Draft rule in China proposes cars must take at least 5 seconds to reach 100 km/h after ignition.
The new regulation could affect a large number of quick-accelerating electrified vehicles.
An overspeed alarm could also become mandatory for passenger vehicles longer than 6 meters.
The electric vehicle era has ushered in a new reality where more and more new cars are capable of ultra fast acceleration from a standstill. However, China’s latest draft vehicle regulation aims to slow them down considerably. According to a new draft version of the National Standard, all passenger vehicles must take at least five seconds to reach 100 km/h after each ignition.
The draft title “Technical Specifications for Power-Driven Vehicles Operating on Roads” appears to be part of a broader safety and road behavior initiative in China. It is intended to replace the current GB 7258-2017 standard that didn’t include such limits.
Section 10.5.4 of the new proposal states: “After each power-on/ignition of a passenger vehicle (excluding automatic engine start-stop), the vehicle should be in a state where the 100 km/h acceleration time is not less than 5 seconds.”
The default performance-restricting mode upon startup could be similar to the output-limiting Eco mode found in most EVs and would be controlled by software. Of course, drivers could always choose a faster mode, but they should repeat the same process each time they start the car. Something similar is currently enforced in Europe with the speed limit warnings that need to be switched off manually.
If approved, the new rule would apply to all passenger vehicles in China, independently of the powertrain type. However, it would mostly affect the rapidly growing fleet of ultra-quick EVs. For example, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra needs 1.98 seconds for the 0–100 km/h sprint, the Zeekr 001 FR takes 2.02 seconds, the Tesla Model S Plaid 2.1 seconds, and the BYD Yangwang U9 2.36 seconds.
Speed Warnings On Your Limo
On another draft titled “Safety specifications for power-driven vehicles operating on roads”, Chinese regulators have another speed-related rule, this time for longer models.
The section 10.5.1 reads: “Passenger vehicles with a length of 6 m or more shall have an overspeed alarm function, capable of triggering an alarm via visual or audible signals when the speed exceeds the maximum permissible speed (the maximum permissible speed shall not exceed 100km/h), except for those with compliant speed limiting functions or devices.”
While the largest minivans and flagship SUVs are under the 6 m (18.7 feet) threshold, this rule could affect stretched limousines. Another victim would be the previous-generation Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Extended Wheelbase that stretched to 6,092 mm (239.8 in), although its successor has shrunk to 5,982 mm (235.5 inches) long.
Fully electric third-generation Nissan Juke was spotted testing in Europe.
It will be built in Sunderland, UK, alongside the Leaf and Ariya models.
The current ICE-powered Juke will remain on sale alongside the new EV.
Among Europe’s more unconventional small SUVs, the Nissan Juke has always stood out for its offbeat quirkiness, and now, it’s preparing to take a major leap forward. A camouflaged prototype of the fully electric, third-generation Juke has been seen undergoing testing on public roads, signaling its progress toward a 2026 market debut.
The upcoming Juke first appeared in an official teaser back in March, sharing the spotlight with the next-generation Micra and Leaf.
Interestingly, the EV won’t replace the current combustion-powered model. Instead, Nissan plans to keep selling the petrol and hybrid versions alongside the new electric one, giving buyers a broader mix of powertrains for a while yet.
Even under heavy camouflage, the prototype’s proportions reveal plenty about its direction. Its compact, muscular stance brings to mind the Ford Puma Gen-E, yet the Nissan still shows its personality through angular fender flares, sharp split LED headlights, and a distinctive, tapering greenhouse that nods to the Juke’s earlier generations.
SH Proshots
The tail borrows some cues from the Nissan Kicks playbook, but the rear glass is more slanted, and the tailgate is more sculpted for a sportier look. The prototype rides on futuristic-looking, large alloy wheels finished in black.
We can also see the pop-out door handles on the front doors, and the hidden door handles mounted on the C-pillars – just like in the original. Overall, the design has been significantly toned down compared to the Hyper Punk Concept from 2023.
While Nissan has yet to share details about the underpinnings of the new Juke, we know that the model will be manufactured at the Sunderland plant in the UK.
Chassis and Powertrain
The new Juke EV is expected to use a shortened version of the AmpR Medium (CMF-EV) platform that also underpins the Leaf and Ariya, both built at the same facility. A smaller-scale alternative could be the AmpR Small (CMF-BEV) platform from the Micra, assembled in Douai, France.
Whatever the choice, a single front-mounted electric motor seems likely, possibly paired with two available battery sizes to broaden appeal and price flexibility within the segment.
When it arrives in 2026, the new Nissan Juke EV will compete with the likes of the Peugeot e-2008, Fiat 600e, Jeep Compass, Opel Mokka Electric, Mini Aceman, Ford Puma Gen-E, as well as the upcoming VW ID. Cross and Skoda Epiq twins.
VW unveiled the ID. Unyx 08 in China, based on the ID.EVO concept.
The196.9 inch-long electric SUV closely retains the concept’s design.
Offered with single or dual motors, it delivers up to 435 miles of range.
Six months after unveiling the ID.EVO at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, Volkswagen has released photos of the production version, now officially named the ID. Unyx 08.
It’s a fully electric SUV scheduled to go on sale next year, joining VW’s steadily growing electric lineup in China. The introduction of this model reflects the brand’s continued push into the world’s largest EV market, where new entries arrive at a relentless pace.
The ID. Unyx 08 is the newest model to roll out of Volkswagen Anhui, the joint venture between JAC Motors and the German automaker. The EV was developed through Volkswagen’s collaboration with Xpeng, with more models to follow in the near future including an electric sedan.
The exterior design stays remarkably close to the original concept, retaining its clean, sculpted surfaces, frameless doors, blacked-out A-pillars, and prominent rear shoulders. A cool touch is the illuminated wolf badge on the third brake light under the rear spoiler.
How Much Has Changed From The Concept?
A closer look reveals only minor changes for production. The headlights and taillights have been reshaped slightly, while new shut lines appear on the hood and tailgate. You’ll also spot visible ADAS sensors, flush-fitting door handles, and light adjustments to the front bumper intake and rear diffuser.
In one of the official images, the SUV sits on the same five-spoke alloy wheels as the concept, featuring a copper diamond-cut finish and Brembo brake calipers.
Volkswagen hasn’t released interior photos yet but confirmed that the Unyx 08 will feature an onboard AI assistant and L2++ driver assistance. Based on current trends in China’s EV sector, it’s safe to expect a large central infotainment display complemented by a compact digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel.
The SUV measures 5,000 mm (196.9 inches) in length, 1,954 mm (76.9 inches) in width, and 1,688 mm (66.5 inches) in height, with a wheelbase stretching 3,030 mm (119.3 inches).
That makes it 318 mm (12.5 inches) longer than the U.S.-spec Tiguan and 101 mm (4 inches) shorter than the Atlas, though its wheelbase surpasses both.
Unlike some rivals offering range-extender setups, the ID. Unyx 08 will be sold exclusively as a battery-electric model. It’s built on an 800V electrical architecture and will come in single- and dual-motor versions, promising a CLTC range of more than 700 km (435 miles).
Data from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) lists the rear motor at 308 hp (230 kW / 313 PS) and the front motor at 188 hp (140 kW / 190 PS), producing a combined 496 hp (370 kW / 503 PS) in the all-wheel-drive configuration.
Power comes from a CATL-supplied lithium-iron-phosphate battery, though capacity details remain undisclosed.
Toyota showcased several modified versions of the new Hilux in Thailand.
Off-road builds, camper conversions, and sporty variants were displayed.
Genuine accessories are already available through Toyota’s official site.
Toyota has just unveiled the new generation of the Hilux, and while the new model has barely touched showroom floors, it’s already been reimagined to showcase just how far owners can take customization.
During the truck’s official launch in Thailand, the brand presented a lineup of rugged, modified builds, blending genuine factory accessories with a few aftermarket touches to hint at the model’s versatility.
GR Flavor in Full Effect
The display featured no fewer than six distinct takes on the pickup, each aimed at a different type of driver. One stood out for its GR Parts catalogue treatment, equipped with a black grille, red skid plate, glossy black fender extensions, branded side steps, and black wheels wrapped in chunky off-road tires.
Accessories from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division didn’t stop there. The brand also showcased roof and bed racks, plus the signature red mudflaps familiar to GR-badged models.
A GR Sport version of the new Hilux is expected to follow, with a tougher stance, refined performance, and chassis upgrades tailored to those seeking a sharper drive.
Interestingly, the GR Parts build wasn’t the star of the show. That honor went to an off-road-focused version developed by Australian tuner ARB, which looked ready to tackle almost anything.
It sat higher thanks to a lift kit and wore a rugged front bumper with clearance cutouts, auxiliary LEDs, a roof rack, a side awning, and a bed rack designed for specialized gear.
Overlanding Camper
Still, what caught our eye was an overlanding camper conversion of the Hilux with a tent mounted on a custom bed rack. The adventure-packed model came with a lifted suspension, all/terrain tires, beadlock wheels, rock sliders, a skid plate with integrated lights, an LED bar on the roof, and an aerodynamic snorkel.
Another rugged example took a different visual route, wearing a matte gray-and-red color scheme with a snorkel, protective hardware, raised suspension, and carbon-plated tailpipe. Mudflaps and new wheels rounded out its stance.
Unlike the European and Australian Hilux, which come exclusively in double-cab form, the Thai-market truck is available in Standard Cab and Smart Cab configurations.
The Standard Cab provided the base for a particularly practical build featuring a lift kit, black wheels, white-and-black graphics, extended mirrors, and a metal cage that expanded the load capacity of the open cargo area.
Rounding out the lineup was a sportier, road-focused Hilux finished in yellow with a carbon-textured wrap for the hood and tailgate. It sat lower on new wheels, backed by uprated brakes, though the heart remained unchanged, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS).
Depending on the market, the new Hilux range will also include mild-hybrid diesel, petrol, and fully electric options, underscoring its global versatility.
Available Accessories
Toyota Thailand’s official website lists a comprehensive range of add-ons for the new Hilux. Among them are additional plastic cladding for the doors, larger wheel arch extensions, door handle covers, a rear spoiler, stainless steel exhaust outlets, and bed liners.
Owners can also choose underbody protection and metal-look garnish for the taillights, tailgate, hood, and bumper intakes. Inside, options include heavy-duty floor mats, aluminum scuff plates, and clever storage solutions.
Thailand has a prominent tuning culture, which is why most automakers advertise the customization capabilities of their trucks. Judging from the aforementioned builds and the popularity of the Hilux, we expect to see a lot of interesting conversions in the future.
Toyota Hilux debuts with major design and powertrain upgrades.
Offers diesel, gasoline, mild-hybrid, BEV, and future FCEV options.
Launches first in Europe and Australia, then Asia and Japan soon.
While the Ford F-150 dominates North America, the Toyota Hilux continues to reign just about everywhere else. Now entering its ninth generation, Toyota’s workhorse returns with sharper styling, a thoroughly redesigned cabin, reinforced ladder-frame underpinnings, and, for the first time, a fully electric powertrain.
The new design theme, dubbed “Cyber Sumo,” takes a different path from the hammerhead styling found in other recent Toyota models. Up front, slimmer LED headlights flank a body-colored honeycomb grille, while angular bumper intakes and a solid skid plate add a functional, squared-off presence.
The fully electric version wears a unique front bumper with a closed grille and redesigned intakes, a subtle cue to its zero-emission identity.
The profile remains familiar because the greenhouse, pillars, and doors carry over from the outgoing model that’s been around since 2015. Even so, re-sculpted front and rear fenders with boxy wheel arches, paired with fresh wheel designs, give it a tougher stance.
At the rear, the Hilux shows more definition than before, with sharper LED taillights and a modernized bumper that now incorporates practical side steps similar to those on the Ford Ranger.
Its footprint stays consistent with its predecessor at 5,320 mm in length and a 3,085 mm wheelbase. Toyota has chosen to offer only the dual-cab version in Europe and Australia, while markets such as Thailand retain the Single Cab and Smart Cab configurations.
How Has The Interior Changed?
The cabin has been thoroughly overhauled, blending modern tech with the Hilux’s traditionally utilitarian nature. A boxy dashboard frames a free-standing 12.3-inch infotainment screen (8-inch in the base Thai-spec model) and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (7-inch in lower trims). Importantly, physical controls remain for core functions such as climate and audio, preserving tactile ease of use.
The chunky steering wheel with buttons is borrowed from the Land Cruiser, while the compact gear knob and drive mode selector sit on the center console. Dual storage compartments line the passenger side, and dashboard-mounted cupholders complete the layout.
Toyota has also expanded the Hilux’s safety credentials with a “significantly extended” suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, bringing it in line with the brand’s passenger car range.
Multiple Powertrain Options
Toyota’s “Multipathway” approach to propulsion continues here, and the new Hilux exemplifies it. Depending on the market, buyers can choose from the familiar 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine in regular or mild-hybrid form, as well as a 2.7-liter gasoline option.
The biggest leap, however, is the all-electric version. It uses dual electric motors producing a combined 193 hp (144 kW / 196 PS), powered by a 59.2 kWh battery pack.
Toyota quotes a range of 240 km (149 miles) under the WLTP cycle, or just over 300 km (186 miles) using NEDC standards. It may not rival long-range EVs, but Toyota plans to add a hydrogen fuel-cell variant by 2028.
Payload and towing capacities remain robust: up to 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) and 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) respectively for internal combustion models. The Hilux BEV, with its heavier battery setup, carries 715 kg (1,576 lbs) and tows 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs).
Upgraded Underpinnings
Under the skin, the Hilux rides on an upgraded version of the IMV ladder-frame architecture of its predecessor rather than moving to the more modern TNGA-F used by the Tacoma and Land Cruiser.
Still, it benefits from a new electric power steering, new engine and cabin mounts for reduced vibrations, new front rail extensions for improved crash perfromance, and a revised suspension setup.
The suspension setup combines independent coil springs at the front with a rigid rear axle supported by leaf springs. Toyota Australia says there are two distinct calibrations: one tuned for heavy-load and towing performance, and another focused on everyday ride comfort.
In terms of off-road credentials, the 4×4 versions use a part-time 4WD system with high and low range ratios, now improved with the standard fitment of a rear locking differential and the available Multi-Terrain Select system.
Pricing and Availability
Production remains centered in Thailand, where the diesel-powered Hilux Travo is already on sale, priced between ฿767,000 ($23,700) and ฿1,366,000 ($42,200). The fully electric model starts at ฿1,491,000 ($46,100), placing it at the top of the lineup.
The new Hilux will reach Europe and Australia in December 2025, followed by broader Asian rollouts in 2026 and a home-market debut in Japan by mid-2026. Detailed specifications and pricing for each region will be announced closer to launch.
Rolls-Royce offers a special lease credit on 2025–26 Spectres.
Incentive replaces the expired $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
Other luxury automakers are also rolling out similar discounts.
One would think Rolls-Royce would be the last carmaker on Earth to dabble in discounts, yet even it has waded into the current EV incentive wave. With federal tax credits now expired in the US – and yes, those applied to all leased EVs, foreign or not, the brand is dangling a $5,000 lease credit on the Spectre.
Given the car’s $422,000 starting price, the gesture borders on comic relief. The discount feels more like a voucher toward optional extras than any real saving.
According to Cars Direct, the incentive appeared in a recent dealer bulletin distributed by Rolls-Royce. It applies to 2025 and 2026 model-year Spectres leased through November 30.
The brand has quietly trimmed the lease offer from $7,500 to $5,000, with financing carrying an effective interest rate of about 4.6 percent APR.
Even with the credit, the U.S.-spec Spectre still costs more than it did during the now-ended $7,500 federal EV tax credit. That benefit, like the current lease credit, never extended to those who purchased the car outright.
The all-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre has been part of the lineup since 2023 and now comes in two versions. The base car produces 577 hp (430 kW / 584 PS), while the Black Badge version pushes output to 650 hp (485 kW / 659 PS), making it the most powerful model from Goodwood to date. Both use a 120 kWh battery, providing up to 266 miles (428 km) of range on 23-inch wheels.
Other Discounted EVs By High-End Brands
While a $5,000 reduction on a Rolls-Royce is unlikely to sway potential buyers, other luxury automakers are showing far more enthusiasm when it comes to incentives.
Aston Martin, meanwhile, is looking to clear excess inventory in the U.S., introducing a round of incentives across its lineup despite not having a single EV in showrooms.
The reductions are $15,000 for the Vanquish, $12,000 for the DBX 707, $10,000 for the DB12, and $7,000 for the Vantage. These offers apply to both purchases and leases.
PROS ›› Premium interior, comfortable ride, solid safety record CONS ›› Unknown brand, small boot, limited charging speed
Chinese automakers have been bombarding us with new and updated models faster than our browsers can keep up, but every once in a while, one stands out for more than just novelty. The Zeekr X is one of those. A sibling to the Volvo EX30, it carries sharper styling, a dash of swagger, and a promise of premium polish that suggests it’s aiming a little higher than your typical Chinese EV.
The Geely-owned brand has recently landed in my home country, Greece, giving me the chance to see what the compact-sized Zeekr X is all about and, more importantly, take it for a drive.
QUICK FACTS
Model
Zeekr X RWD
Zeekr X AWD
Powertrain
Single Electric Motor
Dual Electric Motors
Output
268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 343 Nm (253 lb-ft)
422 hp (315 kW / 428 PS) and 543 Nm (401 lb-ft)
Battery
49 kW / 69 kWh
69 kWh
Range (WLTP)
446 km (277 miles)
425 km (264 miles)
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)
5.6 seconds*
3.8 seconds*
Top Speed
190 km/h (118 mph)*
–
Length
4,432 mm (174.5 inches)
–
Width
1,836 mm (72.3 inches)
–
Height
1,566 mm (61.6 inches)
–
Wheelbase
2,750 mm (108.3 inches)
–
Weight
1,885 kg (4,156 lbs)*
1960 kg (4,321 lbs)*
Price
€34,990 ($40,700)** €39,990 ($46,500)**
€44,990 ($52,300)**
SWIPE
*Manufacturer | **Prices in Greece including a €3,000 local incentive for EVs
The X was introduced in late 2023 as the entry-level EV in Zeekr’s growing lineup. It has already been updated in China with more powerful motors and new color and trim options, but those have yet to reach export markets.
Like its Volvo EX30 and Smart #1 relatives, it rides on Geely’s SEA platform, which also underpins the Lynk & Co 02. It even made headlines as Euro NCAP’s safest EV, outperforming some far pricier rivals, including the Porsche Macan. Still, there’s more to this compact SUV than a glowing safety score.
Aggressive Looks, Familiar DNA
Zeekr is still a young brand, having been born in 2021. In terms of styling language, there’s a clear family resemblance with Geely stablemate Lynk & Co, yet Zeekr sits higher in the group’s hierarchy, positioned above Volvo and Polestar in terms of its premium aspirations.
The Zeekr X has a sharp and modern exterior that will make you look twice when it passes by. Its “double-edged” headlights, greenhouse, door handles, mirrors, and taillights are reminiscent of the Lynk & Co 02, though without the coupe-SUV stance.
Other highlights include the glossy black cladding around the wheel arches and a sharp character line on the profile that extends to the side windows.
Photos Thanos Pappas for CarScoops
At 4,432 mm long, it’s 199 mm longer than the Volvo EX30 and 28 mm shorter than the Lynk & Co 02. That puts it right among Europe’s compact premium EV-SUVs, including the BMW iX1, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Mercedes EQA.
Our press tester was the Long Range RWD variant, which sounds like a sweet spot in the lineup. It pairs a single 268 hp (200 kW) motor with the larger 69 kWh battery for up to 446 km (277 miles) of WLTP range. Visually, it rides on 19-inch alloy wheels rather than the 20-inch option which is reserved for the 422 hp AWD flagship.
Premium Aspirations
Open the frameless doors and you immediately sense that this brand aims for BMW territory in terms of perceived quality. Soft-touch materials cover most surfaces, complemented by futuristic ambient lighting and ASMR-friendly switchgear finished in copper.
The configurable switches on the steering wheel are a nice touch, as they can also serve as physical controls for the A/C so you don’t have to fiddle with the screen all the time.
The seats are upholstered in soft vegan leather and feature hard outer shells adding a futuristic note. Geely designers played safe in terms of the dashboard layout, combining a 14.6-inch central touchscreen with an 8.8-inch instrument cluster.
There is also a 24.3-inch augmented reality head-up display helping keep your eyes on the road. Equipment is generous, including a panoramic sunroof, a 13-speaker Yamaha sound system, and a full suite of ADAS.
Photos Thanos Pappas for CarScoops
Rear passengers are also treated well. Thanks to the longer wheelbase, the X offers noticeably better rear legroom and headroom than the Volvo EX30, making it a far more comfortable choice for adults or small families.
There is also plenty of in-car storage including a multi-functional central armrest. However, the boot is equivalent of a subcompact hatchback with a capacity of 362 lt (12.8 cubic feet), and the tiny 21 lt (0.4 cubic feet) frunk is mostly for storing charging cables.
Comfort Is the Key
My drive was brief, just a few hours during the local media presentation, so this is not a full review, but it was enough to get a good feel for the Zeekr X’s personality.
As with the Volvo EX30, the excellent SEA platform has the robustness of larger segments. Here, it is combined with a softer suspension setup for even higher levels of comfort and slightly better soundproofing.
The steering has a nice feel, although I didn’t notice enough differentiation between the available modes (Comfort, Standard, and Sport). Still, the Zeekr X is more engaging than your average Chinese EV while keeping a neutral and predictable character in line with its Swedish R&D genes. The ADAS worked well overall, but a few over-eager alerts popped up on roads with faint lane markings.
Photos Thanos Pappas for CarScoops
Performance-wise, the 268 hp RWD version feels plenty quick for daily use, making the 422 hp AWD variant seem somewhat indulgent. Interestingly, China’s updated models have bumped outputs to 335 hp and 489 hp respectively, hinting that future exports could get an extra jolt of power.
Overall, the extra range that should be around 400 km (250 miles) in real-life conditions and the extra playfulness of the RWD make it the preferred choice from my point of view – especially considering it offers a nearly identical equipment at a lower price.
In Greece, where we tested it, the base Core RWD starts at €34,990 ($40,700), while the Long Range RWD sits at €39,990 ($46,500), and the top Privilege AWD costs €44,990 ($52,300). Each trim comes fully loaded.
The closely related Volvo EX30, by comparison, ranges from €36,175 to €48,448, while the larger Tesla Model Y starts from €36,175. All prices include Greece’s €3,000 EV incentive.
Another indirect competitor at a similar price point is the larger and more practical Tesla Model Y that currently starts from €36,175 ($42,100) in the same market. Keep in mind that all of the aforementioned prices include a €3,000 incentive for EVs.
Zeekr representatives told us that the company plans on keeping prices consistent across all European markets. This means that the X will start from around €38,000 ($44,200) before incentives in Germany, undercutting its Volvo sibling and the Tesla Model Y by a couple of grand, while being almost €10,000 ($11,600) cheaper than the entry-level BMW iX1.
Eyes on Europe
Photos Thanos Pappas for CarScoops
Zeekr has sold a total of 550,000 vehicles since its inception in 2021. The European rollout of the brand started in 2023, with new countries being added every year. The next step is to enter major European markets including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and the UK by the end of 2026.
The brand’s R&D and design hub in Gothenburg, Sweden and regional offices in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, complement its Chinese operations, signaling long-term European ambitions.
Beyond the X compact SUV, Zeekr is currently offering the 7X midsize SUV and the 001 flagship shooting brake in the Old Continent. Still, the company’s Chinese lineup is much broader, including the 007 sedan, the Mix and 009 minivans, and the new 9X flagship SUV.
Verdict
After a short but telling encounter, the Zeekr X left a lasting impression. It feels more spacious, more comfortable, and more polished than the Volvo EX30 it shares bones with, while coming in cheaper. The ride quality, cabin refinement, and safety credentials suggest it’s one of the most convincing Chinese EVs yet to reach Europe.
If you can get past the unfamiliar badge, the Zeekr X makes a compelling case as a smart, well-rounded alternative in the compact electric SUV space.
VW canceled plans to offer electrified versions of the Amarok.
Current model shares its underpinnings with Ford’s Ranger.
Hybrid Amarok on Chinese underpinnings to launch in South America.
Volkswagen has stepped back from its earlier plans to introduce fully electric or plug-in hybrid versions of the global-spec Amarok, choosing instead to stick with its familiar lineup of diesel and gasoline powertrains for now. The decision keeps the pickup rooted in its traditional formula, at least for this generation.
Unlike the South American Amarok, which still rides on Volkswagen’s own ladder-frame platform, the global model is built on the same underpinnings as the Ford Ranger.
Ford’s pickup truck already offers a plug-in hybrid setup combining a turbocharged 2.3-liter gasoline engine with a single electric motor, producing 277 hp (207 kW / 281 PS). A modest 11.8 kWh battery enables around 40 km (25 miles) of electric-only driving.
Why Skip Electrification?
Earlier this year, reports suggested Volkswagen was seriously evaluating an electrified Amarok, especially given it already had access to the Ranger’s compatible hybrid system. Yet that interest appears to have faded.
According to Australian outlet CarExpert, Nathan Johnson, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ brand director, explained that CEO Stefan Mecha “made it clear … the PHEV and BEV Amarok is no longer being discussed at this point in time, in this generation,” emphasizing that it’s a global decision.
That doesn’t mean the idea is gone for good. Johnson hinted that the door remains open for the next Amarok, which could arrive near the end of the decade.
The current generation debuted in 2022, so a successor is still some years off, but by then electrification will likely be standard practice among midsize pickups, making a hybrid or electric version all but inevitable.
Another Hybrid Amarok Is Under Development
Volkswagen’s approach looks different in South America. There, the company continues to evolve the first-generation Amarok, which remains in production on VW’s original chassis. A refreshed version of that truck launched last year, and an all-new hybrid successor is already scheduled for 2027.
The upcoming truck will ride on a ladder-frame chassis sourced from Chinese automaker SAIC, as part of its collaboration with Volkswagen. However, it will be manufactured at the General Pacheco factory in Argentina, backed by a $580 million investment.
Early teasers point to a close relationship with the Maxus Interstellar X, LDV Terron 9, and MGU9 pickup twins, though Volkswagen will apply its own design language to set it apart. The new hybrid Amarok will be limited to South American markets, sidestepping overlap with the global version.
Honda revealed a new platform to support its next hybrid models.
It’s lighter, stiffer, and engineered to deliver sharper handling.
A camouflaged Civic mule previews the platform’s next evolution.
Honda used its Automotive Technology Workshop to share new details about a next-generation platform that will form the backbone of its upcoming hybrid range. The new architecture is set to underpin models such as the Civic, HR-V, CR-V, Accord, and several others, marking a major step in the brand’s transition toward cleaner and more efficient vehicles.
The new platform’s design centers on improved rigidity to sharpen handling, a development that will also influence Honda’s future EV structures. Engineers have managed to reduce overall weight by 90 kilograms (198 pounds) compared to the current setup.
According to Honda, these changes will make future models both more engaging to drive and more economical at the pump.
Honda has also drawn on its robotics expertise to introduce a new Motion Management System, designed to enhance stability and steering response. Complementing this is an upgraded Agile Handling Assist system, now paired with a pitch control feature to deliver steadier behavior across a variety of road surfaces.
Another focus area is modularity. The updated platform will allow for more than 60 percent parts commonality between models, streamlining development and manufacturing while reducing costs.
Next Civic Prototype
Among the vehicles being tested on this new foundation is a camouflaged Civic mule, previewed in these official photos you see here. The test car wears the body of the current Civic but features a noticeably bulkier front end, boxier bumper design, and a longer overhang. These changes are purely functional, meant to accommodate and evaluate the new underpinnings rather than preview final styling.
The extensions on the front and rear fenders hint at wider tracks, while the inserts on the hood could be related to aerodynamics.
The tail is carried over from the existing Civic sedan, but it gets dual tailpipes. Of course, the design of the final product will be different, as this vehicle is only intended for testing the new underpinnings.
Prelude Tricks Trickle Down The Range
The upcoming hybrid powertrain is expected to pair a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with electric motors, offering better performance with higher efficiency. It will also borrow certain traits from the Prelude coupe, including the Honda S+ Shift system. This feature mimics gear changes through sound and torque modulation, adding a familiar rhythm to the driving experience despite the absence of a physical gearbox.
The fake gearshifts will also find their way into the Super-One EV. The urban hatchback that debuted at the Japan Mobility Show will have a simulated seven-speed setup, an active sound control system, and a “Boost” driving mode, making the best out of the fully electric powertrain.
It rides on a lightweight platform evolved from the N Series kei cars, with a wider stance and a battery pack mounted under the floor. The Super-One will arrive in Japan from 2026, followed by the UK, Europe, and other Asian countries.
Honda’s long-term vision reaches well beyond product development. By 2050, the company intends to achieve full carbon neutrality across all its vehicles and corporate operations. In that same timeframe, it also aims for a world where traffic collisions involving its motorcycles and cars result in zero fatalities.
A new coupe SUV prototype by BMW has been spotted testing.
The Neue Klasse model is expected to adopt the iX4 moniker.
It will share its platform and interior with the upcoming iX3.
Update: Not long after the first prototype of BMW’s upcoming iX4 was caught testing out in the open, digital artists wasted no time trying to imagine what the final production model might look like. The early spy shots offer just enough visual clues to fuel some well-informed renderings, even as BMW keeps the real details under wraps.
With its close ties to the new iX3, connecting the dots isn’t especially difficult, though a few surprises may still surface in the finer details, particularly around the taillights.
Illustrations Sugar Design
These digital interpretations from Sugar Design present a convincing idea of BMW’s next electric crossover, a model positioned squarely against one of the world’s best-selling EVs, the Tesla Model Y.
Both share a similar overall silhouette, marked by a hatchback-style arched roofline and a steeply slanted rear window that lends the iX4 a more dynamic profile, though the BMW shows more individuality in its detailing, particularly around the front fascia.
BMW is already working on a replacement, but it reimagines the formula for the electric age. The all-new iX4 is designed as a sportier counterpart to its square-roof sibling, the Neue Klasse iX3.
Our spy photographers captured the first camouflaged prototype during development testing. At a glance, the iX4 appears to borrow its front end from the iX3, including the headlights, grille, bumper, hood, and fenders.
From the B-pillar rearwards, though, the bodywork tells a different story. The profile has been reworked with a sloping roofline that flows into a fastback-style tail.
SH Proshots
The rear glass is more steeply angled than on the outgoing X4 and carries a discreet spoiler at its tip. Its sportier posture is further accentuated by broader, muscular rear shoulders that appear cleaner and more sculpted than those of the smaller, boxier X2 and iX2.
At the rear, the iX4 features slim LED taillights positioned close together, while the license plate has been relocated to the bumper. The prototype sits on ten-spoke alloy wheels with a diamond-cut finish, though it remains uncertain whether this design will make it to the production version.
Although exact dimensions remain unconfirmed, the iX4 is expected to be marginally longer than the new iX3, which measures 188.3 inches (4,783 mm), while maintaining the same 114.1-inch (2,898 mm) wheelbase. It may also improve upon the iX3’s already low drag coefficient of 0.24 cd.
That means BMW’s Panoramic iDrive stretching pillar to pillar, a 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and an optional 3D head-up display, all running on the new BMW Operating System X.
The new model will be built on the Neue Klasse architecture, meaning it will be offered exclusively as a battery-electric vehicle. Its powertrain range is expected to mirror that of the iX3.
Currently, the iX3 50 xDrive delivers 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) through dual electric motors, while future variants are expected to include single-motor rear-wheel-drive options and higher-performance M-badged versions.
The BMW iX4 is expected to debut in late 2026. It will be the second fully electric coupe SUV from the Bavarian company, following the iX2 that was introduced in 2023. A larger iX6 is also rumored to follow at a later stage.
Photos of the Renault Twingo EV surfaced online before its debut.
Production EV closely mirrors the 2023 concept and 1992 original.
The electric city car should start under €20K ($23K) before subsidies.
The Twingo is about to enter its fourth generation on November 6, yet a batch of leaked photos beat Renault to the punch, offering a clear look at both its exterior and interior before the official reveal. The little city car seems ready to make a comeback with familiar charm and a new electric heart.
The production version mirrors the 2023 concept almost to the letter. Only some small adjustments stand out, such as traditional door handles, wheel covers, slightly altered LED lighting, and reshaped bumpers with protective cladding for everyday practicality.
The new Twingo keeps its frog-eyed face, compact one-box profile, and rounded rear that echo the spirit of the 1992 original, now stretched into a larger five-door body.
Altogether, it feels like another well-judged effort from Renault’s design team, following in the footsteps of the slightly bigger R5 that drew attention for its clean styling.
What’s It Like Inside?
Inside, the cabin carries over much of the concept’s personality but tones down the materials for production reality. Hard plastics replace the show car’s high-end surfaces, and the seats now wear traditional fabric upholstery.
The dashboard hosts a floating infotainment screen above a smaller instrument cluster that looks familiar from Dacia’s parts bin.
Fortunately, Renault has kept physical climate controls on both the center console and the steering wheel. A yellow insert across the dashboard brings a splash of color, joined by an odd red piece between the front seats.
What Powers It?
Unlike its predecessors, the fourth generation of the Twingo will be exclusively available with a zero-emission powertrain. It will ride on the group’s AmpR Small architecture (former CMF-BEV), shared with the larger R5, R4, and Nissan Micra.
Renault has yet to release the detailed specifications, but the city car is expected to be fitted with a single electric motor and use a small lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.
The Twingo Against The World
In Europe’s A-segment, the Twingo will face competition from small EVs like the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor T03, as well as the upcoming VW ID.Every1 and an unnamed Nissan sibling. It will also overlap with budget-friendly B-segment contenders such as the Fiat Grande Panda and Citroën e-C3 twins.
Back in 2023, Renault’s then-CEO Luca de Meo promised that the new Twingo would start from under €20,000 ($23,000) before subsidies, with lease deals for as little as €100 ($115) per month.
Whether those numbers hold in today’s market remains to be seen. All should be confirmed on November 6, along with the technical breakdown and European rollout details.
Mazda CTO says Iconic SP production faces major financial obstacles.
Rotary engine work continues, but R&D costs stall bespoke sports cars.
RX-7 successor struggles for survival as new MX-5 arrives this decade.
Since the debut of the Iconic SP concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Mazda enthusiasts have been waiting for the day it leaves the stand and hits the street. The coupe sparked immediate speculation about a spiritual successor to the RX-7, and top Mazda execs have been eager to keep that hope alive.
Yet, the latest reports suggest that the journey from concept to reality might not be as smooth as fans would like.
Our colleagues at Autocar recently spoke with Umeshita to hear how development of the much-anticipated model is progressing. The Chief Technical Officer was candid: “Let me answer personally—that is my dream car. I want to make it real. Technology-wise, I believe it’s possible. The only outstanding issue is financial.”
Earlier this year, Mazda trimmed its planned budget for electrification by half a trillion yen ($3.3B). The company is pursuing a “Multi-Solution” strategy that blends BEV, hybrid, and combustion engines rather than going all-in on electric.
Between developing an EV-specific platform, a new hybrid setup, and the upcoming SkyActiv-Z engine, Mazda’s resources are already stretched thin. In that light, a bespoke sports car might not sit at the top of the spending list.
Rotary Revival With A Turbo
Even so, the idea hasn’t been shelved. The Vision X Coupe concept, unveiled at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, shows Mazda hasn’t turned its back on the rotary dream.
If anything, it confirms that the company is still invested in the technology that defined some of its most celebrated cars as that study is powered by a hybrid unit with a turbocharged rotary engine.
Umeshita underlined that continuity: “We have re-established the rotary engine development team, and we know that our DNA is in sports cars, so I would never say we gave it up.”
The Vision X Coupe’s plug-in hybrid setup pairs a turbocharged rotary engine with an electric motor for a combined 503 hp (375 kW / 510 PS) and includes carbon-capture technology. By contrast, the Iconic SP’s range-extender system produced 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS).
Mazda’s next step is to cut emissions from the rotary engine further, which could eventually allow it to drive the wheels directly rather than serving solely as a generator. Engineers estimate this evolution will take another “two to three years” of development.
Will the Next MX-5 Carry the Torch?
While Mazda’s design and engineering teams work toward reviving the rotary legacy, the brand’s future in sports cars looks brighter than it has in years.
Alongside the potential RX successor, Mazda has confirmed that the next-generation MX-5 roadster will arrive later this decade. The upcoming Miata will stay true to its lightweight spirit, equipped with a larger-displacement SkyActiv Z engine and, reassuringly, a manual gearbox.
Toyota Kids Mobi is a cute self-driving EV built for young children.
The concept features AI, LED eyes, a canopy, and a cozy cabin.
It debuted at Japan Mobility Show with other robotic concepts.
Toyota’s booth at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show brimmed with futuristic ideas, from spider-like delivery bots to a six-wheeled Lexus minivan. Yet among all the tech-heavy marvels, one creation charmed visitors more than any other: the Kids Mobi, a self-driving, bubble-shaped EV made exclusively for children.
Framed as a “safe and secure AI-powered personal mobility for kids,” the concept blurs the line between toy and vehicle. It has a smooth, pod-like body with enclosed wheels and animated LED “eyes” that mimic expressions.
Even the sensors on the roof are shaped like ears, with the whole thing being reminiscent of an animated character.
The canopy, lifted straight from a sci-fi sketchbook, swings upward to reveal a snug single seat built for children up to 130 cm tall (about 4 feet 3 inches). Once inside, the canopy closes and an AI assistant called the “UX Friend” comes to life, chatting and playing with the young passenger throughout the ride.
While the Kids Mobi obviously relies on autonomous tech for navigation, Toyota says children can still participate in the drive, giving them a sense of control.
“It’s not just adults who want to drive and enjoy some time to themselves,” the company explains. “Kids also want freedom of mobility. And just as adults have cars, kids deserve a trusty sidekick.”
Letting a child ride solo in an autonomous pod may sound like science fiction at best and unsettling at worst, but Toyota argues it could eventually prove safer than a traditional school bus.
For now, the Kids Mobi remains a concept, though it reflects what the automaker calls the “ultimate goal” of its AI x Robotics Data Center. That means the idea will keep evolving long after the show floor closes.
Still, the project represents the “ultimate goal” of the automaker’s AI x Robotics Data Center, so development will continue.
Until the Kids Mobi is ready to hit the road (or, more likely, the bike lane and sidewalk), visitors of the Japan Mobility Show can check it out up close and snap a photo with it. Toyota will also give each kid an original keychain as a souvenir.
Another Kid-Friendly Concept
Interestingly, the 2025 lineup at the show includes another Toyota concept that could serve as a helpful companion for toddlers.
The Chibibo is a quadruped robot that walks alongside people and vehicles serving as a last-mile delivery solution. A shown in the official renderings, it could help a child carry their backpack, lunchbox, or any other item that would be too heavy for them.
The spider-like design allows the robot to navigate narrow alleyways and climb stairs, taking parcels to places that vehicles can’t. When idle, it crouches down into a resting pose, much like a loyal robotic pet.
Maserati unveils the 2026 Grecale Folgore with a 360-mile range.
New AWD-Disconnect adds an extra 50 miles of driving range.
The full 2026 Grecale lineup gains broader customization choices.
Maserati might be battling with slow sales, but they’re not giving up on their most popular SUV, the Grecale. The Trident brand has rolled out a series of updates for the 2026 model year, with most of the attention on the fully electric Folgore trim, which can now travel farther between charges.
The Grecale Folgore was launched in 2023 with dual electric motors producing 550 hp (410 kW / 557 PS) and a 105 kWh battery offering 500 km (311 miles) of WLTP range.
What’s New?
While the electric powertrain’s core specifications remain unchanged for 2026, Maserati has introduced a new AWD-Disconnect system said to boost range to 580 km (360 miles).
Their solution is simple: when AWD is not required, the system sends power to the rear wheels only, bringing a significant reduction in energy consumption that results in an extra 80 km (50 miles) of zero-emission range.
The shift happens automatically in just 500 milliseconds and physically disengages the front axle shafts from the hubs. Maserati says this method is more efficient than disconnecting at the motor or differential.
Algorithms To The Rescure
To determine when AWD should engage or disengage, the vehicle relies on a network of sensors and algorithms that continuously monitor several variables.
Depending on torque demand, brake temperature, road gradient, instantaneous speed and acceleration, selected driving mode, outside temperature, and activation of vehicle dynamic control systems, the system makes sure drivers get the performance they need from the electric SUV.
The Folgore accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.1 seconds, making it the second quickest Grecale behind the V6-powered Trofeo that completes the same sprint in 3.8 seconds. The EV, however, has the lowest top speed in the lineup, capped at 220 km/h (137 mph).
The electric Grecale retains its remote climate control, automatic battery preconditioning, and EV Routing functions. The latter now includes a Dynamic Range Mapping feature that visually displays how far the car can travel on its remaining charge within the built-in navigation system.
More Customization Options
Alongside the Folgore’s efficiency upgrades, Maserati has expanded personalization options across the entire 2026 Grecale range.
The exterior palette now includes 11 colors, plus 32 additional shades from the Fuoriserie Programme, six of which are new. Inside, buyers can choose from eight interior hues, eight seat designs, four brake caliper finishes, and six alloy wheel patterns, including a set exclusive to the Folgore.
Maserati has yet to confirm pricing for the 2026 Grecale lineup, though given how its sales have been going, it’s probably safe to assume the figures won’t stray far from last year’s. After all, it’s hard to raise prices when the cars aren’t exactly flying off the lot.
RDS’s mobility platform separates into upper and lower sections for modular customization.
The “Sparrow” variant looks like a motorcycle and features a racing livery by F1 driver Tsunoda.
An electric motor powers the tilting three-wheeler, which will be classified as a motorized bicycle.
It seems there’s no limit to how many ways companies can reinvent the humble wheel, and RDS has decided to take another crack at it. The Japanese brand has unveiled a new modular mobility platform called the Raptor, a shape-shifting electric three-wheeler that can transform into entirely different vehicles.
The system works by separating the machine into upper and lower sections, allowing users to swap top modules for different applications while keeping the same base.
How Does It Work?
The real ingenuity lies in the Raptor’s detachable modules, which connect through a custom locking mechanism designed to feel both sturdy and intuitive.
RDS describes the concept as a way to let “creators and businesses from a variety of fields” experiment with new vehicle forms without having to start from scratch each time.
Several concept mockups have already been created, but the standout among them is the racing version. Called the Sparrow, it was developed in partnership with MIE Racing, a team active in the FIM Superbike World Championship.
The Sparrow’s upper section adopts the familiar cues of a sport motorcycle, complete with a handlebar, a single-seat setup, and compact bodywork that mimics a racing silhouette. While the upper portion looks cool, the same can’t be said about the proportions, with the wheels looking tiny in comparison to the overall height.
In any case, the company has introduced a special edition of the EV at the Japan Mobility Show, designed by F1 driver Yuki Tsunoda of Red Bull Racing.
This Sparrow Tsunoda Edition carries a racing livery decorated with autumn leaves in orange, blue, and white, giving it a more playful (and seasonal) character.
Beneath the interchangeable body, every version of the Raptor shares the same running gear. The lower frame uses three wheels powered by a single electric motor drawing energy from a 48V lithium-ion battery pack. Both front and rear ends employ swing-arm suspension with a tilting system to improve balance through turns.
The dual front wheels measure 12 inches in diameter, while the rear wheel is slightly smaller at 10 inches. All of them are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. The EV will be able to reach a speed of 40 km/h (25 miles), although a limiter can be set at the desired level.
RDS says that the Raptor will be classified as a motorized bicycle in Japan. Pricing and availability of individual versions will be announced at a later date. Furthermore, the company is currently working on an autonomous driving unit for commercial use.
Irmscher-tuned Leapmotor i C10 limited to 250 units in Germany.
Subtle styling and chassis upgrades enhance the EV’s overall appeal.
Based on the flagship AWD trim with 590 hp and 272-mile range.
Despite rising import tariffs, Chinese automakers continue to flood Europe with an army of electrified models. Leapmotor, partly owned by Stellantis, has now gone a step further by teaming up with German tuner Irmscher for a special edition of its C10 electric SUV
The model, known as the i C10, was first teased a few months ago by Irmscher. It has now joined Leapmotor’s official German lineup as a limited run of just 250 units.
Irmscher has built its reputation on refining Opel models and occasionally dipping into Fiat territory, which explains its connection with Stellantis.
According to the announcement, the i C10 marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between Irmscher and Leapmotor, suggesting that similar treatments could soon reach other models in the brand’s range.
The sporty version of the midsize SUV rides on a new set of five-spoke alloys, looking larger than the 20-inch wheels of the high-spec variant. The exterior appears to be carried over without a bodykit, although there is a more prominent rear spoiler.
The tuner has also added a red stripe on the profile, along with matching accents on the front splitter and center caps. Furthermore, there is “i C10” badging on the tailgate right under the Leapmotor lettering.
Under The Skin
Beyond the visual upgrades, Irmscher has fitted a firmer suspension setup designed to sharpen handling. This is the only mechanical alteration, as the dual-motor powertrain remains unchanged.
Fortunately, the i C10 is based on the most potent dual-motor AWD version of the SUV, producing a combined 590 hp (440 kW / 598 PS). The result is a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time of 4 seconds, according to Leapmotor.
The AWD model carries an 81.9 kWh battery providing a range of 437 km (272 miles). The same battery extends to 510 km (317 miles) in the RWD variant, which uses a single 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) motor.
Leapmotor continues to offer the standard C10 with RWD and a smaller 69.9 kWh battery allowing 420 km (261 miles) of range. Finally, there is a range-extender version of the SUV with a 1.5-liter engine, a 212 hp (158 kW / 215 PS) electric motor, and a 28.4 kWh battery promising over 950 km (590 miles) of combined range.
What It Costs
In Germany, the Leapmotor i C10 by Irmscher starts at €49,900 ($58,200). That’s €5,000 ($5,800) more than the flagship C10 ProMax AWD, which lists at €44,900 ($52,400). For reference, the entry-level RWD model with the smaller battery begins at €36,400 ($42,400)
BYD Racco, the brand’s first kei car, has been unveiled in Japan.
Features upright stance with styling inspired by Japanese rivals.
Expected to offer 112 miles of range and generous equipment.
BYD is preparing to make its move into one of Japan’s most tightly defined and popular vehicle segments with the Racco, a tiny EV that marks the brand’s first kei car. The pint-sized newcomer was introduced earlier today at the Japan Mobility Show as BYD’s first model designed exclusively for overseas markets.
At first glance, the Racco doesn’t stray far from established kei design cues, and that’s no surprise given the strict size and proportion rules governing the segment.
The windowline and fin-shaped pillars echo the previous-generation Mitsubishi ek Space, while the headlights and stance appear to draw inspiration from the Daihatsu Tanto.
The Racco features a short hood, upright windshield, sliding doors, flat sides, and a near-vertical rear end with almost no overhang. It has a C-shaped LED lighting signature on both ends, and rides on 15-inch alloy wheels. Furthermore, it comes fitted with disc brakes on all four wheels.
The model measures 3,395 mm (133.7 inches) long, 1,475 mm (58.1 inches) wide, and 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) long, in line with the narrow framework for kei cars.
Inside the four-seater cabin amenities include a digital cockpit with a small instrument cluster and a larger free-standing infotainment that is not usually found in the segment. We also expect a comprehensive ADAS suite and a heat pump for the A/C.
Powertrain Specs
BYD didn’t release the detailed specifications of the electric powertrain, but confirmed that the Racco will be front-wheel-drive. We also know it will be fitted with a “Blade” Lithium iron phosphate battery pack, available in two different capacities (short-range and long-range).
According to reports, the 20 kWh battery will offer around 180 km (112 miles) of WLTC range although numbers remain unconfirmed. The EV is also expected to be compatible with fast charging of up to 100 kW. The floor-mounted battery will give it a lower center of gravity compared to ICE-powered kei cars, improving handling.
BYD plans to open pre-orders for the Racco in the summer of 2026, with sales commencing shortly after. Pricing is estimated to start at around ¥2.5 million ($16,500) before subsidies, positioning it squarely against the Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X EV.
New LCV For Japan
Besides the kei car, BYD has also unveiled a new light commercial vehicle designed to comply with Japanese regulations that allow it to be driven with a standard driver’s license.
The BYD T35 features a cab-over design and will be available in box van and flatbed configurations. It with fitted with a fully electric powertrain generating up to 201 hp (150 kW / 203 PS) and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque. The Blade lithium iron phosphate battery is good for a WLTC range of 250 km (155 miles).
The flatbed version is exhibited with a mobile sauna stove and cold bath chiller, both using power from the battery. The market launch of the BYD T35 in Japan is scheduled for 2026.
Kia revealed the first images of the upcoming EV4 GT with a wrap.
The design resembles the EV4 GT-Line with sportier visual details.
Available as a hatch and fastback with dual motors and tuned chassis.
Update: For American EV shoppers already feeling left out after Kia’s decision to delay the EV4’s US launch “indefinitely” over what it calls “changing market conditions,” a polite way of saying “no more federal tax credits,” this one might sting a little more.
The EV4 GT hatchback, recently teased and pictured below, isn’t the only body style of the performance variant on the way. As new spy photos confirm, Kia is also developing an EV4 GT Fastback, which means yes, that one will slip through American fingers too.
SB-Medien
This sedan variant promises a roomier rear section than the hatch thanks to its more conventional silhouette, though the styling at the back is anything but conventional.
Despite the heavy camouflage, telltale signs point to this being the GT model. The chunky tires and the same tall alloy wheels from the GT hatchback are visible, and behind them, we see the neon green brake calipers. Inside, the bright green seatbelts and the matching ring around the steering wheel rim are additional giveaways.
Everything else applied to the EV4 GT Hatch carries over here as well, including the dual-motor powertrain rated at around 400 horsepower and the performance-tuned chassis.
There’s no official debut date yet, though the EV4 GT Fastback is likely to appear either alongside the hatch next year or shortly after. (by John Halas)
Original story on the EV4 GT Hatch continues below.
SB-Medien
Kia has quietly unveiled the EV4 GT, ahead of its market launch in 2026. The performance version of the electric hatchback was shown with a special camouflage wrap that does little to hide its exterior design.
The GT is expected to pack a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup and a round of targeted chassis upgrades. Together, these are designed to place the EV4 GT squarely in the path of both electric rivals such as the VW ID.3 GTX and long-standing combustion favorites like the Golf R.
The company used the unveiling of its new GT Wrap as the pretext for a series of teasers. The livery blends glossy black with matte gray and streaks of neon green, described by Kia as a look meant to “evoke energy and speed.”
The same fragmented design theme will carry across all electric GT prototypes during the later development stages.
Sharper Exterior Details
Beneath the custom camouflage, the EV4 GT stays close in shape to the existing GT-Line trim, with only subtle differences. Up front, the performance flagship gains vertical slits in the lower bumper intake, lending a more assertive look.
From the side, diamond-cut alloy wheels hide neon-painted brake calipers, while the rear adopts a GT-specific diffuser with a central vertical LED light cluster. The setup recalls the facelifted EV6 GT crossover, suggesting a family resemblance.
Kia hasn’t released interior photos yet, though early glimpses reveal sportier bucket seats accented in neon.
What Drives It?
The real transformation will happen beneath the surface. Sources point to a dual-motor AWD powertrain producing roughly 400 horsepower, paired with simulated manual shifts and an artificial rev limiter to give drivers more engagement.
The energy source is expected to be the familiar 81.4 kWh battery pack from the long-range FWD variant.
True to Kia’s GT philosophy, the EV4 GT will receive dedicated chassis tuning, including a stiffer suspension and a quicker steering ratio for more precise handling and livelier responses on winding roads.
Rivals of the Korean model will include the VW ID.3 GTX, Cupra Born VZ, and MG 4 X Power. It will indirectly compete with ICE-powered hot hatches like the VW Golf R and Toyota GR Corolla. Hyundai is also working on its own zero-emission hot hatch, the Ioniq 3 N.
Kia has also confirmed that every future GT model will be fully electric, marking the current K5 GT as the final performance model in the lineup to feature an internal combustion engine.
M-tuned BMW iX3 prototype caught testing with upgraded components.
Lowered suspension, larger wheels and beefier brakes hint at its performance.
An iX3 M60 could debut next year followed by a full-blown iX3 M in 2027.
BMW seems quite content with the early reception of the Neue Klasse iX3, and development is already pressing ahead on new versions of the electric SUV. Some of these will naturally lean hard toward the sharper end of BMW’s performance range, shaped by the M division.
Our photographers recently caught a performance-focused iX3 prototype testing on public roads near the Nürburgring. Compared with earlier development cars, this M-badged version looks further along, wearing components that appear nearly production-ready.
What’s BMW Testing Here?
BMW is believed to be preparing not one but at least two M versions of the iX3: an M Performance model expected to carry the iX3 M60 nameplate, and a full-blown iX3 M.
It’s not clear which variant was on test here, though the prototype’s sculpted hood, featuring what appear to be vents, hints that this could be the higher-performance M model.
SH Proshots
That raised section on the hood may serve as either an aerodynamic channel or a cooling duct. If so, because the standard iX3 includes a front trunk, BMW could be trading some of that storage space for M-specific power electronics and/or cooling.
Moving down from the hood, the front bumper sports a more aggressive design than the optional M Sport Package already offered for the standard iX3, though it avoids looking excessive.
There are also new side skirts and lower bumper extensions, with the front likely to reveal larger air intakes once the camouflage comes off. Subtle fender flares and a fresh set of five-spoke alloy wheels give the prototype a more athletic posture.
SH Proshots
At the back, this test car omits the optional spoiler extension shown at the IAA Mobility show in Munich but gains sharper contouring around the bumper.
A redesigned diffuser with a central opening rounds out the treatment, suggesting BMW is leaning toward functional restraint over visual drama, though the final design could still change as testing continues.
Beyond the visual tweaks, the SUV will also benefit from a sharper chassis setup for improved handling. The camouflaged prototype appears to ride on a lowered suspension and features larger perforated disc brakes.
The German carmaker typically introduces M Performance variants first, followed by full-blown M models. The iX3 M60 is expected to debut next year, likely featuring dual electric motors with output comfortably above the 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) of the iX3 50 xDrive, possibly pushing past the 600 hp mark.
BMW officials have already confirmed that their pure M electric cars will use a setup with four motors governed by an electronic control unit named the “heart of joy.” In theory, this architecture could deliver up to 1,341 horsepower, though that won’t apply to the iX3 M or its sibling, the i3M.
A more realistic figure for the iX3 M would be in the 700 to 800 hp range, with room for higher-output variants later on, perhaps including a Competition model that edges closer to 1,000 hp.
Don’t expect to see the iX3 M reach showrooms before 2027.
Latest LDK+ concept adopts smaller, more traditional proportions.
Features lounge-style cabin with swiveling seat and home projector.
Shares its EV platform with the 2027 Foxconn Model A minivan.
For decades, most people have known Sharp for televisions, microwaves, and air purifiers, not for anything with wheels. Now the company seems intent on extending its home-tech comfort onto the road.
The Japanese electronics giant is deepening its move into the automotive sector, leaning on Foxconn’s R&D and manufacturing strength to get there. Its latest effort is a far more developed version of the LDK+ electric minivan concept, set to debut at the Japan Mobility Show later this month.
The latest LDK+ moves noticeably closer to a production-ready vehicle than the 2024 prototype. The proportions are now more in line with a conventional minivan, leaving behind the cab-over profile of its earlier version.
Getting Closer To The Final Product
The front end is now more pronounced, featuring full-width LED headlights integrated into a covered grille with the Sharp logo. Even so, the overall design is rather generic, despite the two-tone finish.
The minivan features sliding doors and an upright rear, while traditional mirrors and door handles hint that the concept is nearing production.
Another image offers a look inside the cabin, entered through a wide pillarless opening. The layout includes a flat floor, a swiveling driver’s seat that can face the rear, and a console box fitted with a foldable table.
A rear bench for three passengers is positioned further back, sacrificing cargo space but creating a lounge-like environment with ambient lighting.
Sharp envisions the LDK+ as an “extension of the living room” when parked. While the massive 65-inch screen of the original concept is gone, the updated model gains a projector and a retractable screen above the rear bench, transforming the cabin into a mobile theater or remote workspace.
The EV incorporates Sharp’s AIoT platform, allowing it to link with household devices such as appliances, air conditioners, and washing machines. It uses AI to learn user habits and preferences, and supports V2H functionality, solar integration, and residential battery systems.
Shared EV Platform
The Sharp LDK+ shares its underpinnings with the Foxconn Model A. The latter was unveiled in concept form last year with a highly modular interior and a configurable exterior that can be tailored for professional and personal use.
The company has yet to share the specifications of the electric powertrain or the battery pack that will likely be carried over to its Sharp sibling.
Foxconn’s own minivan is due to reach Japanese roads in early 2027, followed by a rollout across ASEAN markets.
Sharp hasn’t confirmed when or where its version will launch, though more details are expected at the Japan Mobility Show on October 30.
Login
