Jeep isn’t exactly known for keeping secrets, and the latest glimpse of the all-new third-generation Compass proves that trend is alive and well. The updated SUV has made its first undercover appearance in Europe, just weeks before its official debut, which has been confirmed for this spring.

Review: Jeep Avenger Proves ICE And Manual Combo Can Still Be Compelling

The camouflaged prototype was spotted in Italy during what appears to be the final stretch of development testing. Its overall silhouette sticks with familiar SUV proportions, though a few design details are immediately noticeable. Shorter overhangs and a more squared-off stance give it a subtly tougher look compared to the outgoing model.

Slim Lights, Covered Grille, and a Bit of Mystery

Previous teasers pointed to slim LED headlights flanking a redesigned seven-slot grille, which is expected to be illuminated. On the prototype, however, that grille is completely covered, likely hiding final details. The front bumper features a cooling intake with active flaps, a design cue aimed at improving aerodynamics, something that’s always been relevant in the EV era.

According to our spy photographers, the prototype shown here is running a fully electric powertrain, which explains the absence of an exhaust pipe. Jeep has already confirmed that the new Compass will be available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric versions. That puts it in line with other Stellantis-brand SUVs that share similar platforms and tech.

A Big Platform Upgrade

The next-gen Compass will finally retire its aging FCA-era platform and shift to Stellantis’ more modern STLA Medium architecture. This updated structure is shared with models like the Peugeot 3008 and 5008, Opel Grandland, and the DS 8. It’s also expected to underpin the next Citroen C5 Aircross and DS 7, signaling Jeep’s move toward a more flexible and electrified future.

More: This Stellantis Brand Is Working On A Spicy SUV With An Electric Twist

If the Compass borrows specs from the Peugeot e-3008, we could see up to 321 horsepower (239 kW / 325 PS) from a dual-motor setup, offering all-wheel drive as standard on the top trim. The e-3008 comes with 73 kWh and 97 kWh battery options, both of which would make sense for the Jeep, depending on how the lineup is structured.

Production of the new Compass is slated to begin in Italy later this year, with the European market rollout following soon after. Originally, North American production was planned for 2026 in Canada, but those plans are now on hold. Ongoing uncertainty around US tariffs on imported vehicles has reportedly pushed back Jeep’s North American timeline.

Baldauf

Jeep

The World Car Awards have been presented at the New York Auto Show and they were a truly global affair. So much so, that most of the winners aren’t even available in the United States.

While that’s disappointing, the Kia EV3 was named 2025 World Car of the Year. The model beat the BMW X3 and Hyundai Inster to win top honors, earning Kia their second consecutive World Car of the Year award following last year’s crowning of the EV9.

2025 Kia EV3 Review: Everything We Love About The EV9 Made More Affordable

The EV3 isn’t offered in America, but it’s coming as long as tariffs don’t get in the way. That being said, we tested it earlier this year and came away pretty impressed.

Electric vehicles had a strong showing this year as the Volvo EX90 was named 2025 World Luxury Car. It bested the Porsche Macan and Porsche Panamera to take top honors.

The electric crossover starts at $79,995 and features a 111 kWh battery pack as well as a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) and 568 lb-ft (769 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.7 seconds and travel up to 310 miles (499 km) on a single charge.

Moving on, the Hyundai Inster / Casper Electric was named World Electric Vehicle. It’s a pint-sized urban crossover that has 113 hp (85 kW / 115 PS) and is primarily offered in the East.

The EV trend continues as the BYD Seagull / Dolphin Mini was named World Urban Car. The hatchback costs less than $10,000 in China and the Seagull Intelligent Driving Edition offers up to 252 miles (405 km) of range.

World Car Design of the Year, unsurprisingly, went to an EV. It was the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, which is interesting as the electric van has been around for a few years now. That doesn’t exactly seem fair, but the model bested the Kia EV3 and Toyota Land Cruiser / Land Cruiser 250 for the title.

Last but not least, there’s the only non-EV to win an award. It was the Porsche 911 GTS, which was named 2025 World Performance Car.

The sports car starts at $169,800 and features a hybridized powertrain that consist of a turbocharged 3.6-liter flat-six, an electric motor, and a small battery pack. This gives the model a combined output of 532 hp (397 kW / 539 PS) and 449 lb-ft (608 Nm) of torque. This enables the coupe to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 2.9 seconds before hitting a top speed of 194 mph (312 km/h).

Tesla has a lot riding on its Cybercab robotaxi, but the program has hit a major snag, and CEO Elon Musk’s sometimes best buddy, President Trump is to blame. The automaker has been forced to drop its plans to ship essential Cybercab components from China as a result of Trump slapping enormous tariffs on Chinese imports, a report claims.

More: Tesla’s CyberCab Promises 300-Mile Range with Surprisingly Small Battery

The automaker expected to start sending parts to the US from China in the next few months, necessary to begin trial production of both the Cybercab and the Semi truck, the latter of which has so far only been produced in tiny quantities. The plan was to scale up to full production of both models in 2026.

Tariffs Throw a Wrench in the Works

Trump’s announcement of a 34 percent tariff wasn’t great news, but Reuters sources say Tesla was prepared to absorb the financial pain. But when Trump’s tit-for-tat tariffs battle escalated to the point where import duty on Chinese imports had reached 145 percent, Tesla slammed on the brakes.

Exactly how long Tesla will keep its foot on the brakes is unclear, since no one, perhaps not even Donald Trump himself, knows the duration of the massive tariffs. But the US President revealed earlier this week that he was considering making changes to the 25 percent tariff on imported auto parts built in Canada, Mexico, and other regions, and has recently announced an exemption on electronic devices such as iPhones which are made in China.

Tesla’s US Sourcing Strategy

Reuters says Tesla has, for the past couple of years, been increasing the amount of parts it gets from within US borders because it sensed that tariffs might one day come into effect. How quickly Tesla can switch suppliers and get Cybercab and Semi components from America isn’t clear – we’ve asked the question, but don’t expect Tesla to reply.

Tesla unveiled its long-awaited Cybercab last fall, a Honda CRX-shaped pod with scissor doors and no steering wheel, and is currently working on getting approvals to begin testing and operating driverless cars in the US and beyond.

Images: Telsa

It’s no secret that Tesla and its Cybertruck flagship are divisive topics today. Whether it’s the design, the rollout, or the broader image of the brand, reactions are rarely lukewarm. That divisiveness has made the truck a frequent target of protests, and occasionally, more extreme actions. Now, one infamous Cybertruck that went up in flames and was later covered in graffiti is now headed to auction.

The estimated sale price? Around $82,000. And by our extremely scientific calculations, it’ll only cost about $81,999 to fix. A steal, really, assuming you’ve always wanted a post-apocalyptic sculpture that used to be a truck.

More: Bondi Says ‘Tesla Terrorist’ Looking At 40 Years In Jail For Hurling Firebombs

This EV experienced its life-ending event in January in an LA parking lot. Carscoops reported on the situation quickly after it happened. The truck sat idle largely in the same state that you see here. The hood is cut up, the driver’s side has fire damage, broken glass, and holes in the firewall. The tires are burned up, and there is graffiti across the entire car.

It’s unclear how the damage began, but it could’ve been that a fire in the cabin started the cascade. From there, it would make sense that firefighters cut the hood. The high-voltage cutoff is under it and near the windshield. From that point forward, anyone around the scene could’ve added the additional vandalism after the fact.

Notably, the salvage auction does say that an “interior burn” was the primary damage and that vandalism is the secondary damage. To that end, the cabin doesn’t look like it’s in much better shape than the exterior. The steering wheel is gone, the dash is missing some panels, and the infotainment system is reportedly inoperable. Hey, at least the back seats look salvageable.

More: This Is What Tesla’s Doing With All Those Unsold Cybertrucks

As we pointed out in our initial coverage, the truck almost looks like an obscure art piece. No doubt, it could serve as an exhibit that demonstrates the odd time we’re all living in and the way people reacted to this truck and Tesla as a whole. Depending on your point of view, it might even belong in a gallery as a reflection of public sentiment toward Tesla and its polarizing design direction.

So, what do you think? Would you throw in a bid on this fire-damaged, heavily graffitied Cybertruck? If nothing else, it’s a conversation starter. Let us know what you’d pay for it in the comments.

Credit: IAAI

Even in the land of sunshine and startups, being the poster child of electric cars doesn’t guarantee loyalty. Tesla’s hold on California’s EV market is loosening, and the numbers from the first quarter of 2025 make that clearer than ever.

More: EV Sales Are In And One Best Seller Took A Major Hit In Q1

According to data released by the California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA), Tesla saw a sharp 15.1 percent decline in Q1 sales, falling from 49,875 units last year to 42,322 this year. The company’s market share in the EV segment not only slipped below 50 percent but plummeted from 55.5 percent in Q1 2024 to 43 percent in 2025.

To put that in perspective, total EV sales in California actually grew by 7.3 percent during the same period, from 89,821 units last year to 96,146 in Q1 2025.

EV Winners and Losers

Several automakers made impressive gains, even if their absolute numbers hardly moved the needle. GMC posted a 318 percent increase over last year, reaching 1,041 units. Jaguar, despite selling through leftover inventory, nearly doubled its sales from 485 to 861 units. Porsche jumped 139 percent from 572 to 1,367 units, and Subaru saw a huge 177.8 percent spike from 333 to 925. On the losing side, Audi’s EV sales dropped 20 percent, while Lexus took a more significant hit, falling 43.7 percent to just 485 units, down from 861.

CA EV BRAND SALES Q1

Top-Selling EVs in California

Tesla still had the two best-selling EVs in the state: the Model Y with 23,314 units and the Model 3 with 13,992. They were followed by Honda’s new Prologue at 4,493 units and Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 at 3,762. But Tesla’s declining numbers also dragged on the broader zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) market. California registered its second consecutive quarterly drop in ZEV sales, with market share slipping to 20.8 percent, down from 22 percent in Q1 2024.

That’s important because reaching the California Air Resources Board’s Advanced Clean Cars II target of 35 percent ZEV sales for 2026 model year vehicles will require a 14.2 percentage point jump from current levels. It’s a steep, if not unrealistic, climb, especially considering some 2026 models, like the Tesla Model Y, are already on sale.

CA BEST SELLING EVs Q1 2025

More: Tesla’s Q1 Collapse Fueled VW’s Shock Rise In The EV Race

“Dealers sell what customers want to buy. No mandate can force consumers to choose otherwise,” said Robb Hernandez, CNCDA Chairman and President of Camino Real Chevrolet. “Although the manufacturers we represent are increasing EV sales in California, with the substantial decline in Tesla sales, EV market penetration is largely flat. This puts us well short of EV sales mandates that take effect this year.”

Overall Market Trends

Looking at all vehicle sales regardless of powertrain, the California market grew by a healthy 8.3 percent in Q1, with 463,114 units sold. Hybrids had a particularly strong quarter and now account for 17.9 percent of the market, getting closer than ever to EV figures.

Still, the CNCDA cautions that momentum could slow. Upcoming changes to trade policy and potential tariffs may cause prices to rise, cooling demand. “A rush of buying in March and April, likely ahead of anticipated tariffs, may be short-lived if vehicle prices spike,” the association noted.

California’s Top Brands and Models

Toyota was the top-selling brand in California with 76,625 registrations, capturing 16.5 percent of the market. Honda took second place this quarter with 10.8 percent, while Tesla dropped to third, claiming 9.1 percent, down from 11.7 percent a year ago. Toyota also led the light truck market, with Ford and Honda rounding out the top three.

Brands posting strong growth of 30 percent or more in year-to-date Q1 registrations include Buick, Mitsubishi, Genesis, Chrysler, Cadillac, Land Rover, Nissan, and Hyundai. Meanwhile, Tesla wasn’t the only one in reverse. Maserati dropped 60 percent to just 153 units. Alfa Romeo slid 48.6 percent, Audi was down 14 percent, and Dodge fell nearly 59 percent.

The Tesla Model Y was still the best-selling vehicle overall in the state with 23,314 units. It was followed by the Toyota RAV4 with 16,719, the Tesla Model 3 with 13,992, and the Toyota Camry with 13,792. In the used car market, the Camry led among vehicles four years old or newer with 6,026 units sold, while the Honda Civic topped the list for five- to eight-year-old cars with 5,897 units.

Special editions aren’t usually very special at all once you’ve scraped beneath the surface. Just think of all the pointless Corvette, Mini and MX-5 specials we’ve been subject to over the years. But the Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition is one we’re happy to give house room to because, while it’s not radically different, it really should be a little better to drive than the stock electric SUV it’s based on.

Revealed today at the New York Auto Show alongside the EV4 and K4 hatch, the Nightfall Edition is on the face of it your usual special lashed together by the marketing department to give a model some added appeal once the initial rush of excitement has faded, and tide it over till facelift time.

Related: Kia’s First Electric Sedan Is Here To Beat The Model 3 At Its Own Game

It’s based on the six- and seven-seat mid-range EV9 Land but adds gloss-black exterior detailing on the front grille, skid plates (gloss-black skids plates? yep, highly practical), mirrors, roof rails and mirror caps. There’s also a bespoke paint color available, Roadrider Brown, though we’ve no idea what it looks like because for reasons best known to Kia it issued pictures of a Glacial Pearl White version.

A new design of 20-inch wheels round out the exterior upgrades, but the tweaks continue inside, where the Land’s rather drab gray and black cabin gets a sporty makeover courtesy of an all-black color scheme. Both the headliner and the seats – which feature a much smarter, performance-themed stitching pattern – are black.

It’s Boosted

And that’s where most special editions end, but the Nightfall Edition keeps going. Because the 379 hp (384 PS / 283 kW) dual-motor electric drivetrain inherits the Boost mode normally reserved for the GT-Line EV9 (or available as a $900 Feature-on-Demand on Land models).

That mod bumps peak torque from 443 lb ft (600 Nm) to 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) and drops the zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) time from 5.7 seconds to 5.0 seconds according to Kia’s spec for the Land with and without the FoD. But Kia claims the Nightfall Edition can do the job in 4.5 seconds. Cars always feel faster at night, right?

We like the look and spec of the Nightfall though it’s hard to make a value call on it until Kia tells us how much more it costs than the $69,900 Land. But the Premium can’t be too high because the GT-Line is $73,900.

Subaru’s smaller lineup means it doesn’t have as many debuts in a year as rival automakers, but today the Japanese automaker hit us with three big ones, including the facelifted Solterra and its new big brother, the Trailseeker, with the Outback to follow.

Unveiled at the New York Auto Show, the Trailseeker is like a Solterra for people who want more space and more power. And like the smaller SUV, the Trailseeker has a Toyota twin, though one we’re yet to see.

Related: 2026 Subaru Solterra Gains A Redesigned Face, Alongside More Power And Range

Subaru’s supplied media images, which look badly Photoshopped at best and an AI nightmare at worst, show the Trailseeker looking more like a wagon than an SUV, but it features the same angular design language as the Solterra. The scant spec details reveal the Trailseeker is around an inch (25 mm) taller and six inches longer (150 mm) than the smaller Solterra.

Fastest Accelerating Production Subaru Ever

Where the new Solterra tops out at 338 hp (343 PS / 252 kW), the Trailseeker’s dual-motor setup delivers approximately 375 hp (380 PS / 280 kW). According to Subaru, that’s enough to launch it from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in around 4.4 seconds. For anyone keeping score, that’s more than a full second quicker than both the previous WRX STI and the current WRX TR, which takes 5.6 seconds to hit the same mark. In other words, it’s the fastest accelerating Subaru this side of the pond.

A 74.7 kWh battery slung under the floor (but still allowing the same 8.3 inches/211 mm of ground clearance as the Solterra) delivers “more than” 260 miles (418 km) of range on a single charge, which is dealt with by a NACS port. 

A 3,500 lbs (1,590 kg) towing capacity is claimed, and the X-Mode drive mode system includes Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings, plus Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control to keep you out of trouble.

The Trailseeker’s cabin, like its exterior design, borrows heavily from the Solterra and features a 14-inch touchscreen display, the largest ever fitted to a Subaru. Two wireless smartphone charging pads are standard.

As you might have gathered, Subaru has left a lot of gaping holes in its spec sheet, including charging speeds, approach and departure angles, and prices. But no doubt we’ll be able to fill in some of those gaps in the coming weeks and months, by which time we might have a look at Toyota’s own version of the Trailseeker.

Kia might have already unveiled the 2026 EV4 compact electric model in hatchback and sedan guise last February in Spain, but that launch was about models available in European markets. At the New York International Auto Show, the Korean company revealed its North American-spec EV4, which will only be sold as a sedan locally, as the hatch won’t make the trip to the Land of the Free.

The EV4 is Kia’s first global electric sedan and, in America, is meant to take on the Tesla Model 3 starting in Q1 2026. In Europe, the EV4 is slated to go on sale later this year, and it was expected to be available in the States before the end of 2025. The delay may have to do with US production taking place at Kia‘s plant in Georgia to avoid import tariffs and keep it priced competitively against its rivals.

Promises Made – And For Good Reason

Unsurprisingly, the US-spec EV4 sedan is practically identical to the European version that will be built at Kia’s Korean and Slovakian factories. As such, it measures 4,730 mm (186.2 inches) in length and has a 2,820 mm (111-inch) wheelbase, which in theory will provide more than sufficient room for rear passengers. Moreover, the 490-liter (17.3 cu-ft) trunk, while not cavernous, should offer enough cargo space for most occasions.

More: Kia’s Affordable EVs Are Finally Coming To America

The EV4 carries over Kia’s “Opposites United” design language first seen on the EV6 and EV9. Forget the buzzwords about “contrasts across nature and humanity”. What matters is the sharp, low nose with a revised “Tiger Face” front, vertical headlights, and the now-familiar Star Map lighting. Small cube LED headlights with Dynamic Welcome Lights are also available. A fastback roofline leads to a somewhat fussy long-tail rear that tries to echo the front’s boldness.

The vertical taillights and two-piece roof spoiler are supposed to echo the front-end’s design elements and give the EV4 a more sporting character. Moreover, the all-electric sedan comes as standard with 17-inch aero wheels on the Light and Wind trim levels and spoked 19-inch ones on the range-topping GT-Line.

A High-Tech And Aesthetically Pleasing Cabin

The interior’s highlight is the 30-inch screen, which incorporates two 12.3-inch displays for the driver gauges and infotainment and a 5-inch one for the climate controls. This setup is part of what Kia calls the connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) that includes over-the-air (OTA) updates, wireless Apple Car and Android Auto connectivity, an AI-based assistant with improved voice recognition, and the ability for drivers to display available themes across the dashboard.

As for the rest, the cabin has a simple, yet modern, dual-tone aesthetic that looks pleasing while not being as spartan as a Tesla‘s, for instance. Meanwhile, equipment includes dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear A/C vents and an acoustic windshield as standard, while heated/ventilated front seats with driver side memory and a heated steering wheel are also available.

Kia’s new EV comes with a comprehensive ADAS suite whose main feature is the standard Highway Driving Assist (HDA) that can use speed limit information from the navigation system on controlled access roads such as state highways, highways, and federal interstates. Under certain conditions, the system can be set to automatically adjust the EV4’s speed to match the posted speed limit and keep a certain distance from the vehicle in front, which sounds like something that should be relaxing on long trips.

Since it’s not an autonomous system, though, the standard Hands-On Detection system ensures that the driver has their hands on the wheel. Rounding up the safety tech is a list of features that includes Driver Attention Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

Three Versions, Two Battery Packs, One Electric Motor

Based on the brand’s 400V Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV4 will initially be available with a single 201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW) electric motor that drives the front wheels and two battery options. The entry-level Light trim comes with a 58.3 kWh pack that offers a relatively limited 235-mile range that’s good enough for city use but not so much for journeys. Thankfully, the Wind and GT-Line get a significantly larger 81.4 kWh battery that, in the former, provides a much more useful range of 330 miles (no figure was disclosed for the GT-Line, but we guess it must be lower).

More: Kia EV6 Owner Fed Up After Multiple 12V Battery Failures

When connected to a fast DC charger, the Light trim’s battery can go from 10 to 80 percent in an estimated 29 minutes, while the Wind and GT-Line, despite their noticeably bigger capacity, need just 2 minutes more. In any case, the EV4 comes as standard with a NACS charging port that allows drivers to use Tesla’s wide Supercharger network and is located on the front passenger side.

Driving Engagement And Great Comfort Are Top Priorities

Kia is determined to prove that EVs, and electric sedans in the EV4’s case, need not be boring, thus it made sure that, at least on paper, its new global model has all the right stuff to combine “engaging driving dynamics” with “a high level of ride comfort”, as the company puts it.

That’s a tall order indeed, but the EV4 has a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension as well as a reinforced chassis in key areas. It should be able to deliver on its promises, at least theoretically, but judging from Kia’s other EVs that we’ve reviewed, we’d be surprised if it didn’t.

Why Did Kia Launch An All-New Electric Sedan?

In the last few years, sedans have fallen out of favor with buyers not just in the US, but in most big markets worldwide, so manufacturers axed a great number of them from their lineups and focused on SUVs and crossovers, which sell like hot cakes, instead. At the same time, sales of electric vehicles are on the rise globally, even if not at the rate that almost all automakers, as well as many governments that voted to ban ICE-powered vehicles in the near future, projected.

So why did Kia choose to spend millions to develop and produce a brand new electric sedan? First, it certainly has the SUV/crossover market in all main segments covered, both with EV and ICE models. And second, just because the likes of Ford, GM, and Stellantis may have discontinued their own sedans, this doesn’t mean that there isn’t a pool of prospective buyers who’d rather have one over an SUV. That’s due to high-riding vehicles have become kinda the norm these days, so it’s ironic that a sedan will make you stand out from the crowd.

Another point is that, if it’s tuned the right way, a sedan’s handling and steering are inherently better. See, you can’t really beat physics, no matter how much advanced technology you might employ; a good sports car, thanks to its lower weight and center of gravity, will always handle better than a good sedan, which, for the exact same reasons, will do the same compared to an SUV.

More: Kia Confirms First Midsize Pickup For America

Just look at the most famous luxury brands in the world: as good as the Ferrari Purosangue might be, it’ll never handle as good as the (much cheaper) Roma or 296 GTB. Nor will the Lamborghini Urus compared to the Temerario, the Aston Martin DBX compared to the Vantage or DB12, or the Porsche Cayenne compared to the Panamera, Taycan or Cayman. Kinda stating the obvious, as the SUVs are meant to be more practical by default. However, do you really think anyone buys these models because they offer more passenger and cargo space or are able to venture off the tarmac?

Should Tesla’s Model 3 Worry?

A valid argument is that those brands can’t possibly be compared to Kia by any reasonable person. Maybe we should look at something more mainstream, like Tesla, then. Sure, the Model Y crossover might be its best seller, but the Model 3 sedan, on which the former is based, comes second and is a core pillar of the brand. And that’s despite the platform’s age, which dates back to 2017, which means it should have been replaced by an all-new model by now, according to other (mainstream or luxury) brands’ strategy.

Instead, it just received a facelift in 2023 for the China-built model and last year for the ones made in the US, which introduced many welcome updates to the Model 3 that cost Tesla much less than designing, developing, and building an all-new car.

Of course, at the end of the day, the EV4 will be judged by how many units Kia manages to shift. Even though we’re not so sure about the rear styling, all the rest point to yet another winner for the Koreans, who are on a roll when it comes to new product launches. We’ll give it till December 2026 and see if the EV4 fulfills its maker’s promises, as well as its expectations.

The electric crossover landscape is moving fast, and Subaru is making an effort to stay in the race. The 2026 Subaru Solterra has been unveiled at the New York Auto Show, bringing styling, tech, and mechanical upgrades over its predecessor. The comprehensive facelift helps the EV distinguish itself from the recently updated Toyota bZ4X twin, while also making it more competitive in terms of driving range and available features.

More: Subaru Trailseeker Is Faster Than A WRX STI But No One Knows If It’s A Wagon Or SUV

Starting with the exterior, the redesigned front end adopts a cleaner, more cohesive look with slimmer LED headlights and a toned-down grille. It bears a stronger resemblance to the larger Subaru Trailseeker. The once-controversial plastic cladding is now painted in body color, which makes a noticeable difference in the overall design. Subaru also notes that two-tone color configurations will be available, though they haven’t been shown yet in any official images.

The profile and the tail are largely carried over from the outgoing model that has been around since 2022. The only exceptions are the new wheel designs measuring 18 inches or 20 inches in diameter, and the fresh Subaru lettering on the tailgate.

Inside, the highlight is the new 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The EV also comes standard with wireless chargers, USB-C ports, and a wide range of ADAS from the Subaru EyeSight suite.

Range, Charging, and Battery Improvements

While the design will be the first thing that prospective buyers will notice, the mechanical upgrades are even more crucial for the competitiveness of the EV. The 2026 Subaru Solterra has a range of over 285 miles (459 km) between charges, marking a 25% improvement compared to its predecessor. This was made possible thanks to a new 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack mounted under the floor.

More: Subaru Solterra STI Rumored For 2025 Debut, Let’s Hope It’s Not Like The “Sporty” STe

According to Subaru, the battery can charge from 10-80% in under 35 minutes, when connected to an 150 kW charger. Furthermore, the Solterra is now equipped with a battery preconditioning system for more efficient charging in cold weather, and has a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, providing access to the Tesla Supercharger network.

More Power and Improved Dynamics

The standard AWD powertrain of the 2026 Subaru Solterra has also been significantly upgraded, with a stronger rear electric motor and improved power distribution. The combined output is 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS), which is a healthy increase over the 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) of its predecessor. The extra power allows the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in under 5 seconds.

The driver has access to the X-Mode system (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud driving modes), Grip Control, and Downhill Assist Control, as well as 8.3 inches (211 mm) of ground clearance. Besides the new AWD settings, Subaru engineers have also tweaked the suspension and the electric power steering for greater handling.

The 2026 Subaru Solterra will reach US dealerships later this year. Pricing and detailed specifications will be announced closer to the market launch.

Genesis might have already caught our attention with the G90-based X Gran Coupe and Convertible concepts at the Seoul Mobility Show, but it’s not done yet. For the New York Auto Show, the brand is pulling the wraps off another wild card called the X Gran Equator Concept. This off-road SUV combines a futuristic, clean-cut exterior with a surprisingly retro-styled interior, signaling yet another interesting design experiment from Genesis.

More: Genesis Might Kill Its Cheapest Model But It’s Not Sure What Comes Next

The X Gran Equator debuts the latest take on Genesis’ “Athletic Elegance” design language, now interpreted through what the brand calls the “rugged spirit of overlanding.” That means the SUV rides high on 24-inch beadlock wheels wrapped in aggressive all-terrain tires, with a substantial amount of ground clearance for good measure.

A Different Kind of Genesis SUV

The exaggerated proportions include a short front overhang, an extended hood, and a narrow windshield, giving the X Gran Equator a look that’s a clear departure from last year’s Neolun concept. And while the long dash-to-axle ratio hints at classic luxury proportions, the absence of visible front cooling intakes suggests this is a fully electric vehicle.

True to the Genesis design formula, the lighting signature is defined by two parallel lines at both the front and rear, continuing cleanly into the bodywork. The front bumper houses additional LEDs for better nighttime visibility, while the rear features a sleek, minimal design capped off by a split tailgate. Plastic cladding around the wheel arches and bumpers is present, but subtle, reinforcing the vehicle’s premium look rather than detracting from it.

A Cabin Full of Surprises

Inside, Genesis has gone in a very different direction. There’s no infotainment display in the usual sense and instead, the center of the dashboard features four circular screens that mimic the look of classic analog dials. These are customizable digital displays, and they sit alongside a three-gauge digital instrument cluster with a similarly vintage aesthetic.

More: 2026 Hyundai Nexo FCEV Is A Hydrogen SUV That Makes Sense

Physical controls dominate the cabin. The center console is lined with chunky toggle switches, the steering wheel is packed with buttons, and the stalks are satisfyingly oversized. The four-seat layout includes swiveling front seats, multiple sunroofs, and modular storage throughout. The materials are high-end, with bold color combinations and diagonal stitching patterns that give the cabin a sense of tailored detail.

Off-Road Capabilities, Still a Mystery

There is no word on technical specifications, so we don’t know whether the X Gran Equator was based on a unibody architecture or a ladder frame chassis. Still, the company has hinted at the concept’s off-road capabilities, saying it is “engineered to perform in extreme conditions while maintaining a natural sense of grace”.

Will It Actually Be Built?

For now, Genesis says the X Gran Equator Concept is “not confirmed for production.” Still, the automaker has made it clear that design elements like the split tailgate and integrated roof rails are hints at what’s to come. It also points to a broader strategy: expanding further into “lifestyle-oriented vehicles.”

That could mean Genesis is exploring a competitor to the upcoming all-electric Mercedes G-Class or even a zero-emission alternative to the Land Rover Defender.

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You will never hear Tesla call the Cybertruck a flop, but by the company’s own projections, that’s exactly what it looks like. At one point, there were claims of nearly 2 million reservations for the electric pickup. As of March, however, Tesla had only built and sold about 46,000. The original plan was to produce 250,000 annually, and Elon Musk once suggested the company could move as many as 500,000 each year. However, it seems Tesla has found a good way to use those Cybertrucks it can’t sell.

Read: What Happened To Musk’s 1 Million Cybertruck Reservations?

Earlier this week, a motorcade of Cybertrucks was spotted cruising through Temple, Texas, and one of those Cybertrucks stood out. It was towing a trailer with a red Tesla Model Y in a glass capsule, proudly advertising the electric SUV as being ‘Made in Texas.’ Desperate times call for desperate measures, and it seems Tesla wants to ensure that as many people as possible can see the new Model Y in person.

A Mobile Billboard, Tesla-Style

A Cybertruck towing the new Model Y around is actually a pretty smart marketing tool. Plenty of car manufacturers pay big bucks to buy advertising space on massive billboards near highways, but Tesla has always shied away from typical marketing campaigns.

In this case, it’s essentially towing around a giant billboard, except it’s not a picture of a car, but the car itself. The Model Y in question is painted in Ultra Red, too, which just so happens to be the best color that Tesla offers.

Now, will the sight of a red Model Y Juniper convince Texans to buy a new Tesla? Who knows, but it’s a good way to drum up some attention for their latest EV. After all, there are already social media posts about it, and we’re writing about it, too. That’s more than can be said for most static billboards from legacy automakers, and it fits with Tesla’s long-running preference for unconventional marketing tactics.

Tesla Model Y on Display in Glass Cage | Spotted in Temple, TX
byu/OshinOfficial inTeslaLounge

Tesla is facing a lawsuit in California from an owner who claims the company’s odometers exaggerate how far its vehicles have traveled. According to the complaint, Tesla allegedly does this on purpose to avoid covering warranty repairs and to accelerate the depreciation of its vehicles.

The lawsuit argues that Tesla does not use mechanical or electronic systems to measure distance. Instead, Tesla reportedly relies on “predictive algorithms, energy consumption metrics, and driver behavior multipliers that manipulate and misrepresent the actual mileage traveled by Tesla vehicles.”

Read: Tesla Finally Launches Cheaper Model Y Juniper In America

By “tying warranty limits and lease mileage caps to inflated odometer readings,” Tesla can allegedly increase repair revenue and reduce its warranty obligations. It can also cause consumers to purchase extended warranties prematurely.

The case was filed by Nyree Hinton, who says they bought a 2020 Tesla Model Y in December 2022 with 36,772 miles on it. Hinton states that from December 14, 2022, to February 6, 2023, they averaged 55.54 miles per day, but between March 26, 2023, and June 28, 2023, this spiked to 72.53 miles per day, just as the Model Y was approaching its warranty expiration. The owner estimates that the average mileage should have been roughly 20 miles fewer per day because of their consistent routine during this time.

Additionally, previous vehicles owned by the plaintiff averaged 6,086 miles over six months, but the Model Y reported 13,228 miles over the same period. The lawsuit claims the mileage shown by Tesla’s odometer can be inflated from 15% to as much as 117%.

The plaintiff notes that while Tesla can measure its vehicles using GPS with incredible precision, a patent from the EV maker apparently says the odometer readings are not direct measurements of distance traveled and use a “miles-to-electrical energy conversion factor” that varies dynamically based on road and traffic conditions.

These Complaints Aren’t New

This isn’t the first time Tesla owners have questioned how mileage is calculated. For years, some have raised concerns about their cars showing unexpectedly high mileage. Some threads on Reddit and Tesla forums claim that these issues have persisted for over two years, with owners trading anecdotes and comparisons that echo the claims in Hinton’s lawsuit.

The trade war between the US and China has escalated pretty quickly, with Donald Trump increasing tariffs on goods imported from the People’s Republic to 145% and the latter retaliating last Friday with a 125% tax on US products. This trade war has negatively affected many companies worldwide, including that of the Department of Government Efficiency’s co-head.

Elon Musk warned Trump that the tariffs would seriously impact the economy, but the President stuck to his guns. Now, Tesla has stopped taking orders for the US-built Model S sedan and Model X SUV in China, replacing the “order now” button with “look at the car” and “schedule a test drive” on its local website.

Locally Made Model 3 And Y Are The Real Sellers Anyway

This means that Tesla still has some cars to sell, since it offers test drives to potential customers. The brand’s reasoning is sound: the two models became prohibitively expensive due to the tariffs and it can’t afford to increase its prices accordingly, especially as the Model S is getting long in the tooth, dating back to 2012 (although it has been updated a few times in all those years) and the Model X never being a strong seller.

More: We Compare The 2026 Tesla Model Y Side-By-Side With Its Predecessor

Instead, it relies on the Model 3 and Model Y, which were revamped in 2023 in China (2024 for North America) and late 2024 respectively, for its presence in the world’s biggest car market. The fact that it manufactures both at its Shanghai plant helps it avoid the huge tariffs on US imports but, as the Wall Street Journal points out, the tariffs only exacerbate its issues.

Musk’s Insults Against Trump’s Advisor Won’t Help Tesla

According to a 2023 analysis by Nikkei Asia, nearly 40% of its vehicles’ battery materials come from Chinese companies. That’s a big no-no for the Trump administration that imposed those incredibly high taxes to make imports all but impossible. It’s a much bigger issue for Musk, though, who has publicly attacked Trump’s top tariff advisor, Peter Navarro, stating he’s “dumber than a sack of bricks” after the latter dismissed Tesla’s CEO plea for a no-tariff agreement between the US and Europe and called him “a car assembler” who just wants to have access to cheap parts made overseas.

More: US EV Sales Jump In Q1, But The Biggest Losers Might Surprise You

“The difference is in our thinking and Elon’s on this is that we want the tires made in Akron,” Navarro said. “We want the transmissions made in Indianapolis. We want the engines made in Flint and Saginaw, and we want the cars manufactured here.” Teslas don’t have engines, but that’s a technicality; his attitude towards the matter is clear. Never one willing to turn the other cheek, Musk replied that “Navarro is truly a moron. What he says here is demonstrably false.”

Protecting American Jobs While Hurting Tesla? That’s Fresh

Either man can be right or wrong, depending on where you stand on the issue. Musk needs access to cheap parts in order to keep Tesla’s pricing as competitive as possible and can’t realistically find US-based suppliers in such a short timeframe, assuming there are enough to go around for every carmaker trying to do the same. Navarro, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to care for Tesla’s sales or profits and simply wants to enforce Trump’s policy and ban China-made products out of the US – period.

More: Detroit Is Begging Trump To Stop As His Import Tariffs Threaten Thousands Of Auto Jobs

The President’s tariffs are meant to protect US companies and jobs by forcing everyone to make the products they sell in the States locally. Which is swell, but for one detail: Tesla builds the most American cars in the country and hurting it might result in job losses, so the part about protecting jobs is, in that sense, an oxymoron.

Even Before Tariffs, Tesla Was Going Through A Rough Time

Irrespective of Musk and Navarro’s insults, Tesla already has a lot of issues. At home, it might still be the EV market leader but rivals have steadily eating into its share, its stock price has plunged by 34% since January, and 67% of Americans surveyed said they wouldn’t even consider buying a Tesla, mostly due to Musk’s politics. Thing are worse overseas. Its European sales have tanked despite the launch of the improved Model Y Juniper, and as for China, axing the Model S and X are the least of its problems because buyers increasingly prefer cars by local brands to the expense of foreigners, even the likes of Mercedes, Porsche, and, of course, Tesla.

Being the richest man in the world must be nice. If it comes with all that baggage, though, Musk may come to regret getting involved in politics, even though going all MAGA made him the first person in history whose net worth exceeded the $400 billion mark. He might quit DOGE and remain an informal advisor as reported, but we suspect that won’t change public opinion or, worse, solve Tesla’s problems. What a predicament.

With its sci-fi-look face, Hyundai’s Staria looked like a minivan from 10 years in the future when it debuted in 2021. The only think missing from the picture was an electric drivetrain, but these spy shots shows that won’t be the case in the near future.

Our photo team snapped a prototype Staria EV wearing German license plates and testing on European roads. The test van was dressed in double disguise consisting of an eye-scrambling wrap across the bodywork and Hyundai’s usual collection of black nylon panels at the front and back ends.

Related: 2026 Hyundai Staria Electric Minivan Has The VW ID. Buzz In Its Sights

With so much of the Staria covered up it’s hard to work out how the EV will look. Or it would be if we hadn’t already seen the whole car without a stitch of disguise, as it was spied in a Koean parking garage at the beginning of the year.

Those pictures show Hyundai‘s new EV will ditch the current Staria’s giant black grille for more painted plastic, but leave an ugly rectangular cooling slot in the center and two more rectangular vents below. I don’t know about you, but I think the 2021 model with its jumbo grille is a far better looking machine.

We’re still to learn about the exact battery and powertrain setup, but we do have some clues about what to expec, courtesy of the Staria-based ST1 box van and chassis cab and its badge-engineered brother, the Iveco Moody. The Moody comes with a single electric motor delivering 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque and a choice of 63 kWh or 76 kWh batteries, the latter delivering a WLTP range of 320 km (199 miles).

We’d be surprised if the Staria didn’t improve on both the battery capacity and range with the help of the Ioniq’s 84 kWh pack, while retaining the V2L capability and 800-volt technology for fast charging. The Moody can add 62 miles (100 km) of range in just 10 minutes when hooked up to a 350 kW charger.

The Staria EV should be revealed later this year, but until then buyers will have to content themselves with a choice among a 3.5-liter V6, a 1.6-liter hybrid or a 2.2-liter diesel powertrain.

Image credits: SHProshots, Clien

The first of BMW’s Neue Klasse EVs drops this fall, and it’s not only the exterior styling, dashboard layout and electric platform that’s new. So is the soundtrack for this new generation of electric vehicles, and BMW has given us a glimpse of what kind of noises to expect when we eventually slide behind the wheel of the 2026 iX3 and 2027 i330 sedan.

This isn’t the first time BMW has created unique soundtracks for its EVs. It famously commissioned Hans Zimmer to come up with signature sounds for the i4 and i7. But the automaker claims the new HypersonX soundscape developed by BMW’s own Sound Design Studio is even more complex and nuanced.

Related: BMW Confirms iX3 Debut In September, Will Launch Over 40 New Models By 2027

Neue Klasse cars benefit from a new audio control unit that brings a greater dynamic range, BMW claiming that although the new soundscape uses fewer notes than older systems, it delivers more color and depth to give a more natural feel.

43 Layers of Motion

HypersonX has 43 different sound signals and driving sounds for the cars’ Personal Mode and Sport Mode settings and when the driver accelerates the car shifts through three-dimensional sound layers to create a sensation of speed.

The team didn’t only spend time working out how to make the EVs feel exciting at full throttle, but also how they sound when you first open the door and any time you’re inside. BMW says it drew inspiration from art, science, light and nature, and even used sounds created using a choir made of development team members.

“The unique sound spectrum of HypersonX plays a major role in giving a Neue Klasse model its own, highly distinctive character acoustically,” says Renzo Vitale, Creative Director of Sound Design BMW Group.

“Through our focus on precision, warmth, and lightness, we can create a direct emotional connection between the driver and their vehicle.”

The first production BMW to benefit from HypersonX is the iX3 SUV, the electric brother to the recently-facelifted X3, which is scheduled to make its debut this September.

Americans bought more electric vehicles in the first quarter of 2025, but it’s not just enthusiasm for clean energy that’s pushing the numbers. Sales of EVs were up 11.4% year-over-year, with some of that bump likely driven by fears of disappearing federal tax credits and looming tariffs. Gas-powered cars even saw some love, as buyers rushed to lock in purchases before incentives or prices changed. Crisis buying: it’s not just for toilet paper anymore.

More: Americans Are Buying Cars Like It’s Black Friday Before Tariffs Hit

For context, the entire new vehicle market (regardless of powertrain) grew 4.3% in Q1 2024, totaling roughly 3.9 million units, according to Auto News. That puts EVs at 7.6% of the market, a noticeable increase from last year, and a sign that electric adoption, while still uneven, continues to inch forward, at least for now.

Brands: Tesla Still Leads, But It’s Not All Good News

You probably guessed it that Tesla still wears the EV crown. The company moved 128,100 vehicles in Q1, capturing a commanding 43.5% share of the EV market. That’s still dominant, but it’s down 8.6 percentage points from last year. Some of that slip can be chalked up to delays in rolling out the updated Model Y. The rest? Probably a mix of market competition and the ongoing Elon Effect, a combo of social media theatrics and questionable business decisions that make both investors and buyers twitch.

Ford continues to hold a firm grip on second place, selling 22,550 electric vehicles in Q1, an 11.5% increase over last year, giving it a 7.7% share of America’s EV market. But the real drama happened just below that. Rivian, which held the No. 3 spot last year, tumbled all the way down to ninth place after a steep 37.1% drop, totaling just 8,553 sales. Hyundai, previously in fourth, slid to No. 6 despite a modest 5.1% gain to 12,843 units. Its Kia sibling dropped from fifth to eighth, as sales fell 24.1% to 8,665.

Taking their places, Chevrolet surged into the No. 3 spot with 19,186 units sold, recording a 114.2% increase, while BMW climbed to No. 4 with 13,858 deliveries, up 26.4% from a year ago. There were other notable shifts as well: Porsche more than tripled its EV sales in Q1, thanks to the Macan Electric. On the flip side, Mercedes took the hardest hit, with sales plunging 58.3%, despite aggressive lease deals and major incentives, as many of our readers have pointed out. For all the numbers and surprises, check out the full brand breakdown below.

BEST SELLING EV BRANDS

Models: The Y Slips But The 3 Soars

Looking at individual models, the Tesla Model Y still tops the US EV sales chart, but its grip on the lead has loosened. It delivered 64,051 units in Q1, marking a steep 33.8% decline from last year. The delayed launch of the standard facelifted “Juniper” version didn’t help matters, as only the pricier Launch Edition was available early in the quarter. We’ll see how the new Juniper performs once the entire range goes on sale.

On the flip side, the Model 3 is having its moment. It saw a huge 70.3% increase in sales, hitting 52,520 units in Q1. For perspective, that’s nearly as many as the next three brands (Ford, Chevrolet, and BMW) sold combined, at 55,274. Tesla’s aggressive sales strategy likely played a role, with improved lease offers and zero-percent financing, though that conveniently wrapped up in April.

More: Tesla Model 3 Performance Vs. BMW 330i xDrive, Which One Deserves Your $47K?

The Ford Mustang Mach-E maintained third place among EV models with 11,607 units sold, a significant 21% increase, helped along by solid discounts and lease incentives. Rounding out the top five were the Chevy Equinox EV (10,329 units), the Honda Prologue (9,561), and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which saw 8,611 deliveries, a 26.2% jump.

Trucks: F-150 Still Rules But Cybertruck Catching Up

As for electric trucks, the Ford F-150 Lightning remains the best-seller, even though deliveries dropped 7.2% compared to the same period in 2024. Tesla’s Cybertruck, love it or hate it (and many do), is at least moving the needle upwards, with 6,406 units sold, up 128.5% over last year’s laughably small starting numbers.

GMC doesn’t separate sales by body style, but Rivian does, and its R1T pickup moved just 1,727 units this quarter, a massive 47% drop from Q1 2023. For all the flak the Cybertruck catches online, it’s still outselling the R1T by a wide margin. No, it’s not the million-unit-a-year miracle Elon once promised, but it’s still finding more buyers than the R1T and that should be sounding alarms in Rivian’s executive suite.

BEST SELLING EV MODELS USA

Public opinion on Elon Musk isn’t exactly glowing these days, and that discontent isn’t limited to the United States. Across the Atlantic in the UK, backlash against Tesla and its high-profile CEO has been gaining steam.

Most recently, a group calling itself “Everyone Hates Elon” organized an event where a 2014 Tesla Model S was systematically destroyed in what they described as both a protest and a live art installation. The display was part of a broader campaign against Musk, which has been growing in visibility.

Read: Trump’s Commerce Secretary Said Tesla Stock Would Never Be This Cheap, The Market Called His Bluff

The black Model S was provided by an anonymous donor and placed at Hardess Studios in south London. Participants then vented their frustrations by smashing the electric sedan with sledgehammers and baseball bats. What started as a perfectly good Tesla ended up as one where every single body panel has been destroyed, and it looks like it’s been involved in a devastating crash.

The Everyone Hates Elon group appears to have gained traction through social media and has attracted attention with provocative materials, including stickers that read, “Don’t buy a Swasticar.”

Among those participating was Alice Rogers, a researcher from Illinois currently working at the University of Cambridge. She said the protest offered an outlet for frustration over what she sees happening back in the US.

“Musk is acting in ways which violate our constitution. I’m very concerned by what I’m seeing – he’s gutting agencies and cutting USAID,” she told The Guardian. Another participant, 32-year-old Giles Pearson, pinpointed Musk’s rightwing politics as the reason why he wanted to wreck the Model S.

Anti-Musk Actions Escalate in the UK

The campaign against Musk has intensified across the UK, with guerrilla-style messaging appearing in public spaces. Fake advertisements have popped up at bus stops with slogans like, “Autopilot for your car. Autocrat for your country”, “Now With White Power Steering,” and “The Fast and the Führer.”

The New York Times reports that several anti-Musk groups have popped up across Europe, many of them sharing the dual aim of damaging Tesla’s brand and sinking its stock value. Some are explicitly focused on disrupting sales and targeting the company’s public image.

“There’s never been a target exactly like this,” John Gorenfeld from the ‘Takedown Tesla’ group said. “Nobody who is that rich and powerful has behaved that outrageously. There’s something campy and ridiculous about Musk’s brand of toxicity. And it opens up a real space to ridicule.”

Screenshot Wion via YouTube

Car buyers looking for a break may be in for a short-lived reprieve. While vehicle prices are widely expected to rise in response to the Trump administration’s new tariff policy, March offered a rare moment of calm. Both new and used car prices dipped slightly compared to February, and on average, they were less than 1% higher than they were in March 2024.

It’s a temporary win for shoppers, but don’t expect it to last. Once dealers run through their pre-tariff inventory, the market is likely to shift.

Read: Crushing Import Tariffs Could Kill Audi’s Best-Selling Model In America

Data from Cox Automotive reveals that the average monthly transaction price for new cars in the US last month was $47,462. This is a small decline from the $47,577 of February. Curiously, the ATP discrepancy between ICE models and EVs has actually increased recently, even though EVs should, in theory, be approaching price parity.

EV Prices Push Higher

Estimates put the average ATP of a new EV in March at $59,205. This is a 7% increase year-over-year and up from $57,015 in February. This is in part due to rising Tesla prices, with its ATPs estimated at $54,582, or 3.5% higher year-over-year, and jumping 4.5% from February, too.

Average transaction prices at other brands have also jumped. For example, Land Rover ATPs hit $107,129 in March, up 8.8% from February’s figure of $98,478. They are also up 6.1% year-over-year. Lincoln and Mitsubishi ATPs also rose 4.7% and 4.3% month-over-month, hitting $68,281 and $31,692, respectively.

Not All Prices Are Rising

A few automakers actually posted lower ATPs in March. For example, they were down 5% at Cadillac in March, dropping to $74,078. They also declined 5.8% at Jaguar to $64,403, and were down 2.6% at Dodge and Infiniti, falling to $49,548 and $62,276, respectively.

Cox Automotive’s data also reveals that total market sales climbed significantly in March, even though prices and incentives largely remained steady. It estimates that 1.59 million new vehicles were sold last month in the US. If accurate, this would represent the best sales volume month in nearly four years and is a 30% increase from February.

Read: Average EV Transaction Price $6,300 Higher Than Gas Cars

The reason is simple. Many car shoppers have been rushing to buy a new vehicle before the tariffs hit and increase prices across the market.

“All signs point to higher prices this summer, as existing ‘pre-tariff’ inventory is sold down to be eventually replaced with ‘tariffed’ inventory,” Cox executive analyst Erin Keating said. “How high prices rise for consumers is still very much to be determined, as each automaker will handle the price puzzle differently. Should the White House posture hold, our team is expecting new vehicles directly impacted by the 25% tariff to see price increases in the range of 10-15%.”

Update: It looks like carbon fiber has dodged a regulatory bullet – for now. A representative from the European Parliament told Motor1 Italia that it plans to drop the lightweight material from the draft proposal, with the report stating, “Carbon fiber will be removed from the list of harmful materials, and cars sold in Europe will therefore be able to continue using it even after 2029.” Original story follows below.

Materials like lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium have long been classified as hazardous by the European Union. Despite that, they’re still allowed in the automotive sector under exemptions that don’t apply to other consumer goods. Now, though, another material could face outright prohibition in European cars: carbon fiber.

According to a new report, the European Parliament, which is responsible for the union’s laws, recently concluded a draft revision of the End of Life Vehicles (ELV) Directive that regulates dismantling and recycling vehicles and is aiming to make them more environmentally friendly. In it, carbon fiber is, for the first time anywhere in the world, classified as a harmful material.

More: EU Could Ditch Tariffs On Chinese EVs For Minimum Prices

Carbon fiber is used extensively in the aircraft industry as well as many other applications, such as wind turbine blades, cars and, to a lesser degree, motorcycles due to it being stronger than steel and lighter than aluminum. While it’s pricier than both, as its construction is far more difficult and costly, in many instances its advantages outweigh that con.

Is A Huge Market Worth Billions About To Be Decimated?

The world market for carbon fiber, which was worth $5.48 billion in 2024, is expected to grow annually at an average rate of 11% to $17.08 billion by 2035, US research firm Roots Analysis estimates. Currently, cars account for 10% to 20% of all applications according to Nikkei Asia‘s report. That number is bound to increase exponentially as manufacturers strive to lower the weight of their electric vehicles.

The extra weight of EVs compared to ICE-powered vehicles is due to them having to haul a big battery pack, usually on the floor. Using carbon fiber is seen as an ideal solution, especially by premium manufacturers for whom price is far from the first priority, unlike handling and range, which are compromised by all that weight and definitely matter much more to them.

Caution: Carbon Can Be Harmful When Getting Disposed Of

So why does the EU consider the material to be hazardous? The reason that when carbon fiber, which is bound with resin, is discarded, filaments may become airborne, causing short circuits in machinery and, more importantly, pain in humans if they contact the skin and mucosal membranes.

More: 2025 Kicks Off With A 30% Surge In Global EV And PHEV Sales

As Nikkei Asia points out, the ones who stand to lose the most if this ban goes through are three Japanese companies, Toray Industries, Teijin and Mitsubishi Chemical, who combined hold 54% of the world’s carbon fiber market. For Toray Industries, after aircraft and wind power generation, cars are the third largest segment of its business. Moreover, 50% of that is in Europe, so it would be greatly affected if this proposal gets voted into law.

Apart from EVs, many brands use carbon fiber in their ICE or hybrid cars – McLaren even makes the whole chassis of its supercars out of it. The good news is that even if this ban is adopted in Europe (and that’s a big “if”, as it’s bound to be met with lots of resistance), it won’t come into effect until 2029.

Are We Getting Ahead Of Ourselves?

Four years may not be such a long time for manufacturers who must develop their upcoming cars to comply with regulations, but take a look at how our world has changed in less than four months, when Donald Trump took office as the 47th US President.

A single decision, the 25 percent tariff on imported cars which was implemented on April 2, sent economies all over the globe into a spin. Yet nothing’s set in stone yet, as many countries intend to negotiate with the Trump administration over this measure that harms their business. So, perhaps we shouldn’t worry too much about a possible ban on carbon fiber in Europe just yet – unless, of course, we were execs in one of the aforementioned Japanese companies. Or McLaren.

The McMurtry Spéirling Pure is unlike any other car on the planet. And, as it turns out, it can also go around the Top Gear Test Track unlike any other, too, setting a new outright lap record with ease. While the British EV looks a little funky, there’s no questioning its performance credentials.

Top Gear managed to get its hands on the Spéirling Pure, and it knew it was going to be fast. However, it wasn’t clear if it would be able to topple the Renault R24 Formula 1 car that lapped the circuit in 59.0 seconds back in 2004. Not only did the McMurtry topple that record, but it absolutely destroyed it. The EV needed just 55.9 seconds to complete a lap.

Watch: McMurtry Spéirling Sucks So Much That It Just Made History By Driving Upside Down

The speed at which the Spéirling accelerates and can handle corners is mind-boggling. It needs just 1.5 seconds to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) and cancorner harder and faster than an F1 car. Thanks to its complex fan system, it produces 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs) of downforce at a standstill. The Pure is even more insane than the original prototype, which smashed the Goodwood hillclimb record a few years back.

It comes standard with wider front and rear slick tires and can pull more than 3G in the corners. It also delivers 999 hp, has a 60 kWh battery pack, weighs just 2,200 lbs (1,000 kg), and tops out at 190 mph (306 km/h). The Stig wasn’t able to hit the Spéirling’s vmax at the track, but did get it up to 177 mph (285 km/h).

When watching the onboard video, you could be excused for thinking you’re watching a video game that’s been sped up. The grip on offer is truly insane and out of every corner, the McMurtry bolts off into the distance like a scalded cat.

To put the car’s time into perspective, it didn’t just beat a 2004 F1 car, but it slashed 13 seconds off the Aston Martin Valkyrie‘s time, which until now held the record for the fastest road-legal car ever tested by Top Gear with a time of 1:09.6.