Chevrolet has introduced the new Silverado EV ZR2 race truck concept.
It features a lifted suspension, Multimatic dampers, and 37-inch mud-terrain tires.
Power is provided by a tri-motor AWD system that produces a combined output of 1,100 hp.
Rugged trucks have been a huge hit with consumers and Chevrolet’s ZR2 lineup is among the most popular. Now, the company is giving us a glimpse at what an electric version could look like.
Unveiled at the Mint 400 off-road race, the Silverado EV ZR2 race truck concept was developed in just five months and is built almost entirely out of production parts. Since it will be taking part in the event, the pickup has been equipped with a lifted suspension and Multimatic continuously adaptive dampers. These changes help to deliver more than 13 inches (330 mm) of wheel travel.
The upgrades don’t end there as the concept has extended fender flares and unique wheels wrapped in 37-inch BF Goodrich KM3 mud-terrain tires. They’re joined by locking differentials, underbody protection, and an assortment of auxiliary lights. Rounding out the highlights are rock rails, red recovery hooks, and a ZR2-branded sport bar.
While the standard Silverado EV has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing up to 760 hp (567 kW / 771 PS) and 785 lb-ft (1,063 Nm) of torque, the concept is far more powerful. In fact, it features a tri-motor powertrain with a combined output of 1,100 hp (820 kW / 1,115 PS) and 11,500 lb-ft (15,574 Nm) of torque. Of course, it’s safe to assume the latter figure is more of an exercise in math than anything else.
According to Chevrolet Vice President Scott Bell, “There is no better proving ground to test the limits of our vehicles than competitive racing. The Silverado EV ZR2 race truck concept, which uses 98% GM production parts, showcases some of the best of Chevrolet to produce a beyond-capable pickup to tackle a challenging race of the Mint 400’s magnitude.”
While the ZR2 is simply a concept at this point, Chevrolet revealed the 2026 Silverado EV Trail Boss will arrive this summer. We’ll learn more in the coming weeks, but the truck features a factory-installed lift as well as 18-inch wheels wrapped in 35-inch all-terrain tires.
Volvo gave us a glimpse of the new EX60 crossover, ahead of its launch next year.
It will ride on the new SPA3 platform, which will eventually underpin all future Volvos.
The XC60 recently got a facelift with styling tweaks and a new infotainment system.
After a series of high-profile leaks, Volvo finally unveiled the ES90 mid-size sedan earlier today. However, most people probably didn’t watch the reveal video that was livestreamed from Stockholm, Sweden.
If they had, they would have found a short teaser for the upcoming EX60, which will serve as the electric equivalent of the popular gas-powered XC60. It appears roughly 25 minutes into the clip as a woman opens a door to reveal a partially covered clay model. She quickly closes the door, but not before revealing an EX90-like rear end.
While there isn’t much to see, the electric luxury crossover has angular upper taillights that reside on either side of the rear window. At the base of the window, they transition to the outside edges of the car.
Besides the taillights, we can see shapely rear haunches and a recessed liftgate. They’re joined by a black rear bumper that has a chrome horizontal element.
Volvo didn’t say anything about the crossover, but it was briefly mentioned during their 2024 financial presentation. In particular, the company noted the first EX60 test vehicle has been built and driven. They added the model will ride on the new SPA3 platform, which will “launch on target with significant reduction on cost.”
The company went on to suggest the SPA3 platform will debut shortly and be a scalable architecture that will eventually underpin every single Volvo. While we can expect to learn more in the coming months, the EX60 isn’t expected to be launched until next year.
Given that the crossover will ride on an all-new platform, it’s too early to talk about specifications. However, since it’s an upgraded version of the SPA2 platform, the EX60 might share some components with the EX90 and ES90.
ID. Every1 Concept trails VW’s entry into the booming €20k EV market.
The subcompact EV has a single 94 hp motor and an 82mph top speed.
Production model arrives in 2027, a year after the bigger, €25k ID.2.
Europe’s affordable EV market is hotting up. Stellantis’s Fiat and Citroen brands have already laid their cards on the table and this week we’ve got our first look at Volkswagen’s response. The ID. Every1 is officially a concept, but most of what you see here you’ll find on the production version in 2027.
Predicted to cost around €20,000 (£17k / $21k) when it hits dealers in two years, the Every1 goes on sale one year after the €25,000 (£21k / $26k) production take on 2023’s ID. 2all concept. But while the 2all’s size puts it between the current Golf and recently axed Polo, the Every1 is sized between the Polo and the Up!, which also got the chop not long ago.
The Every1 occupies 3,880 mm (152.8 inches) of road space, compared with 3,600 mm (141.7 inches) for the Up! and 4,074 mm (160.4) for the Polo. VW promises interior space will match the Polo’s and the 305-liter luggage space splits the difference between what those two deceased combustion cars could deliver.
One of the secrets of the baby EV’s space efficiency is VW’s new MEB front-wheel-drive platform (current single-motor MEB ID cars are all RWD). A small electric motor in the nose generates 94 hp (95 PS / 70 kW), and while VW doesn’t quote a zero to 62 mph (100 kmh) time, it’s sure to be less lethargic than the electronically limited 82 mph (130 km/h) top speed suggests.
We’re still in the dark on battery size, but it’s got to be less than 40 kWh going by the claimed 155-mile (250 km) range. That doesn’t sound like much, but it’s probably ample for most buyers given the Every1’s city-living remit, and is a key reason VW is able to bring the price down to little more than half that of the cheapest ID.3.
Strong design and classic cues
The FWD platform and price aren’t the only ways this new ID car – and the ID. 2all and its crossover spin-off also on the way – is moving away from a template laid down by cars like the ID.3 and ID.4. The front-drivers will usher in a new, more robust, more confident design language that makes even the most affordable member of the EV family look solid and expensive.
Okay, so the Lone Ranger eye mask looks conspicuously like the one on the front of the new Ford Capri (which is an ID.5 offshoot) or Suzuki’s aging Ignis, but it works far better here, fitting in perfectly with the smooth surfaces and squat stance. VW points out the straight window line, an early Golf design signature, and a refusal to get bogged down in current styling trends that could appear embarrassingly dated a few years down the road.
The black glass rear hatch tips a hat to the Up! but where that car looked awkwardly narrow, tall, and slab-sided, the Every1 looks wide and muscular, the swollen fenders over 19-inch wheels and chiseled skateboard-shaped recess in the rear bumper making the whole car seem more grown up.
Dashboards and buttons are back
The same goes for the interior, which we really hope transfers directly to the street. Again, design tricks – in this case the simple, long, flat dashboard shape – create an impression of width, and it’s interesting to see that after several years of freestanding mini-tablet gauge packs on its EVs, VW has recessed the instrument display in the main dash. Anyone else thinking 1991 Honda Prelude, or is it just me?
A chunky, squircle-shaped steering wheel features plenty of physical buttons and there are more buttons on the central section of the dashboard for the volume, cabin temperature, and seat heating. Perhaps surprisingly, though, there’s no sign of the rotary console dial seen on the ID. 2all and since productionized on the Euro Tiguan and Passat.
Most of the controls though, are housed inside the large tablet touchscreen, which will debut VW’s new software system, allowing owners to activate additional equipment months after the car has left the factory.
Minivan-style configurability
Other new features include a utility rail on the passenger side of the dashboard that lets passengers attach a tablet or even a table. And that sci-fi-looking console between the two seats can be slid backwards and forwards, and has extendable shelves, while VW suggests the front passenger- and rear seats can be folded in various ways to maximize practicality. Even if not all of these features make it to production, it’s clear that VW wants the ID.1 (or whatever name Wolfsburg settles on) to be more than just another straight-shootin’ electric hatch.
We’re still two years out from being able to buy the ID. Every1 but there’ll be plenty of new-generation ID activity to look forward to before then. VW says we’ll get another preview of its ‘Electric Urban Car Family’ in fall 2025, and it won’t be the only Group brand teasing future electric subcompacts built on this platform in the next 12 months.
Our spy photographers caught the first prototype of the next-gen CLA Shooting Brake.
The model follows the example of its predecessors, adopting a sleek wagon silhouette.
As with the regular CLA sedan, it is expected to offer EV and hybrid powertrain options.
Mercedes is getting ready to unveil the all-new CLA in electric and ICE flavors. While the company has decided to cut down the number of its compact models, the fastback sedan will soon be joined by a Shooting Brake version, with the first camouflaged prototype making its spy debut in Europe.
Back in September 2023, Mercedes announced that its compact lineup would include the successors of the CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA, and GLB, but not those of the A-Class and B-Class models. The CLA Shooting Brake is probably the most interesting in terms of styling, as it will keep combining the sleek design of the sedan with the practicality of a wagon body for a third generation.
The pictured prototype has camouflage only on the front and rear ends. The front section will be shared with the regular CLA, including the low-mounted grille and the aggressive headlights with star-shaped LEDs. The same applies to the flush door handles on the profile, although the greenhouse and the roofline have been redesigned.
In this particular prototype, Mercedes has applied aluminum trim around the windows and on the slim roof rails, with the latter being another means of differentiation from the four-door version. Of course, the highlight of the Shooting Brake is the design of the rear end. The new generation adopts new LED taillights with oval-shaped graphics and an even smaller rear window.
Inside, the new CLA family will benefit from a digital cockpit running the latest MB.OS software with AI technology. The Shooting Brake is expected to offer a larger boot, together with a few more inches of headroom compared to the fastback sedan.
Hybrid And EV Options
Mercedes’ entire compact lineup will ride on the MMA architecture, which is compatible with both ICE and EV powertrains. Luckily, Mercedes has already detailed the powertrains of the CLA, giving us a good idea of what to expect from the CLA Shooting Brake
The zero-emission CLA will offer the option between a rear electric motor with 268 hp (200 kW), or an all-wheel-drive version adding a 107 hp (80 kW) motor at the front. Energy will be stored in battery packs with a capacity of 58 kWh or 85 kWh, allowing a claimed range of up to 750 km (466 miles). Given that the Shooting Brake has an aerodynamic body, it will likely achieve something close to this number.
The hybrid lineup will include a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine in 134 hp (136 PS), 161 hp (163 PS), and 188 hp (190 PS) versions, assisted by a 27 hp (20 kW) electric motor integrated within an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The hybrid CLA is also expected to be offered with optional all-wheel drive, or 4Matic in Mercedes Land.
According to our sources, the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake is expected to be unveiled by the end of the year. The market launch of the model is scheduled for early 2026. In total, Mercedes has pledged to unveil 36 new models by 2027.
Vehicles eligible for a $1,000 discount include the Audi A3, Q3, Q4 e-tron, and Q4 Sportback e-tron.
Several Audi models can get up to $2,000 off, including the A5, Q5, Q7, Q8, and e-tron GT.
Soon after Costco’s Auto Program introduced a slew of discounts for several GM models, new savings were announced for new Audi models. The discounts will be available from March 4 through April 30 and unlike the GM deal that was mainly limited to EVs, the savings are available for both ICE and EV models.
If you’re a member of Costco, the retailer’s Auto Program aims to make the car buying experience easier as it does all the price haggling with dealerships. To benefit from the Audi discounts, all shoppers need to do is select the model they’d like and register for a savings certificate that can be presented at any Audi dealership in the US.
The Audi A3, Q3, Q4 e-tron, and Q4 Sportback e-tron are all available with a $1,000 discount, while numerous other Audi models are available with a $2,000 saving. These include the A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, A6 Sedan, A6 Allroad, S6, A7 Sedan, S7, A8, S8, Q5, Q5 Sportback, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, Q7, SQ7, Q8, SQ8, Q6 e-tron, SQ6 e-tron, Q8 e-tron, Q8 Sportback e-tron, SQ8 e-tron, SQ8 Sportback e-tron, e-tron GT, S e-tron GT, and RS e-tron GT.
These incentives can be paired with any other incentives currently offered by Audi or individual dealerships. There’s plenty of demand for new Audi models from Costco memberships, which may come as a bit of a surprise. The retailer says the Audi A5, A8, A6, Q5, and Q4 e-tron were the most popular among its members in their respective segments last year.
“If a member is looking for a new luxury sedan, SUV or electric vehicle, the Audi Limited-Time Special is a great place to start,” Costco Auto Program general manager Cory Benwell said. “Audi is very popular among the Costco members who use our program and we’re helping them get into the vehicle they want at an exclusive value.”
The special van is based on Rivian’s RCV 500 and has a 100 kWh battery pack.
An extra air conditioner unit has been installed to keep everything cool.
The first two vans will be used at pop-up events throughout Vermont.
Rivian originally built its Electric Delivery van exclusively for Amazon, having inked a partnership with the retail giant in 2019 to deliver more than 100,000 examples. However, after the four-year exclusivity deal expired, Rivian is now free to sell the EV to other companies, and one of its first new clients is Ben & Jerry’s. What you’re looking at, ladies and gentlemen, is a properly modern ice cream truck.
The electric van, now known simply as the Rivian Commercial Van, has been modified alongside Ben & Jerry’s and will premiere at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, this week. There’s no word on how many of these ‘scoop trucks’ have been ordered, but we know that 2 examples will hit the road after SXSW, “bringing good eats and good vibes to the Rivian community across the country.” They will also be used at pop-up events throughout Vermont.
No photos of the interior have been published, but the exterior includes a colorful Ben & Jerry’s livery, as well as an extra air conditioning unit on the roof.
“Collaborating with the Ben & Jerry’s team to build the next generation of electric scoop trucks has been an incredible experience,” senior director of Prototype Development at Rivian, Brian Gase said. “We can’t wait for people to stop by for some ice cream and see it in action for the first time during SXSW!”
The vans are based on Rivian’s RCV 500 model which uses a 100kWh LFP battery pack for 161 miles (259 km) of range. Rivian also sells an RCV 700 version, which is 30 inches longer than the RCV 500 at a massive 278 inches.
“Working with Rivian, an industry leader that is committed to sustainability is an ice cream dream come true,” added Ben & Jerry’s US Integrated Marketing project lead, Sean Slattery. “Today, Rivian helped Ben & Jerry’s reduce our reliance on fossil fuels in a small way, while making things a little bit cooler… which, as an ice cream company, is extremely difficult to do.”
BYD’s new Ling Yuan system adds a 4K drone and roof docking station.
A 20-80% charge for the drone takes only 30 minutes during driving.
The drone system will be available for ¥16,000 ($2,200) on various models.
Chinese automaker BYD has just released a new feature that feels ripped from the pages of a sci-fi movie: a roof-mounted drone docking station. It’s called the Ling Yuan system, and it promises to turn your ordinary drive into an episode of “National Geographic” — or maybe “Top Gun” if you’re feeling dramatic.
The system will cost you ¥16,000 ($2,200), but that price tag buys you a 4K drone, a sleek docking station, and the ability to capture stunning aerial footage of your daily commute.
This tech was first teased on the Yangwang U8 SUV in 2023, but the Bao 8 SUV from the Fang Cheng Bao brand is the first to actually offer it. And don’t worry, BYD isn’t just aiming this at tech geeks or those with more money than sense—they want to make this high-flying gadget accessible to a broader range of buyers. So, expect to see it rolled out across more BYD brands down the road.
A 4K Drone That Takes Off While You’re Still Driving
The Ling Yuan system was developed in collaboration with Chinese drone maker DJI. It includes a 4K drone and a docking station, covering an area of 0.29 m2 (3.1 square feet) on the roof of the vehicle. This drone hangar has an aerodynamic shape and measures 215 mm (8.5 inches) tall.
Once you press that magic button, the roof opens, and the platform lifts, letting the drone soar to the skies. And here’s where it gets really cool: You can deploy and control the drone while the car is in motion—up to 25 km/h (16 mph). Then, the drone can follow the vehicle at speeds of up to 54 km/h (34 mph) to capture the perfect footage, whether you’re cruising down a highway or navigating off-road trails.
When the filming is over, the drone returns to the roof-mounted hangar, where it automatically charges. According to the company, a 20-80% charge takes just 30 minutes, so occupants won’t have to wait long before the next flight.
The drone can be controlled directly from the vehicle’s infotainment display or via the Ling Yuan app, available for smartphones. Additionally, AI software helps organize and edit the footage, making it easier to share on your favorite social media platform.
In addition to the Yangwang U8 and Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8, other models already shown with the system on their roofs include the Fang Cheng Bao Bao 5, Titanium 3, Denza N9, BYD Tang L, and BYD Sealion 07 DM-i. This list is expected to grow in the future as more models are added.
At this point, it’s unclear whether the Ling Yuan system will make its way outside of China. But hey, if you’ve been dreaming of filming your next road trip from the air in your BYD SUV, you might just have to pack your bags for a little international adventure.
Volvo has unveiled its ES90 midsize electric liftback sedan.
Top versions get 671 hp and can reach 62 mph in 4 seconds.
The bigger 102 kWh available battery can cover 435 miles.
Volvo is best known for its SUVs these days, but this week it revealed the ES90, showing that its electric tech can works just as well, and look even more stylish, in a traditional midsize sedan.
Designed to take on the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE among other options, the 5m-long (196.9 inches) ES90 arguably looks far better than both, with a strong chin, clean surfaces and a sporty fastback shape. Though it presents as a sedan, it has a practical liftback – but comes up short on trunk space next to the BMW.
Where it shouldn’t come up short is in interior room, particularly for those in the back. The 3.1 mm (122.1 inches) wheelbase is more than 100 mm (4 inches) longer than the BMW’s, and the Volvo also wins the range war.
While the leggiest i5 can only return 356 miles (573 km) on a full charge of its 81 kWh battery, the rangiest ES90’s 102 kWh power pack can take it 435 miles (700 km) in one go. Dual-motor versions get the larger battery and single-motor models make do with a smaller 88 kWh unit that can still deliver 404 miles (650 km) before needing a top-up.
Charging? No Problem
Unlike the EX90 SUV, the ES90 has 800-volt electrics, can handle 350 kW inputs (the i5 only takes 250 kW) and add 186 miles (300 km) of range in 10 minutes. A small frunk provides space for cable storage, again something the i5 doesn’t offer.
The lineup start with the 328 hp (333 PS / 245 kW) Single Motor Extended Range, which costs £69,650 in the UK and can reach 62 mph (100 kmh) in 6.9 seconds. A 443 hp (449 PS / 330 kW) Twin Motor drops the 62 time to 5.5 seconds for £83,250, but for only £4,600 more the the flagship Twin Motor Performance provides 671 hp (680 PS / 500 kW) and does the run in 4.0 seconds flat. All three are limited to 112 mph (180 kmh).
A High-Tech Cabin
Inside, the ES90 features a 9.0-inch digital instrument tablet, a large 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen with built-in Google tech and light-colored Scandi decor and materials to maximize the sense of space. The sedans come equipped with Lidar for autonomous semi-driving prominently mounted above the windshield, but it won’t be functional until later in the model’s life.
Alpine has released images showing its A390 testing near the Arctic.
First interior picture reveals same steering wheel as A290 hot hatch.
The Porsche Macan Electric rival makes its global debut on May 27.
Bouyed by a Car of the Year win for its A290 hot hatch, Alpine is building up a buzz about the next car in its reinvention plan. The Renault performance division just dropped a load of images of the A390 crossover undergoing winter tests ahead of a May 27 reveal.
Our own scoop photographers have snapped disguised A390 prototypes before, but never in such detail. These official shots give us up-close views of the aero bridge at the front end, showing how air is drawn in between the horizontal light bar and Alpine lettering and spat out across the sunken hood.
They also show the spine running across the hood and roof, the LED taillight design, the small trunk lip spoiler and give us our first glimpse of the A390’s cockpit. The single interior image reveal a chunky flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel that appears identical to the one on the little A290, which takes inspiration from Alpine’s F1 car.
In addition to the usual spoke buttons for cruise control, volume and voice control functions it features three switches designed to help you tailor the driving experience. A red button marked OV for ‘overtake’ on top of the right spoke and activated with a thumb press operates the power boost function (though on the A290 you can also get the same response by kicking the throttle past the detent).
There’s a five-setting Drive mode button slung underneath the same spoke and, below the opposite one, a rotary dial to tweak the amount of regenerative braking. Just visible in the footwell in the background is a pair of sporty metal pedals, but annoyingly we can’t make out the shape of the dashboard or see the screens or seats.
These pictures also give us our first look at the the torque-vectoring capabilities of the A390’s triple-motor setup, many of the shots showcasing the crossover’s oversteering capabilities, which bodes well for its chances of giving the Porsche Macan Electric a run for its money.
Dimensions released by Alpine tell us that the 4,615 mm (181.7 inches) long A390 is a little shorter, narrower and lower than the more SUV-shaped Macan, but the Alpine claims it will offer room for five passengers.
Cadillac has introduced the 2026 Escalade IQL, which is 4.2 inches longer than the standard model.
While a lot carries over, the luxury SUV has unique rear pillars and a more upright rear window.
Sporting a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 750 hp, the IQL can travel 460 miles on a charge.
The Cadillac Escalade lineup is growing literally and figuratively as the American luxury brand has unveiled the 2026 Escalade IQL. It’s a stretched version of the large electric SUV and pricing starts at $132,695.
Costing thousands more than the regular model, the Escalade IQL follows in the footsteps of the standard EV but spans an additional 4.2 inches (107 mm). At 228.5 inches (5,803 mm) overall, it’s 1.5 inches (38 mm) longer than the gas-powered Escalade ESV (227 inches / 5,766 mm), making it one of the longest production vehicles on the market. Since the wheelbase remains unchanged at 136.2 inches (3,460 mm), most of the added room benefits third-row passengers
This promises to make the power folding third-row adult-friendly as legroom climbs from 32.3 inches (820 mm) to 36.7 inches (932 mm). Rear seat occupants will also find an extra inch (25 mm) of headroom. If you’re more interested in hauling cargo, you’ll find up to 125.2 cubic feet (3,546 liters) of room behind the first row. That’s up from 119.2 cubic feet (3,375 liters) in the standard model.
The Usual Escalade Interior Charm, With a Few Twists
Aside from the extra length, it’s pretty much a typical Escalade IQ. However, the C- and D-pillar treatment is unique to the IQL and customers will find more expansive third-quarter glass. The rear liftgate also appears more upright as it eschews the angular design found on the regular model.
While there are a surprising number of styling changes, the front end carries over and the SUV rides on massive 24-inch wheels. The model is also notable for featuring an eTrunk, which can hold an additional 12.2 cubic feet (345 liters) of luggage.
Interior changes are less dramatic as there will be Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury, and Premium Sport trims with their usual equipment. Cadillac didn’t go into many specifics, but noted drivers will find Super Cruise, a 21-speaker AKG Studio audio system, and an expansive 55-inch pillar-to-pillar display. They should be joined by heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. Other niceties should include a wireless smartphone charger, a five-zone climate control system, and an LED ambient lighting system.
Those getting chauffeured will want to opt for the available Executive Second Row package. It features two heated, ventilated, and massaging power seats that are separated by a console with stowable tray tables, a rear command center, and dual wireless phone charging pads. The package also includes dual 12.6-inch displays to keep passengers entertained.
Power and Range: It’s Got Plenty of Both
Power comes from a 205 kWh battery pack, which feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing up to 750 hp (559 kW / 760 PS) and 785 lb-ft (1,063 Nm) of torque. This enables the luxury barge to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.7 seconds and travel an estimated 460 miles (740 km) on a single charge.
When the battery is low, a DC fast charger can deliver up to 116 miles (187 km) of range in as little as 10 minutes. With a 19.2 kW AC charger, expect to get about 36 miles (58 km) of range per hour.
Production is slated to begin towards the middle of the year and Cadillac noted the model should be able to tow up to 7,500 lbs (3,402 kg). Customers can also look forward to an Air Ride Adaptive suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and a vehicle-to-home bidirectional charging capability.
Mercedes has released a handful of details about the fully electric GLC with EQ Technology.
The crossover is slated to have advanced batteries and an 800-volt architecture.
The model will also have a standard heat pump, efficient motors, and a new braking system.
Mercedes is previewing the upcoming GLC with EQ Technology by releasing official ‘spy photos’ and a few initial details. The model succeeds the EQC and promises to be a “significant milestone for Mercedes-Benz.”
While the company was coy on specifics, the electric crossover aims to set “new benchmarks in performance, range, efficiency and charging speed, while maintaining … the exceptional versatility and practicality that GLC customers expect.” In order to achieve this, the model has an 800-volt architecture as well as DC fast charging rates in excess of 320 kW. The latter figure is pretty impressive as the Cadillac Optiq maxes out at 150 kW.
Besides premium charging technology, the GLC promises to have advanced batteries with a special cell chemistry. The automaker didn’t go into many details, but said the cells “utilize anodes with silicon oxide blended into graphite, achieving exceptionally high gravimetric energy density.” This suggests we can expect relatively small and lightweight batteries that deliver plenty of range.
Mercedes was tight-lipped about performance specifications, but noted the rear drive unit was developed entirely in-house. The company went on to say that all-wheel drive models have a “powerful” front drive unit that can be “swiftly engaged or disengaged” as needed. This should help to increase efficiency, while still providing all-weather traction.
Speaking of efficiency, the GLC with EQ Technology has a new braking system that combines the brake booster, master cylinder, and the electronic stability control system into a compact module that provides a “confident brake pedal feel that delivers precise and consistent feedback.” Besides being smaller, the new system optimizes brake energy recuperation and this helps to extend the crossover’s range.
A heat pump also comes standard and, when it comes to heating the interior, it uses approximately one-third of the energy of a comparable electric heater. Mercedes when on to note it can “simultaneously harness three energy sources: waste heat from the electric-drive unit, waste heat from the battery, and ambient air.” The automaker added it “effectively cools in the summer and heats in the winter.”
The Trump administration has hit goods from Canada and Mexico with a 25% tariff.
Canada quickly responded with a 25% tariff on a variety of products including motorcycles and alcohol.
The Canadian government will ramp up the pressure and eventually target American-made EVs.
President Trump’s trade war has arrived and it’s already having huge repercussions as stock markets are plummeting and retaliatory tariffs are going into effect. This means businesses and consumers will lose, on both sides of the border.
Starting in the United States, the Trump administration has targeted products from Canada and Mexico with a 25% tariff. It will “remain in effect until such time as drugs, in particular fentanyl, and all illegal aliens stop this invasion of our country.”
The White House went on to claim that Trump was “implementing tariffs on Canada and Mexico under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to combat the extraordinary threat to U.S. national security, including our public health posed by unchecked drug trafficking.” The administration also pointed to a “sustained influx of illegal aliens,” which are “overwhelming our schools, lowering our wages, reducing our housing supply and raising rents, overcrowding our hospitals, draining our welfare system, and causing crime.”
Canada wasted no time in responding as the government said it would “not stand by as the United States imposes unwarranted and unreasonable tariffs on Canadian goods.” As part of this effort, a 25% tariff has been applied immediately to a list of goods worth $20.7 billion ($30 billion CAD).
The moment U.S. tariffs came into effect this morning, so did the Canadian response.
Canada will be implementing 25% tariffs against $155 billion of American products.
Starting with $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and the remaining $125 billion in 21 days’ time.
The list includes 1,256 items including “orange juice, peanut butter, wine, spirits, beer, coffee, appliances, apparel, footwear, motorcycles, cosmetics, and certain pulp and paper products.” Also included are pasta, firearms, and maple sugar / maple syrup.
It’s a long list and it will grow to $106.7 billion ($155 billion CAD) worth of goods if the United States maintains their tariffs on Canadian goods. Targeted items would expand to include electric vehicles, trucks, and buses. Other affected products would include fruits and vegetables, electronics, aluminum, and steel.
The Canadian government went on to note all options are on the table and they’re considering “additional measures.” These could include “non-tariff options,” designed to punish the United States.
Canada called the White House’s claims non-sense as “less than 1 percent of fentanyl and illegal crossings into the United States come from Canada.” The government also noted the tariffs will have “devastating consequences for the American economy and people” as they’ll “pay more at grocery stores and gas pumps, and potentially lose thousands of jobs.”
Officials went on to note “Canada is the top customer for U.S. goods and services … buying more U.S. goods than China, Japan, France and the United Kingdom combined.” The country is also the top export market for 36 U.S. states and 43 states export over $1 billion ($1.5 billion CAD) to Canada every year.
Aside from the official government response, Chrystia Freeland, a Member of the House of Commons and a candidate to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, repeated her threat to hit Tesla with a 100% tariff. She also told MSNBC that Canada could go after other companies affiliated with Elon Musk such as Starlink.
Mexico’s response was muted in comparison, but President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo said the country will have more to say on March 9. She also claimed that Mexico has taken major steps to address Trump’s concerns in the past 30 days.
Con motivo de la imposición de aranceles a México por parte del gobierno de Estados Unidos, la presidenta Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo anuncia que este domingo 9 de marzo a las 12:00 hrs en el Zócalo informará al pueblo las medidas que tomará nuestro país.
Es tiempo de la unidad y de la defensa de México.
Mercedes’s AMG’s all-electric SUV flagship has been spied during winter tests.
The EV will battle the Lotus Eletre, Porsche K1 and Bentley’s upcoming crossover.
Under the skin is an AMG.EA platform that’ll also form the base for the next 4dr GT.
Slower than expected EV sales have forced both Porsche and Mercedes to renew their commitment to combustion powertrains, but that strategy shift won’t prevent the two companies delivering a couple of new electric flagships. And our spy photo team has just snapped AMG’s contender taking part in winter tests ahead of next year’s debut.
AMG released a ‘spy’ shot of its own and a brief video last December, both taken at the company’s test track. But this latest set of images show the electric super-SUV testing for real in northern Europe and give us a better chance to see the EV from multiple angles.
Like Ferrari’s V12-powered Purosangue, the unnamed electric AMG is more of a crossover than an SUV. It has a relatively low roofline, modest ground clearance, narrow glasshouse and a sporty rake to its rear window. Unlike the AMG-badged GLS63, the most expensive SUV in the company’s current lineup, the EV should only have room for two rows of seats.
Every one of the AMG SUVs you can buy today is a pumped-up version of a regular Mercedes product, but this one will be unique to AMG and was developed in-house at Affalterbach. It should measure around 5.1 meters (200 inches) in length, and offer plenty of room thanks to a circa-3 m (118 inches) wheelbase.
This prototype has placeholder lights at the rear and the fronts are shielded by camouflage but still give us a glimpse of the star motif DRLs below. It’s possible that rather than being built into a traditional cluster the individual light elements could be set directly into the bodywork, as seen on 2022’s Mercedes Vision AMG concept.
That concept previewed a Porsche Taycan-rivalling successor to the four-door AMG GT which will be built on the same AMG.EA platform as the SUV and share battery and motor tech. Fast charging courtesy of 800-volt electrics means fill-ups will be brief, as will zero to 60 mph (97 kmh) runs if the rumours of more than 1,000 hp (1,014 PS / 746 kW) are true. And we’re sure they are.
Mercedes-AMG could debut the SUV in 2026 with sales starting in 2027, which would potentially put it on the street fractionally ahead of its Porsche K1 rival.
Several Tesla Supercharger stations burned up overnight in Littleton, Massachusetts.
Authorities are investigating the fire as a targeted arson case against the EV brand.
This marks the third arson case targeting Tesla-branded products within a single week.
Some electric vehicle owners may be in for an unpleasant surprise when they pull up to charge today only to find their intended station reduced to a charred wreck. That’s the unfortunate situation at the Tesla Supercharger station in Littleton, Massachusetts, where at least seven stalls were torched overnight. Authorities are now investigating the incident as an act of arson.
“Chief Matthew Pinard reports that the Littleton Police Department responded to and is investigating fires at a Tesla charging station at The Point Shopping Center that are believed to be suspicious in nature,” local officials told ABC News. “Responding officers observed that several Tesla charging stations were engulfed in flames and heavy, dark smoke.”
Authorities have made it clear that they suspect arson. “The Littleton Police and Fire Departments, along with the Massachusetts State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, are investigating and have determined that the fire was likely intentionally set,” they confirmed. This is an important detail, especially since Tesla has provided additional context that aligns with that conclusion.
While fires at electric vehicle or charging stations can happen, they’re extremely rare, and are typically the result of a thermal event caused by a faulty connection between a vehicle and charger. In this case, however, Tesla confirmed that no cars were plugged in at the time. Impressively, the company says the station will be fully operational again in less than 48 hours.
No customers were charging at time of the fire. Posts & wire will be replaced in <48hrs. Critical infrastructure for EV drivers. Arson investigation ongoing with @LittletonMAPD.
Interestingly, Tesla does seem to have a fast turnaround when things like this happen. When vandals attacked chargers about a week ago, the team said it would fix the issue within a day and press charges. Perhaps it’ll do the same if police find a suspect for the fires in Massachusetts.
Sadly, this marks the third arson attack in just a week. In Colorado, police caught a suspect with explosives and incendiary devices near a Tesla dealership—though, thankfully, no fires were set. In France, however, things took a darker turn. Police believe someone set fire to at least a dozen cars at a service center overnight on Sunday, including customer vehicles that were there for repairs.
Kia plans to sell 1.6 million BEVs globally by 2030, aiming to expand market share.
The entry-level EV could use the Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform for efficiency.
The future EV1 may rival the VW ID.2, targeting a price below €25,000 for affordability.
It’s only been a few days since Kia unveiled the EV2 Concept, giving us a preview of its new small electric SUV slated for 2026. Yet, already, the company is eyeing an even smaller EV. Details are still scarce, but this upcoming model might share the compact stature of the Kia Picanto and could debut as a concept early next year.
After the EV2’s reveal at Kia’s EV Day in Tarragona, Spain, CEO Ho Sung Song made it clear that the brand needs an electric vehicle that’s not only smaller, but also cheaper. This new model could be dubbed the EV1, and while General Motors may not be too happy Kia is using that name, the American company hasn’t held the EV1 trademark for several years.
Kia has grand ambitions, as it wants to sell 1.6 million EVs globally by 2030. The company also targets a starting price of around €30,000 (~$31,400) for the EV2 in Europe. A cheaper and smaller EV will allow them to capture more “late majority” customers, following the “early majority” adopters who are expected to buy the EV2.
“I think the EV2’s major target is early majority customers,” he told Auto News. “But if we want to move to the late majority customer target, we definitely need a lower size and a lower price. We are internally studying what will be our entry EV product, apart from the EV2. And maybe at the next EV Day, we will show you.”
If Kia does intend to make it roughly the same size as a Picanto, it’ll likely need to use an even smaller version of the E-GMP platform and probably a smaller battery. Kia’s current EVs are sold in single- and dual-motor guises, but given that the EV1 could cost under €25,000 ($26,000), or roughly the same as the planned VW ID.2, there’s little chance of it being offered with a twin motor setup.
Xiaomi’s president confirms plans to sell EVs globally, but won’t launch in the USA.
The SU7 and YU7 EVs have been well-received in China, fueling the brand’s ambitions.
Business preparation for international sales includes researching regional market needs.
Xiaomi has made global headlines with its impressive SU7 and YU7 EVs. Up until now, however, the technology giant has only been selling its cars in China but the company president has confirmed they are working to sell their cars internationally.
While speaking at the ongoing Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, Xiaomi president William Lu said the firm is working on entering global markets but failed to divulge too many details about its plans.
“I cannot share too many details, but I am so excited to tell our global users that Xiaomi will be releasing EVs for the sale in global markets within the next few years,” he revealed to CNBC.
Several new EV brands out of China have ventured into overseas markets in recent years, and that is the goal for Xiaomi. However, it won’t be easy to develop and manufacture cars for the requirements of several different market regions. As it stands, Xiaomi only has to worry about complying with Chinese standards.
According to a report from China in December, Xiaomi has been creating business preparation groups to begin research on overseas sales. CNEVPost believes the carmaker could first launch in a handful of countries to test market response in preparation for broader, larger-scale rollouts of its vehicles. Given how popular BYD has become in markets outside of China, it’s not far-fetched to say that Xiaomi wants to replicate this success, especially considering how well the SU7 and YU7 have been received in its home market.
Xiaomi captured the media’s attention late last week when it announced that the new SU7 Ultra will start at ¥529,000 or less than $73,000. That’s an extraordinarily competitive price when you consider the EV has three electric motors churning out 1,527 hp, way more power than the 1,019 hp Porsche Taycan Turbo GT that starts at ¥1,998,000 locally, or the equivalent of around $274,000.
Genesis will sell the GV90 with both standard and suicide rear doors.
It’s unclear if all markets will get the coach doors shown here.
The new Genesis EV may use the same 110 kWh battery pack as the Hyundai Ioniq 9.
Our spy photographers snapped the all-electric GV90 undergoing winter testing in Europe last month, with the prototype looking fairly conventional, largely resembling other Genesis models. However, a far more intriguing tester has just been snapped in South Korea, fitted with rear suicide doors.
The red prototype in question was spotted on the back of a flatbed under a lot of camouflage and cladding. It’s rocking sporty gloss black wheels unlike other prototypes we’ve seen in the past, and had Genesis done a better job of covering up some of the bodywork, it may have been able to hide the fact it has suicide doors.
The most obvious giveaway is the door handles at the very front of the rear doors, much like you’ll find on a Rolls-Royce Phantom. Genesis engineers have also left part of the opening mechanism on full display.
As we’ve now seen the GV90 testing with conventional rear doors and these coach doors, it seems inevitable that both options will be available. What’s unclear is if the suicide doors will be an option across the entire GV90 line-up or if perhaps they will be only available on the most luxurious trim level. We also don’t know if all markets will receive the option of these doors, but we suspect some major markets will miss out.
Genesis is building the GV90 as a three-row SUV and may offer it in six- and seven-seat configurations. A six-seater, complete with a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row, could be the perfect candidate for suicide doors.
Underpinning all GV90 models will be the Hyundai Motor Group’s tried and tested E-GMP platform, much like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9, with which the GV90 will share many components. It may come standard with the same 110 kWh battery pack as the Hyundai and Carscoops suspects all versions will be sold with twin electric motors and all-wheel drive as standard.
The BYD Dolphin rival uses a 134 hp electric motor and 34-44 kWh battery packs.
The flagship model offers up to 260 miles (420 km) of range on a single charge.
It features a 14.6-inch infotainment screen and a Level 2 driver-assist system.
When the GAC Aion UT was officially unveiled last November, expectations were modest, if not downright skeptical. After all, it’s entering a crowded market where established players like BYD and MG have already set the bar for affordable EVs. But surprise, surprise: not only is the Aion UT here, but it’s also cheaper than we thought.
Originally pegged to start around $13,800 in China, this little electric contender can now be had for as low as ¥69,800 (about $9,600 at current exchange rates), with the top-spec model ringing in at ¥101,800 (~$14,000). If you’re keeping track, that’s well below the price of many used cars, let alone a brand-new EV.
Given the car’s low price, one may expect it to be void of any creature comforts, offer no performance, and have a very limited range. But as Chinese automakers have consistently shown in recent years, they’ve mastered the art of packing affordable EVs with decent range and technology features. In the case of the Aion UT, it will be offered with 34.8 kWh and 44 kWh battery packs, the latter of which is offered in 44.257 kWh, 44.12 kWh, and 44.133 kWh configurations.
GAC claims the car can cover up to 205 miles (330 km) on a single charge in base trim and up to 260 miles (420 km) in the flagship version. While China’s testing cycle tends to be quite generous, to say the least, GAC cites a combined consumption rate of 11.4 kWh/100 km. The battery packs charge from 30% to 80% in as little as 24 minutes, and power is supplied by a 134-hp electric motor.
The design of the Aion UT could be best described as cute. It’s available in a range of vibrant colors paired with contrasting white roofs, giving it a playful, almost cheerful vibe. The front end features soft, rounded headlights with integrated LED DRLs, plus four extra LED driving lights on the bumper—reminiscent of those old Kia Cerato models that tried too hard but kind of nailed it. The base version comes with 16-inch wheels, though higher-spec trims will step up to 17-inch alloys.
The cabin is impressively equipped, considering the car’s price point. All Aion UT models come standard with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, and a voice assistant. It also includes Level 2 driver-assistance capabilities, in-built WiFi, a panoramic sunroof, and supports over-the-air software updates.
The new model will be based on the Van Electric Architecture platform.
Production version will use an 800-volt electrical architecture.
Flagship models are set to have over 311 miles (500 km) of range.
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the name of the concept previewing the next-generation Vito and V-Class vans. Called the Vision V, it was first teased in December and is expected to be unveiled this year, ahead of the new range of electric vans hitting the market in 2026.
They also dropped another teaser, but unfortunately, it doesn’t reveal much. We can see a large Mercedes-Benz emblem and a Vision V badge, likely positioned on the rear of the van. At the top are red LEDs, which probably form part of the concept vehicle’s taillights.
According to the German brand, “the Vision V show car is Mercedes-Benz Vans’ vision of seamlessly combining generous space with maximum exclusivity.” According to the company, it will combine “traditionally crafted materials” with “hyper-modern, tech-savvy design elements that are as stylish as they are unexpected.”
Underpinning the Vision V is the new scalable Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) that’ll give the brand the flexibility to create entry-level family-focused versions, VIP shuttles, and “spacious and luxurious limousines.”
Based on a teaser from last year that showcased the silhouette of the Vision V, we know the vehicle will have a familiar van shape. Of course, this isn’t much of a surprise, as you can’t exactly revolutionize the shape of a van without turning it into a different kind of vehicle.
All future electric vans inspired by this concept will feature an 800-volt electrical architecture and be offered in single and dual-motor configurations. Mercedes-Benz has promised flagship variants will be able to travel over 311 miles (500 km) on a single charge and initially launch with Level 2 self-driving systems. Both Level 3 and Level 4-equipped models will hit the market at a later date.
The new Jeep Compass shows more skin in teasers ahead of its global debut.
It has been confirmed that production of the SUV will begin in Italy this year.
However, the North American launch of the Jeep Compass might be delayed.
Stellantis has dropped a few more teasers of the new-generation Jeep Compass, revealing that it will make its global debut in Europe this spring.
European production of the revamped Compass will begin later this year at the Melfi plant in Italy, a detail confirmed to Carscoops by Stellantis spokesperson Lou Ann Gosselin last month. Meanwhile, production at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Canada has been put on hold as Stellantis rethinks its product strategy for North America.
More Changes on the Horizon for Jeep
In addition to the initial teaser showing the Compass’ profile, Jeep has now unveiled more design details. The SUV will retain its iconic seven-slot grille, paired with a set of boxier headlights—an homage to the Jeep Recon, though these headlights are a bit slimmer here. The updated taillights feature sharp LED graphics that follow the contours of the rear shoulders.
The new Compass will ride on Stellantis’ STLA Medium architecture, which it shares with several other models, including the Peugeot 3008/5008, Opel Grandland, DS 7, and the upcoming Citroen C5 Aircross. The Compass will offer a variety of powertrain options, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric versions, with all-wheel drive available on certain trims.
Stellantis promises the new Compass will offer “affordable Jeep capability, best-in-class performance, and state-of-the-art technology.” As with other SUVs in the Stellantis family, we can expect the latest in connectivity and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) from their parts bin.
But unlike some of its more mainstream counterparts, the Compass is likely to lean into its adventurous roots, sporting bolder interior accents—think along the lines of the smaller Jeep Avenger.
Launch Timeline Still in Flux
While the European launch is set for the second half of 2025, the timing for the Compass’ arrival in North America remains unclear. There are rumors that Stellantis may reconsider launching the electric version in the United States and Canada, which could push the release back by as much as a year.
As we get closer to its spring debut, more details about the new Jeep Compass are sure to surface. In the meantime, it seems North America will have to play the waiting game a little longer.
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