Chinese EV exports are booming and were up 87% last month.
Mexico was the top export market in November with 19,344 units.
Over 600,000 Chinese EVs have been exported to Europe in 2025.
Chinese cars were once the butt of jokes, but they’ve become a major threat to Western automakers. That’s clear today as data from China’s General Administration of Customs has revealed exports of electric vehicles soared 87 percent in November.
That’s a huge increase compared to last year and the most popular destination in November was Mexico. Chinese EV exports to the country soared 2,367 percent to total 19,344 units. While the numbers don’t reveal which vehicles were responsible for the boost, the BYD Dolphin Mini has been a hit south of the border.
The small EV measures just 148.8 inches (3,780 mm) long and features a front-mounted motor developing 74 hp (55 kW / 75 PS) and 100 lb-ft (135 Nm) of torque. Customers can also get 30.1 and 38.8 kWh battery packs, which provide a NEDC range of up to 236 miles (380 km).
Mexico was followed by Indonesia and Thailand as the top markets for Chinese exports last month. The former country imported 17,503 vehicles, while the latter took in 13,517.
Focusing on Europe, exports to the UK soared 113 percent last month to 9,096. This means 121,555 Chinese EVs have arrived since the beginning of the year and this is an increase of 24 percent .
That pales in comparison to Belgium, where 195,309 Chinese EVs have been imported in the first 11 months of the year. However, it’s worth noting this is a 15 percent drop compared to 2024.
Where Most Chinese EVs Are Going
Asia remained the biggest market for Chinese EVs as exports climbed 71 percent to 110,061 units in November. They were followed by Europe and Latin America (including the Caribbean).
While Asian countries have imported nearly 1 million Chinese EVs through November, the big story is Europe’s 604,105. That’s 12 percent more than 2024 and the number shows why European automakers and politicians are so worried.
Cybertruck’s 4-foot wiper has frustrated owners since launch.
Owners say wiper contact is weak, reducing cleaning ability.
Tesla confirms wiper performance is under investigation now.
It’s been two years since Tesla began delivering the Cybertruck to customers, yet the company is still wrestling with one of the vehicle’s most persistent design headaches. We’re talking about its massive single windshield wiper.
Despite earlier attempts to fix it through mechanical and software updates, Tesla is now believed to be working on a third version of the wiper system to finally address lingering faults.
A recent case in the US highlights the problem. When a Cybertruck owner brought their vehicle in for service, Tesla’s response revealed that “wiper performance is under active Engineering investigation,” according to a message from the company’s service department.
What’s Wrong With the Blade?
Complaints from owners began as soon as deliveries started. The wiper’s 4-foot blade is the largest fitted to any production vehicle, but users have flagged multiple problems. These include poor blade contact at the middle and top of the stroke, improper stowing at highway speeds, and washer fluid issues.
Performance drops further in cold weather, where salt, slush, and snow can overwhelm the system. Some owners have also noted that the wiper occasionally fails to clear the area in front of the forward-facing FSD cameras.
One post on X captured the frustration:
Love the Cybertruck. Hate the wiper system. Tesla needs to issue a voluntary service providing a free upgraded/redesigned wiper arm and sprayer. This is not a one-time event. Happens every time we hit salt/slush and snow. It’shighly unsafe. There were a few times today on I-70… pic.twitter.com/ajy2BYFQDA
Tesla recalled the wiper motors in June 2024 and has also updated the software, aiming to improve the blade’s movement and how it sits when not in use. A revised V2 blade has also been installed on many trucks, but that version appears to have its own reliability concerns.
The full scope of Tesla’s engineering investigation, initially reported by Not a Tesla App, hasn’t been made public. It’s unclear how long the company has been working on a fix or when an update might be introduced.
There’s speculation that a more substantial redesign could be underway. NotebookCheck notes that the original self-driving Cybercab concept featured a single wiper blade, similar to the Cybertruck. But a newer prototype, believed to be close to production, was recently spotted with a more conventional twin-wiper setup. That’s fueled suggestions that the Cybertruck might adopt the same configuration.
EVs in China must meet new consumption rules starting in 2026.
Models that fail may be pulled from sale or updated to comply.
Rule is said to be world’s first mandatory EV efficiency law.
Fuel economy regulations have shaped the auto industry for decades, setting benchmarks for combustion engines around the world. But when it comes to electric vehicles, formal efficiency standards have remained largely absent.
That’s beginning to change. In China, a new set of laws focused on EV energy consumption is set to take effect, requiring automakers to deliver more efficient electric models.
The regulations are designed around vehicle weight, assigning maximum energy usage thresholds for different categories. For example, a typical battery-electric passenger car weighing about two tons will need to consume no more than 15.1 kilowatt-hours per 100 kilometers.
That’s quite a low number and is around the same as you might expect to achieve in a new Tesla Model 3 during typical, everyday driving.
Efficiency Gets a Legal Backbone
According to local media, these new regulations will be approximately 11 percent stricter than the outgoing recommendations. Chinese authorities believe that thanks to the new efficiency standards, EV owners will see an increase in their average driving ranges of about 7 percent.
Importantly, the regulations are designed to prevent manufacturers from simply bolting on larger battery packs to achieve longer ranges. Instead, the focus will shift to improving the efficiency of existing systems and designs.
Chinese tech publication IT Home notes that this will be the first mandatory EV power consumption regulation in the world. The law is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Behind the Policy Push
Work on the new standards has been ongoing for several months. In July, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the National Development and Reform Commission, and the State Administration for Market Regulation met to work on the new laws, as well as new battery recycling standards.
Car News China notes that many EVs currently sold by major brands like BYD and Geely already meet the new efficiency standards. Models that fall short may need to be upgraded or pulled from production entirely until they’re brought into compliance.
Some robotaxis stall when doors are left slightly open by riders.
Workers say the job is often inefficient and barely profitable.
New robotaxi models may fix this with automated sliding doors.
Getting paid to shut a car door might sound like the setup for a joke, but in parts of Los Angeles, it’s become a legitimate line of work. As autonomous vehicles increasingly take to the streets, a small but growing number of local towing companies have found themselves serving as on-call assistants to robotaxis with limited physical capabilities.
For as much as $24 a pop, these companies are paid to close car doors left ajar by distracted passengers exiting Waymo’s self-driving vehicles. If the situation is more complicated, such as a car stranded mid-route, they can earn between $60 and $80 for helping get the vehicle moving again.
What Happens When Tech Forgets the Basics
A recent report highlights how tow truck drivers are now using an app called Honk, which contracts with Waymo’s autonomous EV fleet in the Los Angeles area.
If a rider exits without properly closing the door, the car won’t budge. It simply waits, parked awkwardly in the street, until someone shows up to finish the job. That someone often arrives thanks to a notification from Honk.
According to Cesar Marenco, owner of Milagro Towing in Inglewood, California, who spoke with The Washington Post, he handles around three jobs per week for Waymo through the Honk app, usually to shut a door or tow a vehicle that’s run out of charge.
It’s not exactly a money-maker. JKK Towing owner Evangelica Cuevas says that the Honk app doesn’t always provide them with the precise location of a vehicle, meaning they may have to walk around for up to an hour just to locate it.
When factoring in the fuel costs, receiving between $22 and $24 to close a door, or up to $80 to tow a vehicle, doesn’t always make it profitable.
The Cost of Chasing Robotaxis
Earlier this month, several of Waymo’s robotaxis stopped after a power outage at traffic lights throughout San Francisco. Several tow companies were alerted to the disruption. Not everyone believes the rates offered by Waymo are fair.
Jesus Ajuiñiga, manager of Alpha Towing and Recovery in San Francisco, told The Washington Post that he’s turned down Waymo calls. The rates, he says, don’t come close to the $250 he normally charges to tow an all-wheel-drive vehicle. And for some, that’s just too steep a compromise.
Things could start to change. Whereas the Jaguar I-Pace models primarily used by Waymo need their doors to be manually shut, the new robotaxis built by China’s Zeekr that Waymo is currently testing, have sliding doors like a minivan, meaning they can be opened and closed automatically.
There's increasing concern about PFAS, the substances commonly called forever chemicals found throughout the environment. Now volunteers in Minnesota are collecting pine needles throughout the state in an effort to help researchers determine how PFAS find their way in water, soil, and air when there seems to be no obvious source
The health of the school bus industry was strong and stable in 2025. I predict more of the same in 2026. There is renewed EPA funding optimism, as more funds are set to be dispersed, yet the exact dollar figure remains unknown.The remaining $2 billion in the Clean School Bus program could soon be released to support propane and electric school bus acquisition.
States like New York and California continue to push for more stringent regulations while other states follow the federal mandate of more relaxed emission standards. Keep in mind, a proposed rule to amend the 2027 Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) Phase 3 regulations for heavy-duty vehicles looms.
Regardless of government regulations, engine OEMs have already done the work to get heavy-duty low NOx and CO2 emissions baked into future powertrain solutions. This will likely drive engine prices higher in 2026 and beyond.
As we ended 2025, inflation appeared to have leveled off but still remained too high as are interest rates, despite the Fed’s latest cut. There are hopes of more rate cuts in the future. I see the increased costs being reflected on labor, manufacturing and raw materials
from industry suppliers. Tariff discussions will continue to take center stage as costs on components and goods can change quickly. Those sudden increases are already being passed on to the end user.
School busing should be deemed an essential service, like during COVID, and receive a tariff waiver. It will take a lot of loud and convincing voices to influence policy makers in Washington, D.C. No easy task but worth it.
A benchmark for industry health is new OEM school bus manufacturing data. As reported starting on page 13, the numbers reported are up about 7 percent to 40,345 school buses produced. Clean diesel school bus volumes spiked as the top buying choice for fleets with an overall increase of 3,699 units to 26,677 units. Alternative fuel school bus purchasing was modest relative to the previous year. The green bus market share leader remained electric school buses with 2,906 units manufactured, which was slightly down from the previous year. School bus OEMs have continued to expand school bus electrification offerings across all model types.
Propane-powered school bus volume was down slightly at 1,617 units, and CNG school buses saw a 91-unit decrease compared to last year with a scant 6 units produced. Gasoline school buses were down 515 units to 10,326 units over the previous year’s data. I see the potential for more gasoline adoption in 2026 as school bus OEMs offer the Cummins B6.7 Octane engine. Type A school bus chassis demand and predictability is good. Chassis allocations for school transportation OEMs have remained steady from GM and Ford in 2025.
According to industry insiders, that trend should remain similar for 2026, but tariffs are causing some hesitation in the marketplace.
I am seeing a significant increase in van conversions and van dealers o”ering multi-passenger vehicle (MPV) options to end users. More companies are exhibiting at STN EXPO and TSD Conference than ever before. I expect that market to continue to expand in 2026. Growing budget pressures seem to have accelerated the adoption of alternative student transportation services. This has given school districts another option on a supplemental basis to support growing demand of servicing students with disabilities, special needs or who are experiencing homelessness.
According to a recent STN readership study, over 667 subscribers identified products that they were interested in purchasing over the coming year. The top 2026 buying trends are new Type C and D school buses, new diesel buses/engines/components, wheels/tires, brakes, lighting and LEDs, and cellular radio communications systems. (See the full list on page 16.)
Be sure to utilize this ultimate resource guide for contacts and data, to discover new products and the companies that sell them. I also invite you to participate in the professional development training and networking opportunities we have to o”er at the STN EXPO and the TSD Conference. Learn more at stnexpo.com.
As I look to 2026 and beyond, I see school transportation being future-ready mobility for every student. The yellow school bus of tomorrow is already on the road. The question is no longer whether the industry will transform, but which school districts, suppliers and communities will lead the way.
Editor’s Note: As reprinted from the School Transportation News Buyer’s Guide.
During 2025, the most-viewed online articles on the School Transportation News website overwhelmingly focused on school bus crashes, student injuries or fatalities, and incidents involving driver misconduct or error. Together, these stories reflect ongoing public concern about the safety of students not only while riding the bus, but also during loading and unloading, as well as the accountability of those entrusted with student transportation.
Below is a summary of the top 10 most-viewed STN articles of 2025, as ranked by reader engagement.
Published May 16, 2025
The 10th most-viewed online article covered the criminal charges against a former school bus driver in Pennsylvania accused of inappropriately touching students. The article highlighted the severity of the allegations, addressed community reaction, and underscored the importance of screening and oversight in school transportation staff.
Published Feb. 19, 2025
A school bus driver in Indiana was arrested for allegedly operating a school bus under the influence. Given the serious responsibilities school bus drivers carry, the story resonated strongly, underlining the potential risks when safety protocols are not followed.
8. Kindergartner Struck and Killed by School Bus Published Jan. 13, 2025
A tragic account of a kindergartner fatally struck by a school bus served as a sobering reminder of how hazardous pick-up and drop-off zones can be, especially for very young children. The article prompted readers to reflect on safety practices around bus loading zones.
7. 8-Year-Old Struck, Killed by Vehicle After Exiting School Bus in Texas Published March 4, 2025
The heartbreaking case in Texas of an 8-year-old who was struck and killed by a vehicle after exiting a school bus, was the year’s seventh most-viewed online article. It underscored the vulnerabilities children face even after safely leaving the bus, and how monitoring, infrastructure and awareness are critical for safety after the ride ends.
Stock image of first responders loading a patient into an ambulance.
Published April 24, 2025
In a separate but related incident, a kindergartner was hit by a school bus in Pennsylvania. The coverage drew attention to recurring safety issues with bus-stop zones and raised questions about what measures are in place (or need to be put in place) to prevent such accidents.
5. Over a Dozen Injured in a New Jersey School Bus Crash Published March 17, 2025
This online article described a serious crash in New Jersey involving a school bus, with more than a dozen individuals injured. The high number of injuries made this a widely read and deeply concerning report, emphasizing the risks school buses face when collisions occur.
Published Jan. 22, 2025
A child in Missouri was struck by a pickup truck as they were exiting a school bus. It highlighted how everyday tasks, like getting off a bus, can turn dangerous, especially in areas with vehicle traffic and stirred discussions about safer drop-off procedures.
3. Alabama School Bus Driver Falls Asleep at Wheel, Crashes Published March 5, 2025
A report on a school bus crash in Alabama was caused by a driver reportedly falling asleep at the wheel. This article resonated widely, bringing attention to driver fatigue and the critical importance of driver readiness, training, and safety oversight.
2. School Bus Crashes into Pennsylvania Home Published Oct. 13, 2025
In a startling incident, a school bus crashed into a residential home in Pennsylvania. The unusual nature of the crash, a bus leaving the road and hitting a home, captured many readers’ attention and raised serious questions about mechanical safety, driving conditions and oversight.
1. Michigan Middle Schooler Dead After Exiting School Bus Published April 18, 2025
Topping the list of the most-viewed online articles, this tragic article reported on a middle schooler in Michigan, who died after exiting their school bus. The cause was unclear and under investigation, which added to the emotional weight of the story. The high view count suggests a strong public concern for student safety beyond just the ride itself, particularly what happens immediately after students leave the bus.
Hyundai’s smallest Ioniq debuts with practical five-door design.
All-electric powertrains could offer up to 400 miles of range.
Styling draws influence from the coupe-like Three Concept.
Electric vehicle sales may be cooling off with the rollback of government incentives in the United States, but Hyundai isn’t lifting its foot off the pedal just yet. In fact, it’s charging ahead with its most compact EV after the Inster. Named the Ioniq 3, this practical five-door hatch slots below the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 in both size and price.
Previewed by the recent Concept Three, the Ioniq 3 could become one of Hyundai’s most significant global EVs, combining affordability with everyday usability. Camouflaged prototypes have already been spotted testing out in the open, hinting that an official debut is just around the corner. Here’s a look at everything we know so far.
Striking the Middle Road
Unlike its larger siblings, the Ioniq 3 avoids polarizing the public with a look that’s easier on the eye. Prototypes confirm that it retains the Concept Three’s coupe-like proportions, although the front fascia is toned down with more conventional battery-cooling intakes and slim pixel DRLs split from the main headlamps underneath.
From the profile, it trades the concept’s slim-frame windows for clamshell items (welcome back to the 90s). Elsewhere, it’s a clean, uncluttered profile with smooth surfacing and intersecting lines drawn from Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ design language.
The rear features a high-mounted full-width tail light cluster with LED pixel elements and a split-glass hatch configuration similar to that of Toyota’s Prius. The concept’s translucent aero elements and wild lower diffuser won’t make the cut, yet it still sports a subtle spoiler.
A Tech-Focused Interior
SH Proshots
In a significant departure from Hyundai’s existing lineup, the cabin offers an all-new experience with a separate digital instrument cluster and a large Tesla-style infotainment display.
The screen runs Hyundai’s new Pleos Connect system, which is built on Android Automotive OS, bringing cloud-based user profiles (allowing owners to download features on demand) and conversational voice control for navigation and other vehicle functions.
Importantly, spy shots confirm the presence of physical buttons for HVAC controls below the infotainment screen. Elsewhere, the 5-seat cabin follows the same design theme as other Ioniq models, with minimalist door cards and ovoid trim elements.
Other highlights include Apple CarPlay Ultra compatibility, ambient lighting and enhanced Level 2 driver assistance.
While key specs remain under wraps, we know the Ioniq 3 will ride on a pared-down version of the E-GMP platform. Unlike the 800-volt architecture used in the Ioniq 5 and 6, this model runs a 400-volt system, helping to keep costs in check.
Two Lithium-ion NCM battery configurations are said to be on the cards, with the smaller packing coming in at 58 kWh, while the larger one muscles up 81.4 kWh. The latter should be good for a range estimate of 390-400 miles (628–644 km), and both offering V2G (vehicle-to-grid) and V2L (vehicle-to-load) capabilities.
With thin camouflage and key interior tech already known, we expect a full debut within the next six months and a global rollout by 2027. North American availability? Sorry folks, as this will be built in Turkey, it won’t be offered in the States.
Should Hyundai bring the Ioniq 3 to the USA? We’d love to hear your views in the comments below.
The U.S. is forecast to add a lot less power from renewables than analysts previously expected. The potential slowdown comes as electricity demand is rising faster than it has in decades.
Our render uses the Citroen ELO to imagine a Fiat Multipla EV.
Two-story headlights return with subtle vintage Fiat design cues.
Sliding doors reveal a modular six-seat cabin with center driving.
The unveiling of Citroen’s ELO concept, with its stacked LED lights, minivan-like shape, and six-seat layout, immediately stirred speculation. Not just about the prospect of a Citroen-badged people carrier, but also about what it might mean for other brands within the Stellantis umbrella. It landed with a visual impact that invited questions beyond the concept itself.
Could this be the design foundation for a new Fiat Multipla? At first glance, it may seem like a stretch, but the idea isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds. Fiat is rumored to be bringing back the Multipla name for a family-focused SUV.
Still, the ELO’s shape and proportions prompted a different line of thinking; what if the next Multipla leaned more closely into its original spirit?
The Return of One-Box Thinking
The single-box layout of the Citroen concept feels oddly well-suited to a spiritual successor to the original 1955 Fiat 600 Multipla. The notion doesn’t feel far off, especially since both marques fall under the Stellantis umbrella.
With minimal styling revisions, Fiat could spin off a distinctive variant while still sharing development costs with Citroen, if such a minivan duo were ever to hit the streets.
There’s a clear visual callback in the lighting setup. The concept features round LEDs paired with slim DRLs positioned at the base of the windshield, subtly hinting to the stacked, two-tier headlights that made the 1998 Multipla infamous. A slightly reworked front end, with smoother surfacing and Fiat’s latest badge, completes the update.
Most of the 4.10-meter (161.4-inch) bodywork is carried over from the Citroen ELO, with the exception of the rear. There, the UFO-like split taillights jutting from the corners could be swapped for pill-shaped units that recall the cheerful styling of the Fiat Topolino.
As a finishing touch, we added a set of vintage alloy wheels from the Fiat 500 anniversary specials, along with a more expressive palette of exterior colors. Finally, discreet plastic cladding around the wheel arches with a matching finish for the bumpers and door inserts make the fictional model look ready to hit the road.
The wide-opening sliding doors and experimental cabin layout of the Citroen concept also make sense here. Six individual seats, a central driving position, and the option to remove chairs or add accessories like inflatable mattresses and modular storage could make this an ideal companion for family adventures.
Packaging like that requires a dedicated EV platform. That means no room for combustion engines. But a compact rear-mounted motor and a modest battery would be more than sufficient for city use and the occasional weekend escape.
The Story of the Multipla
The original Fiat 600 Multipla, designed by Dante Giacosa, was introduced in 1955. It was based on the underpinnings of the Fiat 600 featuring cab-over styling. Despite measuring just 3,531 mm (139 inches) long, it had a spacious interior that could accommodate up to six passengers and their luggage.
Fiat revived the Multipla name in 1997 for a new compact MPV, and while it may be better remembered for its polarizing design, it delivered genuine functionality. Roberto Giolito’s design, with its two-level headlights and expansive glasshouse, stood out in every possible way.
Despite being shorter than a modern supermini at 3,994 mm (157.2 inches) long, the Multipla offered uncompromising practicality. Rather than stretching it lengthwise, Fiat’s designers cleverly pushed the dimensions outward, giving it a width of 1,871 mm (73.7 inches).
That allowed for two full rows of three seats, making it a genuine six-seater, with a minimum of 430 litres of boot space, plenty of room for luggage, shopping, or a four-legged passenger or two.
And because Fiat made it wide rather than long, the Multipla not only packed in the space but also handled better than most people movers, with a squat stance that gave it a more planted feel on the road.
Fiat hasn’t confirmed a new Multipla, but the name keeps resurfacing in product speculation. n. Most likely, it will be assigned to a crossover in the expanding Panda lineup.
That model is expected to use Stellantis’ Smart Car platform, shared with the Citroen C3 Aircross and Opel Frontera, and would likely compete with budget-friendly models like the Dacia Duster and Bigster.
The forthcoming SUV will reportedly be offered with gasoline, mild-hybrid, and fully electric powertrain options, following the example of the Grande Panda subcompact hatchback and a mechanically-related fastback crossover that has been spied testing.
Still, for all the SUV planning, there remains a quiet corner of the internet hoping that Fiat remembers what made the original Multipla special: not just practicality, but a certain willingness to stand apart.
Any year that school bus production figures spike is cause for celebration, especially amid “anemic” growth in the larger trucking
industry.
That is how Steve Tam, vice president of ACT Research, put it to me early in the fall. Truck manufacturers were laying o! workers, in part due to Trump administration tariffs and reduced purchase interest among companies. Class 8 forecasts were down by 20 to 25 percent.
But he sounded more optimism for the bus market, as production was up 11 percent in July alone. For school buses specifically, manufacturing exhibited continued resiliency from pandemic induced shortages despite tariff pressures with a 6.7-percent spike in overall output. But within those numbers, the market disruption provided by alternative vehicles appears to account for a big drop-off in smaller school buses.
Total Type A small school bus production fell almost 14 percent from 2023-2024, as Type 1 vehicles weighing under 10,000 pounds GVWR came in at 1,041 units compared to over three times as many as the previous year. The good news is larger Type A-2 school buses weighing over 10,000 pounds GVWR nearly doubled to 6,326 units.
As School Transportation News articles and conversations with attendees at STN EXPO and TSD conferences continue to indicate, school districts are foregoing the smaller Type A school buses for light-duty passenger vehicles to transport students experiencing homelessness and those with Individualized Education Programs. It should come as little surprise considering the National Congress on School Transportation last May approved for the first time, a section on the use of alternative transportation vehicles for student transportation.
The Type C conventional category remained vibrant as reported output increased over 17 percent to 30,654 units, the most since 31,834 for the 2018-2018 production cycle and the third-most over the past decade. School districts have long preferred Type Cs for home-to-school routes, and that trend has been buoyed in recent years by OEMs offering wheelchair lifts on their models, which has also further affected the Type A market.
Type D transit-style school buses, on the other hand, came in at 2,324 units manufactured, or about 7 percent of the Type C figure. Type D’s have historically accounted for 10- to 15-percent of the number of Type Cs produced each year.
Another big winner? Diesel rebounded to nearly 27,000 units, similar to pre-COVID-19 levels. That could be largely due to a hiatus in the five-year,$5-billion Clean School Bus Program that has heavily favored electric school bus awards. (Word is funds will start up again in 2026.) Additionally, uncertainty has centered on the status of the pending federal greenhouse gas emission rule and a rollback of California requirements.
Two years ago, the conversation was that the industry might be facing a large amount of pre-buy orders as districts looked to delay the inevitable cost increase associated with more strict diesel emissions
equipment and software. Those fears have subsided as the EPA is in the process of publishing updated rule making to pare back a lot of those requirements.
OEMs led by Daimler Trucks North America are suing the California Air Resources Board over its rules, arguing they are incompatible with the rollbacks from Washington, D.C. For the larger commercial sector, Tam said ACT Research removed the prospect of fuel buys entirely from its forecast.
Electric school bus output was flat. Meanwhile, Blue Bird and Micro Bird remain the lone propane suppliers to the market, courtesy of the
ROUSH CleanTech autogas injection system, which accounts for another year of reduced numbers. Its gasoline cousin remained consistent at over 10,000 units produced. Interest is only ramping up as Cummins’ new octane engine enters the marketplace this year. IC Bus and Thomas Built Buses are already set to o!er models.
As for tariffs? They certainly hit the school bus industry. Unsurprisingly, few OEMs chose to publicly weigh in on their impact to manufacturing costs and purchasing. But two respondents said they indeed had to pass along increased supplier and parts costs to customers, with one of them adding the tariffs forced layoffs of company workers.
Editor’s Note: As reprinted from the School Transportation News Buyer’s Guide.
Porsche’s 1,019 hp Taycan Turbo GT failed to meet reserve price.
EV depreciation hit hard, echoing trends in luxury segments.
Faster than Plaid and SF90, yet buyers barely showed interest.
It’s far from unusual for high-performance models from Porsche’s exclusive GT division to appreciate in value the moment they leave the showroom. That’s been the case with the current 911 GT3 RS, and it’s often true for limited-run, motorsport-infused builds.
But the electric Taycan Turbo GT isn’t following that playbook. Despite its credentials, it seems to be moving in lockstep with the value drop seen across the wider Taycan range.
The standard Taycan, just like its corporate cousin from Audi, the e-tron GT, has taken a beating in resale value since launch. EVs in general depreciate faster than most combustion cars, but the Taycan has faced a particularly steep drop.
Earlier this week, a near-new Taycan Turbo GT went up for auction and came in a staggering $82,000 below its original MSRP before the bidding stopped.
A Bad Day for Taycan Values
Bring a Trailer
The high-performance sedan was listed for auction on Bring a Trailer by Gaudin Classic, a Porsche dealer in Nevada. Prior to the auction, it had never been sold to a private owner and had just 141 miles (227 km) on the clock. It is also equipped with the Weissach package that includes a fixed rear wing, no rear seats, and more pieces made from lightweight carbon fiber.
A look at the car’s window sticker reveals it has an MSRP of $238,300, bolstered by nearly $10,000 in additional options. Among them is a $2,950 Shade Green Metallic paint finish, $1,380 satin black wheels, and $1,760 race-tex-finished inner door-sill guards. As Taycans go, this one ticks every box, but the final bid landed at just $167,000.
Harsh Market Reality
According to the seller, bidding came close to meeting the reserve, and they plan to negotiate with the top bidder to see if a deal can still be made. Whether or not it sells, the takeaway is as clear as ever. That’s a brutal level of depreciation for a car that hasn’t even gone through its first full charge cycle.
For as impressive as the Taycan Turbo GT is, there may not be many buyers eager to spend that much on a track-focused electric sedan that, for most owners, will likely never see a circuit. The Weissach package also means it has two fewer seats than some 911s, so it’s not exactly practical either.
What Makes This EV Special?
To be fair, the specs are hard to argue with. The Taycan Turbo GT uses dual electric motors to deliver 1,019 hp with launch control, peaking at 1,092 hp in two-second bursts.
Earlier this year, MotorTrend launched the Weissach model to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 1.89 seconds using a one-foot rollout, making it the quickest car the publication has ever tested in its 76-year history.
Without rollout, the time comes to 2.1 seconds, beating the Tesla Model S Plaid, Ferrari SF90 Stradale Assetto Fiorano, and even the Lucid Air Sapphire.
Household waste increases by 25% between Thanksgiving and New Years. Rules vary by municipality on what you can recycle and what needs to go into the trash.
The holiday season means plenty of celebrations, including staff parties, decorated school buses, community events and more! View the gallery of photos shared by school districts and transportation companies below.
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A.B. Chandler Elementary School in Kentucky shared photos of a special visit from the “Christmas Bus” to kindergarten students, courtesy of the transportation department!
A.B. Chandler Elementary School in Kentucky shared photos of a special visit from the “Christmas Bus” to kindergarten students, courtesy of the transportation department!
A.B. Chandler Elementary School in Kentucky shared photos of a special visit from the “Christmas Bus” to kindergarten students, courtesy of the transportation department!
A.B. Chandler Elementary School in Kentucky shared photos of a special visit from the “Christmas Bus” to kindergarten students, courtesy of the transportation department!
American Student Transportation shared this photo of their annual ginger bread house contest winter, Rhonda Bitzer who created this school bus design.
The Indiana State School Bus Drivers Association shared photos from New Palestine Community Schools, crediting transportation department garage supervisor Mike Real for the pictures of a decorated school bus.
The Indiana State School Bus Drivers Association shared photos from New Palestine Community Schools, crediting transportation department garage supervisor Mike Real for the pictures of a decorated school bus.
Metcalfe County Elementary School in Kentucky shared that “the winners of their World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser were treated to a magical Christmas school bus ride they won’t soon forget!”
Metcalfe County Elementary School in Kentucky shared that “the winners of their World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser were treated to a magical Christmas school bus ride they won’t soon forget!”
Metcalfe County Elementary School in Kentucky shared that “the winners of their World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser were treated to a magical Christmas school bus ride they won’t soon forget!”
Metcalfe County Elementary School in Kentucky shared that “the winners of their World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser were treated to a magical Christmas school bus ride they won’t soon forget!”
Metcalfe County Elementary School in Kentucky shared that “the winners of their World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser were treated to a magical Christmas school bus ride they won’t soon forget!”
Metcalfe County Elementary School in Kentucky shared that “the winners of their World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser were treated to a magical Christmas school bus ride they won’t soon forget!”
Pine Tree Bird Elementary School in Texas shared photos from a visit from the transportation’s department decorated school bus.
A familiar holiday figure appeared on a school bus route at Spartanburg School District One in South Carolina.
Pine Tree Bird Elementary School in Texas shared photos from a visit from the transportation’s department decorated school bus.
Seven Rivers Christian Schools in Florida said that “In the spirit of the season, SRCS bus drivers have decked their buses with lights, tinsel, ornaments, and art to add some jolly to the bus ride!”
Seven Rivers Christian Schools in Florida said that “In the spirit of the season, SRCS bus drivers have decked their buses with lights, tinsel, ornaments, and art to add some jolly to the bus ride!”
Seven Rivers Christian Schools in Florida said that “In the spirit of the season, SRCS bus drivers have decked their buses with lights, tinsel, ornaments, and art to add some jolly to the bus ride!”
Sharp Bus Lines Limited, based in Ontario, shared some of their favorite moments from the holiday season at their office.
Sharp Bus Lines Limited, based in Ontario, shared some of their favorite moments from the holiday season at their office.
Sharp Bus Lines Limited, based in Ontario, shared some of their favorite moments from the holiday season at their office.
Sharp Bus Lines Limited, based in Ontario, shared some of their favorite moments from the holiday season at their office.
Sharp Bus Lines Limited, based in Ontario, shared some of their favorite moments from the holiday season at their office.
Spartanburg County School District Six in South Carolina highlighted their transportation staff saying that they are “making school bus rides extra special for students!”
Spartanburg County School District Six in South Carolina highlighted their transportation staff saying that they are “making school bus rides extra special for students!”
Spartanburg County School District Six in South Carolina highlighted their transportation staff saying that they are “making school bus rides extra special for students!”t
Student Transportation of America shared photos of a “Stuff the Bus” event saying that their team has been participating to create a positive impact in their communities.
Student Transportation of America shared photos of a “Stuff the Bus” event saying that their team has been participating to create a positive impact in their communities.
Swain County Schools in North Carolina congratulated Paula Brady who works at the district’s Bus Garage as a winner of their “Twelve Days of Christmas” giveaway.
Humphreys County Schools in Tennessee shared these photos of a decked out bus saying “Our transportation team went above and beyond decking out the bus for Christmas parades across the county, complete with lights dancing in perfect harmony to your favorite holiday tunes… Thank you to our incredibly hardworking transportation staff for sprinkling joy, creativity, and a whole lot of Christmas cheer throughout our community.”
Humphreys County Schools in Tennessee shared these photos of a decked out bus saying “Our transportation team went above and beyond decking out the bus for Christmas parades across the county, complete with lights dancing in perfect harmony to your favorite holiday tunes… Thank you to our incredibly hardworking transportation staff for sprinkling joy, creativity, and a whole lot of Christmas cheer throughout our community.”
Humphreys County Schools in Tennessee thanked their transportation department for this festive school bus (Photo courtesy of Humphreys County Schools Facebook Page)
Lexus launches the RZ 600e F Sport Performance in Japan market.
It blends the RZ 450e bodykit with power and chassis upgrades.
Dual motors make 420 hp with yoke steering and lower ride height.
If you thought Lexus was finished updating the RZ, think again. After rolling out in Europe and North America, the refreshed model has now made its way to Japan, and it arrives with a surprise addition. Headlining the lineup is the new RZ 600e F Sport Performance trim, blending aggressive aero elements with chassis enhancements and a healthy jump in power.
That means a vented hood, a front splitter, wider fenders with integrated aero extensions, reshaped side skirts, a pronounced rear diffuser, and a two-piece rear wing that adds both visual drama and functional downforce.
The special edition comes in two colors, Neutrino Gray and Hakugin II, each paired with black as a base, accented by exposed carbon fiber and blue detailing. It rides on 21-inch matte black Enkei alloy wheels, behind which sit larger 20-inch brakes and six-piston aluminum monoblock calipers up front.
Lexus also dropped the suspension by 20 mm (0.8 inches) compared to the RZ 550e F Sport, the base for this version.
Fastest RZ Yet
More significantly, the dual electric motors have been reworked to deliver a combined 420 hp (313 kW or 426 PS), making the 600e the most powerful RZ yet. It now surpasses the related Toyota bZ and Subaru Solterra in output, despite their shared architecture.
With the extra power on tap, the RZ 600e F Sport Performance accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds. It uses the familiar 77 kWh battery, which provides a driving range of up to 525 km (326 miles) on a full charge.
Inside, the standout feature is the yoke-shaped steering wheel connected to Lexus’s steer-by-wire system, paired with what the brand calls “Interactive Manual Drive” for a more involved feel. The interior also features blue accents on the dashboard and sport seats upholstered in Ultrasuede, part of the F Sport Performance package.
The RZ 600e F Sport Performance will go on sale in Japan on March 2, 2026. Pricing is set at ¥12,165,000 (equal to $78,100 at current exchange rates) for the version in Black with Neutrino Gray, and ¥12,440,000 ($79,900) for the more distinctive Black and Hakugin II finish.
Interestingly, while Lexus limited the 2024 RZ 450e F Sport Performance to just 100 units, the new 600e will have no such production cap. Availability in other markets remains unknown at this time.
The Rest Of The RZ Lineup
Besides the RZ 600e F Sport Performance, Lexus has rolled out updates across the rest of the lineup, including the RZ 350e Version L, the RZ 500e Version L, and the RZ 550e F Sport.
All models benefit from increased power and improved efficiency, alongside a revised charging system. Range now varies from 579 km to 733 km (360 to 456 miles), depending on the configuration. As before, the Lexus RZ is available in both single-motor and dual-motor setups, with battery capacities of 75 kWh or 77 kWh carried over from the previous model.
The F Sport trim remains visually distinct, marked out by sportier design cues and the same yoke steering wheel linked to the steer-by-wire system.
Pricing for the updated electric SUV start at ¥7,900,000 ($52,000) for the front-wheel-drive RZ 350e Version L and rise to ¥9,500,000 ($63,000) for the all-wheel-drive RZ 550e F Sport. Buyers can also opt for the “Performance Upgrade Boost + Interactive Manual Drive” package at ¥220,000 ($1,500), which increases peak output and adds simulated manual control.
A 15-year-old was taken to a medical facility with minor injuries after being struck by a pickup truck while crossing the highway on their way to a school bus Monday morning, reported WBAY News.
According to the news report, deputies and EMS personnel responded to the incident around 7:23 a.m. Authorities said the school bus was stopped in the northbound lane with its flashing lights activated and stop arm extended, when the teen attempted was crossing the highway.
Investigators determined the teen was hit by a 2018 Ford F-150 traveling southbound. The truck was reportedly driven by a 59-year-old man from the Village of St. Nazianz.
The teen sustained minor injuries and was transported to a medical facility for treatment. A second bus from the Valders Bus Company was dispatched to the scene to transport the remaining students.
Police sited the pickup driver for failure to stop for a school bus and inattentive driving. The sheriff’s office said no additional details would be released. Officials used the incident as a reminder that children’s safety is a shared community responsibility, urging drivers to remain alert around school buses, obey stop requirements, slow down, watch for children in the roadway and at school bus stops, and exercise patience during school pickup and drop-off times.
As winter settles over Oklahoma City, one school bus driver warms students one hand-knitted beanie at a time.
Tina Hutcherson, 63, drives for the Putnam City School District and has become a beloved figure among her students for a simple but heartfelt mission: Ensuring no child goes without a warm hat during the cold months. Her journey in student transportation began long before she ever picked up knitting needles.
She told School Transportation News that she started as a school bus driver in 2004. She had to take a small break in 2009 to care for her son but returned as a driver in 2013.
The idea of making hats came from what she witnessed each winter on her route.
“I know how cold it gets in Oklahoma, and I see some children who may not have coats, hats, etc., to keep them warm,” Hutcherson said, adding that a recent blanket giveaway inspired her to expand her efforts. “I didn’t want anyone to feel left out, so I decided to make all the students a stocking cap as well.”
Her process quickly became a collaboration with the very kids she serves. Instead of choosing colors herself, Hutcherson invites her students to design their own.
“I draw a picture of a hat and give it to the students to color over the weekend,” she said. “They bring it back to me, and I use their drawings as the design and color guide. Many of the students know exactly what colors they want.”
The project has grown far beyond her original plan.
“I’ve made about 50 or more hats so far,” she told STN. “When my middle schoolers heard about the elementary students getting hats, they asked for some too. So, I gave them hats right before Thanksgiving break.”
In addition to beanies for both elementary and middle schoolers, Hutcherson has also crocheted backpacks for students and hats for local military veterans.
The joy her students express makes every hour of work worth it.
“The kids get excited knowing they’re getting hats that morning,” she said. One student proudly wears his hat every day and makes sure Hutcherson sees it when he steps on the bus. She also received a stack of handmade thank-you cards from her elementary riders; gestures she treasures deeply.
More than warmth, Hutcherson said she hopes the children feel the intention behind each stitch.
“I hope they know I made it with love,” she said. That love, she believes, is what keeps her going. “I just love giving crochet and knitted projects to people who I feel need a little extra love. It’s my favorite hobby, and I love to put a smile on their faces!”.
We broke the news on Kosmera’s big debut last week and now the company has revealed they’re actually bringing two cars to CES. While we’ve already seen the Porsche-esque sedan or liftback, the company also announced plans to show a “new energy hypercar.”
The startup isn’t saying much at this point, but promised the model will “blend classic supercar heritage with next-generation technology.” They went on to say both vehicles will be “stunning to behold, thrilling to drive, and exhilarating to enjoy.”
That’s not a lot to go on, but the teaser image suggests the hypercar will have a prominent grille that gives off Alfa Romeo and Bugatti vibes. We can also see curvaceous fenders, a sloping roof, and a sizeable rear spoiler.
The company added the car will have a high-performance powertrain that produces up to 469 hp (350 kW / 476 PS) per wheel. This means we’re looking at a combined output of up to 1,877 hp (1,400 kW / 1,903 PS).
Kosmera went on to say we can expect a nearly 1:1 power-to-weight ratio as well as a high-tech chassis that uses “aerospace-grade composites” as well as 3D-printed metals. This is said to give the hypercar “exceptional torsional stiffness.”
We can also expect an AI Coach, which is designed to turn normal drivers into experts on the track. As part of this effort, the car will apparently use an augmented reality heads-up display to show drivers the ideal racing line.
Kosmera added the model will have a “revolutionary active linear motor suspension system, which is planned to seamlessly transition between a smooth ‘zero-sensation’ ride and a rigid, race-ready chassis setup.” It will be accompanied by a mysterious “dual-steering-wheel unlock mechanism,” which provides further adaptability.
Before you get too excited, the models are being referred to as prototypes and static display vehicles, which will showcase the company’s exterior and interior design chops. These are intended to compete in the premium segment, although the company didn’t mention production plans or availability.
There’s another caveat. It’s unlikely that the cars will be offered stateside as we’ve previously discovered the Kosmera name was trademarked by China’s Xing Chen Future Automotive Technology Co Ltd. This suggests the closest Americans will get to seeing one of these vehicles will be at CES.
Tesla crashes where doors won’t open are drawing new scrutiny.
At least 15 deaths cited doors as a possible contributing factor.
More than half of those deaths occurred within the last year.
A new report has put the spotlight on a troubling pattern of fatal crashes in the US involving Teslas, where passengers were unable to open the doors, trapping them inside. As the brand’s EVs grow more common on American roads, so too does scrutiny over their safety features, or in this case, the lack of physical fail-safes in the event of a crash.
The investigation zeroes in on Tesla’s electronic door handles, a signature design feature that has since been adopted by several other automakers, raising concerns about an industry-wide trend toward software-dependent safety mechanisms.
During an ongoing investigation into safety concerns about these door handles, Bloomberg found evidence that at least 15 people have died in the past decade in incidents involving Teslas where locked or inoperable doors were cited as a potential factor in the victims’ inability to escape.
More than half of those deaths occurred within the past year, suggesting the issue may be becoming more common, or at least more visible, as awareness grows.
Behind the Numbers
The report acknowledges a critical limitation. There is no publicly maintained federal database that tracks fatalities specifically linked to electronic door handle malfunctions. As a result, the findings aren’t meant to represent a definitive or exhaustive total.
Instead, Bloomberg built its list by reviewing every known fatal electric vehicle crash involving fire in the US, then analyzing whether evidence suggested that the doors could not be opened either by occupants or emergency responders.
In each of the 15 cases they flagged, nonfunctional door handles were cited as having “impeded either the occupants’ efforts to escape or rescuers’ attempts to save those inside the vehicle.”
One such incident happened in Virginia, where a Tesla Model 3 skidded off a snowy highway, hit a tree, and caught fire. Footage from inside the patrol car shows that the officer was unable to open the Model 3’s door, forcing him to bash open one of the windows and pull out the driver.
Audio from the Wreckage
One fatal crash occurred in Wisconsin last year, killing five people inside a Tesla Model S. Audio from three 911 calls was later obtained, including one placed automatically by an occupant’s Apple Watch.
At least two of the occupants can be heard screaming and crying for help in the recordings, with one clearly saying, “I’m stuck” as the fire spread through the vehicle, ultimately claiming their lives. It remains unclear whether the other three victims survived the initial impact before the blaze took over.
Tesla Responds to Design Concerns
Tesla, for its part, appears to have quietly acknowledged the concerns in part. In September, reports surfaced that the company was exploring revisions to its door handle system. Future models may include a combination of electronic and manual release mechanisms, something already standard in brands like Audi and Lexus.
Perhaps eager to reassure shoppers about the safety of its vehicles, Tesla recently launched a new page on its website focused purely on safety. There, the company explains that its vehicles are designed to automatically activate hazard lights and unlock doors in the event of a serious collision. It also notes that the vehicle can contact emergency services autonomously.
However, Tesla also includes a key disclaimer: these features “may not be available in all regions or for all vehicles based on build date.”
While Tesla appears to be making some moves to address the issue in the future, questions still remain, not just about the company’s design choices, but also about the regulatory landscape and the lack of clear oversight. The analysis doesn’t claim that electronic door handles are inherently unsafe, but it does point to the need for more reliable fail-safes in situations where delays can be deadly.
GM product chief Sterling Anderson is seen as a possible future CEO.
His success depends on fixing GM software, autonomy, and EV profits.
Mary Barra and Mark Reuss stay in charge with no succession timeline.
General Motors is looking to the future and planning ahead. Some of its biggest targets surround software innovation, EV profitability, and autonomy. To help make those goals a reality, it has brought in Sterling Anderson, a former Tesla executive and Aurora co-founder with a strong track record in exactly those areas.
If he manages to lead GM to success in those targets, he could very well be the next CEO of the entire brand.
Anderson officially joined the team in June of 2025, and according to people familiar with the matter, he did so with the CEO’s chair in mind. That’s according to Bloomberg, which also received official comment from GM stating that no succession plan is currently in place.
Anderson himself also declined to engage in CEO chatter, saying his focus remains squarely on his current responsibilities. “My focus is on what I’m doing. I’ve got plenty work to do where I am,” he said.
Succession Speculation Inside GM
Current GM CEO, Mary Barra, turns 64 soon and is under no obligation to hang it up. GM President Mark Reuss, 62, is also very much in the mix, underscoring that Anderson’s potential rise, if it happens at all, is likely years away.
That all said, Anderson could make all the sense in the world if he really does manage to successfully help GM achieve EV profitability while pushing its software and autonomy far ahead of where they stand today.
Anderson is 42 and before GM, he was chief product officer at Aurora Innovation, where he helped steer the company away from robotaxis toward fully autonomous freight trucks now operating in Texas. Before that, he led development of Tesla’s Model X and played a major role in the early Autopilot system.
From Tesla to Trucks
He ultimately left Tesla following disagreements over how Autopilot was being developed and deployed, a technology that has since drawn scrutiny from federal safety regulators. So far, his strategy at GM has been to listen first and change later.
As he put it, “You simply cannot afford to break a company and hope to pull the pieces back together. What you want to do, and what I told Mark was my intent, is understand how it works and then start to surgically make changes across the company to where they needed to be made. And that’s been the attack, that’s been the approach.”
Expect several changes over time, including more software subscriptions, SuperCruise-style autonomy taking on urban environments, and changes to EV supply chains and materials. If those changes lead to success over time, he could be the next person at the top of one of the nation’s largest automakers.
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