We broke the news on Kosmera’s big debut last week and now the company has revealed they’re actually bringing two cars to CES. While we’ve already seen the Porsche-esque sedan or liftback, the company also announced plans to show a “new energy hypercar.”

The startup isn’t saying much at this point, but promised the model will “blend classic supercar heritage with next-generation technology.” They went on to say both vehicles will be “stunning to behold, thrilling to drive, and exhilarating to enjoy.”

More: A Mystery Brand Called Kosmera Is Coming To CES

That’s not a lot to go on, but the teaser image suggests the hypercar will have a prominent grille that gives off Alfa Romeo and Bugatti vibes. We can also see curvaceous fenders, a sloping roof, and a sizeable rear spoiler.

The company added the car will have a high-performance powertrain that produces up to 469 hp (350 kW / 476 PS) per wheel. This means we’re looking at a combined output of up to 1,877 hp (1,400 kW / 1,903 PS).

Kosmera went on to say we can expect a nearly 1:1 power-to-weight ratio as well as a high-tech chassis that uses “aerospace-grade composites” as well as 3D-printed metals. This is said to give the hypercar “exceptional torsional stiffness.”

We can also expect an AI Coach, which is designed to turn normal drivers into experts on the track. As part of this effort, the car will apparently use an augmented reality heads-up display to show drivers the ideal racing line.

Kosmera added the model will have a “revolutionary active linear motor suspension system, which is planned to seamlessly transition between a smooth ‘zero-sensation’ ride and a rigid, race-ready chassis setup.” It will be accompanied by a mysterious “dual-steering-wheel unlock mechanism,” which provides further adaptability.

Before you get too excited, the models are being referred to as prototypes and static display vehicles, which will showcase the company’s exterior and interior design chops. These are intended to compete in the premium segment, although the company didn’t mention production plans or availability.

There’s another caveat. It’s unlikely that the cars will be offered stateside as we’ve previously discovered the Kosmera name was trademarked by China’s Xing Chen Future Automotive Technology Co Ltd. This suggests the closest Americans will get to seeing one of these vehicles will be at CES.

A new report has put the spotlight on a troubling pattern of fatal crashes in the US involving Teslas, where passengers were unable to open the doors, trapping them inside. As the brand’s EVs grow more common on American roads, so too does scrutiny over their safety features, or in this case, the lack of physical fail-safes in the event of a crash.

Read: Tesla Sued Again After Doors Wouldn’t Open As Car Burned

The investigation zeroes in on Tesla’s electronic door handles, a signature design feature that has since been adopted by several other automakers, raising concerns about an industry-wide trend toward software-dependent safety mechanisms.

During an ongoing investigation into safety concerns about these door handles, Bloomberg found evidence that at least 15 people have died in the past decade in incidents involving Teslas where locked or inoperable doors were cited as a potential factor in the victims’ inability to escape.

More than half of those deaths occurred within the past year, suggesting the issue may be becoming more common, or at least more visible, as awareness grows.

Behind the Numbers

The report acknowledges a critical limitation. There is no publicly maintained federal database that tracks fatalities specifically linked to electronic door handle malfunctions. As a result, the findings aren’t meant to represent a definitive or exhaustive total.

Instead, Bloomberg built its list by reviewing every known fatal electric vehicle crash involving fire in the US, then analyzing whether evidence suggested that the doors could not be opened either by occupants or emergency responders.

In each of the 15 cases they flagged, nonfunctional door handles were cited as having “impeded either the occupants’ efforts to escape or rescuers’ attempts to save those inside the vehicle.”

One such incident happened in Virginia, where a Tesla Model 3 skidded off a snowy highway, hit a tree, and caught fire. Footage from inside the patrol car shows that the officer was unable to open the Model 3’s door, forcing him to bash open one of the windows and pull out the driver.

Audio from the Wreckage

One fatal crash occurred in Wisconsin last year, killing five people inside a Tesla Model S. Audio from three 911 calls was later obtained, including one placed automatically by an occupant’s Apple Watch.

At least two of the occupants can be heard screaming and crying for help in the recordings, with one clearly saying, “I’m stuck” as the fire spread through the vehicle, ultimately claiming their lives. It remains unclear whether the other three victims survived the initial impact before the blaze took over.

Tesla Responds to Design Concerns

Tesla, for its part, appears to have quietly acknowledged the concerns in part. In September, reports surfaced that the company was exploring revisions to its door handle system. Future models may include a combination of electronic and manual release mechanisms, something already standard in brands like Audi and Lexus.

Perhaps eager to reassure shoppers about the safety of its vehicles, Tesla recently launched a new page on its website focused purely on safety. There, the company explains that its vehicles are designed to automatically activate hazard lights and unlock doors in the event of a serious collision. It also notes that the vehicle can contact emergency services autonomously.

However, Tesla also includes a key disclaimer: these features “may not be available in all regions or for all vehicles based on build date.”

While Tesla appears to be making some moves to address the issue in the future, questions still remain, not just about the company’s design choices, but also about the regulatory landscape and the lack of clear oversight. The analysis doesn’t claim that electronic door handles are inherently unsafe, but it does point to the need for more reliable fail-safes in situations where delays can be deadly.

General Motors is looking to the future and planning ahead. Some of its biggest targets surround software innovation, EV profitability, and autonomy. To help make those goals a reality, it has brought in Sterling Anderson, a former Tesla executive and Aurora co-founder with a strong track record in exactly those areas.

If he manages to lead GM to success in those targets, he could very well be the next CEO of the entire brand.

Read: GM’s Mary Barra Promises Cleaner Engines, But Looser Rules Fuel More Gas Guzzlers

Anderson officially joined the team in June of 2025, and according to people familiar with the matter, he did so with the CEO’s chair in mind. That’s according to Bloomberg, which also received official comment from GM stating that no succession plan is currently in place.

Anderson himself also declined to engage in CEO chatter, saying his focus remains squarely on his current responsibilities. “My focus is on what I’m doing. I’ve got plenty work to do where I am,” he said.

Succession Speculation Inside GM

Current GM CEO, Mary Barra, turns 64 soon and is under no obligation to hang it up. GM President Mark Reuss, 62, is also very much in the mix, underscoring that Anderson’s potential rise, if it happens at all, is likely years away.

That all said, Anderson could make all the sense in the world if he really does manage to successfully help GM achieve EV profitability while pushing its software and autonomy far ahead of where they stand today.

Anderson is 42 and before GM, he was chief product officer at Aurora Innovation, where he helped steer the company away from robotaxis toward fully autonomous freight trucks now operating in Texas. Before that, he led development of Tesla’s Model X and played a major role in the early Autopilot system.

From Tesla to Trucks

He ultimately left Tesla following disagreements over how Autopilot was being developed and deployed, a technology that has since drawn scrutiny from federal safety regulators. So far, his strategy at GM has been to listen first and change later. 

As he put it, “You simply cannot afford to break a company and hope to pull the pieces back together. What you want to do, and what I told Mark was my intent, is understand how it works and then start to surgically make changes across the company to where they needed to be made. And that’s been the attack, that’s been the approach.” 

Expect several changes over time, including more software subscriptions, SuperCruise-style autonomy taking on urban environments, and changes to EV supply chains and materials. If those changes lead to success over time, he could be the next person at the top of one of the nation’s largest automakers.

Source: Bloomberg

When Huawei partnered with JAC to launch the Maextro S800, few took the brand’s aim of challenging Maybach and Rolls-Royce at face value. For a new Chinese marque to set its sights on the pinnacle of automotive luxury seemed like a stretch.

One year on, it’s Maextro that has the last word. Their flagship sedan has become China’s best-selling vehicle priced above $100,000.

More: New Ultra-Luxury Sedan For The People Gives Rolls-Royce A Run For Its Money

Until recently, foreign automakers had a firm grip on China’s high-end car market. That grip has loosened. Local buyers are increasingly turning to domestic brands, even when shopping in the upper echelons, something that would’ve seemed far-fetched just a few years ago.

European Brands No Longer Lead the Pack

As Bloomberg reports, the Maextro S800 outsold both the Porsche Panamera and BMW 7-Series combined in November. It had already taken the top spot in September.

The S800 also surpassed the Mercedes S-Class and, somewhat ironically, the Maybach variant, despite (or perhaps because of) its resemblance to a mash-up of Maybach and Rolls-Royce.

More: The Chinese Brand That Fell On Stairs Now Aims For Le Mans Glory

Weibo user Chu Xiaomin notes that Maextro received 18,000 orders for the S800 within just 175 days of launch. The company says it’s currently selling more than 2,000 units a month and intends to ramp up production to reach 4,000 per month.

How Did Maextro Pull It Off?

A major part of the S800’s appeal is price. At 215.7 inches (5,480 mm) long, this is a proper full-size luxury sedan, yet it’s priced between ¥708,000 and ¥1,020,000 (equal to $100,600 to $144,900 at current exchange rates).

For reference, the BMW 7-Series starts at ¥919,000 ($130,000), the Porsche Panamera at ¥1.1 million ($156,200), and the Mercedes S-Class at ¥1.47 million ($208,800). A Rolls-Royce Phantom? That’ll be ¥8.47 million ($1.2 million).

But competitive pricing alone doesn’t explain its traction. The Maextro S800 is heavy on features. There’s a triple-screen dashboard, a 40-inch rear projector that turns the back seat into a private cinema, automatic doors, crystal-effect buttons, and a starlit ceiling reminiscent of Rolls-Royce.

The cabin is finished with wood and leather, and the ADAS system comes courtesy of Huawei’s tech suite.

Speaking with CCTV, Richard Yu, Chairman of Huawei’s Consumer Business Group, said: “Maextro S800 is the first time that a Chinese brand has managed to get a foothold in the 1 million yuan ultra-luxury segment. We’re in the intelligence and electrification era and we’re leading through smarter technologies and innovation.”

German Giants Lose Their Footing

Bloomberg reports that BMW, Mercedes, and Audi continue to lose market share in China, struggling to keep up with the local competition in terms of pricing and tech features. Huawei’s challenge now is to maintain this momentum, not just spark early interest.

Meanwhile, rival brand YangWang, owned by Chinese-powerhouse BYD, is also pushing into six-figure territory with models like the U8 SUV, which starts at around $150,000. It also offers the YangWang U7 sedan, positioned slightly lower between ¥628,000 and ¥708,000 ($89,200 to $100,600).

Sources: Huawei, Bloomberg

Renault wrapped up 2025 with an impressive achievement, pushing the outer limits of electric vehicle efficiency. Its ultra-aerodynamic single-seater prototype managed to cover 626 miles (1,008 km) on a single charge. Even more striking, it did so in less than 10 hours, maintaining an average speed of 102 km/h (63 mph) throughout.

More: French Carmaker Unlocks Its Secret Design Vault And The Scale Models You Can Buy Are Wild

After the run, the EV still had 11 percent of its battery charge remaining. According to the company, that would have been enough for another 75 miles (120 km) at the same average speed, potentially extending the total range to 673 miles (1,083 km).

A Prototype With Unexpected Stamina

The car in question is the Filante Record 2025, a purpose-built concept that made its first appearance back in January. Originally, Renault aimed to attempt the record in July, but meeting the aerodynamic targets proved trickier than expected.

By October, the prototype was ready. Then weather in France got in the way, delaying things again. Eventually, the team relocated to Morocco and ran the test on December 18 at the UTAC high-speed proving ground, where conditions finally cooperated.

The Renault Filante Record 2025 (above) compared to the original prototype (below).

The design draws inspiration from Renault’s past record-setters, notably the 1925 40 CV and the 1956 L’Étoile Filante. Even so, several elements from the original prototype had to be reworked in the wind tunnel to meet the strict aerodynamic targets.

More: This Renault Prototype Launches Drones And Could Save Your Life

Changes involved removing the futuristic LED lighting, reducing the number of air intakes, and refining the fender shapes. Still, key features remained intact: the extended hood, transparent canopy, aircraft-style tail, F1-style driving position, and the ultraviolet-blue paint finish all carried through to the final version.

The engineering effort went beyond just slicing through air. Renault also aimed to reduce rolling resistance and weight. To do this, the team used carbon fiber, aluminum alloys, and 3D-printed Scalmalloy components.

Michelin provided a bespoke set of low-drag tires, while the car’s steering and braking systems operated entirely by wire.

French firm Ligier handled the platform, chassis, and carbon tub, integrating an 87 kWh battery pack. For comparison, that’s the same capacity as the battery in the Scenic E-Tech, Renault’s midsize electric crossover.

The Impressive Record

On record day, three drivers rotated in and out of the single seat, covering 239 laps of the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) Moroccan circuit over 10 hours. There were no charging stops, just brief halts for technical checks and driver changes. That consistency helped maintain the 102 km/h (63 mph) average.

More: One Of Renault’s Hottest Badges May Be Coming Back Sooner Than You Think

The car posted an energy consumption figure of 7.8 kWh/100 km. That’s nearly half the official WLTP figure for the Scenic E-Tech, which uses the same battery and consumes 14.1 kWh/100 km under standard testing. And unlike those lab figures, this test was run at real-world highway speeds.

Renault developed the Filante Record 2025 not only to celebrate its legacy of record-breaking prototypes, but also to explore ways of improving efficiency in production EVs, particularly for long-distance driving.

The hope is that insights from the project will carry over to future Renault models, helping drivers spend more time on the road as advances in battery and motor technology continue to evolve.

Renault

Authorities in Kemah, a small city just southeast of Houston, will soon be cruising the streets in an American-made pickup truck, though it’s not the kind most Texans are used to seeing.

Rather than another lifted, gas-hungry behemoth, the Kemah Police Department has added a Tesla Cybertruck to its fleet. The move didn’t exactly spark hometown pride. Judging by the comments on the department’s Facebook post, locals are having a field day with the decision.

Read: Vegas Cops Just Got 10 Cybertrucks And Elon Had Nothing To Do With It

A growing number of police forces across the United States have started to add Cybertrucks to their fleets. Just a couple of months ago, police in Texas took delivery of ten highly-modified Cybertruck police cruisers built by Unplugged Performance.

A Different Kind of Cop Car

By comparison, the Cybertruck delivered to cops in Kemah looks completely standard, except for the police livery. They say that the truck was donated by Enterprise Leasing and that it will be used for testing to see if the Tesla works as a patrol vehicle.

Importantly, the police say they didn’t spend any taxpayer money on the acquisition. That hasn’t stopped residents from weighing in, many of them voicing strong opinions in the comments section of the department’s Facebook post.

What Do Texans Think?

“Lmaooo imagine the battery dying tryna chase someone,” wrote one commentor, while another posted “Y’all ain’t catching anyone in that.” There’s no word on what specify Cybertruck variant this is, but even if it’s the base model, we’re willing to bet it could easily be used to catch most motorists in Texas.

One Facebook user left this gem of a comment: “Hey guys, if anyone’s missing their refrigerator I found it, it’s having an identity crisis and is now trying to identify as a cop car.” Another wrote, “Flood waters, here we don’t come!”

One comment summed up the skepticism in classic internet style: “If that thing is chasing me, ain’t no way I’m stopping for a garbage can.”

Whether or not the Cybertruck proves practical for police work in Texas remains to be seen. The vehicle does offer notable performance and strong safety credentials, both potentially valuable in patrol scenarios. The biggest question may be around charging logistics, especially for a force built around the consistency and familiarity of combustion engines.

The all-electric BMW M3 is no longer just a concept talked about in forums or teased through obscure patents. It’s taking shape in the real world, and these latest spy shots give us the clearest view yet of BMW’s upcoming super sedan.

The idea of an all-electric M3 might ruffle a few feathers among traditionalists, but there’s little need for panic. Alongside this electric version, BMW will continue to offer a combustion-powered M3 that carries over the same twin-turbo inline-six as the current model without being fully hybridized. Purists won’t be left out in the cold.

Read: The Electric M3 Ushers In A New Era Of BMW Design

The electric version, possibly named iM3, will be built on the new i3 platform that’s set to debut next year as BMW’s reimagined electric 3-Series sedan. As with that car, the M variant will follow BMW’s Neue Klasse design philosophy.

That includes abandoning the current M3’s polarizing grille in favor of something sleeker and, arguably, more cohesive.

Stephen Hancock

Judging by the latest prototype, the headlights look close to production spec. The daytime running lights are integrated cleanly into the headlight units and line up precisely with the redesigned kidney grilles.

There’s a strong sense of alignment here, literally and visually, something that hasn’t always been a given with recent BMWs.

It’s also hard not to be taken aback by just how beefy this prototype looks. Both the front and rear wheel arches sit nice and wide, giving it an ultra-aggressive look, perfectly fitting of an M-branded model. It may not sound as good as the current M3, but it’s definitely shaping up to have just as much visual presence.

What Will Power It?

Then there’s the matter of performance. We know that BMW is developing an electric powertrain with four motors for the new model, and has said its setup can deliver up to 1,341 hp.

That said, it’s unlikely the production model will hit those numbers. BMW is expected to limit output to around 700 hp, which keeps it safely below the upcoming electric M5 and maintains a performance hierarchy within the lineup.

Even so, with that kind of power it would comfortably outpace the next-generation combustion M3, which is projected to land somewhere near 550 hp. That performance edge could be a major talking point once both cars hit the road.

One key tradeoff will be weight. Spy shots from earlier this year suggest the electric M3 could come in as much as 465 kg, or 1,025 lbs, heavier than the current petrol version. That’s a significant increase, and how BMW balances that extra mass with chassis tuning will be crucial to the car’s driving character.

Stephen Hancock

It’s always a shame when something rare goes up in smoke. That’s evidently what just happened in Uganda. According to circulating reports, a Tesla Cybertruck rolled while tearing around a local dirt race track, leaving it in a mangled state with little hope for recovery.

If the accounts are accurate, this electric pickup isn’t just rare in the African nation. It was the country’s only Cybertruck, privately imported and likely the pride of its owner until now.

More: Cybertruck Nails Crash Tests Until The Lights Go Out

Footage of the incident popped up on social media late last week, and while details are sparse, we can see the crash and the aftermath.

The video shows the truck approaching a left-hand turn, possibly cutting the corner a little too hard. Whether it was a berm on the inner side of the bend or just the weight of a huge vehicle trying to navigate a tight turn at high speed, the result is the same.

The Cybertruck rolls hard to the right, onto its side, then onto its roof, and finally it comes to rest on the driver’s side. So far, no confirmed details about the owner have been released.

Reddit

Previous reports suggest the truck was privately imported by a wealthy individual, but no local authorities, event organizers, or the owner themselves have stepped forward publicly.

Based on photos and videos of the aftermath, it’s clear that the truck will need significant repairs if it’s ever going to get back on the road. Just about every piece of glass is broken. The roof is crumpled to a degree and plenty of the plastic bits are damaged beyond repair.

Since Uganda doesn’t have any Tesla dealers, it’ll be interesting to see if there’s any route to salvaging the truck. It might end up being cheaper to just import another one.

The site of the crash, Garuga Race Track, located near Lake Victoria, is often used for casual motorsport events and recreational driving rather than professional racing. While most photos available of the track online show motorcycles, it’s clear that some vehicles, mostly rally-focused ones, have used the course.

Surface conditions, speed, and driver inputs remain unknown, and there has been no official statement explaining exactly what caused the rollover. Hopefully, everyone walked away without significant injury.

Credit: ClaudeVille1

Hyundai is gearing up to unveil what it calls “the world premiere of its biggest EV yet” at the Brussels Motor Show on January 9. Billed as a major new entry in the company’s global lineup, the model is expected to go larger than the Ioniq 9 crossover, although for now, that’s just about all Hyundai is officially saying.

A single teaser image provides the only visual clue. Still, it strongly suggests what many have already guessed: an all-electric version of the futuristic-looking Staria minivan.

More: Hyundai Gave Its Futuristic Minivan A Makeover Where It Matters Most

Just last week, Hyundai revealed a facelifted Staria with modest design tweaks, upgraded chassis components, and larger interior screens. The silhouette in the teaser closely matches this refreshed gas-powered version, reinforcing the theory that the EV shares its roots with the Staria platform.

If so, the upcoming reveal in Europe will mark the first public debut of the Staria Electric, roughly a year after a prototype was spotted in South Korea.

Built for High-Voltage Power

Hyundai isn’t starting from scratch here. The Staria-based Iveco eMoovy has already confirmed the platform’s compatibility with electric drivetrains. That light commercial vehicle uses a single electric motor rated at 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS), paired with either a 63 kWh or 76 kWh battery pack.

While Hyundai hasn’t detailed the technical specs for its own version, it has confirmed that the model will showcase “state-of-the-art electric technology, including an advanced 800-volt charging system.”

The same 800V setup already appears in the eMoovy, allowing it to gain 100 km (62 miles) of range in just ten minutes when using a 350 kW charger. If Hyundai retains this architecture, it could give the Staria EV a significant edge in both fleet and family use.

More: Hyundai’s Staria Is Getting The EV Powertrain Its Futuristic Face Always Deserved

Visually, the electric Staria is expected to carry over several elements from the recently refreshed combustion version, including the full-width LED light bar. A previously seen prototype also revealed a few EV-specific touches, including a new front bumper design with an integrated charging port and what appeared to be custom wheels unique to the electric model.

Hyundai hasn’t confirmed which markets will receive the electric Staria, but if it follows the footprint of the gas-powered model, North America is likely to miss out.

What Else Is Hyundai Bringing To Brussels?

Beyond the headline debut of its largest EV to date, Hyundai’s stand in Brussels will also include the facelifted Ioniq 6 sedan. Enthusiasts will find a dedicated N Zone showcasing the performance-tuned Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N models. Adding a dose of concept flair, Hyundai will also present the Insteroid, a gaming-inspired concept based on the compact Inster.

During the press conference, Raf Van Nuffel, Vice President of Product at Hyundai Motor Europe, will share more information about the new model and the company’s EV portfolio in 2026.

“he Brussels Motor Show continues to be an important platform for us to highlight how our electric products and technologies are evolving for European customers,” said Van Nuffel. “Hyundai welcomes the event’s strong focus on electrification, which reflects the technological progress shaping sustainable transportation in the region.”

Hyundai

Nissan has released the updated Ariya in Japan, bringing fresh looks and a few upgrades to the electric crossover nearly four years after its original debut. While the Ariya is bowing out of the North American market, it continues to hold its ground at home, now with enhancements to its design, tech suite, and suspension tuning.

The 2026 model was first previewed at the Japan Mobility Show earlier this year, but Nissan has now revealed the full domestic lineup. The same round of changes is expected to roll out in other markets in the coming months.

New Face, Same Shape

The most noticeable change is up front, where a cleaner, grille-less design replaces the previous fascia. A reshaped bumper and more aggressive LED fangs sharpen the look, though the side profile and rear end carry over unchanged.

More: This Nissan Lets You Choose The Size Of Your Grille

The visual tweaks are complemented by a new set of 20-inch alloy wheels, combining aluminum and resin materials. Buyers can also spec a new Hisuinohikari paint option, pairing a bold Plasma Green body with contrasting Midnight Black accents on the roof, pillars, and lower cladding.

Inside, the cabin layout remains familiar, but the tech sees a step forward. NissanConnect now runs on Google’s software architecture, which supports new functions like Navi-Link Battery Conditioning and Intelligent Distance Control.

More: Nissan Teased A Mysterious Nismo And It’s Definitely Not A Z

The materials team has added a new leather option in a subdued green tone, paired with light gray elements for a softer, more tailored interior finish. Practicality gets a bump as well, thanks to an upgraded AC external power connector capable of supplying 1,500 Watts, even when the vehicle is locked.

Powertrain and Suspension

Mechanically, the Ariya sticks with the existing 66 kWh (B6) and 91 kWh (B9) battery packs, offered with single-motor FWD or dual-motor e-4ORCE all-wheel drive. Nissan says the suspension has been optimized specifically for Japanese roads, prioritizing comfort and delivering a more refined ride.

The Ariya Nismo will also return as part of the updated range. However, it skips the visual updates found on the standard models, sticking with its original aggressive body kit.

More: The Nismo Z Just Got What You Always Asked For

The Nismo variant continues with its dual-motor e-4ORCE setup, tuned specifically for this version. Its updates are limited to the new Google-based infotainment system, the high-output external power connector, and the Intelligent Distance Control feature.

In terms of pricing, the facelifted Ariya starts at ¥6,675,900 (equal to around $42,400 at current exchange rates) for the base B6 FWD and goes up to ¥8,072,900 (roughly $51,300) for the B9 e-4ORCE. That’s an increase of ¥85,800 ($550) compared to the outgoing version. Pricing for the updated Ariya Nismo will be revealed at a later date

Nissan

Airport ground vehicles often come across as quirky and a bit outdated, but Toyota’s latest tug introduces a far more forward-looking approach. Now entering service at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, the driverless model is equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, technology that typically stays well clear of the tarmac.

The project was first announced in March 2021, with trial operations beginning that October. Development has continued under Toyota Industries Corporation, working in partnership with All Nippon Airways (ANA), and the tractor went on to win an iF Design Award in 2022.

More: VW Built A Car That Doesn’t Want You To Touch Anything

Starting in December 2025, three autonomous towing tractors will be put to work handling baggage and cargo for domestic flights. Another three are scheduled to join the lineup by the end of March 2026.

According to the company, this marks the first practical application of Level 4 autonomous driving within a Japanese airport’s restricted area. Though Level 3 systems have been tested at various domestic airports since 2019, this is a big step up in both scope and capability.

These vehicles are built to tow container dollies between aircraft and terminals, using onboard systems for localization and obstacle detection. A remote monitoring setup supports the autonomous system by handling more complex conditions that might arise near active runways and busy airport lanes.

Visually, the tractor hasn’t strayed far from earlier prototypes. The front bumper and side sills have been subtly updated, but the overall structure remains the same. A Toyota badge sits up front, flanked by car-like headlights, and there’s seating for two in the cabin, even if no human is expected to spend time behind the wheel.

More: Hyundai’s Latest Robots May Be Eyeing Your Job

Multiple sensors, including a LiDAR unit, are positioned on the fenders, the vehicle’s nose, and along the sides. Together, they give the system a full read of its surroundings.

How It Handles the Haul

Toyota hasn’t published specs for the electric motor or battery system just yet. What we do know is that the vehicle’s performance varies depending on whether it’s driving itself or being operated manually.

In autonomous mode, the tractor tops out at 15 km/h (9 mph) and can tow up to 13 tons (28,700 pounds). With a human driver at the wheel, those limits jump to 25 km/h (16 mph) and 27 tons (59,500 pounds).

The primary route these vehicles will cover is about 1.5 km (just under a mile), connecting terminal areas with the cargo shed. Along the way, they’ll pass two traffic signals, which the system is designed to recognize and respond to in coordination with the new management platform.

Alongside the vehicle rollout, Toyota and ANA are introducing a Fleet Management System (FMS). This platform issues dispatch instructions, assigns lanes for departures and arrivals, and integrates with the airfield’s traffic light system to smooth out vehicle movement and minimize delays.

Toyota Industries Corporation

2026 is still weeks away, but that hasn’t stopped Dodge from accepting orders for the 2027 model year Charger Daytona Scat Pack. It starts at $72,495, which is an astronomical increase.

Dodge’s website is a confusing mess, but the 2026 Charger Daytona Scat Pack Coupe started at $59,995, while the sedan cost an extra $2,000. That means the price of entry has shot up by $12,500, although the sedan is only an additional $500 this time around.

More: 2026 Charger Daytona Spawns A 670 HP Sedan

That’s ridiculous considering no one wants an electric Charger and the company is still struggling to get rid of 2025 models. In fact, dealers across the country are listing brand-new 2025 Charger Daytonas for less than $40,000.

While Dodge appears to be actively discouraging sales, the 2027 Charger Daytona comes with a native North American Charging System (NACS) port. This enables it to be used with Tesla Superchargers and the company is also throwing in a J1772 to NACS AC adapter.

Dodge said we can expect to learn more next year, but the company declined to mention any other changes. That’s not an encouraging sign, but the automaker noted the Charger Daytona is the “world’s most powerful muscle car.”

It features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 630 hp (470 kW / 639 PS) and 627 lb-ft (849 Nm) of torque. However, a PowerShot function can increase the output to 670 hp (500 kW / 679 PS) for ten seconds at a time. Buyers can also expect a range of up to 267 miles (430 km), which means charging stops should be pretty common.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, long looked at as the potential savior of the brand’s soul, is taking a nap for 2026. That’s the official word from the automaker after some dealers allegedly leaked it to customers. Now, the real question is whether it’ll actually make a comeback, and if it does, whether it’ll still be the same van deep down.

More: VW Offers $10K Off ID.Buzz, Dealers Say Hold My Beer

A Volkswagen spokesperson confirmed the situation to Carscoops, stating, “Following a careful assessment of current EV market conditions, we have made the strategic decision not to move forward with MY26 ID. Buzz production for the U.S. market.”

How did we get here? First, dealers allegedly started spilling the Buzz beans to customers.

Are Dealers Jumping the Gun?

In a Reddit thread, one customer says a dealer told them the following: “I wanted to share an important update regarding the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. We’ve been notified that it’s being discontinued, with no 2026 models planned. What we currently have in stock will be the final availability.”

Review: VW ID. Buzz Is The Coolest Minivan On The Block, But There’s A Catch

That could very well just be another dealer trying to make a sale. We’ve seen plenty of those related to the Buzz and other high profile cars.To sort fact from spin, Carscoops checked back with VW. The company pushed back against the idea that the ID. Buzz was being axed outright.

“That is not accurate,” the spokesperson told us. “We gave dealers this direction: The ID. Buzz continues to serve as an important halo product for the Volkswagen brand, and safeguarding its market presence remains a top priority,” it said.

Furthermore, it seems that VW is trying to play 3D chess on this one by strategically preparing a “transition,” to the 2027 version.

“This approach allows us to focus our resources more effectively on current inventory and supporting your retail performance throughout the remainder of MY25, ensuring a strong foundation as we prepare for the MY27 transition next year,” the spokesperson said.

We pressed for more detail on what that “MY27 transition” might mean for the ID. Buzz specifically, but VW declined to elaborate further.

Still, that means it’s expected to return for the 2027 model year, or at least, that’s the plan for now.

Reading Between the Lines

It’s no secret that EVs have taken a hit across the board this year, regardless of price or segment. Regulations, tax credits, tariffs, and more have all played a role there. Stack on top of all that the pricing VW slapped on the ID. Buzz after it teased the van for twenty years, and it’s not hard to see why Volkswagen might make this choice.

In VW’s case, pricing has long been the elephant in the room. The original VW Bus became a cultural icon not just because of its design and versatility, but because it was cheap, simple, and accessible. The modern ID. Buzz missed that mark entirely, arriving in the U.S. with pricing that pushed it well beyond what many nostalgic buyers expected or were willing to pay.

For now, the ID. Buzz isn’t officially cancelled in America. But with no 2026 model planned, production reportedly paused, and dealers telling customers what’s on the lot is all that’s left, its future looks shaky. If it does return for 2027, VW might do well to find a way to sell it for a lot lot less, or make it a lot, lot better. 

Photos: VW, Stephen Rivers for Carscoops

The Rimac Nevera R is already a rarefied machine in the hypercar world, with only 40 units set for production. But for those craving something even more elusive, there’s now the Nevera R Founder’s Edition, a version limited to just ten examples.

More: Mate Rimac’s Next Big Idea Has Nothing To Do With Hypercars

This isn’t your typical limited edition. Customers will gain access to experiences usually closed to outsiders, effectively stepping into Rimac’s inner circle. They’ll be involved in internal strategy and R&D discussions, preview future products ahead of the public, and attend live record attempts firsthand.

What Do Owners Actually Get?

The journey begins at Rimac’s sprawling campus in Zagreb, where each of the ten owners will be welcomed by Founder and CEO Mate Rimac, alongside Design Director Frank Heyl.

Together, they’ll guide customers through a tailored configuration of their Founder’s Edition, using real-time visualization tools to tweak colors, materials, and finishes with an unusual level of control.

On the outside, the special edition wears a two-tone livery accented by ultra-slim stripes along the hood, roof, and rear wing, each featuring circuit board graphics. There’s also a Founder’s Edition emblem stamped with Mate Rimac’s initials on the front fenders, while hand-painted details are open to the owner’s preference.

Inside, the asymmetrical seat treatment nods to Mate Rimac’s personal Nevera. The upholstery is hand-stitched, and nearly every surface can be customized. There’s embroidery on the doors highlighting dates significant to Rimac’s history, MR initials on the headrests, and the Founder’s Edition badge placed between the seats.

Performance-wise, the Founder’s Edition doesn’t tweak the Nevera R’s already staggering numbers. It still features four electric motors that deliver a combined 2,107 horsepower.

Earlier this year, the Nevera R shattered records, sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 1.72 seconds and hitting a top speed of 268.2 mph (431.45 km/h). That figure was eventually eclipsed by the BYD YangWang U9’s claimed 308.33 mph (496.22 km/h), though not in an officially recognized setting.

What Else Is Included?

But more than the hardware, what sets the Founder’s Edition apart are the long-term privileges it unlocks. Rimac describes the offering like this:

“For the duration of their ownership, the ten Founder’s Club members will have priority invitations to product previews, a company card allowing direct access to Bugatti Rimac HQ, invitations to performance showcases and record-breaking runs, involvement in strategy discussions with Mate and the team, and input into the research and development that will create the groundbreaking cars of the future.

This small global group of individuals also receive other exclusive benefits and invitations as a part of their membership, with exact details known only to the Founders.”

So yes, it’s a car, but it’s also an entry point into the inner workings of a tech-forward automotive company, complete with driving instruction from Rimac’s professional testers, to help owners actually handle the car’s potential. And once each vehicle is completed, Mate Rimac himself will personally hand over the keys.

More: Rimac’s New Battery Slashes EV Charging To Just Minutes

Rimac hasn’t released official pricing for the Founder’s Edition, though the standard Nevera R starts at €2.3 million ($2.7 million) before taxes. It’s safe to assume the new version will edge comfortably beyond that figure.

Mate Rimac thanked customers, adding, “Without them, everything we have built wouldn’t have been possible. I wanted to find a way to thank the visionary individuals who helped shape this path – and to invite ten of them to experience our world in a completely new way.”

Rimac

It’s not often that a legacy carmaker attempts a reinvention as complete as the one Jaguar is now pursuing. Long seen as struggling to match Germany’s premium heavyweights like BMW and Audi, the British brand has decided to shift course entirely.

Rather than chasing premium volume, Jaguar now aims to sell fewer vehicles at significantly higher prices, offering a tighter lineup of upscale electric cars. The first product of this rebooted identity is due next year.

Read: Jaguar Rolls Out Its Future In A New Color Right After Firing The Man Behind It

Previewed by last year’s radical Type 00 Concept, this new model will be a low-slung, four-door fastback powered by three electric motors and producing around 1,000 hp. It’ll be unlike any other Jaguar from recent years and that’s exactly what Jaguar wants.

What’s the Strategy?

In an interview with Top Gear, Jaguar’s managing director Rawdon Glover acknowledged the current model wasn’t working. Competing head-to-head with Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz in the so-called volume premium segment “didn’t work commercially,” he said.

Instead, Jaguar will now follow an approach closer to what Range Rover has done, with fewer models, each positioned higher up the market.

Also: JLR Denies Firing Gerry McGovern, But Won’t Say If He’s Still Employed Either

“In UK numbers, our average transaction price used to be about £55,000 (about $73,000 at current exchange rates),” Glover told TG. “This will be more than double that, so the centre of gravity in the UK would be about £120,000 ($160,000),” adding the launch edition of the road-going Type 00 will start at “£140,000 ($187,000).”

Jaguar notes that by pricing its vehicles in the mid-£100,000s, it’ll be able to carve out a space of the market above what the volume brands from Germany offer, but below ultra-luxury brands like Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Lamborghini, which sell vehicles closer to £300,000 ($400,000).

During the same interview, Glover added that “the days of seven or eight models [in Jaguar’s line-up] are gone,” noting we should “expect a condensed range, all around similar price points.”

The change will come with a leaner product catalog. “The days of seven or eight models [in Jaguar’s line-up] are gone,” Glover said. He added that Buyers should expect a much more focused range, with models clustered at “similar price points”.

Inside Jaguar’s Flagship EV

SHproshots

The first model in this new era will also be Jaguar’s most important. While its design is expected to spark debate, early feedback suggests the brand is working on a genuinely refined electric vehicle.

Several UK publications have already experienced it from the passenger seat. Autocar, among them, noted that the prototype rides better than any EV currently on the market.

Underpinning the vehicle is the new Jaguar Electric Architecture and a battery pack estimated to have a capacity of around 120 kWh. There are then three electric motors, two at the rear axle and one at the front, combing to produce roughly 1000 hp. Of that total, 30 percent is directed to the front wheels, with the remaining 70 percent going to the rear.

Then there’s the trick suspension. All four corners feature three-chamber air suspension, which, according to reports, delivers a level of ride quality that surpasses even the most opulent Range Rovers in the JLR stable.

Bad Timing?

Still, the timing of all this raises questions. With the crucial American market going cold on EV adoption and Europe reconsidering the timeline for internal combustion phase-outs, Jaguar’s all-in electric pivot seems like a high-stakes bet.

Unless, of course, the real aim is elsewhere. China remains bullish on premium EVs, and for a brand like Jaguar, finding success there might be the difference between a daring reinvention and a costly miscalculation.

Sources: Top Gear, Autocar

Rewind a few years and Ford, like most of its rivals, charged full speed into the electric future. The goal was clear: catch up to Tesla and help turn the U.S. into a thriving hub for EV innovation. Fast forward to today, and the future looks very different.

Read: Jim Farley Warns Europe It’s Selling Its Future To Chinese Carmakers

Much of Ford’s early EV effort hinged on the F-150 Lightning. Promoted by some as a cornerstone of the brand’s future, and initially the most affordable electric pickup in the States, the Lightning carried a lot of weight on its metaphorical bed.

But just three years after it launched, Ford has pulled the plug. CEO Jim Farley recently confirmed that part of the reason comes down to simple economics: buyers aren’t lining up for EVs priced north of $50,000.

Are Expensive EVs the Problem?

During an interview with CNBC, Farley addressed Ford’s announcement that it will take a $19.5 billion charge in 2026, tied to its decision to pivot away from EVs and refocus on internal combustion models. According to him, the company’s electric lineup simply wasn’t aligned with what buyers actually want.

“More importantly, the very high-end EVs, the $50,000, $60,000, $70,000, and $80,000 vehicles, they just weren’t selling,” Farley said.

Back in 2021, when the F-150 Lightning was first revealed, the base price came in at a relatively digestible $39,974. But that didn’t last for long, as the Blue Oval made a series of price hikes. By 2025, the base model had swollen to $54,780, an increase of nearly 37 percent, pushing it out of reach for many of the truck buyers it was originally meant to appeal to.

Hybrids In Focus

While Ford is now shifting its focus away from EVs, that doesn’t mean it’s done with electric motors and battery packs. During the same interview, Farley said that the company is committed to “following customers to where the market is, not where people thought it was going to be, but to where it is today.”

As such, Ford will start to prioritize hybrid and extended-range EV models. There will be a “whole lineup” of new hybrid models, including a hybrid Bronco. Farley also pointed out that Ford has quietly secured the number three spot in U.S. hybrid sales, and dominates the hybrid truck space with an estimated 80 percent market share.

Farley added that the company expects its electric Model E division to reach profitability in 2029, three years later than initially expected. By 2030, he still expects half of Ford’s global sales to be electrified vehicles. But most of those, he clarified, will be hybrids and extended-range electrics, not pure battery EVs.

More than a dozen U.S. states are taking legal action against the federal government over what they argue is an unlawful freeze of funding for the national electric vehicle charging network.

At stake is billions of dollars already approved by Congress to expand EV infrastructure across the country, now stalled under the current administration.

Read: Trump Administration Rolls Out Updated EV Charger Program

The lawsuit, led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and California Governor Gavin Newsom, includes 15 other states and the District of Columbia.

It alleges that the U.S. Department of Transportation, under the Trump administration, “has quietly refused to approve any new funding under two electric vehicle charging infrastructure programs,” in direct contradiction of federal law.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, passed by Congress in 2022, was designed to deploy thousands of EV charging stations nationwide. But as of this spring, distribution of that funding has slowed to a halt.

In California alone, the program earmarked $59.3 million for medium- and heavy-duty EV freight corridors, $55.9 million for zero-emission freight transport routes, and $63.1 million for repairing and replacing out-of-service chargers.

What’s Being Contested?

The lawsuit argues that the administration’s failure to release these funds violates both the separation of powers and the Administrative Procedure Act, which governs how federal agencies implement laws passed by Congress.

Who Else Is on Board?

Backing California’s legal challenge are attorneys general from Arizona, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. Their shared position is that the federal government can’t simply decline to carry out programs that were funded and mandated by law.

“The Trump Administration is unlawfully withholding funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law — investments Congress approved to build America’s EV charging network, reduce pollution, and create thousands of good-paying jobs. We won’t stand for it,” Governor Gavin Newsom said.

“California will defend the Constitution, our communities, and the future we’re building. With 2.4 million zero-emission vehicles on our roads and critical projects ready to move forward, we’re taking this to court.”

Attorney General Bonta added to the criticism, calling the funding freeze a threat to public health and environmental progress. “This is just another reckless attempt that will stall the fight against air pollution and climate change, slow innovation, thwart green job creation, and leave communities without access to clean, affordable transportation.”

If you drive a Rivian R1T and have been looking for a way to harvest solar energy while on the move, or even when the truck’s parked, there’s now an interesting option on the table. A US-based company has just launched a solar tonneau cover that might suit those aiming to get off the grid without cutting ties to modern convenience.

Developed by Worksport, the ‘SOLIS’ solar tonneau cover will be available from mid-January, offering up to 250 watts of on-board solar capacity. Importantly, you won’t have to immediately use any of the energy generated by the solar panels.

Read: Rivian Goes Plum Crazy With A New Color And Something Extra

Instead, the system includes a compact storage unit that charges in about four hours, storing energy gathered by the panels. That stored energy can then be used to run tools, lights, camping gear, or small electronics. What it won’t do, for now, at least, is recharge the R1T’s main battery.

In the future, though, Worksport hopes to work directly with OEMs like Rivian, potentially enabling its solar systems to feed energy straight into the vehicle’s main battery in future versions.

Solar Tonneau Covers For All

The cover is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and, according to Worksport, “provides exceptional strength and durability – without excess weight.” Interestingly, it’s not just the R1T that the company sells these solar tonneau covers for.

Worksport says its solar covers are compatible with dozens of pickups, including models as far back as 2002. Trucks from Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Nissan, Ram, and Toyota are all on the list, covering popular models like the Tundra, Frontier, and Sierra 1500.

Prices for the SOLIS cover vary depending on the size of the truck’s bed, generally ranging from $1,999 to $2,499. It’s not cheap, but considering what many of these owners already invest in their trucks, it’s unlikely to cause much sticker shock.

The Rivian R1T, with its comparatively smaller bed, comes in at the lower end at $1,999. Buyers who want the full package, including the inverter and battery, will need to budget another $949.

Just days after dialing back its electric vehicle plans, and barely a week after abandoning its $11.4 billion battery venture with South Korean firm SK On, Ford has now cancelled another high-stakes battery deal. The automaker has scrapped a $6.5 billion agreement with LG Energy Solution, citing shifting market conditions and a cooling appetite for electric vehicles.

Read: Ford Pulled The Plug On More EVs Than You Realize

The cancellation came to light in a regulatory filing made by LG in South Korea. It lands shortly after Ford outlined a sharp pullback in its EV rollout, including the decision to shelve the all-electric F-150 Lightning. The $6.5 billion figure represents roughly a third of LG’s total revenue from the previous year.

The Scale Behind the Deal

Ford and LG originally signed the deal in October 2024. Under its terms, LG committed to supplying Ford with 34 GWh of batteries between 2026 and 2030, enough to power around half a million EVs annually, assuming each one carries a 75 kWh battery pack.

Beyond that, LG was also set to deliver an additional 75 GWh of batteries for Ford’s commercial vehicle lineup between 2027 and 2032. These packs were to be built at LG’s manufacturing plant in Poland, then fitted into vehicles destined for the European market.

In its regulatory filing, LG said, “this matter concerns the counterparty’s [Ford’s] decision to discontinue the production of certain electric vehicle (EV) models due to recent policy changes and shifts in EV demand forecasts, and the subsequent notice of contract termination.”

EV Demand Runs Cold

Since President Donald Trump returned to the White House for his second term, the EV market has quickly undergone a significant shakeup. Demand for EVs in the US remained strong through the first nine months of the year, but sales collapsed the moment the $7,500 federal EV tax credit was axed.

Also: The EU Blinked And Gas Cars Live To See Another Generation

More recently, the Trump administration has loosened fuel economy regulations, encouraging carmakers like Ford to build more ICE models. On top of that, the European Commission softened its stance on zero-emissions mandates, most notably by proposing a 90 percent CO₂ reduction target for new vehicles by 2035, rather than a full ban on internal combustion engines.

Ford chief executive Jim Farley recently said he expects EV sales to fall by as much as 50 percent in the US due to these key policy changes.

Many of us are looking forward to Christmas and New Year’s, but CES is right around the corner. As a result, we’re seeing announcements trickle out including one for an all-new company called Kosmera.

Details are limited, but the company is planning to stage its international debut at the show. They’re promising to take a “fundamentally different approach to mobility,” which apparently contrasts with firms chasing an “autonomous and connected future.”

More: Sony Honda Mobility Bringing New Concept And Pre-Production Afeela 1 To CES

While would seemingly imply an analog driver’s car, Kosmera described themselves as “not just an automaker,” but a “technology-driven company developing a platform that connects people with real-world scenarios and digital services.”

That’s a head scratcher, but the company dropped an interesting teaser image. At first glance, it appears to show a stylish sports car that vaguely recalls the Porsche 718 Cayman.

Enhanced Teaser Image

However, after playing around in Photoshop, we were able to enhance the image to reveal it shows a four-door sedan or liftback. We can also see muscular rear haunches and a seemingly massive front overhang. The latter is presumably some sort of distortion, but you get the idea.

Doing a little more digging, we were able to uncover a trademark application from earlier this month. It was for the Kosmera name and was made by Xing Chen Future Automotive Technology Co Ltd. While this doesn’t tell us much, we know the mysterious model hails from China.

We’ll learn more next month as Kosmera’s exhibit opens on January 6.