Dreame, the Chinese vacuum cleaner firm that wants to conquer the car industry, has unveiled yet another model for its planned range. Badged the Nebula Next 01X, the high-riding crossover concept was presented this week at the China Home Appliances and Consumer Electronics Expo.

Although the tech firm has yet to start building production cars, it’s already announced plans for three separate brands, known as Nebula Next, Kosmera, and Star Motor. The new 01X follows in the footsteps of the slow-slung 01 coupe unveiled in January, borrowing much of that car’s design but morphing into something more akin to a Ferrari Purosangue competitor.

Read: Chinese Vacuum Brand Drops A 1,876 hp Taycan-Trampling Reality At CES

Dreame has blatantly copied some existing Chinese vehicles with its Star Motor brand, and for the 01X, has copied its own homework. Like the 01 Coupe, the 01X has an identical bright green paint scheme, while the lower portion of the body has carbon fiber elements. In addition, the SUV’s LED headlights appear identical, and it also has a very similar rear-end. While it’s not exactly unique, it’s definitely striking.

Tech To Match The Looks

For as wild as the shape of the SUV is, it’s perhaps what’s found under the skin that’s most interesting. Dreame claims to have developed the first volume-production-ready solid-state battery pack, aiming to start a small number of deliveries this year before ramping up production in 2027.

According to Dreame, the 01X’s battery pack is a 60Ah unit with an energy density of 450 Wh/kg. Thanks to battery packs delivering a stupendous 1,876 hp, the vehicle can apparently hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 1.8 seconds.

Whether or not the 01X ever lands in the hands of buyers remains to be seen. While we’ve seen plenty of established companies venture in the world of EVs successfully, such as Xiaomi, as well as numerous startups like Nio do the same, we’ve seen even more companies try and fail to do so. Dreame has big ambitions, but creating one-off concepts is much easier than building mass-market production models, so it still has a long way to come.

Autohome

Every automaker has its own take on how infotainment should work. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay make that experience far more uniform. Up until now, though, Lucid Gravity owners haven’t had access to either. Now, a big software update is coming, and it’ll remedy the situation for the luxury SUV owners.

The update is part of the latest version of Lucid’s software, and it allows drivers to connect their phones to access navigation, music, messages, and apps directly through the vehicle’s infotainment display. Both wireless and wired connections are supported, depending on the device. According to Lucid, the rollout begins in North America first, with other markets expected to follow shortly after.

CarPlay And Android Auto Arrive

The addition of smartphone mirroring may seem like a small update, but it’s a big deal for owners. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are among the most requested features in modern vehicles, and their absence has been a frequent complaint from Lucid customers despite the company’s otherwise advanced software system.

“Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are two of the most sought-after features by our customers,” said Emad Dlala, SVP of Engineering and Software at Lucid. “We are now providing a seamless connection between mobile devices and the Lucid Gravity. We’re excited to introduce these features to Lucid Gravity, which now offers even greater comfort and convenience for owners.”

Read: Lucid Shows Its Pedal-Free Future As It Confirms Subscription For Its Current Cars

From here on, every new Gravity leaving the factory will include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment. The Air sedan already lists both systems on its infotainment menu, so the SUV was the obvious next step.

Do Older Gravity Models Get It?

Yes, existing Gravity owners will receive the capability through the OTA update without needing to visit a dealer. This is a key selling point for the brand; not just these pieces of software themselves, but the ability to update the car.

According to Lucid, more than 95 percent of the vehicle’s functions can be refined or expanded through over-the-air updates. Put another way, it hopes to consistently introduce new capabilities without hardware changes. This move will no doubt add value to potential buyers.

The latest Kia Niro has been around for almost half of a decade. When it launched, it was unique in the segment. It had an unconventional slashed body panel at the rear and came in hybrid, PHEV, and EV versions. The plug-in died recently, and now, as a facelift nears release, the EV version is also going the way of the Dodo.

The automaker confirmed the change for the Korean market. “The Niro EV, which had been produced until the previous model, has been discontinued,” Jung Yoon-kyung, a senior marketing manager at Kia, told The Korea Herald. “We plan to sell the remaining inventory available.” Carscoops reached out to the automaker to confirm the change in the U.S. market as well.

More: Redesigned 2027 Kia Niro Desperately Wants To Be An EV3

If this is indeed the situation for the States, it won’t be all that surprising. The Niro EV has always been a bit of an oddball in the family. Unlike the other EVs in the lineup, it was designed around a gas-burning powertrain. The others, all built exclusively as EVs, feature faster charging, longer range, and better overall packaging. Some even offered all of this for less than the price of the Niro EV. That’s a key piece of the puzzle here.

“Kia is strongly focusing on electrification. Starting with the EV3 and continuing through EV9, we have a range of vehicles with strong electrification capabilities and improved product competitiveness,” Yoon-kyung said. “In order to concentrate more on those models, we decided to discontinue the (Niro EV).” Those models are ones that are already set up for the U.S. market.

Now, Kia can better focus on those vehicles and streamline the Niro lineup at the same time. While we loved the Niro PHEV, EV, and Hybrid at launch, it was clear last year that they were beginning to show their age. This new shift in powertrains signals a tighter focus for the brand.

Following yesterday’s leak, Rivian has officially introduced the R2. It arrives this spring with a $57,990 price tag, although an entry-level model is slated to arrive in late 2027 and cost around $45,000.

The R2 rides on an all-new platform and is being launched in Performance guise, which has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 656 hp (489 kW / 665 PS) and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to accelerate from 0–60 mph (0-96 km/h) in as little as 3.6 seconds.

More: Rivian Is Killing Off The Entry-Level R1 Just Before R2 Launch

The crossover is said to have a 87.9 kWh battery pack, which enables it to have a range of up to 330 miles (531 km). When the battery is low, it can reportedly go from a 10-80% charge in as little as 29 minutes. Other highlights include a semi-active suspension and eight drive modes known as All-Purpose, All-Terrain, Conserve, Launch, Rally, Snow, Soft Sand, and Sport.

The model comes standard with an Esker Silver exterior that sports 21-inch Liquid Tungsten wheels as well as Compass Yellow brake calipers and exterior badging. They’re joined by Matrix LED headlights, integrated tow hooks, and a rear liftgate with drop down glass.

Moving inside, there’s a Black Crater Signature interior with Birch wood trim. Buyers will also find 12-way power front seats with heating and ventilation. They’re joined by heated rear seats as well as a heated steering wheel. Other niceties include a nine-speaker premium audio system and a flashlight integrated into the driver’s door.

An assortment of options will be available including Borealis, Catalina Cove, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight paint jobs. They can be paired with black 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Customers can also get a Coastal Cloud Signature interior, a 4,400 lb (1,996 kg) towing package, and an Autonomy+ subscription that offers monthly or one-time options.

Early models come with a limited edition Launch Package that includes a lifetime subscription to Autonomy+ as well as the aforementioned towing package. There’s also a green anodized key fob and an exclusive Launch Green exterior color, but that’ll cost you extra.

R2 Premium

The $53,990 R2 Premium will follow later this year with a downgraded all-wheel drive system producing 450 hp (356 kW / 456 PS) and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm) of torque. This enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.6 seconds and travel up to 330 miles (531 km) on a single charge.

Equipment largely echoes the Performance variant, but the Premium rides on smaller 20-inch wheels with a Bicolor Carbon finish. Drivers also have to make do with five drive modes known as All-Purpose, All-Terrain, Conserve, Sport, and Snow.

R2 Standard Long Range

The R2 Standard Long Range will arrive in the first half of 2027 and cost $48,490. It comes standard with a rear-mounted motor producing 350 hp (261 kW / 355 PS) and 355 lb-ft (481 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.9 seconds and have a Rivian-estimated range of up to 345 miles (555 km).

However, customers can get an optional all-wheel drive system that produces 450 hp (356 kW / 456 PS) and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm) of torque. It echoes the R2 Premium, so expect a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of 4.6 seconds and a reduced range of 330 miles (531 km).

In order to achieve the lower price tag, a number of features have been dropped. This appears to include the fancy lighting system, tow hooks, and drop down rear window. The model also rides on smaller 19-inch wheels.

The cuts continue inside with a cheaper Black Crater interior sporting a basic five-speaker audio system. The front passenger seat also gets downgraded to 8-way power adjustment, while there’s only heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Buyers also lose the flashlight and All-Terrain drive mode.

R2 Standard Short Range

Rivian’s much-hyped entry-level model is coming in late 2027 and it will start “around $45,000.” The company isn’t saying much about it, but promised a range in excess of 275 miles (443 km).

Odds And Ends

While Rivian hasn’t released full details, the R2 appears to be surprisingly spacious as there’s 40.4 inches (1,026 mm) of rear-seat legroom as well as 28.7 cubic feet (813 liters) of cargo space. That expands to 79.4 cubic feet (2,248 liters) by folding the rear seats down. Speaking of space, the model has dual glove boxes and a frunk that provides 5.2 cubic feet (147 liters) of room.

Rivian also touched on capability as the R2 has 9.6 inches (244 mm) of ground clearance as well as approach, departure, and breakover angles of 25°, 26°, and 20.6° respectively. The model also has 32-inch tires and is nearly 2,000 lbs (907 kg) lighter than the R1.

Rounding out the highlights are a panoramic glass roof, digital key technology, and a “Haptic Halo” steering wheel with two large scroll wheels. The R2 also has an NACS port as well as a “Field Outlet” that transforms the charging port into a power station with two 120V outlets.

Rivian is currently accepting reservations for a $100 refundable deposit.

We all know that new car prices have surged over the past six years, but they’re not alone. The used market has followed the same trajectory. Prices have risen sharply, and vehicles are now lingering on dealer lots longer than before, partly because many owners are not shopping for cars and are holding on to their current ones. Even so, one automaker seems largely unaffected by the slowdown

Fresh data from iSeeCars sheds some light on the trend. It examined more than 960,000 transactions involving used vehicles between one and five years old during February. Across that sample, the typical used car sat on the market for 53 days before finding a buyer. A year earlier the average was just 37.7 days in the US, which means selling times have stretched by roughly 40 percent in only twelve months.

Read: Tesla’s Sales Collapsed By Nearly 90% In The Land Of EVs

Used electric models, interestingly, are moving a bit faster than their gasoline counterparts. In February, the typical used EV took 47.4 days to sell. That figure has increased from last year’s 41.8-day average, but the 13.4 percent rise is modest compared with the broader used market.

Tesla Bucks The Trend

However, there’s a little more to these figures than may first meet the eye. Because Teslas still account for the vast majority of EV sales, their typically quick resale times drag down the overall market average. Remove Tesla from the equation and the picture changes. Without those models included, the typical used EV took 57.3 days to sell in February, a 15.1 percent increase from the 49.8-day average recorded at the same time last year.

So which models disappear from listings the fastest? Comfortably leading the pack is the Tesla Model X, needing an average of just 22.6 days to sell. Surprisingly, it was followed by the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, at an average of 26.9 days, and then the Tesla Cybertruck, at 27.4 days.

Fastest-Selling Used Cars In February 2026

Other strong performers uncovered by the iSeeCars study included the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF at 29.3 days, the Toyota GR Supra at 30 days, the Genesis G90 at 30.4 days, the Rivian R1S at 30.8 days, and the Toyota GR Corolla at 31.1 days. Several of these cars lean toward the enthusiast end of the spectrum, which likely helps keep demand strong.

Tesla’s higher-volume models appear a little further down the rankings. The Model 3 lands in 13th place with an average of 33.1 days on the market, while the Model Y sits in 16th at 34.9 days. However, it’s worth noting that far more Model 3s and Model Ys are sold monthly than the likes of the GR Supra, G90, R1S, and MX-5 Miata, so they help to sway the overall market.

The opposite end of the list looks very different. Some vehicles sit for months before finding a buyer. The Volvo XC60 is the slowest mover in the study, lingering for an average of 170.2 days. The BMW i5 is not far behind at 153 days, followed by the Dodge Hornet at 123.7 days and the Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid at 118 days.

Slowest-Selling Used Cars In February 2026

Lucid’s investor day made a serious splash in several ways. The automaker confirmed that autonomy subscriptions are coming, it’s kicking off a robotaxi program, and it’s launching Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. None of that might be as immediately impactful as the new revelations concerning the brand’s midsize platform and the cars it’ll spawn.

According to Lucid, the midsize platform will support several vehicles. That was already known. What we didn’t know was just about everything else. The first two cars on this platform will be named the Cosmos and the Earth. Both will sit below the Gravity and Air in terms of lineup position and pricing. A third model will come online later, though there are no details on its name just yet.

Lucid says the new platform keeps the same core philosophy as its current cars. That means high efficiency, strong performance, and lots of interior space, but with a much greater focus on cost reduction. Engineers redesigned the vehicle architecture to use fewer parts, smaller battery packs, and simpler manufacturing processes, all of which should lower production costs while maintaining range and performance.

Atlas Electric Drive Unit

One of the biggest changes is a new electric drive unit called Atlas, which Lucid says is smaller, lighter, and cheaper to build than the current motor used in the Air and Gravity. The company claims the design has more than 30 percent fewer parts and significantly lower material cost, helping reduce the overall price of future vehicles.

Battery size is another area where Lucid expects savings. Because the company focuses heavily on efficiency, it says its midsize vehicles can achieve the same range as competitors while using smaller battery packs, which remain one of the most expensive components in any EV. That alone could cut thousands of dollars from the cost of each vehicle.

Pricing And Production Strategy

Lucid tells investors that the Cosmos and Earth will appeal to adventure-seekers. That’s a buzz term these days, but it’s worth looking at how the brand sees these products in the greater market. In a slide featuring a graph of “sporty to functional” and “Advanced to traditional,” it plotted each of its three upcoming midsize offerings.

More: Lucid Shows Its Pedal-Free Future As It Confirms Subscription For Its Current Cars

The Cosmos is slated to be the performance vehicle in the fleet. Lucid places it high on “advanced and sporty” in its graph that appears to feature some very strange cars around it. Lucid claims a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds or less. The Earth appears just as advanced in the company’s presentation but leans more toward the functional side of the spectrum.

The unnamed third Lucid model will be the most functional of the bunch and about as far from sporty as it can get. Will that be a van then? Only time will tell, but it does look quite large.

That said, expect vehicles on the platform to start at under $50,000 once available. It’s unclear at this point when those models will arrive. If Lucid does things the same way it did with the Gravity and Air, the expensive top trims will drop first with the lower-cost options showing up much later.

A Giant Role

Earth and Cosmos might sound like names that are too big for their britches, but for Lucid, they’re fitting because these cars and this platform could be what makes or breaks the brand. The company’s robotaxi plans rest on the architecture, as do its autonomy hopes. That includes monthly subscriptions, which are what the brand calls the best monetization opportunity ahead.

In addition, by moving into lower price segments and sharing components across multiple models, the company expects to increase production volume, reduce costs, and generate the kind of margins it hasn’t been able to achieve with low-volume luxury cars alone.

If the plan works, Lucid’s future lineup will look very different from today’s. Instead of just a high-end sedan and SUV, the brand could soon have a full range of vehicles, from premium luxury models to more affordable EVs, plus autonomous variants built for ride-hailing fleets.

American drivers have spent years looking longingly across the Atlantic at the Alpine A110, a lightweight sports coupe widely praised for its razor-sharp handling. Now there’s a tiny hint that the forbidden fruit might finally become available.

Alpine’s CEO revealed this week that the next-generation A110 is being put through US crash tests. That’s a pretty unusual step for a car that technically isn’t planned for sale in America. Automakers normally only run those tests if they’re at least considering bringing a vehicle to the US. Otherwise, it’s just an expensive way to smash perfectly good prototypes into walls and poles.

Related: Renault Spent $30 Million To Make This French 911 Legal In America, Then Built Just 12

For Alpine, the potential payoff could be huge. Despite shrinking demand for sports cars, CEO Philippe Krief told Auto News that the global market for vehicles like the A110 sits at roughly 350,000 units per year, and about half of those sales happen in the United States. So skipping America means ignoring the biggest sports car market on Earth.

America Is An ‘Opportunity’

“We’re now focusing on Europe, because the business is built for Europe, but naturally the growth could be in the US,” the former Ferrari man said. “At least, I would not want to avoid that opportunity in the US,” he continued, while conceding that selling and distributing cars in America would need some planning even if the regulatory roadblocks were overcome.

Originally, Alpine had planned to enter the US with a pair of electric crossovers around 2028. But those plans are currently on ice as EV demand cools and tariffs complicate global trade. Instead, the company might be considering leading with the one car enthusiasts actually want, the A110.

All-New A110

That would be the next-generation A110 due to hit the road in 2027. The upcoming model rides on a new Alpine Performance Platform known as APP, with the first details and pictures revealed this week. It was originally designed purely for electric power, but having watched the market for electric performance cars sag, Alpine later figured out how to squeeze combustion engines into it as well.

Krief stopped short of confirming a petrol version for sale, but the platform’s flexibility makes one look increasingly likely. Alpine knows that while electric sports cars sound exciting in theory, the real-world market remains pretty small.

911-Style Big Brother

The APP architecture will underpin several cars, and not just a new A110 coupe. There will be one of those, of course, but also a convertible spider version, and a larger 2 plus 2 sports coupe designed to challenge the Porsche 911. That last one could be especially interesting for the US, where the 911 sells by the bucketload, and a higher price would mean higher margins than with the A110.

Lucid is officially joining the robotaxi race, and it’s doing so with all-new products. During its investor day presentation on Thursday, the EV startup revealed a two-seat autonomous concept to insiders. Then, it confirmed plans to charge monthly subscription fees for advanced driver-assist and self-driving features in future cars.

More: Lucid Cuts 12% Of Its Workforce As The EV Shakeout Intensifies

The concept, called Lunar, is a purpose-built robotaxi designed without pedals or a steering wheel. It clearly signals that Lucid is serious about fully autonomous ride-hailing rather than just driver-assist technology. This puts the company on the same path as Tesla’s Cybercab program and similar efforts from other EV makers trying to turn autonomy into a long-term revenue stream.

Beyond the prototype reveal, Lucid shared very little technical detail about the Lunar. What it did emphasize is efficiency. The company is targeting between 5.5 and 6 miles per kWh, a figure that could translate to a theoretical range of around 400 miles.

Reaching that number will depend largely on low-drag aerodynamics and a carefully optimized body. Fast charging is also part of the equation, with Lucid claiming the robotaxi could gain more than 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes.

Whether the Lunar ever makes it past the concept stage is less certain, though. For now, the company already has plenty on its plate preparing its upcoming midsize EV lineup for launch, which carries far more weight for the company’s near-term finances.

Subscription Fees For Self Driving

Speaking of revenue, Lucid calls autonomy subscriptions “the single biggest software monetization opportunity.” As such, it’s going to start charging customers to use DreamDrive Pro, the brand’s in-car autonomy suite, on a monthly basis. Starting in the first half of 2027, owners will have to pay anywhere from $69 to $199 a month, depending on the level of autonomy they want.

Lucid says that it has a “Level 4-ready platform available directly from the factory.” While it hasn’t unveiled it to the public, it’ll ride on the brand’s midsize architecture that underpins a few new products heading to market. Lunar will only seat two individuals, so we expect it to have plenty of room for cargo.

That’ll work well with one of Lucid’s partners, Uber. The two are in talks to use the midsize platform in the way that they do Gravity with its robotaxi program.

Timelines

Lucid went as far as to openly lay out its timeline roadmap as well. This year, it believes it’ll offer hands-free highway driving to customers. Next year, it hopes to offer hands-free highway and city driving. In 2028, it wants to achieve Level 3 autonomy. That’s where drivers still need to be ready to take over but the car can mostly navigate on its own.

Level 4, something Lucid is aiming for in 2029, would allow drivers to take their eyes off of the road. Whether or not all of this comes to pass is up for debate, but at least now we know the plan.

Tesla’s Full-Self Driving (Supervised) system has placed advanced semi-autonomous capability in the hands of thousands of owners across the United States. The technology remains one of the most closely watched developments in the industry. Yet despite its promise, the system is still far from flawless, and according to a recent lawsuit filed against Tesla, it can also be dangerous.

The lawsuit, filed in Harris County Court in Houston, Texas, alleges that Tesla Cybertruck owner Justine Saint Amour was using the FSD system in August last year while traveling along the 69 Eastex Freeway. As the electric pickup approached a Y-shaped junction near the Houston Metro 256 Eastex Park & Ride, the vehicle’s onboard systems should have followed the right-hand curve of the freeway.

FSD Navigation Error Alleged

Instead, the lawsuit claims the Tesla attempted to continue straight ahead toward a concrete barrier. The driver reportedly took control just before impact but was unable to avoid the obstacle, with the Cybertruck striking the barrier head-on.

Read: Tesla On FSD Suddenly Swerves And Crashes Into A Tree, Claims Driver

The impact reportedly left the woman with two herniated discs in her lower back, a herniated disc in her neck, sprained wrist tendons, and neuropathy. Chron reports that dashcam footage captured the crash, showing the Cybertruck attempting to negotiate the curve at the interchange but ultimately hitting the barriers.

Camera Only System Criticized

An image taken after the crash shows that the front of the blacked-out Cybertruck took a serious hit, and that the front bumper shattered, leaving pieces of bodywork strewn across the road.

The lawsuit further alleges that Tesla’s decision to rely exclusively on a camera-based system for its self-driving technology, rather than incorporating radar or LiDAR sensors, contributed to the crash. It also claims Elon Musk is “an aggressive and irresponsible salesman” with a history of “making dangerous design choices.”

“Tesla’s decisions made Justine’s accident inevitable,” Saint Amour’s lawyer, Bob Hilliard, told Chron. “This company wants drivers to believe and trust their life on a lie: that the vehicle can self-drive and that it can do so safely. It can’t, and it doesn’t.”

The lawsuit accuses Tesla of negligence and seeks more than $1 million in damages.

Honda’s electric future just got a whole lot less bright. The automaker has announced it’s scrapping three planned North American EVs that were supposed to spearhead its next big push as it rethinks its electrification plans against a backdrop of cooling global EV demand.

The three vehicles are Honda’s delightfully bonkers 0 Saloon and 0 SUV, and Acura’s upcoming RSX crossover, and axing them so late in the game means a ton of financial pain for Honda. The company says it is booking roughly 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) in expenses and losses due to the U-turn.

Related: Honda Walks Back Its EV Plans As Losses Spiral

Here’s what Honda told us in a statement:

“In order to improve the current earnings situation as early as possible, Honda considered various options; however, after careful consideration, the company made the decision to cancel the development and market launch of three EV models that had been planned for production in the U.S., namely the Honda 0 SUV, Honda 0 Saloon, and Acura RSX.

Honda determined that starting production and sales of these three models in current business environment where the demand for EVs is declining significantly would likely result in further losses over the long term.”

Sedan Does Supercar

Of the trio, the 0 Saloon was the showstopper. It looked like someone fed a Lamborghini Gallardo and a minivan into the same blender. Honda had previously said it would launch in North America after the SUV, and just earlier this year reports said it had already slipped to 2027. Now it appears the delay has turned into a funeral.

The 0 SUV was the more realistic sibling, though still plenty wild from a design standpoint with its hunchback rear. It was an electric crossover SUV with a tall cabin, pixel style lighting and Honda’s new ASIMO OS. This was supposed to be the practical EV that actually paid the bills, and would probably have been the model seen most regularly on US roads.

RSX Revival Iced

But maybe it’s the loss of the Acura RSX that was due to enter production later this year that will sting the most. Acura had already shown a pre-production prototype of the coupe SUV, promising dual motors, all-wheel drive and a sportier feel than the GM-based ZDX that was recently dropped. The RSX was also going to revive a name made famous by an iconic driver-focused Acura of yesteryear, and even if it did so by turning a fondly remembered rev-happy coupe into yet another crossover, at least it was a seriously good looking crossover.

Honda’s change of heart isn’t just bad news for North American EV buyers either, it’s all bad for US workers. All three EVs were scheduled to be built in Ohio. We have reached out to Honda for confirmation and will update this story when we hear back.

Honda/Acura

Volkswagen is preparing another update for its compact electric hatchback. In mid-April, the company will unveil a revised version of the ID.3, which will carry the new ID.3 Neo name. The refreshed model brings a mix of hardware and software changes intended to keep the hatch competitive for the rest of the decade, at least until the long-anticipated ID. Golf eventually reaches showrooms.

Alongside the announcement, the automaker released a set of official design sketches. They show a shape that remains immediately recognizable as an ID.3, but with styling cues that align it more closely with Volkswagen’s next batch of electric models, including the ID. Polo and ID. Cross.

More: Volkswagen To Slash 50,000 Jobs After Profits Fell Off A Cliff

Most of the visual changes are concentrated at the front. The headlights are now linked by a slim grille element, creating a more cohesive face, while the bumper intakes adopt a simpler, cleaner design. From the side, the proportions look largely untouched.

Out back, however, the taillights gain updated LED graphics, and the lower section of the tailgate is now finished in body color rather than contrasting trim. Volkswagen is also expected to expand the palette with new exterior colors and wheel options.

Volkswagen design chief Andreas Mindt says the update focuses on refining the car’s overall presence. The goal, he explained, was to deliver “clean proportions, confident surfaces, and a sharper digital character” for one of the company’s most important electric models.

The ID.3 first arrived in 2019 as Volkswagen’s inaugural purpose-built EV, marking the start of the brand’s modern electric era. A facelift followed in 2023, so the upcoming ID.3 Neo effectively represents the model’s second major update since its original launch.

New Software And More Buttons

A major focus of the ID.3 Neo is the new Innovision infotainment system, which introduces an integrated app store for audio and video streaming, gaming, charging services, and parking services. Inside the cabin, Volkswagen has also eliminated the controversial touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, replacing them with traditional tactile buttons.

In addition, a new digital vehicle key option allows owners to unlock and access their cars using a smartphone or smartwatch without needing to carry a physical key fob or install a dedicated app.

Updates For Other ID Models

On the practical side, Volkswagen is rolling out Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability across the ID lineup. This allows owners to draw up to 3.6 kW of electricity from the high-voltage battery through a 230V socket inside the cabin or by using an external adapter. That output can power tools, charge e-bikes, or run camping equipment when the car is parked.

More: VW Locks Gas Tiguan In Until 2035 With Two Major Updates Planned

The software package also receives additional functionality. Updates include Travel Assist with traffic light detection, along with support for One-Pedal Driving.

Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, said: “The new software generation brings more performance and an even better customer experience to the ID. models. The new Volkswagen electric models in the small and compact vehicle segments – ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI, ID. Cross – will also soon be launched on the market with these new innovations, offering more flexibility in everyday life and for leisure activities.”

More Power And Range For The ID.4 and ID.5

While a full facelift for the ID.4 is expected later this year, Volkswagen has already outlined a smaller round of updates for the current model and its coupe-styled sibling, the ID.5.

More: VW’s 1 Millionth EV Took 12 Years, Its 2 Millionth Took 10 Months

Beyond the updated software, the Pure trims of both electric crossovers will receive a new electric motor called the APP 350. The unit recently appeared in the closely related Ford Explorer and Capri EVs. It produces 187 hp (140 kW / 190 PS) and is said to deliver more torque while consuming less energy than the previous motor.

Efficiency gains also come from a new 58 kWh lithium phosphate battery pack. Combined with the updated motor, Volkswagen says the changes increase the WLTP range of the ID.4 by 40 km (25 miles).

Volkswagen

BMW is getting ready to freshen up its flagship sedan. After months of camouflaged prototypes roaming public roads, the company has finally released its first official teaser of the facelifted 7-Series, confirming the luxury sedan will make its global debut at Auto China in Beijing next month.

The current 7-Series generation arrived in 2022, which means it is right on schedule for BMW’s mid-cycle LCI update, short for Life Cycle Impulse. The shadowy teaser image focuses on the front end, revealing a new lighting signature with slimmer, more horizontal daytime running lights. They sit on either side of a larger, more squared-off illuminated kidney grille.

More: BMW’s New Electric 3-Series Has A Reveal Date

Judging from earlier spy shots, the kidney grille appears to switch from vertical slats to a horizontal layout. The split headlight arrangement remains, although the lower clusters that house the main beams look slightly smaller than before.

The side profile does not appear to be changing much. Expect the familiar long-wheelbase silhouette to carry over largely untouched, while the rear receives the usual facelift treatment with updated LED taillights and minor revisions to the bumper.

Neue Klasse Technology

At BMW’s 2026 Annual Conference, chairman Oliver Zipse confirmed that the facelifted 7-Series will serve as the first current model to inherit what the company calls “technology clusters” from the upcoming Neue Klasse lineup. The next-generation X5 is expected to follow shortly after, with its own debut slated for later this summer.

More: This BMW 7-Series Looks Like A Chauffeur Car, Until Your Day Turns Ugly

For the flagship sedan, that means several of the brand’s next-generation digital systems will make their way into the cabin. Among them is BMW Panoramic Vision, the wide pillar-to-pillar display stretching across the base of the windshield, along with the company’s new iDrive X operating system.

Behind the scenes, BMW also plans to integrate four central computing units, referred to internally as “Superbrains,” which handle major vehicle functions and software processes.

Despite those upgrades, the big sedan will not migrate to the Neue Klasse platform itself. Instead, the facelift keeps the current CLAR architecture underneath. As with the outgoing model, it will remain available with gasoline, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric (i7) powertrain options, possibly with small refinements. It is also safe to assume that the 7-Series will gain a new variant from the BMW Alpina sub-brand.

The teaser for the mid-lifecycle update of the BMW 7-Series arrives just weeks after Mercedes unveiled a heavily refreshed version of its longtime rival, the S-Class. The luxury sedan also faces growing competition in China from newcomers such as the Huawei-backed Maextro S800.

Baldauf

The new MG 4 lineup is expanding with a slightly larger addition called the MG 4X. Positioned as a higher-riding SUV counterpart to the hatchback, the model brings one particularly notable feature with it. Like its smaller sibling, the MG4X uses an advanced semi-solid-state battery pack.

Sitting between the axles is a 53.95 kWh battery that contains only 5 percent liquid electrolyte, which is why MG classifies it as semi-solid-state. The chemistry is intended to improve thermal stability and cope better with both very cold and very hot conditions. Even with a battery that is not especially large by modern EV standards, MG says the setup is good for a driving range of 317 miles (510 km).

Read: New MG4 Electric Hatch Draws Inspiration From Cyberster

For now, MG is keeping the performance figures to itself. Power output remains undisclosed, and there is still no word on the electric motor or motors that will power the SUV. What has been confirmed is the underlying tech. The MG4X runs on the same E3 electronic architecture as the latest MG4 hatchback, and it is clearly aimed at competitors like the BYD Atto 2.

A BYD Rival

It is 4,395 mm (173 inches) long, 1,842 mm (72.5 inches) wide, 1,551 mm (61 inches) tall, and sits on a 2,750 mm (108.2-inch) wheelbase. It also has a curb weight of just 1,485 kg (3,273 lbs). Visually, it resembles the hatchback but has its own unique style.

The front end is quite imposing, complete with large air intakes and a lower grille, as well as triangular headlights with a thin light bar. Early images of the SUV also show it rocking black wing mirrors, a large panoramic glass roof, and sharp taillights, appearing to be similar in shape to the current MG S5, which sits right above it in MG’s range.

We don’t yet know what the cabin of the MG 4X will be like, but it’s safe to assume it will share parts with the hatchback. This could include the same central infotainment display, co-developed with smartphone manufacturer Oppo. It may also feature a handful of proper physical buttons on the steering wheel and console, ensuring that it’s not too minimalist.

Rivian is gearing up to introduce the highly anticipated R2, but waiting is so overrated. Arstechnica knows that feeling all too well as they jumped the gun and published full details of the crossover a day early.

While the article was quickly removed, the internet never forgets and it was archived for posterity. Thanks to this, we know virtually everything about the upcoming model.

More: Rivian Is Killing Off The Entry-Level R1 Just Before R2 Launch

Set to arrive this spring, the R2 will be launched in Performance guise that starts at $57,990 before a $1,495 destination fee. The range-topping model reportedly has a 87.9 kWh battery pack, which powers a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 656 hp (489 kW / 665 PS) and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque.

The R2 Performance is said to have a semi-active suspension and a range of up to 330 miles (531 km). We can also expect a fast charging capability that will take the battery from 10-80% in as little as 29 minutes.

In terms of equipment, we can expect a stylish interior with birch wood trim as well as heated and ventilated front seats. The rear seats are also heated, while other highlights include a nine-speaker audio system and a flashlight that’s integrated into the front door. They’re joined by matrix LED headlights and 21-inch alloy wheels.

Options include the company’s recently announced Autonomy+ semi-autonomous driving subscription and a tow package that enables the model to haul up to 4,400 lbs (1,996 kg).

R2 Premium

A more affordable R2 Premium is scheduled to arrive later this year for $53,990. Its powertrain largely echoes the Performance variant, but it has weaker motors producing 450 hp (356 kW /  456 PS) and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm) of torque.

Those aren’t the only tradeoffs as the model reportedly eschews the fancy suspension and rides on smaller 20-inch wheels. Buyers will also find three fewer drive modes.

R2 Standard

If that’s still too pricey, you can hold off until the R2 Standard arrives in 2027. It retains the 87.9 kWh battery, but it’s paired to a rear-mounted motor producing 350 hp (261 kW / 355 PS) and 355 lb-ft (481 Nm) of torque. This helps the model to be slightly more efficient as the range climbs to 345 miles (555 km).

The equipment list gets shorter as there’s a basic five-speaker audio system, heated front seats, and an “all-black” interior. The drop-down rear window is also absent, while the crossover is shod in smaller 19-inch wheels.

The base R2 is set to arrive in late 2027 with a smaller battery that provides around 265 miles (426 km) of range. Little else is known about this variant, but it’ll cost $45,000.

Other Details

Trims aside, the model measures 185.9 inches (4,722 mm) long, 78.1 inches (1,984 mm) wide, and 66.9 inches (1,699 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 115.6 inches (2,936 mm). The R2 is also said to have up to 9.6 inches (244 mm) of ground clearance.

Other highlights include a NACS charging port and a cargo capacity of up to 79.4 cubic feet (2,248 liters). However, that falls to 28.7 cubic feet (813 liters) with the rear seats up.

A separate leak also suggested the model will be offered in eight colors known as Borealis, Catalina Cove, Esker Silver, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, Launch Green, and Midnight.

Slate Auto is becoming an example of what a small startup can do with vast amounts of cash. It’s navigated several trials and tribulations and market shifts that other, less well-funded EV startups simply couldn’t survive. Now, it’s handling another as it appoints a new CEO just months before launching its first product, a heavily promoted $25,000-$30,000 electric truck.

The company announced that Peter Faricy, a former Amazon executive, has taken over as Chief Executive Officer, Newsweek reported. He replaces longtime Chrysler veteran Chris Barman, who will remain at the company as President of Vehicles with a focus on engineering, manufacturing, and product development. Keep in mind that Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is an investor in Slate Auto.

Read: Slate Teases EV Truck Price As $20K Dream Collapses

The leadership shift comes as Slate prepares to switch from development mode to real-world sales. The startup says customers will soon be able to configure and order their vehicles, with reservations expected to convert into orders by the end of the year.

The Slate Auto pickup is stripped down and simplified to what some would call an extreme degree. For example, it doesn’t have an infotainment screen, it features crank windows, and customers are offered several options to add after initial purchase. The company said it has around 160,000 reservations and believes it can build 150,000 trucks annually at its Indiana manufacturing plant.

The CEO Shift

Slate is going to sell cars direct-to-consumer the same way Rivian, Tesla, and Lucid do. To that end, the shift to Faricy begins to make more sense. He previously worked at Ford before moving through roles at Borders and eventually Amazon, where he spent more than a decade helping build the company’s Marketplace platform into a global ecosystem for third-party sellers.

He later served as CEO of solar company SunPower from 2021 to 2024 and most recently worked with venture capital firm Bessemer Venture Partners.

According to Newsweek, Faricy will oversee the company’s commercial operations, digital strategy, finance, HR, legal, and IT divisions, while Barman focuses on building and delivering the vehicles. One thing is certain: an undertaking of this magnitude can only benefit from more hands on deck.

The newly-released SAIC Z7 electric sedan and shooting brake already turned heads for looking suspiciously like Porsche’s Taycan models. Not “inspired by,” not “loosely referencing,” but very much in the same visual neighborhood. And it seems SAIC isn’t done visiting that neighborhood either.

The upcoming MG 07 continues the theme, borrowing liberally from Porsche’s modern design language, with the rear in particular appearing to have spent quite a bit of time studying the view from Zuffenhausen.

The teasers reveal a five-door fastback silhouette, reminiscent of the MG7 that was introduced in 2022. While the two models share a similar greenhouse, the MG 07 has cleaner surfacing, and semi-concealed door handles.

More: Chinese Brand Faces Backlash After SUV Ad Looks Suspiciously Familiar

MG’s designers have also borrowed a few cues from the Taycan, including the inlets behind the front fenders. They are paired with side gills reminiscent of the Avatr 06. The most Porsche-like element, though, is the rear, which looks like a blend of the Panamera and the Taycan. Pronounced shoulders flow into full-width LED taillights with clear lenses, positioned just above the MG emblem.

From the profile view, the front end is only partly visible, but it hints at styling cues reminiscent of the Nissan Z and even a touch of Maserati. Expect it to follow the aggressive theme established by the MG7, likely toned down with a smaller grille. A roof-mounted LiDAR unit is also visible, suggesting the car will offer more advanced driver-assistance systems.

Despite the Porsche-inspired exterior, the cabin is expected to take a more localized approach. The MG 07 will likely feature a large central display running an infotainment system developed in collaboration with Oppo, rather than the Huawei-backed setup used in the SAIC Z7.

More: Spot The Differences, Then Save $150,000

Specifications remain under wraps for now, but Chinese media reports that the MG 07 will ride on SAIC’s Nebula platform. The architecture is expected to support both fully electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains. A slim battery pack may also incorporate semi-solid-state technology, which could help deliver a competitive driving range.

The MG 07 is expected to debut soon in China. Its competitors will likely include the Porsche-inspired Xiaomi SU7 and similarly sized sedans such as the BYD Seal, Zeekr 007, Luxeed S7, Deepal SL03, Leapmotor C01, and Tesla Model 3. The electrified fastback may also find its way into other markets later on, following the export path taken by the ICE-powered MG7.

SAIC MG / Weibo

An all-new Range Rover Velar is just around the corner, and it will be very different from the model we know today in more ways than one. The next generation will switch to EV-only power, marking a seismic change for the nameplate. It will also look quite different. Land Rover will move away from the traditional SUV silhouette of the current version and adopt a lower-slung shape that resembles a high-riding sedan.

Read: New Velar Starts Looking More Like A Range Rover Sedan

Hot on the heels of a camouflaged prototype of the new Velar testing in the European snow, a pair of fresh renderings previewing the model has surfaced. We will have to wait and see whether the second-generation Velar looks like this when it reaches production, but if it does, it will certainly stand apart.

These images, created by Nikita Chuyko for Kolesa, suggest the next Velar will retain a few recognizable cues from today’s model, though they have been reshaped into something closer to the Volvo ES90’s fastback-like profile. Up front, it still looks unmistakably Range Rover, with slim LED headlights and a relatively small upper grille defining the face

Future Cars: Ford Killed Fiesta For A Crossover, Now It Might Return Like This

The body itself sits noticeably lower. That would be controversial on something like a Land Rover Defender, but it is unlikely to trouble most Velar buyers. Realistically, few owners ever take their vehicles off-road, so the move toward a sleeker, road-focused profile may make sense.

No doubt the most curious element of the redesigned Velar will be its rear. As spy shots have shown, there’s a short and stubby decklid, as well as a steeply raked rear window, which looks a little odd. Also visible in these renders are slim LED taillights and a blacked-out lower bumper.

The Juicy Details

Underpinning the new Velar will be the new Electrified Modular Architecture (EMA), as it will be sold exclusively as an EV. It could debut with the same 117 kWh battery pack planned for the full-size Range Rover Electric, although a slightly smaller pack remains possible. Either way, engineers will face pressure to ensure it delivers enough range and performance to replace the outgoing combustion-powered version.

Porsche has outlined a recovery plan after a bruising year, aiming to streamline operations and cut costs as it works to regain its financial footing. Under new CEO Michael Leiters, the former McLaren and Ferrari executive, the company hopes to restore its reputation as a profit powerhouse while reshaping itself into what Leiters calls a “leaner, faster, and even more desirable” brand. He took over at the start of the year, replacing Oliver Blume.

A Year Of Tough Numbers

The reset follows a difficult set of results. Porsche’s operating profit plunged 92.7% from €5.64 billion ($6.55 billion) in 2024 to just €413 million ($479 million) in 2025. Revenue also slipped, falling 9.5% to €36.27 billion ($42.10 billion). Operating return on sales shrank to a narrow 1.1%, while global deliveries dropped to 279,449 units, down 10.1%.

More: Porsche Posts Its Biggest Drop In Sixteen Years

Several factors combined to produce that outcome. Porsche booked €3.1 billion ($3.6 billion) in one-time restructuring charges, absorbed €700 million ($813 million) related to US tariffs, and faced a steep 26% drop in sales in China.

Porsche CFO Dr. Jochen Breckner said: “The global challenges and the company’s realignment impacted earnings in 2025. In 2026, our recalibrations measures will continue to have one-off effects on earnings in the high three-digit million euros range. In order to secure adequate margins by Porsche standards in the medium term and strengthen our resilience in the long term, we accept these burdens.”

The Solution

During Porsche’s annual press conference in Stuttgart, Leiters acknowledged that the turnaround plan is still taking shape. With the new leadership only just past its first 100 days, he admitted the company does not yet have “an answer to every question or a solution for every problem.” Even so, he used the event to outline the direction Porsche intends to take.

“We will streamline our management structure, reduce hierarchies and cut back on bureaucracy. We have also already begun to focus more strongly on our core business. We are using the current challenges as an opportunity to act even more decisively. We will comprehensively reposition Porsche, make the company leaner, faster and the products even more desirable.”

More: Porsche’s US Sales Rose Thanks To Cars It’s About To Kill

Porsche is also planning significant changes in China, where the company intends to shrink its dealer network from 150 outlets to just 80 by the end of 2026 in an effort to protect pricing power.

Expanding The Lineup

To stop the bleeding, Leiters is looking upmarket. One of the first moves will be to simplify Porsche’s product portfolio by cutting complexity and reducing the number of variants. According to the CEO, the changes will focus on models with weaker demand, which likely points to the Taycan. Even so, Porsche says it plans to introduce “emotive new derivatives” of certain models later this year, though it has not revealed exactly which ones.

More: Porsche’s Mega SUV Drops EV Plan For V8 Power And An Audi Link

At the same time, Porsche’s boss confirmed the company is developing new models aimed squarely at higher-margin segments. “We stand for uncompromisingly good sports cars that you want to drive yourself, that are fun, that convey performance and passion. And all this regardless of the type of powertrain,” said Leiters.

“We are considering the expansion of our product portfolio in order to grow in higher-margin segments. In doing so, we are looking at models and derivatives both above our current two-door sports cars and above the Cayenne,” he added

Porsche’s Next Halo Car?

The reference to two-door sports cars clearly points to the 911. What might sit above it is less clear. Leiters did not elaborate, but the possibilities range from a modern interpretation of the 928 to something far more exotic, such as a supercar or even a flagship hypercar.

Read: Porsche 928 Conceptualized As A Modern Electric Coupe For 2030

Porsche has been exploring that territory for years, with potential successors to the 918 Spyder. The Mission X concept hinted at one possible direction before enthusiasm for electric hypercars cooled.

The other confirmed project is a long-rumored three-row SUV flagship positioned above the Cayenne. Codenamed K1, it is expected to target markets such as the United States and the Middle East and could offer V6 or V8 powertrains.

The new offerings will benefit from the expansion of “high-margin customization programs” that will “further strengthen the exclusivity of the brand” helping it move into a new territory closer to the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini.

ICE Life Support And EV Reality Check

Leiters acknowledged that Porsche needs to rethink what he called “the right drive technology.” Early momentum behind the fully electric Taycan has run into a tougher reality as regulations, demand patterns, and customer expectations have shifted in recent years. Slower-than-expected demand has forced the company to “adjust the ramp-up and portfolio of fully electric vehicles while extending the life of combustion and hybrid offerings.”

More: Porsche’s Next Sedan Could Replace Both The Panamera And Taycan

The ultimate goal is to reduce upfront and direct costs by “fundamentally rethinking the development of our sports cars.” In the process, Leiters effectively confirmed earlier reports that the next generation of the 718 series will follow a multi-energy path. Porsche also plans to “leverage further synergies between our models,” using platforms and industry solutions more flexibly.

Xiaomi looks ready to close the chapter on the ‘fake’ aerodynamic hood controversy that rattled the company last year. The Chinese carmaker has now turned its optional carbon fiber hood into a genuinely functional component, a response that many established carmakers might study with interest.

Back in early 2025, Xiaomi began offering a special carbon fiber hood for the SU7 Ultra. The design took inspiration from the record-setting SU7 Prototype and featured two prominent air ducts that were supposed to help cool the brakes and battery. On paper, it sounded convincing. In practice, it turned out to be something else.

Read: Xiaomi Will Have To Pay Owner For Faking It

Soon after customers started taking delivery of SU7s equipped with the 42,000 yuan ($6,100) hood, owners discovered the promised performance benefits simply were not there. The structure beneath the hood had not been changed at all, meaning the vents were purely decorative and did nothing for cooling or aerodynamics.

Unsurprisingly, the reaction was swift. Owners pushed back, some threatened to walk away from the brand, and the situation quickly spilled into the courts.

Making The Carbon Hood Functional

Fast forward 12 months, and Xiaomi has announced it will start making these hoods functional to owners, free of charge. The company says that engineers have modified the internal structure of the front air ducts so they can work with the active grille and increase downforce over the front axle.

According to CarNewsChina, fitting the upgrade takes between 2 and 3 hours and includes the fitment of adjustable plastic vanes beneath the carbon fiber hood. It’s a big win for owners, and Xiaomi will be hoping the move helps repair some of the trust lost during the controversy.

The controversy had already reached the courts before this fix arrived. In October last year, a Chinese court sided with an SU7 Ultra owner who sued Xiaomi over the hood. The ruling required the company to refund the owner’s hood deposit, pay 126,000 yuan ($18,300) in compensation, and cover 10,000 yuan ($1,400) in legal fees. Xiaomi also promised 20,000 reward points to each customer who bought the hood, worth roughly 2,000 yuan ($290)

Rivian is gearing up to launch the highly anticipated R2 on March 12, but it looks like they’re also planning to trim the R1 lineup. This is unfortunate, but the company sent out a rather ominous e-mail announcing the “Dual Standard is ending.”

The R1S Dual Standard starts at $76,990 and offers 270 miles (435 km) of range. The R1S Dual, on the other hand, begins at $83,990 and has a larger battery pack that enables owners to travel 329 miles (529 km) on a single charge.

More: For $50 A Month, Rivian Will Make You A Passenger In Your Own EV

The R1T Dual Standard also has 270 miles (435 km) of range, but it’s even cheaper as pricing starts at $72,990. Its death will force people to get the R1T Dual, which begins at $79,990.

The automaker isn’t saying much, but confirmed “we have changes coming to our vehicle lineup later this year.” They then suggested customers get an R1 Dual Standard “while you can.”

Rivian went on to promote leases starting at $749 per month for 36 months with a $3,000 incentive on R1T and R1S Dual Standard models ordered by March 19. While there’s enough fine print to call in a lawyer, the company suggested customers could get a new vehicle for only $5,644 due at signing – although that appears to exclude a $1,895 destination fee.

While Rivian didn’t say why they’re apparently discontinuing the R1 Dual Standard, it’s likely in response to the R2. The model is slated to begin around $45,000 and this will undoubtedly pull some customers away from the R1. Eliminating the entry-level R1 helps put some distance between the vehicles, while also simplifying production at the company’s plant in Normal, Illinois.