While the Nissan Ariya is a decent electric SUV, its sales haven’t exactly taken off the way the brand probably hoped. The Leaf, meanwhile, is well past its expiration date, though a successor is coming soon. Over in China, however, Nissan has launched an EV that’s actually generating real demand. That would be the N7, unveiled back in April and on sale shortly after.

According to Nissan, as of May 31, it had secured 17,215 orders for the new N7 in China in just one month. The company also noted that 70 percent of those orders came from first-time Nissan owners.

Read: Nissan’s New Electric Sedan Is As Big As A Maxima, Cheap As A Versa

It’s an impressive figure, although quick early sales aren’t unusual for newly launched EVs in China, where many models rack up tens of thousands of orders within months. Mazda, for example, is believed to have secured 20,000 pre-orders for the EZ-60 in just a matter of weeks. Chinese deliveries of the N7 began on May 15.

In a social media update, the company added that the N7 is currently the top-selling pure electric vehicle among joint ventures and ranks second among medium and large EVs priced under 200,000 yuan (around US$27,600). It didn’t specify the time period this ranking refers to, but it’s likely a monthly figure, so take that as you will.

Going Global

Perhaps buoyed by the warm reception in China, Nissan confirmed today that it plans to take the N7 global. However, it didn’t share any details about launch timing or which markets will get the car. One thing seems certain: the United States won’t be on that list. Europe, on the other hand, is a likely candidate, especially considering Mazda plans to offer its Chinese-made EZ-6 and EZ-60 SUV in several global markets, including Europe and possibly Australia too.

For what it’s worth, Nissan recently trademarked the Primera name in several markets, including Malaysia, hinting that the N7 might revive the long-dormant badge.

Not a Ground-Up Nissan Design

While this looks like a win for Nissan, it didn’t have to shoulder all the development work. The N7 borrows heavily from the Dongfeng eπ 007, the model it’s based on. That also means some of the cooler elements, like the eπ 007’s Lamborghini-style scissor doors, didn’t make it into Nissan’s version. Instead, the N7 makes do with standard doors, though most buyers likely won’t mind.

However, for the most part, the N7 is quite unconventional for a Nissan. It looks distinct from all of the brand’s other models, rocking a light bar up front and intricate LED headlights. It’s a similar story in the cabin where the N7 feels much more modern than any other Nissan, including the Ariya. Key features include a 15.6-inch infotainment display, wireless charging pads, a two-spoke steering wheel, and a very minimalist design.

Of course, even though the N7 is based on a Chinese model, Nissan’s local team couldn’t resist staging a photo op next to the most Japanese thing it could find, the soon-to-be-discontinued GT-R. Nothing screams shared DNA like a Chinese-sourced EV and a 16-year-old turbocharged JDM relic.

Affordable Pricing, Competitive Specs

Prices for the N7 start at a very affordable 119,900 yuan (around $16,600), at least by Western standards. The base model features a 58 kWh battery pack, delivers 215 horsepower, and offers a range of up to 317 miles (510 km) on a single charge.

Better-equipped versions with the same powertrain, labeled Pro and Max, are also available, priced at 129,900 yuan (about $18,000) and 139,900 yuan (around $19,400), respectively. Two variants with a larger 73 kWh battery are offered as well, starting at 139,900 yuan ($19,400) and reaching up to 149,900 yuan ($20,800).

John Halas contributed to this report.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk seemed like a match made in heaven as they’re both rich, egotistical billionaires that crave attention. However, they both have thin skin, a questionable definition of the truth, and a tendency to retaliate.

The latter three characteristics are now on full display as their bromance has ended in a rather public fight. Musk got the ball rolling by attacking Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill as a “disgusting abomination.” He went on to call it a “massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill” … that “contains the largest increase in the debt ceiling in US history!”

More: Trump’s Tax Bill Promises Car Loan Relief But The Devil Is In The Details

Musk described it as the “Debt Slavery Bill” and urged Congress to kill it. He also told his 220 million followers on X to call their legislators as “bankrupting America is NOT ok!”

President Trump was initially quiet on the criticism, but he tore into Musk today. In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump claimed he asked Elon to leave his administration as he was “wearing thin.” Trump also said Musk went “CRAZY” after “I took away his EV Mandate that forced everyone to buy electric cars that nobody else wanted.”

Trump then made a not so subtle threat, despite claiming “I don’t mind Elon turning against me.” In particular, he said the “easiest way to save money … is to terminate Elon’s governmental subsidies and contracts.”

That’s a rather blatant threat of retaliation and Wall Street appears to be taking it seriously. Tesla stock plummeted 14.27% today to close down $47.37 per share at $284.68.

Time to drop the really big bomb:@realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public.

Have a nice day, DJT!

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025

In response to Trump’s threat, Musk said SpaceX will “begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately.” This would effectively leave NASA up a creek without a paddle, although they could use Boeing’s troubled Starliner.

Aside from that, Musk said Trump is “in the Epstein files” and claimed “that is the real reason they have not been made public.” He went on to suggest Trump’s tariffs will cause a recession in the second half of this year.

The mudslinging will likely continue for the foreseeable future, although it will be interesting to see if the two can mend fences. If not, Tesla could have just added to its increasingly complex set of challenges.

The Trump tariffs will cause a recession in the second half of this year https://t.co/rbBC11iynE

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025

The Lucid Air is an exceptional electric sedan, but unfortunately, its premium price tag puts it out of reach for many. Now, Lucid is offering substantial discounts, slashing up to $31,500 off the price. The catch? These savings only apply if you’re leasing. Still, for those open to a 36-month commitment, the 2025 Lucid Air could be yours for as little as $519 per month.

The cheapest of the three Lucid Air models included in this promotion is the Air Pure. Cutting payments down to $519/month for 36 months involved Lucid introducing a $2,000 on-site vehicle bonus, a $2,000 conquest offer if they own a vehicle from a competitor, and a special Air Credit. All Lucid Air models are also eligible for the full $7,500 EV tax credit.

Read: Lucid Promised Luxury But All This Owner Got Was Regret And Nightmares

The savings amount to $21,500 for the Air Pure. Opting for a lease, however, requires a $3,696 down payment due at signing. That effectively increases the monthly payment up to $620. For those who would prefer to finance, the Air Pure is available at 2.99% APR for up to 72 months, plus a $10,000 Air Credit. The cash price remains at $69,900, but includes an extra $10,000 in Air Credit for other cash purchases.

The discounts for the Air Touring amount to $26,500, and it can now be leased from $539/month for 36 months with $4,079 due at signing. Add that down payment to the equation and you’re looking at $652/month. Like the base model, the Air Touring can be financed at 2.99% APR for up to 72 months and includes a $7,500 Air Credit. For those who can afford to pay upfront, the Touring starts at $78,900 and has a $7,500 Air Credit.

The final model available with the new deals is the Air Grand Touring. Savings add up to $31,500, including a $20,000 Air Credit, allowing it to be leased for $849 per month for 36 months with $6,819 due at signing. The monthly payments work out to be the equivalent of $1,038 when factoring in the down payment. The cash price starts at $110,900 with a $5,000 Air Credit.

Lucid’s latest price cuts won’t suddenly make the Air a people’s car, but if you’ve been circling the luxury EV lot looking for a deal, this might finally move the needle.

Tesla’s robotaxi ambitions appear to be moving from concept to curb, with autonomous testing expected to begin later this month on the streets of Austin, Texas. Meanwhile, a curious-looking Model 3 prototype spotted in San Jose is stirring up speculation. Whether it’s a one-off experiment or a cleverly disguised test mule for the upcoming Cybercab, one thing’s clear; it’s not your typical Tesla.

The prototype was recently caught on video in a public parking lot in California and was wearing Texas manufacturer plates, meaning this was definitely not a privately owned car. Just like the Cybercab Tesla showed several months ago, the entire exterior of the prototype is finished in matte gold, which could be either a wrap or paint. The gold extends across the special aero covers on the wheels and even blocks out the entire rear window and the glass roof.

Read: Tesla’s Robotaxi And Cybercab Might Need New Names

There are some other interesting things going on with this particular Model 3.Up front, a new camera juts out from the bumper, and on the sides, the usual integrated cameras have been swapped for makeshift units crudely screwed into the quarter panels. Another additional camera has been tacked onto the trunk lid, rounding out the prototype’s growing collection of eyeballs.

@WholeMarsBlog @DirtyTesLa @AIDRIVR what the hell is this thing?? 👀 pic.twitter.com/ATYxTrXEeV

— Andrew Lopez (@ASVPxdrizzle) June 2, 2025

Perhaps leading credence to the theory that this is a test mule for the Cybercab is that the rear side windows have been blanked out, and sitting behind them are fixed camera units. The Cybercab showcased by Tesla last October had cameras in this very same position, unlike any other current Tesla model. Curiously, the B-pillar trim was missing from this car.

Unless, of course, you know, someone at Tesla decided that the same genius move that replaced turn stalks with steering wheel buttons should be extended to axing the glass roof and rear window for the sake of efficiency.

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has said that production of the Cybercab will start before 2027, and indicated that prices will kick off from less than $30,000. Those are audacious targets, particularly for a carmaker like Tesla that is so well known for missing its production targets.

Tesla needs to wrap their Model Y Robotaxis like this https://t.co/egNxgTVoKL pic.twitter.com/Bur30y4Caa

— Nic Cruz Patane (@niccruzpatane) June 3, 2025

Different automakers have very different approaches to disguising their prototypes. While Hyundai loves to hide its upcoming cars under black sheets containing foam blocks to obscure the shapes below, Opel’s Mokka GSE could’t be more desperate to attract attention if it streaked naked across the pitch at last weekend’s Champion’s League soccer final.

The luminous yellow and black wrap and prominent ‘OMG!’ lettering on this sporty crossover tie in with a teaser campaign Opel released earlier this month designed to raise awareness of the brand’s latest GSE model, and also a change of direction for all future GSE cars.

Related: Stellantis Turns Mokka SUV Into An Electric Rally Weapon

Previously offered only with hybrid powertrains, the sporty GSE badge will become an exclusively electric affair, and the first GSE EV is the Mokka seen in these pictures. A range-topping trim for the existing electric Mokka crossover, it’s Opel’s equivalent to the Abarth 600e and Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, all three being built on the same Stellantis platform.

Though Opel hasn’t confirmed specs for the production GSE, it’s already told us the version it’ll use in rallying has a single, front-mounted motor that makes 278 hp (207 kW / 280 PS) and 345 Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque, which matches exactly the spec of the Abarth and Alfa. Abarth also offers a less potent version of the 600e with 237 hp (240 PS / 175 kW), which takes 6.1 seconds rather than 5.8 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 kmh), though we don’t know whether Opel will give buyers the same option.

Photos Baldauf

Based on what we know of its two Italian cousins, the GSE gets a 54 kWh (51 kWh usable) battery that’s going to prove too small for anyone with an aversion to charging stations because it’ll only be rated for around 200 miles (320 km) of range and the charge rate tops out a miserable 100 kW.

Big wheels shoulder some of the blame for the poor range, but they do fill the arches nicely, giving the GSE a great stance. The bumpers are only slightly more aggressive than the ones on the stock Mokka, and overall, despite the yellow brake calipers, this is definitely a less showy EV than the Alfa Junior, suggesting the ‘OMG’ graphics might be slightly over-egging things. But we can expect to see some GSE graphics and a sportier look to the interior when Opel finally peels back the wrap in the next month or so.

Photos Baldauf

Mazda has faced some criticism for its slow roll-out of compelling EVs. While the new EZ-6 sedan and EZ-60 SUV have garnered attention, they are primarily aimed at the Chinese market and Europe, and both are based on Chinese models. However, that’s about to change.

The company plans to launch its own EVs soon, unrelated to the EZ models shown here. The first of these new vehicles is scheduled to go into production in 2027 at the company’s existing Hofu 2 assembly plant in Japan. Unlike some rivals, Mazda won’t be building a separate EV production line to make it happen.

Flexible Production, Lower Costs

Instead of following the traditional route of investing in an entirely new EV manufacturing process, Mazda has developed a flexible system that allows its electric vehicles to be made alongside hybrid, gas, diesel, and plug-in hybrid models. According to Mazda officials who spoke to Auto News, this innovation will help slash investment costs by a whopping 85%, all while reducing production lead time by 80%.

“A dedicated EV line isn’t necessary because our lines can already accommodate mixed production,” Taketo Hironaka, managing executive officer in charge of production engineering, told Autonews. “This plant is at the cutting edge of Mazda’s manufacturing.”

Read: Mazda’s New Pure Electric SUV Has Spilled Its Secrets

The Hofu H2 site currently produces the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90. It no longer uses fixed conveyors; instead, it utilizes flat pallet platforms that slide across the factory floor. Automatic guided vehicles are then used to transport a vehicle’s powertrain and guide it into place, regardless of whether that vehicle is a PHEV, a diesel, or an EV. This flexible setup also means Mazda only needs seven days to extend a production line, whereas it previously took six weeks.

Mazda is also adopting a lean asset strategy that will enable it to maximize the utilization of its existing production facilities. According to the managing executive officer in charge of production engineering at the Hofu 2 factory, Taketo Hironaka, Mazda will keep capacity utilization at the factory near 100%. The flexibility will also allow it to quickly adjust production levels of hybrids and EVs should demand for EVs ever temporarily slump or spike.

“Doing mixed production means our BEV ratio will change according to customer demand at a given time,” Hironaka said. “We may see a BEV ratio of 100 percent, or it could be 0 percent. We have been able to build such a flexible production system this time. For a small player like us, we think using our production lines 100 percent by employing mixed production is a smart way to go. Under our lean asset strategy, we will maximize the use of our existing production facilities to ride out the initial stages of shift to electrification.”

Tariffs and the U.S. Market

Efficient production isn’t just about cost-cutting, it’s also a buffer against external pressures. Mazda is bracing for the impact of the United States government’s new 25 percent tariff on vehicles and parts, a move that could hit the company hard in its largest market outside of Japan.

“The 25 percent figure is outrageous,” Hironaka told the publication. “We will control what we can. “The key is not having any waste in fixed costs and capital investment. In that sense, this Hofu No. 2 plant is a plant that is at the forefront of our approach,” he added.

China’s booming EV market isn’t short on drama, and with new models launching at breakneck speed, it’s hard to keep up. One of the latest arrivals poised to shake things up is the refreshed Xpeng P7, which looks ready to challenge the wildly popular Xiaomi SU7. Recently uncovered in official photos from the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the P7 has now been showcased in new photos and also spotted on the road with two flamboyant wraps.

Xpeng is expected to officially launch the P7 in the third quarter of this year, giving it enough time to iron out any kinks the new car may have. The automaker has left no stone unturned in overhauling the design of the updated P7, so much so that it barely resembles the outgoing model. Whether or not that’s a good thing will be up to the market to decide.

Read: Xpeng’s New Sports Sedan Packs More Power Than Expected

Clearly, Xpeng wants to make a statement with the new car. One prototype recently spotted on the streets by Weibo users features a mirror chrome wrap that extends not only across the bodywork but also to the rear window and wheels. A second prototype snapped on the road has a matte purple wrap and also rocks aerodynamic wheel covers.

While we doubt Xpeng will actually sell the P7 with exterior finishes like this, we wouldn’t put it past the brand. The outgoing P7 ‘Wing Edition’ is offered in a bright shade of green, akin to what you’d expect to find from the color palette of an exotic brand like Lamborghini.

Bright colors aren’t the only exotic car influences of the new P7. It will come equipped with Lamborghini-inspired scissor doors, though it’s not clear yet if these will be offered on all trims or only the flagship model. Additionally, recent photos have shown that the wing mirrors and front air vents can be optioned with a forged carbon fiber design. Whether that’s real carbon or just an aesthetic wrap hasn’t been confirmed, but it does add some extra visual flair to the EV.

The updated P7 isn’t just about show. It brings performance upgrades too. Entry-level models will come with a 363 hp rear-mounted motor, while the dual-motor version adds another 223 hp up front. That gives the all-wheel-drive variant a healthy 586 hp, which should make for some genuinely quick launches.

Buyers won’t have to wait long to see it up close. The P7 is expected to make its official debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show on November 20.

BMW’s X-family isn’t done evolving just yet. While the current lineup still feels relatively fresh, beyond the upcoming iX3, new generations of the X5, X6 and X7 are already coming into focus, bringing with them a broader mix of powertrains, fresh tech, and a few surprises aimed squarely at the electrified future.

Spy photographers have caught the redesigned X5 on multiple occasions and now new details are starting to emerge about the crossover. It’s scheduled to go into production in August of 2026 and be offered with an assortment of powertrains.

More: BMW’s Second-Gen X7 Is Surprisingly Familiar And Very Different All At Once

According to WardsAuto, the fifth-generation model (G65) will ride on the familiar CLAR platform, but adopt several features from Neue Klasse vehicles. That’s a wise move considering a fully electric iX5 will join the lineup, which will also consist of gas, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen powertrains.

According to the publication, the iX5 will have an advanced powertrain that has a 20% higher energy density as well as a 30% increase in range and charging speed compared to the “current technology used by BMW.” The crossover is also said to have a 40% reduction in energy loss, hinting at a huge efficiency boost.

SHProshots

The second-generation X7 (G67) is slated to follow in 2027 and should largely echo its smaller counterpart. However, it could be far sportier as the report says there will be an iX7 M70 with more than 800 hp (597 kW / 811 PS). It could eventually be joined by an Alpina variant packing around 900 hp (671 kW / 913 PS).

Despite modest sales, a new X6 (G66) is also planned and it’s rumored to spawn an electric iX6 in 2028. Little is known about the crossover coupe, but it should follow in the footsteps of the X5.

All three models are slated to be built in America thanks, in part, to a $1 billion investment in Spartanburg, South Carolina as well as a $700 million investment in a nearby battery plant.

SHProshots

When tech collides with the real world, the consequences are rarely theoretical. In late 2023, a tragic accident happened in Arizona. Of 40,901 traffic fatalities that year, it was unique. It was the only one that involved a pedestrian and a Tesla reportedly running on Full Self-Driving (Supervised) mode. Now, as Tesla begins its Robotaxi launch in Austin, it’s raising questions about safety now and in the future.

The accident happened in November of that year when Johna Story, a 71-year-old grandmother, was pulled over on the interstate. She was stopped in an effort to help others who had already been in an earlier accident. Video from the Tesla shows that the roadway leading up to the crash was obscured by direct sunlight on the horizon.

More: Dodge Says Charger Daytona’s Unintended Acceleration Is A Feature Not A Bug

That said, the video obtained by Bloomberg of the crash does show warning signs that something was wrong. While the roadway is impossible to see, the car in the right lane slows down. Other vehicles are parked on the right shoulder. A bystander was waving their hands for traffic to slow down.

Before he knew it, Tesla driver Karl Stock was veering left, then back toward the road before hitting a parked Toyota 4Runner and Story head-on. She passed away at the scene. “Sorry everything happened so fast,” Stock wrote in a witness statement for police. “There were cars stopped in front of me and by the time I saw them, I had no place to go to avoid them.”

Notably, Bloomberg claims that FSD was engaged at the time of the accident. “He [Stock] had engaged what the carmaker calls Full Self-Driving, or FSD,” the report claims. This isn’t substantiated by the police report. Neither the reporting officers nor Stock mentions FSD, Autopilot, or any sort of cruise control or autonomous system. That said, it’s possible that the publication gained access to the non-public NHTSA crash report and that more data is available there.

Vision Vs. Lidar & Radar

Ultimately, crashes like this highlight what seems like the most obvious concern for Tesla’s FSD. Vision-based systems aren’t wildly dissimilar from the way that humans perceive the road. That means that when humans struggle to see the roadway ahead, as is the case with bright sunlight on the horizon, or in smoke-filled or foggy conditions, vision-based systems can struggle too.

As mentioned, it seems unclear when exactly FSD was engaged and when it wasn’t. That said, even if the system disengaged in time for Stock to avoid the crash, it’s unclear how he would’ve seen what was coming to do so. In fact, this crash and others like it, albeit without additional fatalities, led the NHTSA to kick off an investigation into FSD that is still ongoing.

“A Tesla vehicle experienced a crash after entering an area of reduced roadway visibility conditions with FSD -Beta or FSD -Supervised (collectively, FSD) engaged. In these crashes, the reduced roadway visibility arose from conditions such as sun glare, fog, or airborne dust,” the investigation called out.

On the flip side, systems that rely on radar or lidar can ‘see’ beyond fog, light glare, and smoke. They can pick up on obstacles that vision-based systems sometimes have real trouble with. In this case, a lidar-equipped system could’ve potentially alerted Stock to the stopped obstacles. That doesn’t make them perfect.

Cruise famously shut down after billions worth of investment because of crashes. Those cars all used radar and lidar and still failed. All of that said, it’s still a bit of a wonder as to why Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, are so staunch in their use of vision-only systems. Only time will tell if that changes.

The Robot Elephant In The Room

We might learn sooner rather than later whether or not Tesla sticks with its vision-only system. The automaker is already testing robotaxis and driverless cars and is set to expand that this month in Austin, Texas. Musk has promised that the program will expand throughout the year and that Level 5 autonomous driving is coming soon.

Of course, Tesla has continually improved FSD over the years. It’s a dramatically more capable system than it was in 2023 but it still has some major issues. Just a few weeks ago, a Tesla, reportedly with FSD engaged, crashed on an open road with no obstacles, no visual queues, or any other explicable reasoning. We’ve yet to confirm the details, but in the video, the car literally drove off of the road and into a tree at around 55 mph. These two crashes are things that Tesla’s Robotaxis cannot do if the automaker ever wants them to be mainstream. For now, there’s little more to do than to wait and see what happens.

Tesla’s Take

Here is the full, 36-page crash report of that Arizona incident, with both police and eye-witness reports and everything: https://t.co/wvfvgl8ET3 pic.twitter.com/3y5DSgDzpU

— Jaan of the EVwire.com ⚡ (@TheEVuniverse) June 4, 2025

The automaker is famous for its lack of a PR department [until it really wants to get a message out]. That said, it does sometimes speak about why it continues to push for Autopilot and FSD usage among its customers.

Two years ago, when it recalled over a million cars, it said, “We at Tesla believe that we have a moral obligation to continue improving our already best-in-class safety systems. At the same time, we also believe it is morally indefensible not to make these systems available to a wider set of consumers, given the incontrovertible data that shows it is saving lives and preventing injury.”

While Tesla is notoriously opaque about the safety data it gathers, it does claim that its cars are safer on average than human drivers. Since third parties don’t have full access to that data to validate it, it’s hard to simply accept those claims. Nevertheless, if they’re accurate, Tesla has a point. At the end of the day, nobody in this equation wants to risk lives. The question is, which route is the safest, not just in the future, but right now?

Lead image Bloomberg/YouTube

Summer is just around the corner, and while that’s good news for many, the bad news is that price hikes across most major car brands are also seemingly just around the corner. Thankfully, Costco is once again rolling out limited-time discounts on select Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC models, offering savings of up to $1,250 for members.

The Costco Auto Program is meant to simplify car buying by sidestepping dealership haggling and offering fixed discounts to members. Between June 3 and July 31, Gold Star and Business members can shave $1,000 off eligible models. Executive members get a slightly larger discount of up to $1,250.

Read: Costco Offers Up To $2,000 Off New Audis

To benefit, members need to visit the Costco website, register their details, select their preferred model, and then be sent a savings certificate with a unique promo code. Shoppers will then get the discount when they present this certificate at any of the dealers from the three brands. But not all models are eligible.

At Chevrolet, the $1,000 and $1,250 discounts are available for the Colorado, Silverado EV, Blazer EV, and Equinox EV. There are also savings valued at up to $3,000 for the Chevrolet BrightDrop 400 and BrightDrop 600 delivery vans, but only businesses are expected to purchase them.

Over at GMC, the Sierra EV, Hummer EV Pickup, and Hummer EV SUV are the three models available with the new Costco incentives. Then there’s Cadillac, where only the all-electric Optiq and Vistiq are eligible. Importantly, the Costco savings can be stacked with any other incentive a buyer may be eligible for.

For those thinking about signing up for Costco just to take advantage of this offer, the timing won’t work out. Eligibility requires an active membership as of June 2, so new sign-ups won’t be able to use the discount this time around.

Drivers may love the promise of hands-free, mind-at-ease driving, but not all advanced driver assistance systems are created equal. Tesla has long marketed its vehicles as tech-forward and autonomous-ready, but fresh data from Euro NCAP tells a different story, especially when it comes to how clearly the system communicates with drivers.

More: Chinese SUV Beats Porsche Macan To Become Euro NCAP’s Safest EV In 2024

The Model S earned just 30% in Assistance Competence, a category where even smaller and more affordable EVs outperformed it. For comparison, the Kia EV3 scored 74% and the Renault 5 managed 73%. Both vehicles cost significantly less and make fewer promises about automation.

Euro NCAP’s Assisted Driving Grading program is built to evaluate how safely and responsibly automakers implement partially automated features. The scoring system weighs two key areas: Assistance Competence, which looks at how well the system communicates with the driver, and Safety Backup, which assesses how the car handles actual safety interventions, such as collision avoidance.

In the most recent round of testing, both the Tesla Model S and the Volvo EX30 received a “Moderate” rating, an underwhelming result for two companies that lean heavily on safety and tech in their marketing.

Tesla’s Language Problem

Tesla’s latest Autopilot system in the Model S did deliver a strong 94% score for Safety Backup, but its poor Assistance Competence score pulled the overall rating down. Euro NCAP cited the misleading “Autopilot” branding and promotional language, which they say overstates the system’s capabilities and can mislead drivers into overestimating how autonomous the system really is.

“Tesla is misleading consumers about their Autopilot system’s capabilities simply through its name and marketing, which could have potential safety implications,” said the organization. “A well-designed system will co-operate with the driver, appropriately inform about the level of assistance, and ultimately offer crash avoidance in critical situations; otherwise, it may introduce additional risks.”

Another problem noted by the testers is that the steering input of the Model S is resistant to a driver attempting to override it, and when they do, it automatically disengages.

“The name ‘Autopilot’ of Tesla’s system, as well as its promotional material, all suggest full automation, which is deemed inappropriate by Euro NCAP and led to a downgrade in their score,” said Euro NCAP. “Additionally, unlike the Porsche, its steering input is resistant to a driver attempting to override it, and when the driver does, the system automatically disengages, limiting its usefulness.”

EuroNCAP

As for the Pilot Assist system fitted on the Volvo EX30, it scored 72% for Safety Backup and 62% for Assistance Competence. The main reason for the relatively low scores is that the driver has to take their eyes off the road in order to check the system alerts on the centrally mounted touchscreen. Furthermore, the driving assistance systems were found not to disengage, even after repeated hands-off alerts.

Other vehicles in this round had mixed showings. The MG ZS also landed in the “Moderate” category, while the Mazda CX-80 and the Chinese XPeng G9 fared better with “Good” ratings.

The Pleasant Surprises

More encouraging results came from four models that earned a “Very Good” rating. The Porsche Macan’s, using its InnoDrive system with Active Lane Keeping, scored 92% for Safety Backup and 85% for Assistance Competence, the highest in this round. Euro NCAP praised the clarity of its status displays and the transparency of its promotional materials.

More: The Brands With The Most 5-Star Safety Ratings Over The Last 10 Years

Other good performers with intuitive systems included the facelifted Toyota bZ4X crossover and the Kia EV3 small SUV. Finally, the Active Driver Assist package of the Renault 5 electric supermini impressed Euro NCAP’s testers, who praised it for “demonstrating how assisted driving systems can perform just as well on more affordable cars”.

Adriano Palao, ADAS Technical Manager at Euro NCAP, said: “The safe operation of Assisted Driving systems can only be achieved if consumers clearly understand their role as drivers, know how to operate the system, and are aware of its limitation…A well-designed system will cooperate with the driver, appropriately inform about the level of assistance, and ultimately offer crash avoidance in critical situations; otherwise, it may introduce additional risks.”

Below you can find the scores of all nine models that participated in this testing phase.

EURO NCAP ASSISTED DRIVING 2025 TEST RATINGS

Update: The U.S. Coast Guard has provided additional details about the incident that occurred approximately 300 miles south of Adak, Alaska, on Wednesday. The exact number of vehicles aboard the 600-foot, Liberian-flagged cargo vessel, which is managed by a UK company, has been confirmed at 3,048 total vehicles. Of those, 70 are fully electric vehicles, and 681 are hybrid-electric vehicles.

The Coast Guard also reported that the status of the fire remains uncertain, though smoke is still visibly emanating from the vessel. “As the search and rescue portion of our response concludes, our crews are working closely with the vessel’s manager, Zodiac Maritime, to determine the disposition of the vessel,” said Rear Admiral Megan Dean, commander of the Coast Guard’s Seventeenth District. “We are grateful for the selfless actions of the three nearby vessels who assisted in the response and the crew of motor vessel Cosco Hellas, who helped save 22 lives.”

Original story follows below.

EV sales might not have caught alight in the way automakers hoped, but news of another shipping fire reminds us that electric cars sure are combustible. The cargo ship was on its way from Asia to North America when a fire broke out forcing the crew to abandon the vessel in the middle of the Pacific ocean, leaving thousands of brand new cars onboard.

Also: The Shipping World Isn’t Ready For The Risk EVs Pose, Here’s Why

The Morning Midas departed China for Mexico on May 26, carrying roughly 3,000 vehicles, including around 800 electric cars. But eight days into its 19-day voyage, just after midnight UTC (7:00 p.m. EST) on June 3, smoke was spotted billowing from one of the decks. UK-based shipowner Zodiac Maritime, which manages the vessel, has since confirmed that the fire originated in the section of the ship carrying electric vehicles.

Firefighting Efforts Failed to Contain the Blaze

“The crew immediately initiated emergency firefighting procedures using the vessel’s onboard fire-suppression systems,” said Zodiac Maritime, the car-carrier’s manager, per Lloyd’s List. “However, despite their efforts, the situation could not be brought under control.”

After contacting the US coast guard the 22-man crew decided to abandon ship, jumping into the lifeboat, after which they were picked up by a nearby merchant ship. With the fire still burning at the time of writing the condition of the thousands of cars still onboard is unknown.

This is far from the first time a boat carrying EVs has caught fire at sea. Three years ago another ship, this one loaded with 4,000 cars, including Porsche, Bentley and Lamborghini models went up in flames in the Atlantic. Attempts were made to tow the Felicity Ace to safety but after burning for two weeks the boat capsized and sank near the Azores.

All 22 crew were also saved on that occasion, but VW Group said the Insurance company was looking at a $155 million bill to replace the lost cars. Lamborghini even restarted production of the discontinued Aventador to replace a customer’s car lost in the accident.

Some shipping companies, such as Norway’s Havila Kystruten, now refuse to carry electric vehicles, judging the risk factor too high. But with EVs set to eventually take over the car market those vehicles are going to have to get from one side of the world somehow, and shipping them is the only realistic method.

We’ll update this story as soon as more details emerge.

Photos: U.S. Coast Guard courtesy of Air Station Kodiak

If there’s any company you can trust to design a beautiful car, it’s Pininfarina. The Italian company has a rich history of designing some of the most stunning cars ever conceived, the most notable among them being some gorgeous Ferraris, and back in early 2019, it unveiled its own model.

Sharing its underpinnings with the Rimac Nevera, the “final edition” Pininfarina Battista is perhaps the most gorgeous hypercar of our time. Yet, just when we didn’t think it could look any better, Pininfarina has unveiled the latest and finest one-of-one named the Novantacinquem, described as the final edition of the line.

Showcased at the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile in Turin in late May, this special commission of the Battista was conceived to celebrate the 95th anniversary of the company. The bodywork is finished in spectacular red-tinted carbon fiber, contrasted with several areas painted in PURA Vision Gold, including the underside of the rear wing and pin stripes running down the sides of the car.

Read: Michael Jordan Revealed As Owner Of One-Off Pininfarina Battista Targamerica

The one-off also rocks a special Novantacinque script on the rear wing and has several ‘95’ logos across the exterior. It sits on polished wheels with black detailing that are shod in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

Plenty of unique touches have also been made to the interior. The seats are trimmed in a mixture of black leather and black Alcantara, complete with black and gold stitching. There are also Alcantara-appointed knee pads that have the ‘95’ logo in gold, loads of exposed satin carbon fiber and aluminum parts, and several elements anodized in gold and black.

Like all other Battistas, this one has a 120 kWh battery pack and four electric motors that combine to produce 1,900 hp and 1,696 lb-ft (2,300 Nm) of torque. This monstrous output allows it to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 1.89 seconds.

“The Battista Novantacinque represents the pinnacle of bespoke luxury and performance,” Pininfarina chief executive Paulo Dellachà described. “It is a tribute to Pininfarina’s past, present, and future – a timeless masterpiece created to honor 95 years of design excellence. It is only befitting that the Novantacinque is the final expression of the Battista line.”

Production of the Battista, which is capped at just 150 units worldwide, will end later this year.

For most folks, a car that accelerates on its own is a dangerous proposition. Just ask Toyota — those unintended acceleration headlines weren’t exactly a PR dream. According to Stellantis, though, that’s a meticulously engineered safety feature. It just happens to be one that we haven’t really heard about before today.

In fact, it only entered the spotlight after Edmunds experienced the issue firsthand with its Dodge Charger Daytona long-term tester, which began picking up speed without the driver’s input.

More: Watch This Tesla’s FSD Do What It Definitely Wasn’t Supposed To Do Without Crashing

To put things lightly, the launch of the Charger Daytona hasn’t gone as well as Stellantis might have hoped. That said, it’s still a vehicle worthy of testing and reviewing, and that’s why Edmunds has one. What they likely never expected was that it would speed up on its own one day.

An Unexpected Moment

According to the tester who was behind the wheel at the time, things went sideways almost immediately:

“I was pulling out onto a thoroughfare street from a strip mall parking lot when warning lights appeared on the Charger’s instrument panel for the stability control, frontal collision warning system, regenerative braking, and more. There was also a short-lived message — it might have been something about the forward collision warning system — and that the car would be in low power mode. This wasn’t good. I could tell something was wrong because the car accelerated sluggishly.

Once up to speed, the Charger did the thing we’re all here to talk about. It kept accelerating even after the driver lifted their foot off of the pedal. That’s weird in any car, but even stranger in an EV, where regenerative braking usually slows the car down faster than in a combustion car.

According to the driver, this wasn’t rapid acceleration, but more akin to the speed one typically gains in an automatic car when letting off of the brakes from a dead stop. Except, rather than only being capable of picking up a little speed, it managed to add around one mile per hour each second that the brakes weren’t applied. That said, the brakes did work, albeit with more force necessary (according to the driver) than normal.

“I let the car accelerate by itself as a test. It reached about 45 mph before I had to apply the brakes again for another stop sign. That was enough. Using the time-tested fix for all things tech. I pulled off onto a side street from the stop sign and parked. Fortunately, the acceleration stopped when I put the transmission in Park.”

For its part, Stellantis says that this is the way it’s designed, but we’ll circle back to that. First, it’s important to point out that Edmunds isn’t alone. Thomas Hundal over at The Autopian compiled a list of similar instances documented online.

That included one complaint directly to the NHTSA, where a driver claimed that the car sped up even after they were off the accelerator. They finished their complaint with an important detail. “I regained control using the brake alone.” When confronted with this evidence, Stellantis responded, and the statement it gave was a whopper.

All Of This Is Intentional, Says Stellantis

Here’s the statement in full before we break it down a little.

“In the rare event of an accelerator pedal fault, Stellantis has implemented a ‘drive-by-brake’ safety feature, which allows the driver to control speed through the brake pedal. In this instance, the feature worked as intended, and the driver was able to safely maneuver the vehicle off the road. This feature has been in Stellaris internal combustion engine vehicles for many years and has been carried over to battery electric vehicles.”

That’s right, folks, nothing to see here. “The feature worked as intended.” This is especially gobsmacking because the car doesn’t tell the driver what is happening. It doesn’t alert drivers to, you know, drive via the brake pedal. Of course, many electric cars now feature one pedal driving, but those ones use active regenerative braking to slow down when no input is provided.

It seems that the Charger Daytona is fitted with technology that does the exact opposite. It’s worth noting that while Stellantis says this is a feature carried over from combustion cars, we can’t find any examples of it. There’s no mention of it in past press releases, owner’s manuals, or any other documentation we’ve checked up until now, though we’re still digging, and if anything turns up, we’ll update the story.

For now, at least, several outlets are trying to get the word out to Charger Daytona owners that if their cars accelerate when they don’t expect it, it’s totally normal. Honestly, this doesn’t sound like a totally terrible feature so long as owners know what to expect and when to expect it. We’ve reached out to Stellantis in hopes of learning more about the situation. If we hear back, we’ll update you here. 

The Polestar 4 debuted over two years ago, but the model has finally gone on sale in the United States. However, customers still have a wait ahead of them as production for US-bound models won’t begin in South Korea until this summer. The electric crossover, which replaces the rear windshield with digital cameras, will arrive in America sometime this fall.

Pricing starts at $56,400 for the entry-level Long Range Single Motor. It comes nicely equipped with LED lighting units, rain-sensing wipers, flush-mounted door handles, and 20-inch wheels. They’re joined by a panoramic glass roof and a power liftgate.

Review: We Drove The Polestar 4 And It Wants To Change Your Mind On EVs

Moving inside, drivers will find a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15.4-inch infotainment system. Other highlights include a wireless smartphone charger, a dual-zone climate control system, and power heated front seats wrapped in MicroTech upholstery. Customers will also find an eight-speaker audio system and up to 54.2 cubic feet (1,535 liters) of cargo space.

The Polestar 4 comes with a long list of standard driver assistance systems including Adaptive Cruise Control, Pilot Assist, and Lane Change Assist, The model also has Forward Collision Warning, Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Information, and a 360° camera system – just to name a few.

Buyers looking for more luxury can upgrade to the Plus Pack, which features a lightly revised exterior with an illuminated Polestar logo and auto-dimming side mirrors. Bigger changes occur inside as there’s a heated steering wheel, fancier front seats, and rear seats with heating and power recline. The mid-level variant also sports a tri-zone climate control system, a head-up display, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Speaking of options, dual motor variants can be equipped with a Performance Pack that adds 22-inch wheels and a Brembo braking system with Swedish Gold calipers. The package is also notable for having unique chassis tuning, summer performance tires, and golden seat belts.

2026 POLESTAR 4 US PRICING

Rear-wheel drive variants have a rear-mounted motor developing 272 hp (203 kW / 276 PS) and 253 lb-ft (343 Nm) of torque. It’s powered by a 100 kWh battery pack, which delivers an estimated combined range of 300 miles (483 km).

The dual-motor all-wheel drive crossover packs 544 hp (406 kW / 552 PS) and 506 lb-ft of torque, which lowers the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time from 6.9 to 3.7 seconds. However, range takes a hit as these models can only travel an estimated 270 miles (435 km).

Canada Also Opens The Order

Polestar Canada has also begun accepting orders of the new EV and deliveries are slated for this fall. Pricing starts at $64,900 CAD and the model appears virtually identical to the one sold stateside.

2026 POLESTAR 4 CANADIAN PRICING

Sometimes ambition outpaces planning, and nowhere is that more obvious than in the story of two would-be car thieves who bit off way more than they could boost.

In Detroit last month, a pair of would-be car thieves tried their luck with two brand-new GMC Hummer EVs, and let’s just say, it didn’t exactly go as planned. While most car thieves stick to dealership lots in search of easy targets, this crew aimed higher. They went straight to the source: GM’s Factory Zero plant in Detroit. Maybe it was the irresistible lure of that fresh-off-the-assembly-line smell, but for whatever reason, they decided to swipe the EVs directly from a train.

Read: GMC Just Made The 2026 Hummer EV Crabbier Than Ever

There is no word on how they managed to gain entry to the GM plant, let alone access the train yard on site, but somehow, they succeeded. After entering the train yard, they were able to open the doors to one of the trains and attempted to drive off in two Hummer EVs. Presumably, the duo was left unlocked and had the keys inside.

We don’t have any security camera footage, but we do have a clip that shows the aftermath of the failed theft. One of the Hummers, finished in black, can be seen stranded on the train tracks after it appears that the passenger-side front tire was ripped off the wheel.

Train Hopping, Minus the Grace

Meanwhile, the second GMC didn’t even make it off the train. It appears that the thieves attempted to simply drive the EVs off the edge of the train, without using any ramps. The silver model appears to have slammed down into the tracks, and once again, a tire was ripped from the wheel. It has also suffered extensive damage to the front fascia and some damage to the rear quarter panels as well.

According to The Metro Detroit News, the incident is being investigated, but it doesn’t appear as though any arrests have been made at this stage.

Screenshot The Metro Detroit News

Not every sales jump in the auto industry follows a straightforward narrative, and Kia’s latest numbers are a good example of that. The company had a solid May, moving 5 percent more vehicles than it did in the same month last year. But that top-line figure doesn’t tell the whole story.

While its flagship electric models took a hit, one unassuming sedan, the K5, surged with a 256 percent increase in monthly sales. Kia’s not alone in this EV slowdown, either.

More: Mercedes’ Electric G Flops So Hard It Could Change What Comes Next

It’s worth noting that the K5 has been out for several years. Its huge jump in sales during May doesn’t seem to be an outlier either. For the year, it’s up 220 percent. Put into raw sales figures, the company had sold just 9,036 through May last year. This year, it’s shifted 28,951 of them. Combined with the K4, Kia has already made over 90,000 sales this year.

Electric Models Lose Steam

No doubt, the brand wishes its flagship electric vehicles were seeing even a modicum of that success. The recently refreshed EV6 is great to drive, but buyers aren’t snatching it up with the same vigor they did last year. Through the first five months of the year, it’s down 40.8 percent. The EV9, Kia’s flagship electric SUV is having an even tougher time as it’s down 48.2 percent in that same period.

That trend doesn’t appear ready to change either. In May alone, the EV6 was down 69.8 percent. The EV9 sold just 37 units across the country and, as such, was down a whopping 98.3 percent during the month. It’ll be interesting to see what Kia does to incentivize buyers to return as the new model year version rolls in to dealerships. These are both impressive cars, but consumers seem apt to favor hybrids now more than ever.

To Kia’s credit, this trend away from EVs and toward combustion cars isn’t one isolated to the brand. Ford announced its May sales figures recently and saw a similar trend. While the Mustang Mach-E continues to do well, the F-150 Lightning and E-Transit are dozens of basis points off where they were last year.

KIA USA SALES

While electric vehicles continue to grab headlines and show up in more driveways each year, a new national survey suggests the average American still isn’t ready to plug in. EV adoption in the US is lagging behind much of the world, and the latest annual survey from the American Automobile Association (AAA) helps explain what’s slowing things down. Interest in EVs among US drivers is not just stalling, it’s actually shrinking.

More: Europeans Are Done With Tesla Except For One Country That Can’t Stop Buying

In the 2025 edition of the AAA survey, just 16% of respondents said they are likely or very likely to purchase an EV, marking the lowest percentage recorded since 2019. Meanwhile, 63% reported they are unlikely or very unlikely to go electric. That’s a noticeable shift from three years ago when 25% expressed interest and 51% were against it.

Confidence in the timeline for broader EV adoption is also fading. Only 23% of US drivers now believe most cars will be electric within the next decade, down from 40% in 2022.

Why Americans Are Saying No to EVs

When asked which is the main reason behind their decision not to go electric, 62% of the respondents mentioned high battery repair costs, while 59% cited the overall purchase price. Long-distance practicality was another key issue, with 57% saying EVs don’t suit extended travel, and 56% pointing to the lack of a convenient public charging network. Another 55% simply worry about running out of charge while on the road.

Other issues were mentioned less frequently. About 31% raised concerns about safety, 27% said they couldn’t install a home charging, and 12% noted the potential loss of EV-related incentives.

Those who are still considering an EV say the main draw is savings on fuel. That was the top reason cited by 77% of interested respondents. Another 59% referenced environmental benefits, and 47% said they expect lower maintenance and repair costs compared to traditional vehicles.

More: Huge Study Shows EVs More Reliable Than ICE Cars With One Surprising Common Issue

Support for federal and state incentives has also declined. Only 39% of respondents in 2025 listed tax credits and rebates as a reason to go electric, down from 60% in 2022. That drop aligns with the direction of the current political landscape, as the Trump administration continues efforts to scale back EV-related subsidies. Interest in EVs for their advanced tech features also dropped, with just 22% citing innovation as a motivator.

Uncertainty About The EV Future

AAA concludes that the public perception regarding the future of EVs remains uncertain. Despite the wide variety of EVs which are now available in the US market, many buyers find hybrids more appealing.

“Since we began tracking interest in fully electric vehicles, we’ve seen some variability,” said Greg Bannon, director of automotive engineering at AAA. “While the automotive industry is committed to long-term electrification and providing a diverse range of models, underlying consumer hesitation remains.”

The 2025 survey was conducted between March 6-10, with 1,128 participants. According to AAA, the respondents provide sample coverage of approximately 97% of the US household population.

Electric cars are evolving fast, and Nissan wants the next Leaf to prove it still has a place in the conversation. The company is preparing for the full debut of its next-generation EV later this month, teasing more of its design and offering a behind-the-scenes look at its development through a series of new videos.

Nissan gave us our first look at the third-generation Leaf back in March 2025, trading in the familiar hatchback shape of past models for a crossover profile, complete with a fastback-style rear. We now get a closer view of key design elements, including the LED headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels, and an active grille shutter that adjusts for airflow.

More: Mitsubishi’s American EV Will Be A Nissan In Disguise

We can also see the NACS-compatible charging port, and the optional panoramic roof with an e-Dimming function. The later uses electrochromic technology and an infrared reflective coating, eliminating the need for a physical sunshade.

According to Nissan’s design director Nobutaka Tase, this Leaf will be the most aerodynamic production model the company has ever built, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.25 in Europe and 0.26 in the US and Japan. The slight difference comes down to region-specific tweaks like wheels and mirror designs, with the European version coming out just a bit more streamlined.

Shared Platform, Promised Range

Underneath, the Leaf shares the CMF-EV platform with the larger Ariya, which means a flat floor and a roomier cabin layout. Exact specs haven’t been released yet, but Nissan confirmed it will offer a single-motor setup with no all-wheel-drive option, and is aiming for a driving range north of 300 miles (482 km).

More: Nissan’s New Hybrid System Promises EV-Like Benefits But At A Cost

Richard Candler, Nissan’s vice president of global product strategy, says the goal was to make the new Leaf a real contender for buyers used to gas-powered vehicles. That meant designing a sleeker body without giving up on practicality, and ensuring long-distance driving was part of the deal. Target range spans from 300 to 500 kilometers (186 to 311 miles), with the ability to add around 200 kilometers (124 miles) of range in just 40 minutes of charging.

Overall, Nissan has sold nearly 700,000 examples of the Leaf since 2010, taking valuable insights from existing owners for the development of the new generation. We’ll have more details when the full reveal happens on June 18.

We’re approaching the halfway point of the year, and things have already been wild. Tariffs, both the ones in effect and those merely looming, have changed the automotive industry, regulations are changing, and automakers are trying to keep up.

For its part, Ford has managed to have a positive year so far. Sales across the Ford and Lincoln brands are up 6.1 percent in the USA. At the same time, its EV business just took a huge hit during the month of May.

Also: Volvo’s EV Crash Hits Harder Than Expected As Buyers Walk Away From Batteries

It was only a couple of months ago that Ford’s EV sales looked like they were sliding, but not by too much. After April, they were down 2.9 percent year over year. That, though, seemed like it could be an aberration since sales in April alone were down 39.4 percent. With this new sales data in hand, it seems clear that buyers are flocking away from EVs and toward hybrids and gas-powered cars.

Ford doesn’t break up sales figures for its hybrid Lincoln products, but as a group, hybrids were up 28.9 percent in May. They outperformed every other propulsion type by at least ten basis points or more. Internal combustion cars came in second with a 17.2 percent bump over last year’s sales. Electric vehicles were down a whopping 25 percent. Due to the heavy volume of hybrid and internal combustion sales, the group was ultimately up 16.3 percent in May.

FORD AND LINCOLN SALES

Digging a little deeper into the data provides further insights. For example, the Mustang Mach-E continues to be a hit among consumers despite the EV downturn for Ford. It was up 11 percent in May and is still up 2.8 percent year over year. That’s a big rebound after it was down 40.2 percent in April. The big issues for Ford’s EV business seem to be the work vehicles.

More: This Raptor Was Flipped For $24K Over Sticker And It’s Not Even New

The F-150 Lightning was down 41.7 percent in May and is down 17.3 percent year over year. The E-Transit saw a sales drop in May of 93.3 percent and is down 24.8 percent for the year. It appears that buyers are leaning into the middle ground more than ever at Ford. The automaker’s hybrid business is up 31.2 percent this year. 

The Bigger Picture

Incentives likely helped boost May’s overall results, with employee pricing offers and consumer concerns about incoming tariffs giving shoppers extra motivation. Several models posted standout gains. The Bronco surged 51.1 percent year over year in May and is now up 46.5 percent for 2025. The Ranger also turned in a strong performance, rising 34.4 percent for the month and jumping 157.9 percent for the year.

On the flip side, the Mustang, despite having the ICE muscle car segment to itself, continues its downward trend, slipping 3.2% in May and falling 18% since the start of the year.

Lincoln had a solid month as well, climbing 39 percent in May and 13 percent for the year so far. The Navigator was a key driver of that growth, rocketing 133 percent in May and up 75.5 percent year to date.

FORD US SALES

LINCOLN US SALES