” and the effort is aided by a new multi-link rear suspension, which reduces impact stiffness by nearly 30%. It replaces the old torsion beam setup and delivers a refined ride quality that soaks up road imperfections without making a fuss.

The good manners extend to the power steering system, which feels responsive and nicely weighted. However, there isn’t much joy to be had and it comes off a little lifeless.

The driving experience can be adjusted by a switch on the dash, which offers Normal, Sport, Eco, and Personal settings. The latter is customizable and offers two steering options, three acceleration profiles, and four levels of regenerative braking.

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Speaking of the latter, there’s an E-Step button on the dash that significantly ramps up the regenerative braking. It takes a little getting used to, but the learning curve is relatively quick.

Thanks to the various settings, it’s easy to tailor the Leaf to your liking. This means owners can get everything from an ICE-like experience to a more traditional EV setup. That being said, there are limits and the crossover favors comfort over sport.

Suburban streets in southeast Michigan didn’t provide the most engaging driving route, but the Leaf felt secure and capable in corners. This comes despite the Platinum+’s 4,369 lbs (1,982 kg) of mass, which is roughly 1,300 lbs (590 kg) more than the similarly sized Kicks. While it’s undoubtedly porky, you don’t really get a sense of the crossover’s weight unless you really push it.

Around town, the Leaf is surprisingly comfortable and quiet. There is a little bit of wind noise at higher speeds, but the overall experience is relatively hushed.

A Value-Focused EV That Doesn’t Feel Cheap

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

All of this adds up to a compelling electric vehicle that’s comfortable and features a stylish new design. The $29,990 base price is also impossible to ignore, especially in the post tax credit era. As Nissan recently noted, the 2026 Leaf is actually $2,790 cheaper than the 2011 model despite tariffs, inflation, and 15 years of change.

While the base model comes nicely equipped, the sweet spot is the $34,230 SV+. It features heated TailorFit front seats as well as 14.3-inch displays. They’re joined by a wireless smartphone charger, a six-speaker audio system, and a host of driver assistance systems including ProPILOT Assist.

The Leaf also compares favorably to key competitors as it costs a whopping $9,610 less than the 2025 Kia Niro EV, despite offering an extra 50 miles (80 km) of range. The model also undercuts the Hyundai Kona Electric by $2,985 and can travel an additional 103 miles (166 km).

However, the biggest X factor is the reborn Chevrolet Bolt. It starts at $29,990 including a $1,395 destination fee, which means it undercuts the Leaf by $1,495. The company has also announced plans for an even cheaper variant that will arrive later for $28,995. That sounds pretty compelling, but the Bolt only provides an estimated 255 miles (410 km) of range.

Hyundai has also drastically cut prices for the 2026 Ioniq 5, dropping the model down to $35,000. That’s roughly the same as the mid-level SV+, which could make it an interesting alternative.

Competition aside, the Leaf is a fantastic car and a great electric vehicle. It builds on its predecessors, while also introducing a number of notable improvements. While we wish there was more second-row legroom and an all-wheel drive option, the redesigned model is a big step forward and one that will likely attract EV fans as well as new converts.

 Nissan’s $29,990 Leaf Costs Less But Feels Like So Much More: Review

Photos Mike Gauthier / Carscoops

Ford And GM Drop EV Loophole After Being Accused Of Bilking Taxpayers

  • Ford and GM have abandoned plans to use the EV tax credit loophole.
  • The move comes after a Senator said they were “bilking” taxpayers.
  • The companies are now offering their own incentives to prop up demand.

In an era where many companies suck up to the Trump Administration, Ford and GM dared to be different. They rather blatantly exploited a loophole to extend the clean vehicle tax credit beyond its September 30 expiration date.

There’s a lot of back story, but the IRS released guidance earlier this year saying the credit could be extended to vehicles received after September 30 as long as there was a “written binding contract” as well as a nominal down payment.

Playing the System

To take advantage of this, Ford and GM used their financing arms to place down payments on EVs and stop the clock. This means they could then lease those vehicles to consumers at discounted rates.

More: Ford And GM Found A Clever Loophole To Keep The EV Tax Credit Alive

Needless to say, this raised a lot of eyebrows and Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno wasn’t happy. In a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, he said the IRS guidance was “being taken advantage of by certain car companies who wish to continue bilking the U.S. taxpayer.”

He added, they’re “gaming this guidance by instructing their captive financial entities to enter into written binding agreements with dealers for electric vehicles, paying a nominal down payment, to secure the credits on vehicles that may not be leased to the end user for months.”

 Ford And GM Drop EV Loophole After Being Accused Of Bilking Taxpayers

Moreno also mentioned the “Green New Scam,” so that might tell you about his feelings towards EVs. Regardless, GM and Ford have apparently decided the bad optics and pressure weren’t worth it.

Backing Down

GM was the first to fold and they were quickly followed by Ford. As a spokesperson told Reuters, “Ford will not claim the EV tax credit, but will maintain the competitive lease payments we have in the market today.”

Speaking of which, Ford is promoting a 2025 Mustang Mach-E Select lease for $253 per month. That’s for 36 months with $3,493 due at signing and an allowance of 10,500 miles (16,898 km) annually. Of course, there are plenty of caveats.

 Ford And GM Drop EV Loophole After Being Accused Of Bilking Taxpayers

Ferrari’s Going Electric But Refuses To Let The V12 Die

  • Ferrari vows to keep V6, V8, and V12 engines alive for future models.
  • By 2030, 40% of the Italian brand’s lineup will be hybrid and 20% electric.
  • Company expects to generate roughly $10.4 billion in revenue by 2030.

Ferrari has used their Capital Markets Day event to unveil their 2030 Strategic Plan. It will have them pretty busy as the company is aiming to introduce four new cars annually between 2026 and 2030.

The automaker didn’t say much about the upcoming models, but promised each car will be “designed with a distinct positioning, tailored to different client profiles, in line with our strategy: Different Ferrari for different Ferraristi, and different Ferrari for different moments.”

More: Ferrari Drops First Details About It’s Upcoming EV Arriving In 2026

While Ferrari is embracing electrification, they believe in “technology neutrality” and giving customers “true freedom of choice in how their car is powered.” This means the brand will “continue to offer and innovate our V6, V8 and V12 combustion engines, in line with new global regulations, focusing on increasing specific power output and ensuring compatibility with alternative fuels.”

That’s good news for purists, and Ferrari said ICE-powered vehicles will make up 40% of their lineup in 2030. Another 40% will be hybrid, while the remaining 20% are electric.

 Ferrari’s Going Electric But Refuses To Let The V12 Die

Ferrari also used the event to talk about the next generation of hybrids. They’ll be a “combination of the finest combustion and electric technologies, featuring electrical and electronic components developed and manufactured in-house.”

The company is also working on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, targeting a 25% reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2030, compared to 2024 levels. However, this isn’t being done in the way you’d think, as the drop will primarily be achieved by using recycled aluminum in engines and chassis.

Customization And Exclusivity

 Ferrari’s Going Electric But Refuses To Let The V12 Die

Putting powertrains aside, Ferrari isn’t chasing sales as they’ll continue to “sell one car less than the market demands.” This helps to make their vehicles special, as owning a Ferrari has to be an experience.

Speaking of which, the company said 100% of its vehicles are personalized by customers. Ferrari is celebrating this by announcing plans to open two new Tailor Made centers, in Tokyo and Los Angeles, in 2027. A new paint shop will also aid in customization requests, and it’s scheduled to open in 2027 as well.

Ferrari isn’t just focused on new models, as they’ve built approximately 330,000 vehicles since the company was founded. Of these, over 90% are still in existence and require maintenance.

The Financials

 Ferrari’s Going Electric But Refuses To Let The V12 Die

In other news, Ferrari raised their guidance as it’s already beating their 2026 profitability targets. Now, they’re expecting revenues in excess of €7.1 ($8.2) billion as well as earnings of more than €2.72 ($3.15) billion.

In 2030, the company expects to increase revenues to around €9 ($10.4) billion, while earnings climb to €3.6 ($4.2) billion. They’re aiming to achieve this thanks to a strong product mix, limited edition vehicles, customizations, and some growth.

 Ferrari’s Going Electric But Refuses To Let The V12 Die

Photos Ferrari

Audi A4 Returns As EV With Concept TT Styling To Give BMW Something To Worry About

  • Audi plans to launch the all-electric A4 e-tron sedan in 2028.
  • It will ride on the advanced new Scalable Systems Platform.
  • We can also expect a radical design inspired by the Concept C.

Update: It’s the weekend, which means time to sharpen our digital pencils and let the imagination run a little wild. We’ve put together a rendering of the next-generation 2028 A4 e-tron, offering a glimpse at how Audi’s design playbook could evolve, shaped by recent remarks from the brand’s CEO.

Borrowing design cues from the latest Concept C and the A5, our rendering imagines a clean, minimalist sedan that ties the classic A4 proportions to Audi’s next generation EV identity. Of course, the final design could take a different turn, particularly in the profile or rear styling, but until test prototypes hit public roads, this remains our most grounded prediction. The original story continues below.

 Audi A4 Returns As EV With Concept TT Styling To Give BMW Something To Worry About
Illustrations Thanos Pappas
 Audi A4 Returns As EV With Concept TT Styling To Give BMW Something To Worry About

BMW and Mercedes are preparing to roll out electric takes on their best-selling 3-Series and C-Class, known respectively as the i3 and C-Class EQ Tech models. That leaves Audi in an unusual position, with a lineup already heavy in electric crossovers and soon to expand even further with the Q2, yet still lacking an affordable electric sedan.

And as history has shown, when one German premium automaker changes course, the others quickly follow, sparking another round of competition on the autobahn.

More: Audi’s Concept C Previews A Porsche-Linked Sports Car Coming Sooner Than You Think

That’s expected to happen in 2028 with the debut of the all-new A4 e-tron. Besides reviving the classic name, the electric sedan will reportedly bring a new platform and a sharper design influenced by the Concept C, distinguishing it from the more conservatively styled ICE-powered A5 that replaced the previous A4 in the lineup.

VW Underpinnings and Rivian Tech

According to Autocar, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner confirmed the A4 e-tron will ride on the Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), which will also be used on several other Volkswagen Group vehicles. These are said to include the next-generation Golf as well as the Skoda Octavia and Cupra’s flagship crossover.

While little is known about the platform, it should be more advanced than the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture that underpins the Porsche Macan Electric as well as the A6 and Q6 e-trons.

Also: Audi Backtracks On Odd-Even Naming Plan For ICE And EVs

The A4 e-tron could also become the first Audi to use software developed in partnership with Rivian. This is supposed to pave the way for “software-defined vehicles” that become “more intelligent, more sustainable, and more enjoyable over time.”

 Audi A4 Returns As EV With Concept TT Styling To Give BMW Something To Worry About
2020 Audi A4 Avant

Döllner told the publication, “We are heavily working on it with the Rivian-Volkswagen joint venture, building up mules right now and working intensively together, so the first cars are already on their way.” He suggested the software will debut in two new vehicles and help to reduce complexity.

More: Mercedes Previews C-Class EV With A Face That’s Bound To Start Fights

Beyond the technical overhaul, the A4 e-tron will adopt the new ‘Audi brand face.’ This means we can expect a minimalist front fascia that features a rectangular grille with a portrait orientation. It will likely be flanked by slender four-element headlights, as Audi has previously said they’ll define their visual identity.

Little else is known about the car at this point, but Döllner suggested we can expect “less virtual buttons” and more dedicated switchgear. As he noted, that’s what customers prefer, and it’s hard to argue with that.

 Audi A4 Returns As EV With Concept TT Styling To Give BMW Something To Worry About

Sources: Autocar

Volvo Prepares Its Most Powerful Model Ever Alongside New Entry Level Trims

  • Volvo will offer a new entry-level EX90 Single Motor in the United States.
  • The EX30 also gains a new rear-wheel drive variant that starts at $38,950.
  • They’re being joined by the new EX30 Cross Country and EX40 Black Edition.

Volvo recently introduced the 2026 EX90, which features a host of improvements including an all-new 800-volt electrical architecture. Now, the company has shared more details about the U.S.-spec version of its flagship electric SUV.

While the Swedish luxury brand didn’t go into many specifics, they confirmed plans to offer a new entry-level variant with a single electric motor.

Volvo went on to reveal the Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance will have upgraded powertrains that produce up to 670 hp (500 kW / 679 PS). According to the company, that output officially makes the EX90 Twin Motor Performance the most powerful production Volvo ever built.

More: Volvo Just Gave Its Three-Row EV A Huge Upgrade

Volvo didn’t mention numbers for the other variants, but the upgraded Polestar 3 offers a rear-wheel drive model with 329 hp (245 kW / 333 PS) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. The company also offers a dual-motor crossover with 536 hp (400 kW / 544 PS) and 546 lb-ft (740 Nm) of torque.

Besides powertrain tweaks, Volvo mentioned a newly available electrochromic panoramic roof as well as ventilated Nappa leather seats. This is on top of the other upgrades, which include faster charging, new safety features, and additional computing power.

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EX30 Now Offers Rear-Wheel Drive

The EX90 isn’t the only crossover gaining a new entry-level variant as Volvo will offer an EX30 Single Motor. It starts at $38,950, which makes it $7,700 less expensive than the Twin Motor Performance.

That’s a considerable savings and the model features a rear-mounted motor producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS). It enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.1 seconds and travel up to 261 miles (420 km) on a single charge.

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Buyers will also find LED lighting units, rain-sensing wipers, and 19-inch wheels. They’re joined by a panoramic glass roof, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, ambient lighting, and a wireless smartphone charger. Rounding out the highlights are power front seats wrapped in eco-friendly upholstery.

On the safety front, there’s a host of driver assistance systems including Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Jam Assist. The crossover also has a Blind Spot Information System, Front Cross Traffic Alert, and Pedestrian and Cyclist Steering Avoidance.

A Rugged New EX30 Cross Country

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Also new for 2026 is the EX30 Cross Country. It starts at $48,150 and features a slightly more rugged design with additional ground clearance.

The model comes standard with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 422 hp (315 kW / 428 PS). This enables the electric crossover to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds and travel up to 227 miles (365 km) on a single charge.

On top of that, the Cross Country comes nicely equipped with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. They’re joined by extra safety features including Park Pilot Assist and a 360° camera system.

EX40 Gains A Black Edition

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Last but not least, the EX40 gains a new Black Edition. It starts at $60,850 and features gloss black badging as well as black 20-inch wheels. Customers can also get an Onyx Black, Crystal White, Vapour Grey, or Denim Blue paint job.

Volvo didn’t say much else about the Black Edition, but it features Charcoal Connect Suede Textile and Microtech upholstery with contrasting white accents. Buyers will also find black flourishes as well as Dark Cutting Edge aluminum trim.

 Volvo Prepares Its Most Powerful Model Ever Alongside New Entry Level Trims

Nissan Says An AWD Leaf Could Happen, But Isn’t Sure It Should

  • 2026 Nissan Leaf adds several upgrades designed for colder climates.
  • Crossover styling aside, the new-gen Leaf remains front-wheel drive.
  • Nissan says an AWD version is possible but may not make sense.

The 2026 Nissan Leaf will be arriving at U.S. dealers shortly with an all-new crossover-inspired design. However, it will be missing one key feature that many crossovers offer: all-wheel drive.

This isn’t terribly surprising, but it is a little curious, as Nissan made a number of improvements focused on delivering a better ownership experience in colder climates.

Among the changes is an improved thermal management system, which captures waste heat from the motor and on-board charger to warm the battery. This increases energy efficiency as well as provides “more predictable charging performance.”

More: 2026 Nissan Leaf Debuts With Crossover Styling And 300+ Miles Of Range

The cold-weather upgrades extend beyond that, as the SV+ and Platinum+ have a heat pump. Those trims also offer a dedicated battery heater, which costs $300 and further improves winter charging performance.

Where’s the AWD?

Given the crossover-inspired styling and focus on cold-weather performance, we asked Nissan officials about the possibility of an all-wheel drive variant in the future. They said all-wheel drive wasn’t initially considered, as the Leaf is positioned as an affordable electric vehicle.

That strategy isn’t unusual in this segment. Key rivals such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV also rely solely on front-wheel drive, so Nissan isn’t exactly out of step with the competition.

Even so, the door to AWD isn’t fully closed. Nissan officials suggested all-wheel drive could be a possibility in the future. This shouldn’t be too shocking, as the Leaf is based on the same CMF-EV platform as the Ariya, which already offers AWD.

That being said, an AWD Leaf might not make as much sense as it seems. Officials pointed out that most EV sales are concentrated in the Sun Belt, where traction on snow and ice isn’t a top concern

The Ariya Isn’t Dead

 Nissan Says An AWD Leaf Could Happen, But Isn’t Sure It Should

On top of that, officials noted the “Ariya isn’t done, it’s on pause.” This seems to suggest reports of its demise have been overblown, as the model could potentially return after a hiatus.

However, as a Nissan spokesperson previously explained to us, “No decision has been made yet. We continue to monitor the market environment and will respond accordingly to ensure we are meeting consumer demand with the right line-up of electrified products.”

 Nissan Says An AWD Leaf Could Happen, But Isn’t Sure It Should

Mercedes Just Pulled The Plug On Its Entry-Level EV

  • Mercedes has quietly killed the EQB EV, which started at $53,050.
  • It’s expected to be replaced by the redesigned GLB with EQ Tech.
  • The upcoming model will have a lot in common with the new CLA.

Mercedes EQB sales plummeted 36% last year in the United States to a mere 8,885 units. That meant it was even less popular than the EQE lineup, which generated 11,660 sales.

Given this and the fact that Mercedes is working on a redesigned GLB, it probably shouldn’t be too surprising that the EQB is dead. Speaking with InsideEVs, a Mercedes spokesperson confirmed, “The EQB has reached the end of its planned lifecycle and therefore will not be offered in the U.S. or Canada after model year 2025.”

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

While the brand’s entry-level EV is now dead, they added that the company “remains fully committed to electrification and the largest product offensive in the history of the brand is just around the corner. As announced at IAA Mobility 2023, Mercedes-Benz will also introduce two SUVs based on this new architecture.”

This is a not so subtle hint about the next-generation GLA and GLB, which have already been spied undergoing testing. They’ll borrow heavily from the new CLA, which is scheduled to arrive in the United States later this year.

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They can’t get here soon enough as the outgoing EQB 250+ started at $53,050 and featured a front-mounted motor developing 188 hp (140 kW / 191 PS) and 284 lb-ft (385 Nm) of torque. It was paired with a 70.5 kWh battery pack, which delivered 250 miles (402 km) of range.

The $57,200 EQB 300 4MATIC upped the ante with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing a combined output of 225 hp (168 kW / 228 PS) and 288 lb-ft (390 Nm) of torque. However, it caused the range to drop to a disappointing 205 miles (330 km).

Customers could also opt for an EQB 350 4MATIC, which had an even more powerful all-wheel drive system with 288 hp (215 kW / 292 PS) and 383 lb-ft (519 Nm) of torque. Despite being more powerful, this variant had a slightly better range of 206 miles (332 km).

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H/T to Motor1

This Hot Wheels Mercedes Comes With A Warning Label For Grown-Ups

  • Mercedes and Hot Wheels have unveiled a sporty CLA concept.
  • It pays tribute to the diecast cars many of us played with as kids.
  • The car will spawn a real Hot Wheels variant in the spring of 2026.

Mercedes and Hot Wheels have joined forces to unveil a one-off CLA. It’s the latest in a Class of Creators series, which also includes the “molten chrome” CLA that was made in collaboration with Ice Spice.

Thankfully, the latest concept is far better as it pays tribute to the “boundless imagination of childhood, when cars were not just a means of transport but also an invitation to dream.” The model also celebrates automotive passion, which tends to be sparked at a young age by 1:64-scale diecast cars.

More: Starry But Soulless 2026 Mercedes CLA Leans On AI And Electric Power

As a result, the CLA has been Hot Wheels-ified as it features pink glass, a widebody kit, and a massive diffuser. They’re joined by a sizable rear wing, mismatched wheels, and a colorful livery.

According to Mercedes, the color scheme draws from the classic Hot Wheels aesthetic, mixing bright orange, pink, and blue tones. The company added the “oversized flames lend a retro-futuristic look reminiscent of 1980s pop culture.”

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Road-Going Model Arrives Later This Year

The concept was shown at the Hot Wheels Legends Tour in El Segundo over the weekend and it will be transformed into a diecast toy next spring. As for the road-going model, the CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC EVs are scheduled to land in America later this year.

The former has a rear-mounted motor developing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in approximately 6.6 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h).

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Likewise, the CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra power and traction, 60 mph (96 km/h) comes in 4.8 seconds.

Of course, you’ll probably want to avoid the launch model as it won’t work with 400-volt DC fast chargers. Vehicles with that capability won’t arrive until the spring of 2026 and the company is already warning consumers to “contact your dealer to confirm [compatibility] before purchase.”

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Photos Mercedes

20,000 Nissan Leaf Owners Told To Stop Fast Charging After Fire Risk Warning

  • Nissan is recalling nearly 20,000 Leaf EVs over a fire risk.
  • The batteries can rapidly heat during Level 3 charging.
  • Software update is in the works, but stop fast charging now.

Nissan is gearing up to launch the redesigned Leaf, but its predecessor has been hit by a new recall. It impacts 19,077 EVs from the 2021 and 2022 model years.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the lithium-ion pack can overheat when using DC fast charging. This, understandably, increases the risk of a battery fire.

Why It’s Happening

A chronology of events hasn’t been released, but the government says Nissan determined the Leaf’s battery packs have “excessive lithium deposits” within their cells. This can increase the electrical resistance and potentially cause a fluctuation in the state of charge.

More: Nissan Takes A Leaf From The Z For Its Redesigned Mass Market EV

When DC fast charging, the increased electrical resistance can result in “rapid heating of the battery.” If charging continues, a fire could occur.

 20,000 Nissan Leaf Owners Told To Stop Fast Charging After Fire Risk Warning

Affects Both Battery Options

The problem appears to impact Leaf models equipped with both 40 and 62 kWh battery packs. Given the seriousness of the issue, owners are being advised not to use Level 3 chargers until the snag has been addressed.

This could be a problem as a remedy isn’t available yet. However, Nissan is developing new software that will prevent things from spiraling into a “thermal incident.”

Owners will first receive a letter later this month confirming whether their car is included in the recall. A second notice will follow once the software is ready, at which point vehicles will need to be taken to a dealership for the software update.

 20,000 Nissan Leaf Owners Told To Stop Fast Charging After Fire Risk Warning

Expiring EV Tax Credit Sent Tesla Sales Into Overdrive But Its Flagships Crashed

  • Tesla sales rebounded in Q3 as Americans rushed before tax credits expired.
  • The automaker delivered 497,099 vehicles, up from 462,890 units last year.
  • Deliveries soared 29.4% from Q2 on strong demand for Model 3 and Model Y.

Tesla’s been having a terrible year, but there’s a bit of good news as third quarter deliveries climbed 7.4% from last year. That’s a sizable increase and it’s believed the recently expired clean vehicle tax credit played a significant role in driving consumers to showrooms.

Jumping right into the numbers, Tesla delivered 481,166 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in the third quarter. That’s up from 439,975 last year, for an increase of 9.4%.

More: Tesla’s EV Market Share Just Sank Below 40%

However, it wasn’t all roses as the Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck continue to underperform. Q3 deliveries dropped from 22,915 units last year to 15,933 vehicles this time around.

In total, Tesla produced 447,450 vehicles and delivered 497,099. One year ago, the company made 469,796 EVs and only delivered 462,890.

2025 Q3 Tesla Production And Deliveries
 ProductionDeliveries
Model 3/Y435,826481,166
Other Models11,62415,933
Total447,450497,099
SWIPE

Digging deeper, Tesla sales have rebounded significantly since Elon Musk’s disastrous foray into politics turned off a number of consumers. Compared to last quarter, deliveries soared an impressive 29.4%. The biggest boost came from the Model 3 and Y, which were up by 107,438 units. Deliveries of “other models” also grew by 53.3% as the company handed over 15,933 of them.

Of course, the sales bonanza is likely over now that the tax credit is dead. This means customers will need to shell out at least $42,490 for a Model 3 or $44,990 for the Model Y. Those prices will likely limit their appeal, although the company is working to address that with a cheaper Model Y.

They’re not the only ones working on more affordable EVs as Hyundai recently slashed prices for the 2026 Ioniq 5. The crossover starts at $35,000, which is $7,600 less than last year’s model. Other trims have steeper reductions and they average $9,155.

 Expiring EV Tax Credit Sent Tesla Sales Into Overdrive But Its Flagships Crashed

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