BYD has teased two highly modified EVs that will debut at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show in China.
They are inspired by the “Black Myth: Wukong” game, featuring dragon motifs and gold accents.
Based on the BYD Han L and the Denza Z9 GT, the models are likely one-off attention grabbers.
The 2025 Shanghai Auto Show will open its doors on April 23 in China, with a multitude of new models mainly from local brands. BYD will showcase several production vehicles, but the most interesting exhibits are two concept cars. These feature wild visual modifications, inspired by the “Black Myth: Wukong” video game and Chinese mythology.
BYD’s collaboration with “Black Myth: Wukong” was announced in October 2024 with the goal of “protecting Chinese ancient monuments and national treasures”. However, this will be the first time that the automaker will present actual models with references to the game.
The concepts appear to be based on the BYD Han L sedan and the Denza Z9 GT shooting brake respectively. Starting with the Han L, it features a massive rear wing with a texture that resembles the skin of a dragon. It also features matching canards and splitter on the front bumper, side skirts, mirror caps, and rear bumper extensions, while riding on large-diameter alloy wheels.
The Denza Z9 GT is dressed in gold and brown, looking like a fitting vehicle for a Chinese emperor. The exterior is adorned by dragon sculptures and a livery featuring traditional motifs. We can also see a redesigned front bumper with yellow LEDs, wide fenders, and an aftermarket set of alloy wheels finished in gold.
BYD shared the teasers on its Weibo account, without much information about the vehicles. However, its fans were able to pinpoint the models they are based on. Judging from the pictures, they will most likely remain one-offs, designed to grab the attention of automotive enthusiasts from the gaming community.
It is not clear if the modified Han L and Denza Z9 GT will feature any performance or chassis upgrades over the standard production models. However, with a healthy output of 952 hp from a trio of electric motors, the Denza Z9 GT doesn’t really need them.
According to Wikipedia, “Black Myth: Wukong” is an action role-playing video game inspired by the classical Chinese novel Journey to the West. It was released on August 2024 by Game Science, and sold 20 million units within the first month. It’s popularity has sparked a tourism craze in historical sites in China, which are presented within the game with great realism.
We will update this story with the official photos of the concepts once they go live tomorrow.
The Onvo L90 will reportedly hit the market in six-seat guise.
The electric SUV has some design similarities to the smaller L60.
A pair of electric motors combine to pump out no less than 590 hp.
Nio’s mass-market Onvo brand is venturing into the world of three-row electric SUVs and this is its new entry. Known as the L90, it launches as the brand’s second model after the Tesla Model Y-rivaling L60, which premiered in 2024. Think of it as a bit like a Chinese version of the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9, except it promises more performance.
Information from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in China reveals the L90 is 5,145 mm (202.5 inches) long, 1,998 mm (78.6 inches) wide, and stands 1,766 mm (69.5 inches) tall, with a 3,110 mm (122.4-inch) wheelbase. Visually, it shares some similarities with the much smaller L60, but it does seem as though Nio’s designers have copied some of the homework of Genesis as well.
The SUV’s front end is quite simple, with no traditional grille and only a small one located towards the base of the bumper. The split LED headlights share an uncanny resemblance to those from Genesis models, although the L90’s lights do have a subtle curve, making them stand out.
This particular L90 is finished in a classy shade of subtle gold with silver-colored wheels and silver trim around the side windows. Like the L60, the taillights of the three-row SUV are thin LED units. We don’t yet have any images showing the cabin, but we expect to see it dominated by large screens and premium surfaces.
Onvo will reportedly offer the L90 with both nickel manganese cobalt and lithium-iron phosphate battery packs. It’s unclear what kind of driving range is to be expected from the SUV, nor do we know how quickly it can charge. However, like all other Nio models, the L90 will support battery swapping, meaning that ultra-fast charging isn’t as important as it is in other EVs.
All versions of the L90 will ship with a pair of electric motors. These consist of a 134 hp (100 kW) unit at the front axle and a 456 hp (340 kW) one at the rear, resulting in a combined 440 kW (590 hp). That’s a lot more than the flagship Ioniq 9 Performance that has 429 hp and the Kia EV9 GT with its 501 hp.
A custom made bubble exhaust kit adds two tailpipes to the Tesla Model Y.
The system is operated remotely and comes with a trunk-mounted reservoir.
Those interested can buy the $700 kit directly from its creator in Massachusetts.
Many car enthusiasts often gripe about electric vehicles lacking “soul,” mainly because they don’t feature an engine that churns out thousands of mini-explosions every minute. And of course, they don’t need an exhaust system, since there are no emissions to expel. But one man is trying to change that, well, kind of. He’s created an exhaust system for the Tesla Model Y. And no, it’s not what you’re expecting.
Rather than blasting out smoke, soot, or toxic fumes into the atmosphere, this exhaust system sends for the Model Y spews out nothing but bubbles. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it might just be the perfect way for the Tesla to show off a little personality. The best part? It seems like other owners might be able to get in on the action too.
A video showing the bubble exhaust in action was first shared on Reddit and attracted quite a lot of attention from Model Y owners wanting something similar. The man who created the kit has since published a Facebook Marketplace listing for it, promising to sell the bubble exhaust for $700, including installation.
The listing states that the kit includes a small reservoir installed in the trunk that is filled with the bubble solution. The system is then operated by a wireless remote control and sends out bubbles from two silver tailpipes installed into the rear bumper. Its creator says his son came up with the idea, and thanks to his engineering background, he was tasked with making it a reality.
The bubble exhaust kit can be purchased and installed in Weston, Massachusetts, a short drive from Boston. However, in a Reddit post, a neighbor of the kit’s creator mentioned that more units will be produced soon. The plan is to ship them out to customers across the lower 48 states.
The electric Dodge Charger Daytona has specific instructions for properly closing the hood.
A certified mechanic explains why the frunk mechanism of the muscle car is prone to damage.
It’s unclear whether the upcoming ICE-powered versions will have similar hood sensitivity.
The launch of the new Charger Daytona hasn’t exactly gone according to Dodge’s master plan. It seems most buyers are still holding out for the ICE-powered versions. But for those who’ve already taken the plunge and bought the EV, they might want to be extra careful when closing the hood, unless they’re itching for a pricey trip to the service center.
According to Dodge’s official service manual, you can’t just slam the hood like you’re angry at it. No, the automaker suggests owners gently close it. In fact, they specifically warn against pressing or slamming it too hard, acknowledging that doing so could cause some damage. It’s a delicate dance with a car that’s supposedly meant to be tough enough for the masses (even if its price tag is anything but mainstream).
Technician Finds the Issue
Jordan Rose, a certified Mopar technician at Hall Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Virginia, recently shared a video showcasing two Chargers that suffered a similar issue with their hoods. For those who aren’t familiar, Rose has extensive experience with the quirks of early-production models, frequently working with a fleet of Chargers and sharing his findings on YouTube and Instagram.
In one case, the hood, or rather the frunk, of a red Charger wouldn’t open using the dashboard button, though the manual release still worked. Upon inspecting the latch, Rose noticed that it was bent. While he can’t say for certain how it happened, he suspects that the owner may have, perhaps, slammed the hood with a little too much gusto.
After removing the plastic covers and replacing the bent latch with a new one, the repair seemed to go off without a hitch. The button worked perfectly once the muscle car had been put back together.
Potential Problems with a Broken Latch
As highlighted by Mopar Insiders, a misaligned or broken latch is more than just a nuisance. It can leave your hood either stuck in an open position or bouncing around while you’re driving. Not exactly what you want happening in your brand-new car. Fortunately, Dodge has provided clear instructions to help owners avoid such issues.
So, now you know; treat the hood with the care and caution of a fragile antique, and you’ll hopefully avoid the kind of hood mishaps that lead to expensive repairs. If not, well, there’s always the service center waiting.
It’ll be interesting to see if the hood of the ICE Charger Six Pack holds up better to rough handling, given its different design compared to the zero-emission version. More specifically, the gas-powered model features a bulging hood to accommodate the six-cylinder engine underneath and lacks the R-Wing front aero pass-through found on the EV.
Here’s the official guide from the Mopar Service Library on how to properly close the hood of your Charger Daytona:
INSTRUCTIONS
1
In one continuous motion, gently lower the hood until it is resting on the latch mechanism.
2
Place two hands on center of hood, above the latch mechanism.
Press down firmly until hood is latched.
3
Confirm hood is latched in place.
Caution
Do not drop or forcefully close hood. Doing so can cause damage to the hood.
Only use force on the areas highlighted in the image above.
Pressing down on areas outside of this area can cause damage.
PROS ›› Comfortable ride, good interior and bed space CONS ›› Unknown brand, sub-par performance, limited range
If you’re reading this in the West, you’re probably scratching your head over the Riddara name. And that’s okay, because you’re not alone. This is Geely’s “lifestyle utility brand”, marketed as Radar in China. In case you’re wondering, no, the name wasn’t picked by a blindfolded intern throwing darts at a whiteboard. They were forced to change the name due to a copyright conflict in some markets.
By now, almost everyone is aware that Geely is an automotive behemoth. In addition to its home-grown Geely Auto, Lynk & Co, and Zeekr offerings, it also has Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, Proton, and Smart under its wing. Riddara/Radar then is just another feather in its, rather large, cap.
Now that I’ve got you up to speed, you’ll no doubt wonder where exactly this fits in. Well, it comes as no surprise that this is an EV, with China clearly forging ahead in that space. However, while the Cybertruck, F-150 Lightning, and Rivian R1T may dominate the full-size EV pickup market in the US, there’s not much to speak of in the form of a smaller, Toyota Hilux-sized offering.
Measuring 5,260 mm x 1900 x 1880, the RD6 is a compact pickup by American standards. But here in the East, it’s considered a substantially sized truck, with markets in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia lapping up utes like this. The RD6 was designed from the outset to be an EV, meaning there are fewer compromises than one might expect.
QUICK FACTS
› Model:
Riddara RD6 Air 2WD
› Dimensions:
5,260 mm (207 inches) Length
1,900 mm (74.8 inches) Width
1,880 mm (74.0 inches) Height
› Ground Clearance:
225 mm (8.85 inches)
› Motor:
Single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
› Output:
100 kW (134 hp) with 385 Nm (284 lb-ft) of torque
› Battery:
63 kWh
› Range:
373 km / 231 miles (NEDC)
SWIPE
Exterior: A Pickup for People Who Don’t Want to Yell About It
Those who love their pickup trucks big, brash, and unapologetic will be disappointed with the exterior of the RD6. It has 225 mm of ground clearance and looks just a tad too low to the ground for comfort, but it avoids looking jacked up on steroids, and this slightly car-like stance lends itself to its market positioning. More on that later.
But its softer lines up front shout EV in a way that most pickups, electric or otherwise, don’t. The top half of the nose opts for the traditional battery-powered, grille-less look, opting for a textured plastic panel. There are fake vents towards the lower half, while a clamshell-like hood masks a rather useful frunk with a capacity of 70 liters.
The door mirrors, rather than connecting at the quarter glass, appear to be mounted on stalks. tHEe side profile isn’t totally flat, with a bit of flame surfacing deployed along with swollen arches. This makes our test car look a bit underwhelming, but the large profile sidewall definitely lends itself to ride comfort.
Overall, the Riddara RD6 doesn’t really stand out in traffic. It doesn’t follow the trend of ginormous grilles and towering stances we see on many new pickups keen to capture those macho vibes. Even the newly launched BYD Shark manages to mimic the class’ imposing nature with a much more off-road-centered approach.
Finally, the rear bed measures 1,525 mm long, 1,450 mm wide, and 540 mm high. It’s perfectly adequate but lacks some of the frills you may want, such as power outlets, although better-specced models come with V2L capabilities.
The tailgate release is electric, but aside from the electronic catch, the hinge, the door itself, and the mechanism all feel heavy and sturdy enough to win over the old-school pickup collective. I mention this because with some of the tech-showcasing EVs that have been coming out of China, you’d perhaps expect some over complicated electrically-lowering, damped, and soft-closing tailgate. The RD6 offers just a good old clunky hinged mechanism.
Interior: A Cozy Place, But Don’t Get Too Comfortable
If the exterior is soft, the interior is more so. The entry-level model we got our hands on was fairly basic, with high grades getting nicer materials on the dash and door tops, as well as a larger central screen. The interior isn’t quite hose-down bargain-basement though, with a nice, supposedly, leather-wrapped steering wheel, an electric driver’s seat, and a PM 2.5 air filtration system.
The controls are decently damped with some metal-effect knurling on things like the light switches and multifunction controls on the steering wheel. The plastic of the central console is a little lower rent than the rest of the interior, but there’s a Land Rover-like rotary knob to control Geely’s version of Terrain Response. We couldn’t test it off-road on our brief test drive, but we hope to get our hands on one of the more premium 4WD models for an extended test in the coming months.
The 12.3-inch central screen runs off some form of Android and is quick to respond to inputs. The top-spec Horizon 4×4 gets a usefully bigger 14.6-inch screen. Meanwhile, the drive is presented with a 10.2-inch LCD screen which is clear under various light conditions.
The voice assistant is slow to react, with a good 10–15 seconds of lag between saying a command and the system gathering its thoughts together. But it at least understands basic commands from a wide range of accents and doesn’t have you repeating them line after line.
The rear seats are pleasant, in line with the RD6’s positioning. The low beltline means that even children should be able to see the world fairly unhindered, and there are rear vents for the air conditioning. There’s a useful storage compartment under the rear bench, too, although the angle of the seat backs is a little too upright, which may cause some complaints on longer excursions.
Photos Sam Smith/Carscoops
How Does It Drive? In a Word, Comfortably
The overall feeling when you’re inside is that the Riddara RD6 knocks on the door of SUVs and CUVs, rather than that of full-on pickups like the Ranger. Pickups have come a long way from their utilitarian roots, and it’s fair to say that they’re closer to your traditional car than ever. But even the best examples can have their agricultural moments.
The Riddara RD6 negates all of that, and not just because it’s silent due to it being an EV. And that does catch you off guard. You expect any vehicle with this body shape to be a little rough and tumble behind the wheel, but the RD6 displays a level of refinement beyond the virtue of its drivetrain having few moving parts.
The steering is light, not so much that it feels disconnected from the wheels, but more so than you’d expect from an off-roader. Our tested model with the 100 kW (134 hp0 motor is far from rapid, though, with a 0–62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 10.4 seconds. This was a market decision – our test unit was specced specifically for Sri Lanka, a country notorious for its punishing taxes on high-powered motors. In contrast, other nations get the option of a model with a combined power of 310 kW (416 HP) with a blistering 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) sprint in 4.5 seconds.
Top speed is limited to 185 km/h (115 mph), but even at a decent rate of knots the cabin remains hushed, with tire noise being the most prevalent.
The single most significant factor is its comfort – you can mount a curb and it feels second nature. Over expansion joints and rough roads, the ride remains composed and well insulated. While good, this also signals that the RD6 isn’t a “proper” off-roader, as it’s built on a monocoque frame rather than a ladder chassis. Now, if you’re a tradesman looking to do some serious carrying, this will likely not sit well, nor will the coil-sprung rear end. However, as a family runabout with some added practicality, the RD6 makes perfect sense.
And to be honest, it’s hard to see hardcore users giving up their ICE-powered trucks just yet. Better for Riddara to capture passenger-focused buyers who are looking for refinement first than a “power” user who’s less likely to switch just yet.
The EV Part: A Little Range, But It’ll Do
Our tester was the entry-level two-wheel drive “Air” model with a 63kwh battery and 100 kW motor with 385 Nm of torque. As we only had the truck for a day, we couldn’t do a real-world test on the claimed range, but on the NEDC standard, the RD6 we drove is rated at 373 km (231 miles). That’s not great. Opt for the 73 kWh battery of the “Pro” and you’ll get a substantially improved 461km (286 miles).
The 4WD “Horizon” sports the same 73 kWh battery, but an added motor brings the torque up to 595 Nm. However, the range drops to 424 km (263 miles), as does the 0–62 mph time, which is rated at 10.9 seconds.
The Riddara RD6 can reportedly be DC fast-charged from 30 to 80 percent in 48 minutes, whereas the standard wall-mounted home charger included in the purchase will take 7.8 hours at 6.6 kW for the 63 KWh battery and 9.3 hours for the 73 kWh battery.
Final Thoughts
The Riddara RD6, then, is a surprisingly refined offering from Geely. It does the basics well but doesn’t quite challenge the established range of small pickups in the way you may expect. Instead, it offers itself as a good alternative to first-time pickup buyers or those wanting to experience an electrified alternative to an SUV,
It’s also a brand that aims to make strides in the future. With Geely’s backing and the evident tech sharing across the brands, Riddara could well be an off-road establishment challenger.
Tesla initially planned to launch a more affordable and smaller Model Y variant in H1.
Latest reports suggest that the launch of the affordable EV has been delayed by months.
The company aims to produce around 250,000 units of the new model in the United States.
After reporting its first-ever decline in annual deliveries last year, Tesla is bracing for another disappointing year. Analysts attribute the waning demand to a wide range of issues, including damage to the brand caused by CEO Elon Musk’s newfound role within the U.S. Government. Overseas, growing competition, particularly within China (Tesla’s second-largest market), is also cited as a concern, as is the company’s ageing lineup.
Fans and investors have been hoping for some relief, with the lower-priced Tesla Model Y “Juniper” variants expected to boost sales. More importantly, H1many were anticipating the launch of Tesla’s most affordable EV yet. Inside sources suggest that this model will be a smaller, stripped-down version of the current Model Y, codenamed E41,that will be at least 20% cheaper to produce.
Delay and New Timeline
Tesla had initially stated that it would release and begin production of the cheaper new model in the first half of 2025, with a separate Reuters report later suggesting mass production would accelerate in early 2026. However, it’s now being reported that the launch has been delayed.
According to inside sources cited by Reuters, the “cheaper Model Y” has been delayed by several months, though the reasons remain unclear. The same three sources also informed the outlet that the initial rollout will focus on U.S. customers, with a production goal of 250,000 cars to be manufactured in the United States using existing Model Y production lines.
The Chinese launch of the E41 is noew expected to commence later in 2026, with plans for European production also being considered, although a precise timeline has not been announced. The new car is expected to be around 20 percent cheaper to manufacture than the best-selling Model Y.
Additionally, plans are underway to introduce a stripped-down Model 3 to the market as well. While details are still unclear, this more basic version will likely be based on the rear-wheel-drive model.
To further reduce costs, Tesla will almost certainly need to cut features, such as replacing leatherette ventilated seats with cloth versions (something already done in Mexico) along with using fewer speakers and other cost-cutting measures, similar to the new base version of the Cybertruck. If Tesla really goes all-in, it might even reduce the battery size, though that would impact range.
However, neither of these new cars will be the $25,000 “Model 2” EV that Elon Musk had promised as far back as 2018. Plans for a low-cost, entry-level EV from Tesla were scrapped in favor of the autonomous RoboTaxi, with Musk stating on an earnings call last year that having a regular $25,000 model would be pointless.
The cheaper E41 will still have to overcome the 25 percent tariffs imposed on auto parts. To counteract the levies, Tesla has reportedly increased North American sourcing of parts, which will decrease the E41’s exposure to the ongoing supply chain volatility.
Note: The lead image is a digitally altered version of the current Model Y
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A 2023 Porsche Taycan recently sold for $54,000 despite an original MSRP of $109,310.
The 93.4 kWh battery and 469 hp offer solid performance despite its entry-level status.
The electric sedan had just 27,000 miles and included a slew of premium options.
It’s hardly a secret that many EVs plummet in value faster than a rock skipping across a pond, even more so when it comes to premium German brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. Even Porsche and its Taycan haven’t escaped that unfortunate fate. While that’s a gut punch for sellers, it’s a jackpot for buyers looking to snag a six-figure electric Porsche on the cheap.
The Taycan is closely related to the Audi e-tron GT, the prices of which have collapsed on the used market over the past year or so. So far, it hasn’t depreciated to the same extent as the Audi, likely owing to the fact that, as a brand, Porsche is more desirable and exclusive than its sibling in the VW Group. However, one 2023 Taycan recently sold on Bring a Trailer for just $54,000 despite having an original MSRP of $109,310 before taxes and fees.
The Taycan’s Core Features Still Hold Up
This may be the entry-level Taycan, but it’s still a very good EV. It’s equipped with a single rear-wheel electric motor that delivers 469 hp and 263 lb-ft (357 Nm) of torque, powered by a hefty 93.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. When it changed hands, it had around 27,000 miles (43,400 km) on the clock and came with a clean CarFax, so it wasn’t a junkyard special.
While the Turbo S and Turbo GT versions tend to steal the spotlight, the interior of the entry-level Taycan is nearly identical to those models, and this particular example came with some appealing options.
Among them are the 20-inch Sport Aero wheels, the upgraded 93.4 kWh battery (a $5,780 option), Porsche’s InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system, and the $5,960 Premium package. The latter adds a surround-view camera, power-folding wing mirrors, a $1,200 Bose audio system, a fixed panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, power-ventilated front seats, and Lane Change Assist.
Ouch for the Seller, Win for the Buyer
We can’t help but feel bad for the individual who lost $56,000, or more than half of the original price, after just two years of ownership. But on the flip side, the new owner has likely walked away with a pretty sweet deal. The big question now is whether the price drop will continue as the heavily revised 2025 models start showing up on US roads.
The lesson here? Smart buyers can skip the sticker shock of a new Taycan and dive straight into a used one for a fraction of the price. Just make sure you get one with a remaining warranty, or better yet, an extended one, because if something critical goes wrong, it could end up costing more than the car itself.
Mercedes has staged the U.S. debut of the 2026 CLA in New York and unveiled a new art car.
The latter was created in collaboration with Ice Spice and is the first of five one-off models.
The CLA will be launched in America as an EV, although a hybrid model will follow later.
Subaru stormed the New York Auto Show with a marshmallow and the Wagon Queen Family Truckster, but they shockingly didn’t have the ugliest car in the Big Apple. Quite the opposite as that honor went to this CLA art car, which was unveiled at Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan.
The first in a “Class of Creators” series, the car was made in collaboration with Ice Spice, who is an American rapper that is younger than the Spice Girls. While that probably just aged a lot of us, the four-time Grammy-nominated artist unveiled a “molten chrome” CLA with a diamond-encrusted Princess chain.
The resulting design makes the starry, but soulless CLA look like it’s melting on a hot summer day. However, the changes don’t stop there as the art car has been equipped with slanted wheels as well as tires covered in faux jewels. They’re joined by metallic flourishes and a familiar grille with a unique surround.
While the art car looks more trash than cash, four more are on the horizon. A Gustaf Westman version will be unveiled on May 22, while KidSuper will unveil theirs on June 28. They’ll be followed by art cars from Hot Wheels and League of Legends.
Meanwhile, the Real 2026 CLA Quietly Debuts
Mercedes also staged the U.S. debut of the 2026 CLA in New York, although they barely talked about it. However, the European model debuted earlier this year with a streamlined design and a minimalist interior that can be equipped with an MBUX Superscreen. It consists of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, and a 14-inch front passenger display. These run the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System, which embraces AI as well as Google and Microsoft.
The CLA will be launched as an EV and Americans can expect two different options. The CLA 250+ with EQ Technology has a rear-mounted motor developing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque. It enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in approximately 6.6 seconds, hit a limited top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h), and have a WLTP range of 431-492 miles (694-792 km).
The CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology is a notable upgrade as it has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing a combined output of 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra oomph and traction, 60 mph (96 km/h) comes in 4.8 seconds while the top speed remains unchanged. However, the range drops to 418-479 miles (672-771 km).
A Hybrid Option Is Coming Too
Mercedes also confirmed the U.S. will get a CLA with a 48-volt hybrid powertrain. Little is known about it, but the company has previously said it will have a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 1.3 kWh battery, and an electric motor that is integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The hybrid is expected to be offered with two different outputs as well as front- and all-wheel drive – at least in Europe.
Sales of electrified vehicles continue to rise around the world.
The latest sales figures lump together both BEV and PHEVs.
Electrified vehicle sales rose 16% in North America during Q1.
Electric vehicle sales may not have skyrocketed in 2024 like some had hoped, but 2025 is off to a much stronger start. New data shows that electrified vehicles are moving in record numbers across all major global markets. The momentum is clear, though looming policy changes, particularly cuts in subsidies and new tariffs under the Trump administration, could start to cool things down as the year progresses.
According to global sales data, about 4.1 million electrified vehicles, including both battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), were sold during the first quarter of the year. That’s a solid 29 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, based on numbers from Rho Motion.
In North America, roughly half a million electrified vehicles were sold in the first quarter of this year, marking a 16 percent increase over the same period last year. The breakdown between EVs and PHEVs isn’t disclosed at the regional level, but earlier data from Cox Automotive and Kelley Blue Book shows that 296,227 pure electric vehicles were sold in the USA during Q1. That represents an 11.4 percent increase year over year.
Overall, demand for electrified vehicles continues to climb, though other global markets are seeing even sharper growth.
Europe saw stronger growth, with about 900,000 electrified vehicles sold through January, February, and March. That’s a 22 percent increase overall. Battery electric vehicle sales alone rose by 27 percent, while plug-in hybrid growth was slower at 10 percent. Some countries stood out with particularly sharp gains, including Italy with a 64 percent jump, Germany up 34 percent, and the UK growing 42 percent.
China continues to lead as the largest individual nation of EVs and PHEVs. This year, no less than 2.4 million electrified vehicles have been sold in the country, up 36% from last year. The rest of the world has been lumped together in a single category, with sales increasing 27% to around 300,000 vehicles sold.
Q1 2025 vs 2024 EV & PHEV SALES
Region
Sales
Diff. vs 24
China
2.4 million
+36%
Europe
0.9 million
+22%
North America
0.5 million
+16%
Rest of World
0.3 million
+27%
Global
4.1 million
+29%
SWIPE
According to Rho Motion, roughly three-fifths of EV and PHEV models sold in the US are produced domestically, with the rest typically coming from Japan, Korea, and Mexico. As new tariffs go into effect, prices for these imported models are expected to rise. ICE vehicles will see price increases as well.
“This quarter, while turbulent, has seen a strong rate of growth globally for the EV market,” Rho Motion data manager Charles Lester said. “Some countries, such as the UK, had a record-breaking March as drivers continue to go electric. The removal of subsidies in France has had a shrinking effect on sales which are down 18%.”
UK military staff are being advised not to park EVs with Chinese parts near sensitive sites.
Fears stem from Chinese laws granting government access to data collected by EV sensors.
The Defense Ministry wants “to mitigate any potential threats to national security from vehicles”.
Electric vehicles are becoming more advanced by the year, but their growing arsenal of sensors comes with growing concerns. Modern EVs are loaded with cameras, radar, and other tech that could, in theory, be used to collect sensitive data. With that in mind, UK military personnel have been quietly instructed not to park EVs containing Chinese parts near military facilities.
Officials have also been advised to avoid having sensitive conversations inside vehicles manufactured in China, citing fears of potential surveillance.
According to UK legislation, the Chinese government has legal access to data collected by the cameras, sensors, and radar in locally built EVs. That access has raised concerns among UK officials about how this data might be used. These restrictions aren’t limited to brands based out of China, such as BYD, Great Wall Motors, MG, and Omoda. They also apply to any electric vehicle that incorporates Chinese-made components or technology.
Base Restrictions Reach the Ground
Citing insider sources, UK outlet The iPaper reports that personnel at RAF Wyton in Cambridgeshire have been told to park EVs with Chinese parts at least two miles away from key buildings. Similar restrictions are rumored to be in place at the Salisbury Plain military training area.
While these measures haven’t been officially announced, they’ve been hinted at in parliamentary discussions. According to the Daily Mail, Lord Coaker, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defense, said that the government is working with other departments to “understand and mitigate any potential threats to national security from vehicles.”
Coaker was careful not to single out any one country, stating: “Our policies and procedures take account of the potential threats from all types of vehicle, not just those manufactured in China, and we have issued appropriate internal direction to all drivers and passengers. There are no centrally mandated policy restrictions on the movement of Chinese manufactured vehicles.”
A Push for Stricter Rules
He also acknowledged that some defense organizations may enforce stricter rules of their own, depending on the location, but added: “We do not provide specific details for security reasons.”
The Ministry of Defense did not confirm or deny the restrictions, offering a general statement: “Protecting national security is the foundation of everything we do. We have strict security procedures in place to ensure all sensitive information is protected.”
The military and government know the risks of Chinese espionage, but we cannot maintain our security with half-hearted measures.
We need to see a full pivot away from Chinese produced EVs in the British military and government fleets.
Conservative Shadow Security Minister Alicia Kearns criticized what she sees as a lack of decisive action. “The military and government know the risks of Chinese espionage, but we cannot maintain our security with half-hearted measures,” she said. Kearns has called for a complete shift away from Chinese-made EVs in both government and military fleets.
These kinds of bans aren’t new. Over the past few years, China has implemented a similar restriction on Tesla vehicles, expanding it from military staff to government contractors, local authorities, highway operators, exhibition halls, and cultural centers. In that case, the concern was that the U.S. government could potentially access geographic and environmental data collected by Tesla.
Dealer bought the Acura ZDX for $69,207 and is now suing Honda for damages.
The EV stopped charging after 400 miles, prompting a full battery replacement.
Dealer says Honda ignored support requests, leaving the SUV unusable for eight months.
Buying a brand-new car is supposed to bring excitement, not the slow-burning dread of a major failure before the odometer even hits four digits. But for one unlucky Acura ZDX owner, that sense of new-car bliss barely lasted 400 miles (643 km). That’s when things went south.
A customer from Criswell Acura in Annapolis, Maryland, was informed their 2024 Acura ZDX needed an entirely new battery pack. Now the dealership itself is suing American Honda Motor Company in an effort to recover its losses from the ordeal.
According to the lawsuit, Criswell Acura purchased the ZDX wholesale for $69,207 in May 2024, then sold it to a customer shortly after. But just 400 miles into ownership, the new owner discovered that the electric SUV could no longer fully charge. Once the problem was reported, the dealership followed Acura’s recommendation and ordered a replacement battery pack. While the customer waited, the situation worsened. The ZDX eventually stopped charging altogether, and even the doors became inoperable.
One Fix Leads to Another
The dealership installed the new battery pack, but that wasn’t the end of the problems. After the install, a rear wheel sensor started playing up, and after being replaced, an error code still appeared. Acura’s tech line told the dealer to install a new harness from its inventory. Despite following these instructions, the error code remained, Auto News reports.
Criswell Acura claims that subsequent “requests for assistance from Honda have been virtually ignored. ” Nearly eight months later, the ZDX remains at the dealership, still undriveable. While the exact cause of the issues remains unknown, the dealer suspects the problems stem from the “result of bad design, manufacturer’s defect, installation, or pre-delivery damage.”
Under the terms of its dealer agreement, Honda is supposed to be responsible for any alleged manufacturing or design defects in Acura products. The lawsuit argues that this obligation hasn’t been met. The vehicle is “completely undriveable and unable to be repaired,” it states.
Criswell Acura is seeking damages for breach of contract and unjust enrichment. The dealer has been forced to take a total loss on the SUV, claims it has lost profits from the sale to a customer, paid licensing and registration fees, and incurred considerable repair costs.
The case highlights the potential risks dealers face as EVs become more complex, especially when support from the manufacturer falls short.
Tesla is quietly shifting Cybertruck workers to other model lines amid slow truck sales.
Internal cuts show multiple Cybertruck teams reduced by more than half at Texas.
It has delivered fewer than 50,000 units despite claims of over a 1 million reservations.
The Tesla Cybertruck was designed to turn heads, and it certainly does, but these days, it’s attracting the wrong kind of attention, and that’s showing up in the sales numbers. Blame it on the much higher-than-promised price, the shorter-than-promised range, or the string of vandalism incidents targeting owners. Whatever the cause, Tesla is reportedly adjusting production now that it has too many Cybertrucks and not enough buyers.
While Elon Musk might have once boasted about having over a million Cybertruck reservations, the brand has only sold around 50,000 as of March. That means that not only does it have a lot of them sitting around, but it also needs to reduce its production to control the Cybertruck inventory.
According to Business Insider, Tesla has quietly reduced the Cybertruck production team by more than half. The report, which cites two employees familiar with the situation, says Tesla has been lowering its production targets since December 2024. Some staff have been reassigned to the Model Y line, where demand remains stronger. “It feels a lot like they’re filtering people out,” one worker said. “The parking lot keeps getting emptier.”
All of this seems to corroborate what we’re seeing Tesla do with its bevy of Cybertrucks. Just days ago, Carscoops reported that Tesla was using the pickup to advertise the new Model Y. It’s towing a Model Y behind a Cybertruck and using it as a rolling billboard. Perhaps the automaker is now recognizing the need to shift its focus onto more affordable models.
That could be one reason it recently introduced a new base-model version of the Cybertruck with rear-wheel drive only. Priced at a whopping $70,000, though, it’s far from the originally promised $39,990 price tag of the Cybertruck. Will this shift work out for Tesla? Only time will tell.
While Rivian builds all of its EVs on US shores, it’ll still feel the impacts of Trump’s tariffs.
RJ Scaringe believes the only way to grow EV sales is to offer customers more choice.
The company is readying two more affordable model lines known as the R2 and R3.
As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, one thing has remained constant: Tesla’s commanding lead, even as it faces recent setbacks. That dominance, according to Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe, has less to do with brand loyalty and more to do with the lack of compelling alternatives, especially for buyers looking in the sub-$50,000 range.
But that may be about to change. Rivian’s upcoming R2 and R3 models are expected to come in below that price point, and with more automakers entering the space, consumers could soon have some real competition to consider
Rivian, much like Tesla in its early days, has taken the approach of launching with higher-end vehicles before branching into more affordable territory. In a recent interview with Fox Business, Scaringe emphasized that increasing consumer choice is key to growing EV adoption. More options, he said, will help drive the industry forward and increase EVs’ share of overall vehicle sales.
“If you’re looking at buying an electric vehicle for under $50,000 today, there’s really very, very few highly compelling choices,” Scaringe said. “And for that reason, you’ve seen Tesla with very significant market share for a long time now, over 50% of the market share, and that’s actually a reflection of limited grade choices. And so what we need to see to go from 8% to 15 to 20 to eventually 100% of vehicle sales being electric, a lot of choice.”
More Models, More Buyers
Scaringe also noted that “choice” doesn’t just mean more brands offering EVs. It includes variety in styling, form factor, feature sets, and design. The broader and more diverse the lineup across the industry, the more likely consumers are to find something that fits their needs – and to leave internal combustion behind.
The Rivian CEO’s comments reflect a growing belief in the industry that EVs need to meet buyers where they are. While early adopters were often willing to pay a premium or compromise on certain features, mainstream customers are looking for affordability, practicality, and familiarity. Rivian’s push into sub-$50K territory could help shift that balance and bring more first-time EV buyers into the fold.
Tariff Troubles
The conversation with Fox also turned to trade policy, where Scaringe discussed the impact of tariffs introduced during the Trump administration. Although Rivian builds its vehicles in the United States, including motors, software, batteries, and electronics, it still depends on a complex international supply chain.
“One of the things with automotive is the supply chain is so complex, where we have hundreds of suppliers providing parts from, say, a headlight or a tow hook or tires or the structure under the skin here that are coming from not only a set of suppliers that supply to us, but those suppliers have suppliers, and then in turn, those suppliers have suppliers, so there’s tier two, tier three,” he said. “So in our case, it is a mix. Given the new environment from a tariff point of view, we’re working really hard to see what we can change, but they’re difficult to change.”
While Rivian may be less exposed than some of its competitors to US tariffs, it isn’t completely insulated. Scaringe also raised concerns about trade restrictions on rare earth elements, especially those processed in China. Though rare earths are mined in many regions, China controls a large share of the refining process, creating a chokepoint in the EV supply chain.
“When we think about the tariffs, of course the 25% auto tariff hits everybody,” Rivian’s boss added. “We do rely on a supply chain that across its tiers has a number of components that come from other countries and then, importantly, the trade restrictions and what we’re seeing in terms of rare earth metals out of China, that’s a real challenge for electric vehicles.”
A 13-year-old South Carolina middle school student is the first reported school bus passenger death of the 2024-2025 school year, based upon School Transportation News research.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol stated that at 1:45 p.m. Thursday, a 2021 Blue Bird school bus was traveling southbound on Interstate 77 when it traveled off the road to the right, struck a guardrail and overturned.
According to a statement from the Lexington School District 2, three school buses were transporting students home from a field trip just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina. A tire blew out on one of the school buses, causing the crash. That school bus was carrying three adults and 35 students, 21 of whom were injured, and one was killed.
Several of the injuries are reportedly “critical” but limited information was available at this report. According to local media outlets, the Chester County Coroner’s Office identified Jose Marie Gonzales Linares, an eighth grader at Pine Ridge Middle School, as the victim killed. STN reached out to the coroner’s office for more information but had yet to hear back at this writing.
An update to the district’s statement Friday noted a total of 35 students and four adults were taken to the hospital for medical evaluation, including a few passengers from the other two buses in the caravan. While those buses were not involved in the crash, they reportedly maneuvered around the overturned bus.
“A reunification site was set up nearby at Exit 48 for Pine Ridge Middle School families,” the school district stated. “Riders on all three buses cleared by EMS after a medical evaluation were taken to the reunification site for pickup.”
No information on how Linares died was provided at this report. The crash remains under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
The incident has ignited increased conversations about equipping school buses with seatbelts. Currently, seven states require three-point, lap/shoulder seatbelts in school buses. South Carolina is not one of those states.
A Handy Middle School student was found dead not long after he exited his school bus, reported The Star News.
The incident reportedly occurred Tuesday after an unidentified 14-year-old student was dropped off at a bus stop near MacGregor Elementary School. The boy was found dead shortly after.
According to the article, a neighbor discovered the body on the sidewalk and called 911. The boy was pronounced dead at the scene.
It is assumed that the boy was walking toward his home before being found.
It is unclear what caused the death, but police stated via the article that foul play is not suspected. The investigation is ongoing.
A Calhoun County Schools bus driver who was accused of DUI after being involved in a rollover crash accepted a guilty plea agreement, reported WSAZ 3.
The incident reportedly occurred March 4 at approximately 6 p.m., when 54-year-old Jeffrey Brannon was transporting 19 students on Route 16. He ran off the road and struck a culvert, causing the school bus to tip over.
The article states that students on board the bus ranged in ages from 11 to 18. Three students suffered serious injuries. Two of the victims were air lifted from the scene, but their injuries were not considered to be life-threatening. Their current condition is unclear at this time. All other students were taken to local hospitals, where they were treated and released.
Brannon was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and child neglect. A preliminary breath test at the scene showed he had .161 percent blood alcohol level, which is four times the legal limit for a commercial driver. Brannon’s bond was set at $250,000 and the first preliminary hearing was held March 14.
Calhoun County Schools Superintendent Michael Fitzwater told local media that all applicable laws will be followed and that Brannon will never operate another school bus.
In the Citrus Court of Calhoun County, Brannon entered a guilty plea April 10 to three counts of DUI causing serious bodily injury and 16 counts of child neglect, creating risk of serious bodily injury.
By now, we’ve all heard about the Artificial Intelligence (AI) surge that is going to demand unprecedented amounts of energy. Even the International...
Horse has unveiled a new powertrain that can turn EVs into ICE vehicles.
It combines an engine, electric motor, and transmission into a compact unit.
That unit is designed to replace a front-mounted motor on existing EVs.
Horse Powertrain isn’t exactly a household name, but that might be about to change. Backed by Renault, Geely, and Aramco, the company is positioning itself as a key player in the future of hybrid powertrains, particularly the kind that keep internal combustion alive just a little longer.
Given Aramco’s involvement, it’s no surprise the company is leaning into gasoline and hybrid systems. The Saudi oil giant isn’t exactly in the business of phasing out fossil fuels, so Horse’s strategy fits the narrative.
We’re starting to learn more about them as Horse will use the Shanghai Auto Show to unveil a hybrid powertrain concept. It’s designed to keep that oil money flowing by hybridizing electric vehicle platforms with “minimal modifications.”
Sarcasm aside, this could prove useful as a number of automakers misjudged electric vehicle adoption as they were expecting a fast and smooth transition to EVs. That certainly hasn’t happened, forcing companies to axe models and walk back their EV-only plans.
A Hybrid for the EV Age
Getting back to the powertrain, it’s known as the Future Hybrid Concept and it combines an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, and a transmission into a single, compact unit. Horse says it will be able to fit into existing electric vehicle platforms, enabling automakers to “meet changing customer demand.” It also promises to eliminate the need for multiple platforms and production lines.
The company didn’t go into many specifics, but said the powertrain has been designed to replace front-mounted motors on EVs. They went on to say the powertrain bolts directly to the vehicle’s subframe and only requires a few tweaks to make an EV into a hybrid.
The powertrain is designed to work anywhere in the world and is envisioned to support a wide range of fuels. This includes gasoline, E85, M100 methanol, and synthetic fuels.
CEO Matias Giannini said, “For over a decade it looked like battery electric vehicles were the only path to net zero, and OEMs planned accordingly. However, we’re now shifting towards a technology-neutral world, with different markets and applications each pursuing their own sustainable mobility journey.” He added their concept solves this problem and allows “OEMs to offer powertrain diversity with minimal disruption to production process and resource expenditure.”
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