Volvo can’t seem to catch a break. Hot on the heels of an NHTSA advisory urging owners of various plug-in hybrid and electric models to stop using ‘B mode’ , aka One Pedal Drive, until a software fix is in place, the company is now facing a class action lawsuit over safety concerns in its all-electric XC40 Recharge.

Filed in the United States, the lawsuit alleges that the compact SUV suffers from serious defects, including unintended acceleration, that put both drivers and passengers at risk. More than 100 owners have joined the suit, which demands a jury trial and alleges that Volvo either knew, or should have known, about the problems.

More: Volvo Drivers Warned To Stop Using This Mode Until Urgent Fix Is Installed

At the center of the complaint is lead plaintiff Robert M. Becker, who argues that the XC40 Recharge can unexpectedly surge forward, lurch, or accelerate unintentionally. According to the filing, these incidents are most likely to occur during low-speed driving, when shifting gears, or while using the vehicle’s One Pedal Drive mode.

Becker contends that the defects pose a “substantial risk of accident, injury, or property damage” and that Volvo failed to take appropriate action.

Claims of Prior Knowledge

The lawsuit asserts that Volvo knew, or was reckless for not knowing about, the issue based on pre-release testing, consumer complaints (including for the mechanically-related Polestar 2), dealership service reports, internal engineering assessments, and data from the NHTSA. Despite this, the automaker is accused of downplaying or concealing the full extent of the problem. The complaint further claims that Volvo’s recall efforts were “piecemeal and unduly narrow.”

Lead plaintiff Robert Becker leased a 2024 XC40 Recharge on September 13, 2024 and claims to have experienced multiple instances of the vehicle surging and lurching during normal operation. Less than a month after having the electric SUV, he had to take it to a Volvo dealership to be diagnosed and repaired.

Volvo’s Recalls

The lawsuit points to two recalls issued by Volvo in the US. The first involved a software fault that could lead to a sudden loss of propulsion in XC40 Recharge models, but according to the complaint, it failed to resolve deeper control logic flaws. A second recall targeted 2021–2022 models due to the risk of water entering the accelerator pedal sensor harness. Plaintiffs argue that this recall was too narrow, leaving similar defects in other vehicles unaddressed and failing to correct the core issue.

Review: New Volvo XC40 Recharge P8 Guns For Tesla’s Model Y

Becker is suing Volvo for violations of the Consumers Legal Remedies Act, the Unfair Competition Law, False Advertising Law, fraudulent concealment, and unjust enrichment. Plaintiffs are seeking a mix of compensatory and punitive damages, as well as restitution, disgorgement, and injunctive relief aimed at correcting the reported defects.

Building an attractive SUV is no small task. Yet Porsche pulled it off with the first-generation Macan, especially after its mid-cycle refresh. It struck a rare balance, athletic, upscale, and genuinely easy on the eyes.

Unfortunately, the company seems to have taken a different direction with the all-electric Macan. The new EV trades in the sleek, understated styling for something far less elegant. Now, it looks like the larger Cayenne could be next in line for a similar design overhaul.

Read: Porsche’s New Electric SUV Is Smashing Records Before It Even Reaches Showrooms

An all-electric version of the Cayenne is well into development and could break cover by the end of the year. Like the Macan EV, the electric Cayenne will be sold alongside the current ICE-powered model, but will look quite a bit different. As recent spy shots have revealed, it will share design similarities with its smaller siblings and may end up looking a lot like these renderings.

A Familiar Shape, Reimagined

These images, put together by Kolesa, are based on recent prototype sightings, offering a glimpse of the new model. Obviously, as all electric Cayenne prototypes seen up until now have been covered in camouflage, including one recently showcased in the UK, it’s difficult to predict some of the finer styling details accurately.

Nevertheless, these renderings do accurately show the production-ready headlights of the new model, the triangular intakes below the lights, and a large grille towards the base of the bumper, complete with adjustable vertical slats.

And That Rear…

The rear end, much like that of the Macan EV, might prove divisive. It’s expected to adopt narrow LED taillights connected by a full-width light bar, a familiar trait among recent Porsche models. The tailgate design seems fairly plain, and the blacked-out section of the bumper doesn’t do much to elevate the look. Overall, it’s a rear-end that may struggle to win fans.

Our spies have also given us a look inside the new Cayenne EV, revealing a high-tech cabin where the spotlight falls on a total of four screens. The layout blends familiar Porsche design elements with a few new touches. The dashboard features a curved, non-touch display for the gauges, flanked by two touchscreens, one in the center and one in front of the front passenger, housed under a single glass panel to create the impression of a continuous widescreen.

Unlike the Macan, the Cayenne adds a fourth display on the lower console for climate and seat controls, with only a few physical controls, including temperature toggles and a thumbwheel for volume.

Performance to Match the Badge

What the new Cayenne might lack in exterior charm, it’s likely to make up for in performance. Porsche says the Cayenne EV will use an enhanced version of the 800-volt PPE platform, with upgrades that may boost performance and range beyond what’s offered in current models.

Early reports suggest it will surpass the 730 horsepower delivered by the current Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. It’s also expected to offer serious towing muscle, with a maximum capacity of 7,716 pounds (3,500 kilograms).

The new Cayenne EV is expected to be officially unveiled later this year, with global sales to follow shortly after.

John Halas contributed to this story.

Interest in electric luxury vehicles remains strong, but for some automakers, getting new models to market is proving slower than planned. More than 60,000 people have reportedly lined up for Range Rover’s first all-electric SUV. Jaguar, meanwhile, is staking its entire brand on an all-new, all-electric future.

More: Range Rover Just Changed Its Logo But Not In The Way You Think

Now, customers for both brands will have to wait a little longer to actually get their hands on either offering. A new report claims that Jaguar and Land Rover are pushing back production amid other issues.

As we reported earlier today, the Jaguar Land Rover group is cutting up to 500 management jobs in the UK. Tariffs are hitting the company hard. And it’s no secret that sales are struggling as a result of all the changes going on inside and outside of the brands. That said, it appears as though things just got worse for prospective clients.

Launch Delays for Key Electric Models

A new report says that Jaguar Land Rover is pushing back the launch of the Range Rover EV and two Jaguar EVs. Previously, Land Rover had targeted a late-2024 release for its electric SUV, while Jaguar’s models were scheduled to enter production by mid-2026. Those dates are now being pushed back as the company is waiting to allow for “more testing and for demand to pick up,” says the Guardian.

A Flexible Strategy, but No Firm Timelines

A company spokesperson told the news outlet that, “By 2030 JLR will sell electric versions of all its luxury brands. Our plans and vehicle architectures are flexible so we can adapt to different market and client demands. We are committed to the highest standards of design, capability and quality, and we will launch our new models at the right time for our clients, our business and individual markets.”

Waiting for the Right Moment?

What’s odd about that is that both brands need a shot in the arm sooner rather than later. As industry trends continue to develop, it doesn’t appear as though electric vehicles are suddenly going to shoot up in popularity anytime soon.

No doubt, the influence of the U.S. market and the political administration there will also have a hand in that. If Jaguar and Land Rover are waiting for the perfect time, it might not come for quite a while.

A new chapter in electric motor design may be underway, and it’s being written in the UK. Yasa Motors, based in Britain and owned by Mercedes, has developed a new electric motor that sets a new benchmark for power density. While there’s no official timeline for production yet, it’s a safe bet that upcoming Mercedes-Benz EVs will be among the first to take advantage of the breakthrough.

The numbers read like something out of a science fiction novel. Yasa claims that the electric motor weighs just 13.1 kg (28.8 lbs), yet it produces a remarkable 738 hp, a figure we usually associate with supercars. That easily outperforms the Equipmake HPM-400 motor from Australia, which is considered the most power-dense in the world, delivering 536 hp and weighing in at a much heftier 40 kg (88 lbs).

Read: This Concept EV Will Morph Into An AMG Super Sedan You Can Buy

Yasa’s new motor also makes the Dark Matter electric motor presented by Koenigsegg a couple of years ago seem relatively portly. That motor weighs in at 39 kg (86 lbs) and produces 800 hp and 921 lb-ft (1,250 Nm) of torque. It’s set to debut in the Gemera, but the contrast in weight suggests a shift in how high-performance EV components are engineered.

Speaking with Autocar, Yasa revealed that its new industry-leading motor does not contain any exotic materials like cobalt-iron laminations and litz wire. “What we’ve achieved here is not just a number – it’s a demonstration of scalable, production-ready innovation that raises the bar for electric motor design. And the most exciting part? We’re just getting started,” said Tim Woolmer, Yasa’s CTO and founder.

Yasa Motors Headed for the Road

The most recent car to premiere with Yasa motors is the Mercedes-AMG GT XX concept. It uses three axial flux motors to deliver more than 1,341 hp (1,000 kW) and will soon spawn a production model. Yasa also supplies Lamborghini with electric motors, including the Revuelto and most recently, the Temerario, the successor to the Huracan.

That setup uses two axial flux motors on the front axle, each producing 148 hp (110 kW) and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm), and weighing 17.3 kg (38 lbs) apiece. Impressive, but still overshadowed by the output-to-weight ratio of Yasa’s latest design.

An electric truck priced under $20,000 sounded almost too good to be true. And, as it turns out, it was. When startup Slate Auto initially announced its all-electric pickup, the promise of sub-$20,000 pricing grabbed attention across the U.S. EV market.

But the company may have overlooked a key political shift: President Donald Trump’s campaign pledge to eliminate the so-called EV mandate, which signaled that the federal tax credit was on shaky ground. So, when it was confirmed the credit would be scrapped on September 30, it came as no surprise that Slate walked back its pricing commitment, stating the EV will instead be priced in the “mid-twenties.”

Read: Slate’s Affordable Electric Truck Just Got A Whole Lot More Expensive

Despite the adjustment, Slate isn’t backing away from its optimism. The new automaker still remains confident in the Blank Slate’s appeal. According to chief executive Chris Barman, it appeals to five very-specific groups of buyers. If Slate is to establish itself as a legitimate player in the EV space, then it’d better hope that these five groups do indeed buy it.

Strong Reservations, Cautious Optimism

In a recent interview with Sherwood News, Barman shared that Slate has already racked up 100,000 refundable reservations for the EV. A large portion of those, he said, are from “everyday Americans for whom it’s just an affordable vehicle and a lot of utility and value for the money.”

Additionally, Slate says it’s received plenty of interest from young professionals, who have “either just finished trade school or are just out of college.” According to Barman, they are “looking for value for the money” and love the customization element of the truck.

Who Else Is Buying?

New drivers are also showing the Blank Slate love. Backed by funding from Jeff Bezos, the vehicle is emerging as a practical option for younger drivers looking to buy their first car. According to Barman, parents “like the fact that there are only two passengers, it doesn’t have an infotainment for distraction, and it has really high safety standards.”

An interesting demographic where the Blank Slate is proving itself to be appealing is among “contemporary seniors.” Barman describes these as semiretired or retired individuals interested in an EV, but wanting a simpler driving experience than most other EVs. She added, “the fifth type that we see is a lot of people who are just auto enthusiasts. They want to just be able to trick it out.”

Of course, high reservation numbers don’t always translate into actual sales. Tesla’s experience with the Cybertruck showed how early enthusiasm can taper off. For Slate, the real test will come when production starts and deposits need to turn into deliveries, especially for early birds who were under the impression that prices would start from around $20,000.

Subaru is stepping up its electric vehicle game in Europe, confirming plans to launch three new battery-electric crossovers by 2026. Developed in partnership with Toyota, the trio brings familiar hardware with Subaru’s own quirky styling choices, which have often sparked debate. The new models include the Uncharted, the facelifted Solterra, and the E-Outback, which is Europe’s version of the Trailseeker.

More: Subaru Built A 338hp AWD EV That Launches Like A Hot Hatch On Caffeine

These additions will effectively triple Subaru’s EV lineup in the region, which until now has consisted solely of the Solterra. All three vehicles are built on the e-Subaru Global Platform, Subaru’s take on Toyota’s e-TNGA electric architecture.

The Subaru Uncharted

Leading the charge is the Uncharted, Subaru’s spin on the Toyota C-HR+. The crossover stands out with a Subaru-specific front end that borrows elements from the updated Solterra, including its headlight design and sculpted bumper. Rugged alloy wheels round out the exterior changes. Inside, the Uncharted gets a squared steering wheel and slightly different interior trims, while sharing features like the 14-inch infotainment display and dual wireless chargers with its Toyota twin.

Buyers can choose between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, both of which offer respectable performance. Power peaks at 338 hp (252 kW / 344 PS), and the entry-level variant uses a 57.7 kWh battery rated for 276 miles (444 km) of range. A larger 77 kWh option boosts range to 363 miles (584 km) for FWD models and 292 miles (470 km) with AWD.

EU-spec Subaru Uncharted

EU-spec Subaru Solterra

The Solterra Returns, Sharper and Stronger

Moving on to a more familiar member of Subaru’s EV lineup, the Solterra is back with fresh styling, more tech, and upgraded underpinnings. The dual electric motors generate 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS), representing a healthy increase of 123 hp (92 kW) compared to the original version that debuted in 2022. Furthermore, a larger 73.1 kWh battery pack delivers over 310 miles (500 km) of range between charges.

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

The styling updates are focused on the front end, with slimmer LEDs and a cleaner design for the bumper. The EU-spec Solterra was shown with glossy black fenders, so it is not clear if higher trim levels will feature the body-colored finish seen in the North American model. The EV also benefits from a new 14-inch infotainment display and improved ADAS.

Meet the E-Outback: Subaru’s Biggest EV Yet

Last but not least, the Subaru E-Outback is the European twin of the Subaru Trailseeker and the Toyota bZ Woodland. It is longer and more spacious than the Solterra, with a boot that is large enough for four suitcases. Subaru shared a single photo of the Trailseeker, so we guess that the E-Outback will look identical, minus the amber indicators.

Performance takes another step up here. The E-Outback is powered by a dual-motor setup producing 377 hp (280 kW / 380 PS), paired with a 74.7 kWh battery that delivers 279 miles (447 km) of range. Designed with adventure in mind, it includes Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD, X-Mode terrain management, and 210 mm (8.3 inches) of ground clearance. It also matches the Solterra’s towing capacity at 1,500 kg (3,307 pounds).

Rollout Timeline

The facelifted Subaru Solterra will be the first to reach European dealers by the end of 2025. The Uncharted and E-Outback will follow in early 2026. Subaru plans to announce pricing details closer to each model’s launch.

For years, Rivian has gone it alone with its infotainment system, refusing to add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, much like Tesla. However, things are changing. Kind of. As of Tuesday this week, new Rivian models will come with a new and improved in-built navigation system using Google Maps technology.

Read: This CEO Just Called Out The Biggest Threat To EVs And It’s Not Trump

The update is not quite Android Auto, but it’s a step in the right direction. The news is not so good for iPhone users accustomed to using Apple Maps, however, and they’ll just have to get used to using Google.

Google Maps at the Core

Rivian says it has worked directly with Google to create a navigation system specifically designed to support its EVs. Thanks to Google, the new system includes real-time traffic and place information. It also supports reports made by the Google Maps community for updates like lane closures and accidents. Google Places has now also been incorporated, providing Rivian owners with information about roughly 250 million locations around the world, including details like opening hours, contact information, and reviews.

Importantly, the system retains all of Rivian’s in-built navigation features. These include the ‘range on arrival’ function that provides accurate range information depending on an owner’s driving style and whether they are using accessories, like a trailer. All Rivian models can also curate charging stops for the fastest-possible trip and will provide real-time data for compatible charging networks, including Tesla Superchargers and the Rivian Adventure Network.

Updates Beyond the Dashboard

All updates made to the infotainment systems of the R1T and R1S will be incorporated into the Rivian mobile app, making it easier for owners to manage navigation and settings remotely.

This isn’t the first time Rivian has rolled out a new Google feature to its vehicles. Late last year, it announced that it would add Google Cast. It’s unlikely that any kind of Apple CarPlay support will be added in the future, even though Rivian’s system does include Apple Music. By keeping its infotainment software in-house, Rivian says is able to better tailor the experience to suit its customers.

In an EV market overflowing with hype and hopeful startups, Faraday Future is still angling for the spotlight, even if it’s usually more about keeping the lights on than reinventing the wheel. The company may have only delivered 16 units of its FF 91 since 2023, but with fresh funding in hand and eyes still set on redefining mobility, it’s now turning attention to a new concept: a tech-laden minivan aimed at the mass market.

Backed by $105 million in newly secured funding, the electric vehicle startup has introduced the FX Super One, a minivan that leans heavily into AI integration and digital innovation.

More: Faraday Is Coming For The Model Y And Maybe The RAV4 Too

The new model debuted during a special event at Faraday Future’s headquarters in California. It’s pitched as an “affordable mass market MPV,” designed to offer a roomy, thoughtfully constructed interior with premium materials and a wide array of advanced features.

Built on Chinese Bones

Instead of being a clean-sheet design, the FX Super One is actually based on the Wey Gaoshan minivan by the Chinese automaker Great Wall Motors. . Despite those shared underpinnings, the FX Super One comes with several Faraday-specific updates: a refreshed front-end design, black trim, 20-inch alloy wheels, and, perhaps most notably, a new AI-powered digital grille.

This grille houses what the company calls the Front AI Communication Ecosystem, or F.A.C.E., a system that goes beyond displaying emojis or motivational messages. When the vehicle is parked, F.A.C.E. can interact with passengers through voice recognition, visual cues, and even reactive communication, offering something akin to a conversational co-pilot. For those who prefer a more conventional look, a traditional grille will also be offered.

At the core of all this interactivity is Faraday Future’s proprietary EAI Embodied Intelligence AI Agent 6×4 Architecture. This system manages everything from the digital grille to infotainment controls, voice-command features, and the vehicle’s suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

Tech, Comfort, and Customization

Moving to the interior, the FX Super One will be offered in four-, six-, or seven-seat configurations across two or three rows. The four-seat version, called the GOAT Edition, adds several luxury upgrades, including a retractable panoramic display, Dolby Atmos sound system, and Faraday’s upgraded Super AP platform. Comfort gets particular attention here, with zero-gravity seating and leather-like materials designed for long-haul relaxation.

Under the surface, the minivan uses a high-strength steel frame that likely traces back to the Wey Gaoshan, though it’s been adapted to Faraday’s electric-first approach. Initially, the FX Super One will launch with a fully electric powertrain featuring dual electric motors and standard all-wheel drive. Later, it will be joined by what Faraday calls an “AI Hybrid Extended Range” variant, which appears to follow the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) formula.

Gunning For The Escalade

The stretched version of its minivan twin from Great Wall measures 5,405 mm (212.8 inches) long, and has a wheelbase of 3,275 mm (128.9 inches). That puts it right against full-size SUVs including the Cadillac Escalade which was mentioned as a key rival, even though it has “less interior room, no sliding doors, and no AI integration”.

More: Buick Sub Brand’s Secret Weapon Just Landed But It’s Not Coming To America

The target audience of the FX Super One includes celebrities and starts, visionaries and hard-working professional, but also regular family users. Among the user experience scenarios highlighted in the presentation is a star’s visit to a red carpet, a mobile livestream studio, a vehicle for elite athletes, a mobile AI office or private clubhouse, a golfer’s car, a mobile mansion, and a glamper’s car.

If everything goes according to plan, and that’s a big if, the FX Super One will roll out in early 2026. The model will be assembled at the Faraday Future plant in Hanford, California, allegedly using 50% locally-sourced parts. Faraday Future didn’t reveal pricing but is already accepting pre-orders for a refundable deposit of $100.

The FX Super One is not the only new model coming by Faraday Future. The company has announced the FX 4 which is believed to be an affordable Tesla Model Y competitor, the FX 5 large-space sporty AIEV, and the FX 6 large family vehicle.

It’s rare for Subaru to introduce an entirely new model lineup in the U.S., but that’s exactly what’s happening with the arrival of the Uncharted. As expected, it’s essentially Subaru’s take on the electric Toyota C-HR, with a design and feature set that leans more rugged than the Solterra, all in a more compact package.

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

The Uncharted rides on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform and is powered by a 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery across all variants. Subaru has confirmed three versions for the American market: the Premium FWD, Sport, and GT. The base model is notable for being the first front-wheel drive vehicle Subaru has offered in years. In contrast, both the Sport and GT feature the company’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with X-Mode.

A Front-Drive Subaru

The front-wheel drive model will pack 221 hp and, according to Subaru, should be able to travel over 300 miles (492 km) on a charge. Interestingly, the carmaker says it will only be sold in “limited quantities,” so it’s unlikely to be a member of the Uncharted family for long. Considering the EV’s rugged appeal, it’s likely that most buyers will prefer the all-wheel drive Sport and GT models anyway.

The AWD Models

The AWD Sport and GT models step things up with 338 horsepower and an estimated range of up to 290 miles (467 km). They can also reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in a remarkable 5.0 seconds, making them quicker than the previous WRX STI and the current WRX TR, which take 5.6 seconds to hit the same mark.

According to the brand, the Uncharted offers “impressive straight-line stability, handling, and grip on loose surfaces such as gravel, dirt, or snow.” Fittingly, it looks a little more trail-ready than the C-HR, sporting more rugged front and rear bumpers, as well as new headlights and taillights. Customers will be able to order the Uncharted with either 18- or 20-inch wheels. There are also low-profile roof rails.

Charging and Tech Details

All Uncharted models come standard with a NACS charging port. They support peak DC charging speeds of 150 kW, while an 11 kW onboard charger has been added for convenient AC home charging. Subaru notes that the EV also includes a battery preconditioning system and that the battery can be charged from 10-80 percent in 30 minutes.

A Familiar Cabin

The Uncharted’s interior is mostly the same as what you’ll find in the C-HR. That means there’s a large 14-inch infotainment screen, a digital gauge cluster, and a horrendously ugly steering wheel. Key standard features of the Sport include a heated steering wheel, water-repellent upholstery, and a panoramic view monitor. The GT adds a panoramic moonroof, ventilated front seats, a smart rearview mirror, and a Harman Kardon audio system.

Subaru has not announced pricing details for the Uncharted, but it’s reasonable to assume that the front-wheel drive model will start somewhere in the low-to-mid $30,000s.

The Munich Motor Show is less than two months away and Cupra is looking to make a splash. As part of this effort, they’ll introduce a camouflaged Raval on September 7^th and an all-new concept on September 8^th.

Cupra isn’t saying much, but revealed the mysterious concept embodies their “brand vision and future design language.” The company went on to say it’s the “perfect symbiosis between human and machine, where the driving experience and emotions reach their fullest expression.”

More: Cupra Raval Spied As A Warm-Up Act For VW’s Crucial New EV

Marketing hyperbole aside, the teaser video shows a futuristic center console with a flowing metal band, minimalist switchgear, and an illuminated diamond-like element. We can also get a glimpse of diamond-shaped ribbed accents and a triangle made out of either crystal or glass.

The Raval, on the other hand, will be a series production model shown in disguise. Spy photographers snapped the electric hatchback last month and it’s a sister model to the Volkswagen ID.2. It’s slated to ride on the new MEB Entry platform and Volkswagen has hinted at a version with 223 hp (166 kW / 226 PS) and up to 280 miles (450 km) of range. Since the ID.2 is slated to spawn GTI and R variants, we can likely expect hotter Ravals as well.

The Raval will go into production next year at the Martorell assembly plant. That’s a slight delay as the model was originally slated to arrive in 2025.

Last but not least, Cupra announced plans to introduce Tribe Editions of the Formentor, Terramar, and Leon / Leon Sportstourer. The special editions are being billed as ideal for customers “looking for uniqueness and differentiation with a contemporary, sustainable twist.”

SHProshots

JLR was stung by its experience selling the unreliable Jaguar i-Pace and is determined to get its next EVs right. And there are plenty of them on the way – the brand has promised to launch six electric models by 2026. The first of those is the full-size Range Rover EV, which goes on sale later this year, but the electric Velar won’t be far behind.

Expected to make its debut in spring 2026 as a MY27 SUV, the Velar is currently hot-lapping Germany’s 12.9-mile (20.8-km) Nurburgring track in prototype form, having last been scooped by our spy photo team in snowy Arctic conditions back in February.

Related: 2027 Range Rover Velar EV Is Coming For The Macan Electric

Although no one at Land Rover really expects buyers to hit the Ring, these testing sessions are crucial to finding out how the chassis and brakes handle the heft of a battery pack that’s got to be around 100 kWh (like the Macan) in capacity, and thus, not exactly featherweight, and whether the electric setup can survive extreme use.

Disguise on the rear end still has us wondering whether Land Rover will junk the Velar’s rear window, but we can at least make out the slim LED lights front and rear, narrow window aperture in the side view and a set of wide fender lips. The doors also appear to have switched to a frameless glass design to enhance the coupe feel.

The profile isn’t hugely different to the current combustion Velar’s but the EV is all-new under the skin, where you’ll find the company’s new EMA architecture. Not even the $150,000+ Range Rover EV gets this advanced platform, which allows over-air updates and could allow charging speeds higher than the 270 kW its rival from Stuttgart can swallow.

Other electric Land Rovers destined to use the EMA building blocks include the next Evoque and a baby Defender that is likely to replace today’s Discovery Sport. JLR said in 2023 that EMA would be electric-only, but we wouldn’t be surprised if that policy has changed given the slowdown in EV takeup in some key countries, including the US. In any case, even if it has switched plans to include hybrid tech, it hasn’t announced anything just yet.

SHProshots

For many drivers accustomed to tame, underpowered daily commuters, even the base version of the Tesla Model Y can feel like a thrilling step up. But for those who want more than just a taste of performance, the standard Model Y doesn’t quite cut it. Fortunately, Tesla has something in the works for that crowd.

Read: New Tesla Model Y Performance Breaks Cover, Plaid Wheels And All

For several months now, the automaker has been developing a new Model Y Performance. It’ll follow the same basic recipe as the first-generation model and likely be equipped with the same powertrain as the current Model 3 Performance.

Testing at the Green Hell

Our spy photographers have snapped it testing multiple times around the world, and recently, a camouflaged prototype was seen out and about on the Nurburgring Nordschleife.

In a recent clip shared to Instagram by Wilcoblok and Teslaplaidtok, the prototype was captured exiting the pit lane and gradually merging onto the famed circuit. It was driven at a relaxed pace, offering no clues about its true performance potential.

Since Tesla hasn’t recorded an official lap time at the track with the current Model 3 Performance, it seems unlikely they’ll attempt one with the Model Y Performance either. If they did, a time somewhere in the eight-minute range seems reasonable.

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Powertrain and Performance Specs

Like its sedan sibling, the Model Y Performance will use a pair of electric motors, which should combine to produce the same 510 hp and 554 lb-ft of torque. Due to the added size and weight of the Y, it won’t be quite as quick, but it should still run to 60 mph (96 km/h) in around 3.2 seconds. This would be a slight improvement from the old model’s 3.5-second time, making it the fastest version of the electric crossover ever.

Visually, this prototype looks like it has more aggressive bumpers than the regular Model Y. We can also see a large lip spoiler at the rear. Last month, a Model Y Performance was filmed testing without camouflage, revealing a distinctive rear bumper with two subtle diffusers.

We expect to see the new Model Y Performance premiere before the end of the year. Prices won’t be known until then, but it’s a safe bet that it’ll start at around $55,000.

Baldauf

For more than two decades, high-performance car fans have looked to Koenigsegg for proof that extreme engineering and bold ideas still have a place in the modern automotive world. The company has helped shape the hypercar as we know it today, with a focus on intricate craftsmanship, wild designs, and roaring V8 engines.

Read: Koenigsegg’s Latest Hypercar Is A Track Monster Designed To Obliterate Lap Records

And while the rest of the auto industry leans hard into electrification, Koenigsegg remains firmly attached to the combustion engine.

That doesn’t mean the competition is standing still. Other brands are taking their own creative routes, from Cosworth’s high-revving V12s and V16s in the Gordon Murray T.50 to the hybridized muscle of the Bugatti Tourbillon. But Koenigsegg isn’t backing down. Its twin-turbocharged V8 continues to evolve, now tuned to produce 1,603 horsepower for the Jesko-based Sadair’s Spear.

No Plans for EVs Anytime Soon

During a recent interview with Top Gear, Christian von Koenigsegg made it clear that the company has no plans to release an electric vehicle. Thanks to EU regulations that allow small manufacturers to sidestep the upcoming 2035 ban on new internal combustion cars, it doesn’t need to pivot toward EVs just to stay in the game.

“The appetite in the market for this level of car, fully electric, is extremely low,” von Koenigsegg said. “So that’s one aspect. But also, [I’ve] kind of experienced electric cars myself for many years, and loving the responsiveness, the smoothness, how easy it is to live with it and all of this. But, after a while, if you’re a car enthusiast, you want to talk to the beast, right? You want to have a dialogue. It’s an argumentation. You want to hear how it’s feeling and in what mood it is.”

He described the emotional side of driving a combustion-powered car, adding, “You want the throbbing, the pumping, the heat, the sounds, the shifts, all of these aspects that just make it come alive. I would say an electric car is a bit more of a robot. This is a bit more of an animal.”

Koenigseggs Are Like Mechanical Watches

He then went on to compare what’s currently happening in the automotive industry to what happened in the watch industry. When digital watches became commonplace, some thought they would spell the end for mechanical watches. However, people still want and appreciate a hand-built mechanical watch, hence why they’re still so popular.

Koenigsegg’s cars are like mechanical watches. It doesn’t rely on robots to build them, and they are made up of thousands of precise mechanical parts that give each car a unique character, something that an EV cannot replicate. Long may this continue.

Nowhere is Tesla facing tougher EV competition than in China, a market that has rapidly evolved into a hotbed of electric innovation. While the company maintains a commanding lead in the US, it finds itself contending with a far more crowded and fast-moving landscape in China.

Dozens of EV-only brands are racing to roll out new models at remarkable speed, constantly pushing the envelope in design, technology, and value. To stay competitive, Tesla is preparing to introduce a new version of the Model 3 in China, known as the Model 3+.

Read: Tesla Model Y And 3 Get Surprising Speed And Range Upgrade In China

Details first emerged when Tesla filed for a local sales license for this upcoming variant. The name might suggest something more performance-focused than the current Model 3 Performance, but that’s not quite the case.

Instead, this new version is expected to offer the longest driving range of any Model 3 to date. Further insight came through China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), which recently released data shedding light on what to expect from the Model 3+.

Rear-Wheel Drive, Upgraded Battery

For starters, the new model will be sold exclusively in rear-wheel drive guise. However, whereas the current entry-level RWD model in China has a small 62.5 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery from CATL, the Model 3+ uses a more expensive NMC battery from LG.

Tesla already sells an NMC-powered Model 3 in the country, the Long Range version, but that model is only available with all-wheel drive. It’s equipped with a 78.4 kWh battery pack and delivers a CLTC-rated range of 468 miles (753 km). By combining the energy density of an NMC pack with the efficiency of a single-motor, rear-drive setup, the Model 3+ is expected to stretch its range even further.

It remains to be seen whether the Model 3+ will use the exact same 78.4 kWh battery as the Long Range AWD version, but it’s likely. Notably, Tesla already offers a Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3 in the US fitted with a slightly larger 79.7 kWh NMC pack, which adds weight to the possibility.

It’s understood that the Model 3+ will offer up as much as 497 miles (800 km) of range on the generous CLTC cycle, matching the longest range version of the Xiaomi SU7. We expect to see it released in the coming months and for more details to be provided then.

The global uptick in electric vehicle and plug-in hybrid vehicles continues, but the situation is, understandably, not uniform. Year-to-date sales of EVs and PHEVs have jumped in all major regions and there’s every chance that the momentum will continue through the second half of the year. However, with the US EV tax credit set to expire in just over two months, turbulent times may lie ahead.

It’s been revealed that through the first six months of this year, a total of 9.1 million EVs and PHEVs were sold globally. This represents a massive 28 percent gain from the first six months of 2024 and comes thanks mostly to surging demand for electrified vehicles in China.

Read: EV Sales Just Took A Turn That Should Worry Automakers Everywhere

Rho Motion says that this year, no less than 5.5 million EVs and PHEVs have been sold in the People’s Republic. Unfortunately, the analytics firm does not separate the two categories but bundles them up, so we don’t have a breakup of the mix.

What we do know is that it’s not just China where sales have surged this year. Through the first six months of 2025, 26 percent more EVs and PHEVs have been sold across Europe, hitting 2.0 million units. Last year, sales of EVs in Germany fell dramatically after the first full year without incentives, but they’ve rebounded strongly this year, jumping 40 percent year-to-date. New incentives for electric vehicles recently announced in the country could further this momentum.

Year-to-May electrified vehicle sales also rose 72 percent in Spain, 58 percent in Italy, and 32 percent in the UK.

JAN-JUN EV & PHEV SALES

Canada drags down North America

North America is not performing as well. Sales of EVs and PHEVs are up by just 3 percent this year to ~900,000. Despite what you may think, this isn’t because of the US. Instead, sales have dropped roughly 23 percent in Canada after the nation paused EV subsidies earlier this year. By comparison, sales have grown by 4 percent in the US and by 20 percent in Mexico.

As the $7,500 federal EV tax credit will be scrapped in the US on September 30, Rho Motion expects to see an uptick in EV sales over the coming months, followed by a significant decline in the final quarter of the year.

Porsche has already set plenty of speed records with its EVs, including a 1 minute 33.8-second lap of Road Atlanta achieved last month by a Taycan Turbo GT. But the latest ride from Weissach to set a record did it while moving around half as quickly as that Taycan – just 57 mph.

The record-setting EV in this case wasn’t a Taycan or any Porsche electric road car, but it is equipped with the same duel-motor powertrain you’ll find in the brand’s Macan Turbo Electric. It’s the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom sports boat and it just wasted a field of rivals at the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge.

Related: Porsche’s Latest EV Is A $600,000 Boat With A 536 HP Macan Turbo Powertrain

Measuring 8.67 m (341.3 inches) long, the wheelless Porsche is the result of a joint venture between the Stuttgart sports car company and Austrian boat builder Frausche. It pairs the hull shape of Frausche’s 858 Fantom with the motor setup and battery from the hottest Macan EV.

Compared with the SUV, which claims 577 hp (584 PS / 430 kW) in normal use and up to 630 hp (639 PS / 470 kW) with launch control overboost, the boat is slightly less potent. It makes 536 hp (544 PS / 400 kW), and while the Macan can hit 162 mph (260 km/h), the boat maxes at around 56 mph (90 km/h / 49 kn) in Sport Plus mode. That’s what Porsche’s spec panel says, at least, though the Fantom averaged 57 mph (92 km/h / 50 kn) in the Monaco race which takes an average of two 1 km (0.6 miles) runs.

Range is another area in which the boat has to give second best to the Macan. It’s good for just 62 miles (100 km) at slow speed and 28 miles (45 km) at its optimal 26 mph (41 kmh / 22 kn) cruising speed, whereas the SUV can go for 367 miles (590 km) per the WLTP cycle.

The record-setting Oakgreen Metallic Fantom was what Frausche calls a Runabout, meaning it has a classic look with the close foredeck and cabin below. But buyers also have the option of speccing the boat in Air configuration, which brings a center-mounted wheel and open lounge area at the front. It looks stunning but so it should: at €571k ($664k) it costs around five times more than a Macan Turbo Electric.

Porsche

Even vehicles built in the United States aren’t immune to global pressures. Although every Lucid vehicle sold domestically is assembled on American soil, interim CEO Marc Winterhoff says that prices are still likely to rise, due in large part to tariffs introduced under President Trump.

While he stopped short of confirming that Lucid’s own lineup will definitely see sticker hikes, the implication was clear: American consumers should brace for costlier new cars.

Read: Lucid SUV Costs 30% More To Lease Than Sedan Despite Being Cheaper

During a recent interview, Winterhoff noted that the American car manufacturer is eager to localize more of its supply chain. One step it has taken is signing a deal with Graphite One to increase its supply of graphite that’s processed in the United States. Despite these efforts, the global nature of its supply chain will make the Air and Gravity more expensive to produce.

Tariffs Push Costs Upward

“For the American consumers, vehicles are going to be more expensive under the tariff regime,” he told Bloomberg Television. “There’s no other way around it. Yes, you can say you just need to localize. But, that still increases the cost as there’s a reason why the supply chain is so global because certain things are either not available here in the US, or are just very expensive, so you import them.”

He went on to point out that even when companies work to reduce dependence on imports, shifting operations to the U.S. often drives costs higher anyway. That leaves automakers with limited choices.

“[Even] if you change that, you still have higher costs here in the United States, which means manufacturers like us, or any manufacturer, have to increase prices. There’s no other way, unless you want everybody to be non-profit organizations, which then would lead to no innovation and no technology leadership. In the current global climate, that’s the last thing we want.”

Shifting the Supply Chain

In a bid to reduce the impact of the tariffs, Lucid is deepening its relationship with Panasonic so it can source more of the raw materials for its battery cells from the US. Currently, much of the raw materials Lucid uses for its battery cells come from Japan and South Korea, but two and a half years ago, decided it needed to localize, thanks in part to advanced manufacturing production credits which helped to defray costs.

“We are working with Panasonic to further localize the supply chain for the cell,” Winterhoff added. “It doesn’t do you a lot of good if you manufacture here [in the US] but you still import the raw material which then subject to tariffs.”

It’s not quite official, but it’s close. We’ve known for a while that Tesla was working on a six-seater version of the Model Y, and now, thanks to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), we’re getting our first official look.

Read: Tesla Suddenly Wants You To Buy Now After Years Of Opposing EV Credits

Documents filed with the MIIT reveal a long-wheelbase version of the Model Y, dubbed the Model Y L, configured with three rows of seating. But it’s not just about added space. Based on the filings and industry reports, this version brings more power along with the stretched cabin, signaling a meaningful update to the existing lineup. It’s expected to launch in China this fall, with a North American debut potentially following soon after.

A Six-Seat Layout With Extra Room

First and foremost, let’s break down the details. This new Model Y L features six seats, not seven, so expect it to roll out with captain’s chairs in the second row. It’s 4,976mm long or 186mm (7.3 inches) longer than the normal Model Y. It’s also 44mm (1.7 inches) taller. The extra length isn’t just an extended body like we’ve seen in vehicles such as the Ford Expedition Max.

Instead, Tesla extended the wheelbase to 3,040mm, or 150mm (5.9 inches) longer than the five-seat Model Y. In addition to the added length, the new Y L gets unique wheels, an updated spoiler, new seats, and appears as though it’ll be available with a new gold paint color.

The official documents also reveal that it’ll make more power too. The five-seat Model Y makes 443 horsepower (331 kW), but the Model Y L will arrive with 455 ponies (340 kW). That should help with the additional weight on board. Notably, Tesla has hinted in the past that a seven-passenger version of the Model Y is coming.

Based on the MIIT filing, this isn’t that version. Still, it wouldn’t take much, adding a bench seat or tweaking the current layout could easily accommodate seven passengers. What remains unclear is whether the new seven-seater will follow the previous generation’s approach, using the standard wheelbase with two tightly squeezed seats in the rear, or if Tesla plans to do something different this time around.

The email Tesla sent to U.S. owners in June wasn’t the only hint at a North American launch for the Model Y L. Leaks from internal code point to it being a global model. With the debut of the Model Y L, that update now appears to be just around the corner.

The electric era is coming for just about every corner of the car world, and BMW’s iconic M3 lineup is no exception. An all-electric version of the high-performance sedan is on its way, marking a significant step for BMW as it enters the Neue Klasse generation.

This new model will be sold alongside the familiar gas-powered M3, and while it may have a tough time delivering the same visceral thrills, BMW M seems like the right team to take on the challenge of making an EV that’s genuinely engaging to drive.

Read: BMW’s Electric Super Sedan Could Arrive Sooner Than You Think

Numerous electric M3 prototypes are currently making the rounds across Europe, and this particular one was recently spotted near BMW’s facility at the Nurburgring Nordschleife. Seeing an M3 prototype charging is a little unsettling for purists – a bit like discovering your favorite bouncer knits in his spare time. Good for him, sure, but it does throw off the mental image.

This prototype, fully cloaked in camouflage, appears to lack the bulky body cladding seen on earlier test cars, giving us a much clearer look at the near-production-spec bodywork.

The shape of the nose is vastly different than the current M3 and reflective of BMW’s Neue Klasse design, something that’ll soon spread throughout the brand’s entire range of cars. There is a set of relatively small headlights connected seamlessly to blacked-out kidney grilles. This prototype also has a secondary grille lower down on the bumper for additional cooling.

SHProshots

It’s the fenders of the electric M3, or the i3M as BMW might end up naming it, that stand out the most. They’re impressively wide, giving the car a broad, aggressive stance. The rear arches are especially muscular, and paired with the shape of the temporary taillights, they bring to mind the current BMW M5 in both proportion and attitude.

The Juicy Details

This tester also has a set of wheels that should make the production model. These wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tires and sit over a set of beefy, cross-drilled steel brakes. Spy shots from last month indicated that the electric M3 will likely weigh at least 465 kg (1,025 lbs) more than the current gas-powered model, so we wouldn’t be surprised if carbon ceramic brakes were available as an option, as they are on the current M3 and M4.

Powertrain details remain a bit of a mystery at this stage. The prevailing expectation is that the iM3 will feature four electric motors delivering a combined output of at least 700 hp. Interestingly, BMW has suggested that the setup could be pushed to over 1,300 hp, though it’s unclear whether that level of performance will make it to production.

Even at the lower estimate, the iM3 would be in the same league as the upcoming M5 and comfortably ahead of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N, which produces 641 hp. In all likelihood, it will end up being the quickest production car ever to wear an M3 badge.

SHProshots

The Lucid Air is already one of the best EVs on the market, combining luxury with performance in a way that legacy automakers have struggled to compete with. Now, Lucid’s suite of advanced driver assistance systems is getting a major update, bringing with it hands-free driving assist and lane change assist systems.

Read: This $110K EV Refuses To Let Its Owner In And That’s Not Even The Worst Part

For owners of the flagship Air Sapphire, that means they’ll soon be able to hand over the reins to computers to control one of the world’s quickest cars. Now that’s a scary thought.

These updates will be introduced through an over-the-air software update scheduled to roll out on July 30 for all Lucid Air models equipped with the DreamDrive Pro suite. This system makes use of a LiDAR, radar, visible-light cameras, surround-view cameras, and ultrasonic sensors to make driving that little bit easier.

Lucid says drivers will be able to use the hands-free driving feature and hands-free lane changes on compatible divided highways. However, it hasn’t specified what exactly makes a divided highway “compatible” for use with the system. The new features will be rolled out to the Lucid Gravity later in the year.

Several other car manufacturers have introduced hands-free driving modes for their ADAS systems, including Ford, GM, and Mercedes-Benz. Hands-free lane change features are also becoming more commonplace, and in the Lucid Air, drivers simply need to flick on the turn signal before the car itself will determine if it’s safe to change lanes. If it is, the car will smoothly glide into the next lane.  

“The addition of these features to Lucid’s DreamDrive Pro offers a glimpse into the future that Lucid is building with the impressive capabilities of our software-defined vehicles,” Lucid’s ADAS and AD vice president, Kai Stepper, said. “With our in-house software stack, a comprehensive suite of 32 sensors, and regular OTA updates, we have a roadmap to continue to deliver significantly more functionality to our owners in the future.”

Lucid Air owners who didn’t opt for the DreamDrive Pro system may now regret their decision. Unlike Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system, which has recently cost upwards of $8,000, Lucid’s system is relatively good value at just $2,500.