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MG’s New S6 EV Reveal Was A Total Accident

  • MG’s new SUV surfaced online through Euro NCAP crash test photos.
  • Both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions have been confirmed.
  • Safety scores include 92% for adults and 85% for child occupants.

The first images of the new MG S6 EV have surfaced online, and somewhat amusingly, the source isn’t the automaker itself or but from Euro NCAP. The safety testing authority has unwittingly given us our first proper glimpse of the upcoming SUV.

Read: MG Just Declared War On The Ranger And Hilux With New Truck

MG has yet to release official photographs of the model, but its inclusion in Euro NCAP’s latest batch of crash-tested vehicles means we now have a reasonably clear look at its design, even if most of the images show it in a rather battered state.

It’s not easy to design an SUV that looks good, but MG has had a decent crack and it’s done quite well. The front end is very similar to the smaller S5 and includes the same small, split front grille positioned at the very base of the bumper.

It has also been showcased with LED daytime running lights and separate headlamps housed within triangular-shaped elements.

The rear-end is also quite sleek, although the shape of the taillights and the light bar does remind us of the Mercedes-Benz EQA, albeit with more complex lighting signatures. Other intriguing elements include the blacked-out bumper and the sharp diffuser.

What About The Interior?

We don’t yet have official images of the MG S6’s interior, but the Euro NCAP crash tests offer a few revealing glimpses. Between shots of airbags deploying into crash dummies, you can spot a squared-off steering wheel, a sizable central infotainment screen, and a head-up display perched above the dashboard.

 MG’s New S6 EV Reveal Was A Total Accident

Safety and Specifications

On the safety front, the MG S6 EV scored a full five stars from Euro NCAP, earning 92 percent for adult protection, 85 percent for child protection, 84 percent for vulnerable road users, and 78 percent for its suite of driver-assist technologies.

While the report doesn’t go into drivetrain specifics, it does confirm that both two-wheel and four-wheel-drive variants are planned.

It’s likely that the S6 will share the same single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup as the S5, producing 228 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. The all-wheel-drive version is expected to add a secondary motor up front, creating a dual-motor configuration with a balanced output and broader appeal.

A full reveal is expected soon, as MG officials have already confirmed that the launch is scheduled for the end of November.

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EV Tax Credit Loss Will Cost GM $1.6 Billion

  • GM was forced to adjust its EV capacity to the tune of $1.2 billion.
  • Its EV sales skyrocketed 105 percent through the first three quarters.
  • Changes will not affect the current EV lineup of Chevy, GMC and Cadillac.

The removal of the federal electric vehicle tax credit at the end of September is set to cost General Motors as much as $1.6 billion in the next quarter, a direct result of the adjustments it must make to its electric vehicle strategy.

This follows Ford’s recent announcement that it will write down up to $400 million in manufacturing assets and reduce $1.5 billion in EV-related spending, scaling back projects including a three-row electric SUV and a full-size electric pickup.

Industry Recalibration

In its third-quarter report, GM confirmed that its board of directors had approved $1.6 billion in charges tied to what it described as the “strategic realignment of our EV capacity and manufacturing footprint to consumer demand.”

Read: GM Pulls Off Its Strongest US Comeback In A Decade But One Brand Is Slipping

The company specified that $1.2 billion of that amount relates to adjustments in its EV capacity, while the remaining $400 million stems “primarily from contract cancellation fees and commercial settlements associated with EV-related investments, which will have a cash impact.”

GM also noted that “it is reasonably possible that we will recognize additional future material cash and non-cash charges that may adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.”

 EV Tax Credit Loss Will Cost GM $1.6 Billion

GM emphasized that the measures it’s taking will not affect its existing range of electric models sold under the Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac brands.

Electric vehicle sales in the United States climbed sharply through the third quarter, yet GM cautioned in its filing that it expects “the adoption rate of EVs to slow” due to “the termination of certain consumer tax incentives for EV purchases and the reduction in the stringency of emissions regulations.”

During the July-September period, GM’s sales of electric vehicles rose 107 percent and have increased 105 percent year-to-date. In Q3, it sold a total of 66,501 EVs, and Chevrolet cemented its position as the second-largest EV brand in the country. In addition, the Equinox EV was the best-selling non-Tesla-branded electric vehicle.

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Ford Slashes Prices But The Real Battle For The F-150 Lightning Begins Now

  • Ford cuts up to $4,000 off F-150 Lightning prices to sustain demand.
  • The base model now features a 123 kWh battery adding 50 extra miles.
  • Flash trim drops to $65,995, while Lariat pricing also decreases slightly.

Like every other automaker trying to keep its EV lineup from gathering dust, Ford knows that enthusiasm for the F-150 Lightning could fade fast now that the federal tax credit has vanished. To keep shoppers from drifting off, it’s slicing up to $4,000 off the price.

Now, that doesn’t come close to the $7,500 buyers just lost, but it might be enough to keep a few more trucks rolling off the lot. For the moment, anyway.

The 2026 F-150 Lightning will start at $63,345 before destination charges for the base STX trim, which replaces the outgoing XLT. Though the sticker remains identical to last year’s, the new model carries a larger 123 kWh battery pack instead of the previous 98 kWh unit, boosting range by roughly 50 miles (80.4 km).

Read: Ford’s New F-150 Lightning Trim Solves Its Biggest Flaws For Free

Perhaps of even more interest to potential customers will be the Flash trim. Cars Direct reports it will start at $65,995 for 2026, down from last year’s $69,995. There will also be a generous $2,000 savings for the Lariat, with its price reduced from $76,995 to $74,995.

At the top of the lineup sits the F-150 Lightning Platinum, which holds steady at $84,995. Ford hasn’t trimmed that figure, but at least it hasn’t gone higher either.

 Ford Slashes Prices But The Real Battle For The F-150 Lightning Begins Now

If the F-150 Lightning is still out of your price range after these cuts, then leasing could be a good option. Ford is continuing to offer 2025 XLT models with a $9,000 lease cash incentive.

Shoppers in certain states are also eligible for a $500 Summer Sales Event bonus, and for those who turn down Ford’s complimentary home charger, a $2,000 Public Charging Credit is available.

During the most recent quarter, Ford sold 10,005 units of the F-150 Lightning, marking a 39.7 percent jump from the same period last year.

How the Trump administration’s decision to end the federal tax credit will affect Q4 results remains to be seen. The next few months will likely reveal whether price cuts alone are enough to keep Ford’s electric pickup moving off lots.

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This Chinese EV Fell Apart In European Crash Test

  • Dongfeng’s Box EV had a dismal performance in Euro NCAP’s latest crash tests.
  • Spot-weld failures in the overlap test led to a disappointing three-star score.
  • Weak airbag pressure and jammed doors raised major post-crash safety concerns.

If their slick tech features have convinced you that Chinese cars are finally a match for Western rivals, Euro NCAP’s latest test results might make you think again. While some Chinese cars really are as good as the competition, one new small Asian EV has just flunked an important European crash test that its rivals all aced.

More: Your Next Car Might Not Be As Safe As It Could Have Been

The car in question is Dongfeng’s Nammi Box, a small hatchback that’s broadly equivalent to a Renault 5 or BYD Dolphin. But while those cars were awarded four and five stars respectively after being run through Euro NCAP’s crash test mill, the Box scored just three stars.

Safety Reality Check

Multiple spot-welds failed during the offset front impact test, increasing the risk of deformation around the cabin and reducing protection for occupants, the safety organization reported.

The test, which is performed at 31 mph (50 kmh) and with a 50 percent overlap against a deformable barrier on an oncoming 3,090 lbs (1,400 kg) sled, also traveling at 31 mph, is designed to replicate the kind of collision that is responsible for the most road deaths and serious injuries.

And a compromised body structure wasn’t the only black mark against the Box. Insufficient pressure in the steering wheel airbag meant the driver’s head still managed to make contact with the wheel.

Design Flaws Under Pressure

Just as worrying, the doors failed to automatically unlock, which could prevent first responders from helping injured passengers.

Euro NCAP additionally criticized China’s state-owned Dongfeng for not providing any kind of safety aid to prevent front seat passengers from bashing into each other in a side impact collision.

Summing up, the testers awarded the Box just 69 percent for adult occupant protection and 67 percent for vulnerable road user protection, numbers that place it well below most modern small EVs on sale in Europe.

“The Dongfeng BOX doesn’t match the safety performance of other small EVs tested by Euro NCAP,” said the organization in a statement. “It was a concern that the spot welds were compromised during our tests and could be further compromised in higher-speed accidents. Such a failure must be addressed to match competitor vehicles in what’s a fast-growing part of the EV market,” it added.

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Euro NCAP

In Dongfeng’s defense, it wasn’t the only small hatchback to receive a feeble three-star rating. So did VW’s ancient T-Cross crossover, which is a bit of an outlier. Other VW Group products like the Audi Q3, Skoda Octavia, and VW Golf all achieved a maximum five-star rating.

As did China’s Chery Tiggo 7 and 8. The SUVs were marked down in a previous test for a problem with their rear curtain airbags, but Chery then redesigned the system.

It performed as planned during the re-test, earning Chery five stars, reminding us that there’s still a big safety difference between the best and worst-performing Chinese cars.

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Euro NCAP/Dongfeng

Korean Lawmakers Accuse Hyundai Of Bowing To Trump

  • Hyundai recently upped its US investment commitment from $21B to $26B.
  • Company’s investment may have weakened Korea’s leverage in US trade talks.
  • South Korea is still trying to get the US government to drop its hefty tariffs.

The South Korean government is none too pleased with Hyundai’s massive US investments, particularly as tensions linger with the Trump administration over a new trade deal. Indeed, one lawmaker has even gone so far as to accuse Hyundai of trying to curry favor with President Donald Trump.

Just two weeks after Hyundai’s massive plant in Georgia was raided by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, and hundreds of Korean workers were detained, the automaker announced plans to boost its American investments by 32 percent, bringing the total to $11.6 billion.

This move landed awkwardly back home. Many in South Korea had warned that the raid could discourage local companies from expanding into the United States, and Hyundai’s timing only added to the unease.

Read: Turns Out 300 Of The ‘Illegal Aliens’ Detained At Hyundai Plant Are Koreans

While recently speaking with members of the press, South Korea’s industry minister Kim Jung-kwan described the timing of the investments as “deeply regrettable.”

“We told Hyundai that [its] conduct was deeply regrettable, especially considering that our efforts have been made for the sake of Hyundai and Kia’s industry,” Kim said. “I believe that Hyundai now fully understands the Korean public sentiment.”

 Korean Lawmakers Accuse Hyundai Of Bowing To Trump

According to the South China Morning Post, Korean officials have clashed with US counterparts over roughly $350 billion in American investments as Seoul seeks lower tariffs on Korean cars.

Who Benefits Most?

According to independent lawmaker Kim Jong-min, Hyundai’s investments weakened Korea’s leverage during trade talks. “Isn’t the Korea-US tariff negotiation essentially a negotiation concerning Hyundai?” he asked.

“Since Hyundai is the main player in this issue, I believe that the way Hyundai responded was not helpful to the negotiations.”

Hyundai has been particularly active on the investment front this year. In March, it pledged $21 billion to strengthen its automotive, steel, and robotics businesses. By August, that figure had grown to $26 billion, with a promise to create 25,000 direct jobs in the United States by 2028.

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Sources: South China Morning Post

Mercedes’ Vision Styling Looks Great On The Next S-Class

  • Rendering reimagines the S-Class with cues from Mercedes’ Vision Iconic concept.
  • The flagship sedan blends opulence and aggression with a bold illuminated grille.
  • A production version of the S-Class with this design language remains years away.

Whenever an automaker unveils a concept that captures the spotlight, you can almost hear the styluses hitting tablets as rendering artists get to work, grafting the new look onto everything else in the range. And of course, the Mercedes Vision Iconic hasn’t dodged that creative frenzy.

More: Mercedes’ Vision Iconic Grand Coupe Looks Like It Time-Traveled From The 1930s

Digital artist Sugar Design has already dreamed up what a next-generation S-Class might look like if it borrowed the coupe concept’s styling playbook. The result feels sharp and believable, though anyone expecting it to reach production anytime soon might want to take a seat.

Still, considering that many suspect the Vision Iconic could evolve into a future S-Class Coupe, the styling exercise isn’t entirely without merit.

Vision-Inspired Sedan

Sugar Design’s take on the S-Class borrows the illuminated grille, aggressive headlights, and bumper intakes from the Vision Iconic concept, infusing them into a sedan silhouette. The profile features clean surfacing with pronounced front and rear fenders, framing the seven-spoke alloy wheels.

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Illustrations Sugar Design

The rear treatment leans toward grand tourer territory, with flowing curves, an aerodynamic roofline, slim LED taillights, and a subtle diffuser. Altogether, it reads as a thoroughly modern luxury sedan that could pass for a Maybach with different badging and a two-tone finish.

More: Mercedes’ Smallest SUV Shows Off New Lighting Signature

The cabin remains speculative, but it’s easy to imagine a softened version of the concept’s Art Deco-inspired interior, blending rich materials with cutting-edge technology.

 Mercedes’ Vision Styling Looks Great On The Next S-Class
Illustration Sugar Design

What’s Next For The S-Class?

The current W223 generation of the S-Class was introduced in 2020, and a mid-lifecycle update is scheduled for 2026. This means that the debut of an all-new model has been pushed back closer to the end of the decade.

Earlier spy shots suggest that the facelifted S-Class won’t undergo a radical redesign. Instead, Mercedes designers will focus on tweaking the lighting units and bumpers, while retaining most of the sheet metal on the profile.

Based on how the GLC EV gained its illuminated grille late in development, it’s likely the S-Class facelift will receive similar treatment. Expect interior updates too, possibly including a yoke-style steering wheel and expanded autonomous driving features.

So what does this mean for the Vision Iconic’s design language? It’s reasonable to assume an evolved version of its styling will influence future S-Class models and other Mercedes flagships arriving in the 2030s. The overwhelmingly positive reception to the concept will only strengthen that direction.

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Mercedes Vision Iconic Concept

Mercedes has already confirmed that the next S-Class will offer both ICE and EV powertrain options, signalling the death of the unpopular EQS. Its competition may thin out as well, with the Audi A8 and Lexus LS expected to exit or morph into entirely new formats, possibly even something as unconventional as a three-row luxury van.

More: This BMW M7 Super Sedan Is Too Good To Be Real

This leaves the upcoming Neue Klasse facelift of the BMW 7-Series / i7 as the only European rival, although there are many flagship sedans from China that want a piece of the sales pie. In any case, the sinister looks of the Vision Iconic concept and the expected technological innovation that might come with it could help Mercedes to remain at the top of the segment.

That leaves BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse iteration of the 7-Series and i7 as the S-Class’s main European rival, though several ambitious Chinese luxury sedans are vying for attention. Still, the Vision Iconic’s darkly elegant styling and the technological advances likely to accompany it could help Mercedes maintain its grip at the top of the luxury sedan hierarchy.

You Didn’t Buy A Tesla To Watch Ads But Here We Are

  • Tesla’s latest update replaces its vehicle display with a Tron Ares animation.
  • The update has frustrated some owners who view it as in-car advertising.
  • Elon Musk once criticized Disney but now seems open to collaboration.

Tesla helped pioneer over-the-air software updates, introducing new features without owners ever having to visit a dealership or service center. It was a move that set the brand apart, positioning its cars as tech products that could evolve long after leaving the factory floor.

Of course, there’s always a “but” with progress, and Tesla’s latest update is no exception.

Read: Elon Musk Tells Companies That Pulled Ads From X To “Go (Explicit) Yourself”

And this time, Tesla’s latest software update has landed with a thud among owners, as it’s essentially an advertisement for the upcoming film Tron: Ares. Welcome to 2025, where your car can double as a mobile billboard.

The update transforms the on-board visualizations found on the central display of the Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck. Normally, one of Tesla’s vehicles is displayed here, but after installing the update, that image is replaced with an Tron bike, just like the ones featured in the film.

Owners can access the new animations by heading into the App Launcher, opening Toybox, and enabling it. Admittedly, the Tron bike does look quite cool, particularly since it leaves a trail of red light behind it.

However, it somewhat reeks of desperation for the company to add a feature like this, and has raised questions whether Disney is compensating Tesla for featuring its latest blockbuster so prominently inside customer vehicles.

The grid has expanded to your Tesla — Tron: Ares update rolling out now pic.twitter.com/oQvYSAFuLM

— Tesla (@Tesla) October 10, 2025

Tesla vs Disney

Tesla boss Elon Musk has had a strained relationship with Disney over the past few years. In late 2023, he decried Disney’s decision to stop advertising on X after he supported an antisemitic post. He also called for Disney chief executive Bob Iger to be fired, and soon after, had Tesla remove the Disney+ app from its infotainment system.

Evidently, Tesla’s relationship with Disney has improved over the past couple of years, or else this wouldn’t be happening.

Had someone asked Musk in late 2023 whether Tesla cars would one day promote a Disney movie, he likely would have laughed off the idea. Yet here we are, two years later, watching the worlds of Silicon Valley and Hollywood collide once again, this time on your dashboard.

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Mitsubishi’s New SUV Concept Doubles As A Hotel On Wheels

  • Mitsubishi is gearing up for the debut of a new concept car in Tokyo.
  • Teaser reveals futuristic rear design and chunky off-road styling.
  • The interior features a double bed and roof lighting for glamping.

Mitsubishi might be busy rebadging Renault models in Europe, but things look different back home. Ahead of the Japan Mobility Show, the brand has teased an electric crossover that mixes off-road grit with a cabin designed for lounging and sleeping.

The yet-unnamed concept wears a sharply cut rear end with a full-width LED strip, no rear glass in sight, and a curious structural brace tucked underneath. Chunky tires, muscular fenders, and dark plastic cladding highlight its off-road intentions.

More: Mitsubishi Will Launch A Second New SUV For The Great American Outdoors

An earlier photo focused on the cabin, which features a large double bed positioned beneath a roof lit by ambient lighting with a faint sci-fi edge. Mitsubishi describes it as “a spacious interior offering a luxurious in-car sleeping environment that turns any destination into a glamping retreat.”

The concept also introduces personalization features aimed at adapting to different lifestyles, suggesting a cabin layout more flexible than the average SUV.

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Overall, the model appears larger than the D:X Concept shown at the 2023 event and could provide an early look at a future production SUV.

What Else Will Mitsubishi Show?

Mitsubishi’s display will also feature the new Delica Mini and eK Space kei cars, alongside the current Outlander PHEV SUV and Delica D:5 minivan. Joining them is the Triton Rally Car that took victory in the 2025 Asia Cross Country Rally.

More: Mitsubishi’s New Kei Van Channels Its Inner Pajero

In another part of the show, the automaker plans to highlight several heritage models, including a 1985 Pajero from Dakar, a 1996 Lancer Evo III from the WRC, and the 2014 MiEV Evolution III from Pikes Peak.

We expect Mitsubishi to share more details about the concept as its official debut approaches at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 on October 30.

 Mitsubishi’s New SUV Concept Doubles As A Hotel On Wheels
The new generations of the Mitsubishi eK Space (left) and Delica Mini (right) kei cars.

Subaru Teases Two New STI Concepts But Only One Sounds Like Trouble

  • Subaru will unveil an ICE hot hatch and electric STI concept in Tokyo.
  • The two models are concepts that could preview future production cars.
  • The Trailseeker joins Wilderness trims of both the Outback and Forester.

One by one, Japan’s major automakers are unveiling their plans for the upcoming Tokyo motor show, now renamed the Japan Mobility Show. This time, the spotlight turns to Subaru, where attention will center on two STI-branded concepts: one fully electric and the other featuring a five-door hatchback design.

More: The Next Chapter For Subaru’s Sports Wagon Could Hide A Powertrain Surprise

For this year event, the automaker has split its presentation into two distinct themes, Performance and Adventure, united under the banner “Driving the Subaru Difference”.

The STI Studies

Leading the lineup are the world premieres from STI, the Performance-E and Performance-B concepts. The Performance-E is a fully electric model described as “spearheading Subaru’s new generation”, hinting that it could evolve into a future production car.

According to Subaru, the Performance-E “combines thrilling aesthetic proportions with outstanding aerodynamics and practicality”. The teaser images show sharp body surfacing, bold LED headlights, and large bumper intakes, with a silhouette that leans toward a hatchback or fastback shape.

Furthermore, the electric concept promises a “driver-friendly layout and a comfortable, spacious interior”, while incorporating “various innovative technologies” for “intuitive, exhilarating driving experiences”.

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Hatchback With Heritage

The second debut, the Performance-B STI concept, sticks with internal combustion power. It’s described as broadening Subaru’s range of performance options, and while it was first teased back in June, we now get a better look.

More: Subaru Impreza S-Edition Looks Like An STI But Goes Like A Rental

The headlights and the vented hood look identical to the current WRX sedan, but the redesigned bodykit includes wide fender extensions and a different grille.

More notably, it adopts a five-door hatchback profile topped by a large rear wing. Under the hood sits a boxer engine paired with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

While it’s uncertain whether Subaru will put this hot hatch into production, such a model would recall the third-generation WRX STI from 2008 and could challenge the Toyota GR Corolla in spirit and layout.

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On the adventure side of the display, Subaru will showcase prototypes of the fully electric Trailseeker (E-Outback) crossover, the new Forester Wilderness, and the latest Outback Wilderness.

More: Subaru Plans To Win Europe With Rebadged Toyotas, One Of Which Is An E-Outback

All three will make their Japanese debut fitted with optional outdoor accessories. The Trailseeker carries a roof box, the Forester mounts two large canoes, and the Outback features a roof rack with a bike carrier.

Retro Meets Wild

Rounding out the show stand will be the Family Huckster, a reimagined 1983 Subaru GL Wagon fitted with dramatic performance and aerodynamic upgrades.

Subaru will hold its press conference at the Japan Mobility Show on October 29, where company president Atsushi Osaki is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech.

 Subaru Teases Two New STI Concepts But Only One Sounds Like Trouble
 Subaru Teases Two New STI Concepts But Only One Sounds Like Trouble
1983 Subaru GL Family Huckster

Cybertruck Owner Took A $76,500 Depreciation Hit After Just 4,600 Miles

  • A Tesla Cybertruck took a huge beating on an internet auction site.
  • The 5,200-mile EV sold for just $70k months after achieving $147k.
  • It’s a limited edition Foundation Series with the 600 hp AWD setup.

A 2024 Tesla Cybertruck Foundation Series has just sold for $70,000 on Cars&Bids, showing just 5,200 miles (8,400 km) on the clock. If that sounds like a great price for one of the most hyped vehicles of the decade, it is – but not if you’re the one selling it.

The same Cybertruck sold on the same auction site last year for $146,500 when it had covered a mere 600 miles (970 km), meaning it’s lost more than half its value in less than 18 months.

It’s unclear whether that original owner paid the standard price or a $50,000 markup, as some commentators suggested at the time, but the MSRP stood at $101,995.

Related: Families Claim Tesla Door Handles Trapped Teens In Burning Cybertruck

The Foundation Series was Tesla’s launch-edition Cybertruck, the limited-run version that kicked off production late in 2023. It came loaded with luxury features, plus various unique badges and trim parts, such as sill inserts.

The first examples were offered only to early reservation holders and were supposed to be collector material. Well, that was the idea anyway. Fast forward to today and the tables have obviously turned. The new owner of this particular dual-motor, 600 hp (608 PS / 447 kW) truck just scored one of the biggest bargains in recent EV history.

The $70,000 sale price (listing here) undercuts Tesla’s own base MSRP of $79,990 for a new dual-motor AWD Cybertruck and shows just how far values have tumbled since the frenzy that greeted the electric truck’s debut. And this price fall is no freak event; used Cybertruck values have fallen across the board during 2025.

When the Hype Runs Out

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Cars&Bids

There are a few reasons behind the collapse. Early buyers paid sky-high prices to be first, banking on exclusivity and hype, but that buzz has cooled fast as more Cybertrucks hit the road and social media fills with real-world impressions.

The initial scarcity that drove those six-figure auction results has faded as production ramped up and deliveries increased. Add to that a shifting used-EV market and growing competition from the likes of Ford, Rivian, and GM, and it’s easy to see why resale prices have come back down to Earth.

Even the Foundation Series edition isn’t enough to hold depreciation at bay, and neither are the mods the seller added during his ownership, including a pricey black wrap, black painted lower body trim and 24-inch T Sportline CTM Monoblock forged wheels for $10,000, per the invoice.

For all its futuristic design and headline-grabbing performance, the market for Elon Musk’s electric truck is behaving like most others: early excitement followed by a sharp correction. But for anyone still dreaming of owning one, now might finally be the time to get their wallet out. The Cybertruck still turns heads, but its once-shiny resale value has definitely lost its gleam – and that means some great deals for buyers looking to get their hands on one.

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Cars&Bids

Tesla’s Running Out Of Cybertruck Buyers, So Musk’s Other Companies Are Buying It

  • Tesla has delivered hundreds of Cybertrucks to SpaceX and xAI.
  • It may only sell around 20,000 electric trucks in total for 2025.
  • Musk once envisioned annual production of 250,000 units.

The hype that once surrounded the Tesla Cybertruck has well and truly died down. It wasn’t long ago that Elon Musk was boasting about more than a million reservations for the angular electric pickup, confidently claiming Tesla would be churning out and selling 250,000 units each year.

Through the first nine months of 2025, though, the numbers tell a very different story. Tesla has sold just 16,097 Cybertrucks so far, a steep 38 percent decline compared with the same January to September period in 2024, when 25,974 were delivered, according to data from Cox Automotive.

Sales Slide Continues

In the first quarter of this year, Tesla delivered 6,406 Cybertrucks, followed by 4,306 in the second quarter. Deliveries climbed slightly to 5,385 in the third quarter, likely spurred by the expiring federal EV tax credit.

While that Q3 bump might look positive at first glance, it’s actually a 62.6 percent decline from Q3 2024, when 14,416 trucks found buyers.

At this pace, the company is expected to finish the year with around 20,000 deliveries, well below the roughly 50,000 units sold in 2024.

Read: Tesla’s Latest Solution To Range Loss Is Full Of Hot Air And That’s Not A Joke

For most car manufacturers, this would be absolutely devastating news. However, Tesla boss Elon Musk also happens to run two other large companies, SpaceX and xAI, and both have started taking deliveries of hundreds of Cybertrucks.

A Convenient Customer Base

Apparently, Tesla now has more Cybertrucks in inventory than it knows what to do with. Reports indicate that hundreds were recently shipped to SpaceX’s Starbase facility, with expectations that hundreds, if not thousands, more could follow to replace the site’s gas-powered work trucks.

Over the weekend, multiple truckloads were also spotted arriving at xAI’s offices, shared widely on X by several users, including Cybertruck lead engineer Wes Morrill, who wrote:

“Love to see the ICE support fleets from Tesla and SpaceX get replaced with Cybertruck. When we were engineering it, this was always part of the dream. Never imagined how hard the fleet photos at starbase would go. Looking forward to more of this.”

Interest Running on Empty

Stopping short of making major price cuts, likely needing to be in the tens of thousands of dollars, it’s hard to envision how Tesla can reinvigorate interest in the Cybertruck. It is no longer the must-have EV in the United States.

Its radical styling, once its greatest talking point, now seems too polarizing for most pickup buyers. Practicality also remains a sticking point, as it lacks some of the everyday utility of traditional gas-powered trucks.

Add to that Musk’s divisive role in American politics, and the Cybertruck’s appeal appears to be narrowing faster than

Love to see the ICE support fleets from Tesla and SpaceX get replaced with Cybertruck. When we were engineering it, this was always part of the dream. Never imagined how hard the fleet photos at starbase would go. Looking forward to more of this https://t.co/M69ImCpamk pic.twitter.com/p1lf4FytY9

— Wes (@wmorrill3) October 7, 2025

Jeep’s Wagoneer Is Dead. Long Live The Overhauled 2026 Grand Wagoneer

  • Jeep has introduced the 2026 Grand Wagoneer, which starts at $62,145.
  • The facelifted model replaces both the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.
  • It features a revamped front fascia and a new range-extender powertrain.

Long before there was the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator, the Grand Wagoneer reigned supreme. With this pedigree and Jeep’s upmarket push, Stellantis thought they had a winner on their hands when they brought the model back in 2021.

Things didn’t exactly pan out as expected, so the entire Wagoneer lineup is being revamped for 2026. As part of the makeover, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are merging into a single model, which features an updated design and a brand-new range-extender powertrain.

More Modern Design

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The new look was previewed earlier this summer, and the 2026 Grand Wagoneer cribs heavily from the electric Wagoneer S. As part of the makeover, the model adopts an all-new front fascia with a minimalist seven-slot grille. It’s illuminated and visually flows into new headlights.

Further below, there’s a more pronounced central intake that is flanked by new T-shaped LED daytime running lights. Elsewhere, the Wagoneer badging on the hood has been replaced by a Jeep logo.

The rest of the design largely carries over, but there are new full-width LED taillights as well as rear Jeep badging. The model also eschews chrome, while sporting restyled wheels in sizes ranging from 18 to 22 inches.

Minor Interior Updates

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Jeep barely mentioned interior changes, but there’s a new heads-up display on higher-end variants. It features a “significantly larger field of view and a virtual image distance twice that of previous versions.”

The Grand Wagoneer also features a larger 12-inch Uconnect5 infotainment system. It replaces the previous 10.1-inch display, which used to come standard on the Wagoneer.

An All-New Range-Extender Powertrain

 Jeep’s Wagoneer Is Dead. Long Live The Overhauled 2026 Grand Wagoneer

Under the hood, there’s a familiar twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six producing 420 hp (313 kW / 426 PS) and 468 lb-ft (635 Nm) of torque. Unfortunately, Jeep has apparently dropped the high-output variant that developed 540 hp (402 kW / 548 PS) and 521 lb-ft (706 Nm).

The big news is an all-new range-extender variant known as the Grand Wagoneer REEV. It borrows heavily from the Ram 1500 REV, which used to be known as the Ramcharger, and features a 92 kWh battery pack as well as a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that acts as a generator.

It’s slated to be the quickest and most powerful Grand Wagoneer ever created as the company is estimating a combined output of 647 hp (482 kW / 656 PS) and 620 lb-ft (840 Nm) of torque.

This should enable the SUV to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in five seconds flat and have a range in excess of 500 miles (805 km).

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer will go into production later this year and be followed by the range-extender variant. The latter will have “late availability,” so expect to learn more closer to launch.

 Jeep’s Wagoneer Is Dead. Long Live The Overhauled 2026 Grand Wagoneer

Trapped Xiaomi Driver Dies After Doors Fail To Open In Fiery Crash

  • Xiaomi SU7 crashed and caught fire in China, killing the 31-year-old driver.
  • Video footage shows one man repeatedly punching the driver’s side window.
  • Shares in the technology giant fell by as much as 8 percent after the crash.

It’s not just Tesla under fire for how its electronic door handles respond after a crash, fire, or even a total power loss. In the early hours of Monday morning, a Xiaomi SU7 in China crashed and erupted in flames, and despite frantic attempts by bystanders to open the door and free the driver, the 31-year-old at the wheel did not survive.

Chinese media reported that the black SU7 crashed at around 3:15 a.m. The driver of the Xiaomi is said to have lost control, spinning into a wide median strip lined with shrubs and plants before coming to rest on the opposite side of the road in Chengdu. Moments later, the vehicle burst into flames.

Watch: Xiaomi Blames iPhone For EV Taking Off On Its Own

Video captured from the scene showed several men frantically attempting to smash the driver’s window while trying in vain to open the driver’s door. One of the men was repeatedly punching the window, while another can be seen trying to kick it out.

They were soon forced to retreat as the flames spread, waiting for firefighters to arrive. Although the crews managed to extinguish the blaze, they were unable to save the driver.

Early reports suggest the 31-year-old may have been driving under the influence of alcohol.

Questions Over Safety Systems

The Xiaomi SU7 features simpler pull-type exterior door handles compared to some other EVs. As with most modern vehicles, the doors are designed to automatically unlock when an accident is detected or airbags are deployed.

For reasons yet unclear, that system appears to have failed in this case. The car is equipped with a manual release inside the cabin.

 Trapped Xiaomi Driver Dies After Doors Fail To Open In Fiery Crash
Zhao Qing/The Paper

Xiaomi Shares Take a Hit

News of the incident spread quickly, amplified by images and videos of the burning SU7 circulating on Chinese social media, sending Xiaomi’s stock tumbling by as much as 8.7 percent, its sharpest one-day drop since April. Shares eventually closed 5.24 percent lower, erasing billions from the company’s valuation.

More: China Might Kill Electric Flush Door Handles With These New Rules

In April, three individuals were killed after a Xiaomi SU7 crashed in China’s eastern Anhui province. It has been claimed that the two individuals in the front seats were unable to open the doors as they immediately locked after the crash. An individual was pulled from the rear after an eyewitness smashed out one of the windows, but they died from their injuries.

The incident adds to mounting scrutiny over electronic and semi-electronic door mechanisms in China. Regulators are considering restrictions on such designs amid broader safety concerns, while U.S. authorities continue to probe similar failures in Tesla models.

Xiaomi shares plunged nearly 9% after a fatal crash involving its SU7 electric car, Bloomberg reports

According to the outlet, a 31-year-old driver in China collided with another vehicle, crossed into the opposite lane, and the car caught fire. Witnesses tried to pull the man… pic.twitter.com/yPQ70FoKXN

— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) October 13, 2025

China Turns Up The Pressure As Canada Reconsiders Its EV Tariffs

  • Canada imposed 100 percent tariffs on Chinese EVs to protect its industry.
  • China retaliated with heavy duties on key Canadian agricultural exports.
  • Some Canadian premiers want tariffs dropped to protect canola producers.

China isn’t pleased about the 100 percent tariffs that Canada imposed on its imports, including electric vehicles, in October last year. Seeking to persuade Ottawa to reconsider, Beijing has offered to lift its own retaliatory tariffs on Canadian agricultural goods.

Even so, Canada’s automotive parts industry head has cautioned against easing the restrictions, warning that doing so could open the door for low-cost Chinese EVs to flood the market.

Trade Tensions at Full Charge

When the tariffs were first introduced, Canada described them as measures to safeguard national security and defend domestic manufacturing. Officials also argued that China’s electric vehicle industry benefited from unfair state subsidies.

Beijing’s reaction was swift. The People’s Republic struck back with tariffs on Canadian agriculture, imposing a 100 percent rate on canola oil and meat, along with a 75.8 percent duty on canola seed.

Read: Canada Might Let Chinese EVs In And The Reason Has Nothing To Do With Cars

According to Chinese ambassador Wang Di, Beijing is ready to roll back the tariff measures if Canada does the same.

“If Canada removes the unilateral unjustified tariffs on Chinese products, China will also reciprocate accordingly,” he said, “and if the EV tariffs are removed, then China will also remove the tariffs on the relevant products of Canada.”

 China Turns Up The Pressure As Canada Reconsiders Its EV Tariffs

The Canadian government says it is conducting an informal review of its tariffs on Chinese EVs, CTV News reports. It adds that since the trade dispute started, exports from Saskatchewan dropped 76 percent in August from the year prior.

Both the premiers of Manitoba and Saskatchewan have called for tariffs to be lowered to protect the local canola industries.

A Divided Response

Still, Flavio Volpe, president of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, has pushed back against any move to abandon the tariffs on Chinese EVs.

“I am reminding (the premiers) publicly, that if Canada is in a trade war with a country, then the response has to be a Canadian response,” he told CTV.

“These Chinese EVs are not made for profit, they are subsidized. We’re in the middle of a game, and the only thing that changed… was the Chinese ambassador said, ‘If you do this, we’ll give you that.’ And last time I checked, the Chinese ambassador was sent from Beijing, not from Ottawa.”

 China Turns Up The Pressure As Canada Reconsiders Its EV Tariffs

Sources: CTV News

Turns Out EV Sales Needed The Tax Credit More Than Anyone Admitted

  • EV sales hit record highs as shoppers rushed to beat the tax credit deadline.
  • Ford, GM, and Tesla all saw massive gains before the incentive expired.
  • Leasing loopholes helped foreign-built EVs qualify for the federal benefit.

For all the talk about market forces shaping the car industry, it still seems that government incentives are doing most of the heavy lifting for electric vehicles. Or at least they were, until the end of September, when the federal tax credits officially ran out.

Read: Expiring EV Tax Credit Sent Tesla Sales Into Overdrive But Its Flagships Crashed

As much as 90 percent of all battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles sold in the United States through the first nine months of the year are believed to have benefited from some form of tax credit, according to market research firm Rho Motion.

A Surge Before the Deadline

The end of the federal EV tax credit on October 1 set off a nationwide rush for qualifying models, driving record sales for several brands and pushing overall EV demand to new highs in August and September.

This year, the EPA determined that 20 battery-electric vehicles and a single plug-in hybrid model were eligible for the New Clean Vehicle Credit, valued at up to $7,500. These vehicles together accounted for 55 percent of all EV sales from January through September.

 Turns Out EV Sales Needed The Tax Credit More Than Anyone Admitted
Rho Motion

Leasing Loopholes and Fleet Boosts

Of equal importance in propping up sales was the lesser-known Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit, also valued at up to $7,500.

This credit was available for vehicles weighing less than 14,000 lbs and aimed at fleet and business buyers. This is also the credit that allowed car manufacturers to claim the tax credit themselves, and then to reduce the lease price on new vehicles.

Notably, leased passenger cars and trucks were not subject to the same sourcing and assembly requirements as purchased vehicles. They also didn’t need to be built in North America, which made leasing an especially attractive option for both manufacturers and buyers.

As the September 30 axing date for the credits drew closer, sales of electrified vehicles surged across the United States. As noted by Rho Motion, Ford sold 30,612 battery-electric vehicles in the third quarter, a huge 86 percent increase from Q2.

Additionally, GM’s BEV sales jumped 44 percent to 66,501 units. Tesla also reported a 27 percent sales increase, and Hyundai also enjoyed substantial growth, thanks to a more than doubling of demand for the Ioniq 5.

What Comes After the Incentives?

It remains to be seen how sharply BEV and PHEV sales will dip in the fourth quarter now that the tax credit has ended. Rho Motion expects demand to “decline sharply.”

The research firm also points out that tariffs, high local manufacturing costs, and relaxed fuel efficiency standards are likely to deter investment in domestic EV production, creating further pressure on demand in the months ahead.

 Turns Out EV Sales Needed The Tax Credit More Than Anyone Admitted
Rho Motion

There’s A Simple Way To Fix The Kia EV6’s Most Annoying Sound Issue

  • Fixing the faulty subwoofer requires replugging four wires in the trunk.
  • Owners say the simple solution makes a big difference in sound quality.
  • A similar issue was experienced by Hyundai Tiburon owners 20 years ago.

Do you own a Kia EV6 with the optional Meridian sound system? If so, you might have noticed that the subwoofer isn’t delivering the deep, satisfying bass you’d expect. It turns out your EV’s subwoofer could be wired out of phase, limiting its punch.

Fortunately, one Reddit user uncovered a straightforward fix that anyone can perform with a few basic tools.

Read: Kia’s EV Sales Collapse As Shocking Drop Hits Key Models

The Redditor who discovered how to rectify the wonky subwoofer says he used to be a member of the Hyundai Tiburon forums. Roughly 20 years ago, members of those forums discovered that the stock subwoofer’s sound could be improved by reversing the positive and negative terminals.

Applying the same principle to the Meridian setup in his EV6, he found that the results were immediate, with stronger bass and a more balanced overall sound.

A Simple, DIY Adjustment

To carry out the fix, EV6 owners first need to open up the trunk where the subwoofer is stored. They then need to remove a piece of rear trim to gain access to a plug running into the sub.

Once they do so, it’s just a matter of using a small screwdriver to release the four wires, which are typically arranged red, black, red, black from top to bottom, and then reconnecting them in reverse order, black, red, black, red.

Shortly after the Reddit post gained traction, YouTuber Technically Jeff posted a clip of him performing the same fix, and he found it made a huge difference. Dozens of EV6 owners have jumped into the comments section to confirm that the fix transforms the subwoofer’s performance, making the listening experience much richer.

Meridian Sound Subwoofer fix
byu/nex703 inKiaEV6

Why It Happens

According to two audio specialists who spoke with The Drive, the problem likely stems from the EV’s active sound cancellation system. They explained that the subwoofer’s low frequencies are being partially canceled out by opposing frequencies from other speakers positioned throughout the cabin.

It’s not yet clear if the same issue is present on other Kia, Genesis, and/or Hyundai models with Meridian sound systems, but if you own one, it may be wise to take a look at the subwoofer to see if it, too, has been wired incorrectly.

Audi’s New 4×4 Could Blend Scout DNA With G-Class Swagger

  • Audi revives plans for a rugged flagship SUV with real off-road capability.
  • Upcoming model would rival the Mercedes G-Class and BMW’s future 4×4.
  • It may share its platform and U.S. production line with the Scout Traveler.

The Mercedes G-Class has been around since the 1970s, yet it’s never faced a true rival from fellow German heavyweights BMW or Audi, which is surprising considering how often all three companies shadow each other’s every move.

That, however, may be about to change. Both brands are reportedly developing their own rugged SUVs, hinting that the G-Wagen’s long-standing reign could finally meet some proper competition.

A Rugged Dream Revived

Audi has been flirting with the idea of a Quattro-badged SUV positioned above the Q7 and Q8 for years. Back in 2023, former design chief Marc Lichte first hinted at the project, believing there was enough room in the market alongside the Land Rover Defender and the Mercedes G-Class.

Although Lichte has since been succeeded by Massimo Frascella, the concept appears very much alive.

More: BMW Is Planning A Rugged G-Class Rival That May Kill The XM

Audi CEO Gernot Döllner recently spoke to Autocar, adding fuel to the speculation. He confirmed that the brand hasn’t abandoned its ambition for a true off-road 4×4, encouraging enthusiasts to “stay tuned.”

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Illustrations: Theottle

While Audi continues to streamline its lineup as part of the Volkswagen Group’s cost-cutting drive, Döllner still believes there’s space for a halo model.

“There is no niche banner,” he said. “It’s just the opposite. It works perfectly to have a more focused line-up in the core, and in addition to that have some niche models to build the brand and to also transfer new ideas from a niche segment into the core products. That works perfectly and this is part of our strategy.”

Concept Hints and Shared DNA

Earlier this year, Audi presented the Q6 e-tron Offroad Concept featuring a raised stance, portal axles, a reworked body kit, and grippy all-terrain tires. While this study could evolve into a production vehicle, any true G-Wagen rival would likely be a standalone model rather than an off-road variant of an existing SUV like the Q6 e-tron Sportback.

More: Audi Says Q6 e-tron Offroad Concept “Gives A Taste Of A Potential Vehicle”

 Audi’s New 4×4 Could Blend Scout DNA With G-Class Swagger
Audi Q6 e-tron Offroad Concept

A logical foundation for the project could come from the Scout Traveler SUV and Tera pickup, potentially sharing their ladder-frame chassis, 4WD setup with locking front and rear differentials, and both fully electric and range-extender powertrain options. More importantly, it could help Audi avoid costly R&D investments.

Based on current VW Group resources, an internal combustion version seems improbable, as the only available ladder-frame platform is that of the aging VW Amarok from South America.

Built In America?

The toughest Audi yet could be manufactured in the Scout facility in South Carolina, sparing it from import tariffs. Döllner confirmed that the company is considering U.S. manufacturing for upcoming models, though the final decision will depend on a “stable tariff situation” and other “regulatory boundary conditions.”

 Audi’s New 4×4 Could Blend Scout DNA With G-Class Swagger
Scout Traveler

He added that while it would be logical for the brand to employ an existing VW Group facility on this side of the Atlantic, a “specific Audi factory” could also happen, depending on how they are “aligned” with the US government.

What It Might Look Like

Shortly after the report came out, independent digital artist Theophilus Chin released renderings of a speculative Audi Q-Wagon, built on the Scout Traveler’s proportions. The design integrates Audi’s cues into a full-size SUV body, balancing squared-off lines with smoother surfacing.

More: Audi A4 Returns As EV With Concept TT Styling To Give BMW Something To Worry About

If Audi does bring such a model to life, it could adopt styling elements from the more recent Concept C, whose slim vertical grille and horizontal headlight arrangement are expected to influence several upcoming models, including the next A4 e-tron.

Sources: Autocar

Mercedes’ Futuristic Grand Coupe Looks Like It Time-Traveled From The 1930s

  • Mercedes unveils sleek two-door concept previewing its future design direction.
  • It evolves the Vision Maybach 6 theme with an illuminated signature grille.
  • Highlights include a retro-inspired cabin, solar paint, and Level 4 autonomy.

Mercedes has unveiled the Vision Iconic concept, a stunning two-door coupe that shows the brand still knows how to do glamour. Besides the elegant proportions and the illuminated grille, the grand coupe features a retro-inspired cabin and comes with advanced autonomous driving capabilities.

The exterior blends styling cues from Mercedes’ past fused with futuristic details. The “Iconic Grille”, first shown in the production GLC EV, proves that a large illuminated panel can look good on a vehicle if the stars align properly. It’s shape is inspired by classics like the W108, W111 and the 600 Pullman. Here, it is combined with the classic Merc hood ornament and aggressive headlights.

More: Have the Germans Finally Got Their Design Act Together Or Are They Still Lost?

The profile is reminiscent of the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Coupé and Cabriolet concepts from 2016 and 2017, although the overhangs are shorter. The long hood is emphasized by the side gills on the fenders, continuing the lines of the short windshield. The sloping roofline leads to a curved tail, with clear references to the iconic 300 SL Gullwing.

According to Mercedes design chief Gorden Wagener, the show car draws inspiration from “the golden era of automotive design of the 1930s.” He describes it as “a sculpture in motion, a homage to timeless elegance, and a statement for the future.”

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Art Deco Interior

The interior of the Vision Iconic is equally as impressive as the exterior. The company chose the Art Deco movement as an inspiration, targeting “lounge-like comfort and an entirely new experience of hyper-analogue and digital luxury”.

A round (yes, it sounds redundant until you’ve seen how many squared ones exist today) four-spoke steering wheel fronts a transparent Zeppelin-shaped dashboard, while the instrument cluster features animated analogue-style displays reminiscent of fine chronographs.

At the center of the concept’s dash, four traditional-style clocks include one that doubles as an AI companion, adding a futuristic twist to the retro aesthetic.

Seating takes the form of a plush bench trimmed in deep blue velvet, complemented by mother-of-pearl accents and a handcrafted straw marquetry floor bringing us back to the 17th century. Mercedes has also introduced a collection of six outfits for men and women, matching the interior of the concept with a dark blue shade and silver-gold accents.

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Technology From The Future

Despite the nostalgic touches, the Vision Iconic packs some serious technology. It targets Level 4 autonomy powered by “neuromorphic computing,” a system modeled on human brain function. Mercedes claims it’s ten times more efficient than current setups at interpreting surroundings and can cut AI processing energy use by up to 90 percent.

More: The EQS Wasn’t Ugly by Accident, But Mercedes Thinks It Knows Better Now

The Vision Iconic also has a steer-by-wire system combined with rear-axle steering for improved handling and agility. The automaker didn’t reveal the specifications of the fully electric powertrain.

Another standout feature is the solar coating that covers the entire body. This finish not only charges the battery but can also deliver up to 12,000 km (7,500 miles) of annual range purely from sunlight, depending on weather and location. With 20 percent efficiency, the coating is adaptable to any color and designed for easy recycling, hinting at a sustainable edge beneath the glamour.

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Will It Make Production?

Rumors about the return of a flagship coupe in the Mercedes lineup first sparked earlier this year when the company trademarked a pair of two-door S-Class models in Maybach and AMG forms.

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

However, those designs were based on the current generation of the S-Class sedan, which is expected to undergo a facelift next year. The next generation that’s expected towards the decade’s end should offer both internal-combustion and battery-electric powertrains.

Whether this new concept is merely a design study or a genuine preview of what’s to come remains uncertain. Still, it is an indication that Mercedes isn’t done exploring the art of the grand coupe just yet.

 Mercedes’ Futuristic Grand Coupe Looks Like It Time-Traveled From The 1930s
The Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Coupé and Cabriolet.

Daihatsu Brings Back A Tiny Japanese Legend With An Electric Twist

  • Daihatsu teases the Midget X concept, reviving the spirit of the original.
  • The compact LCV pairs a three-seat cabin with a flexible cargo configuration.
  • It features an electric powertrain and debuts at the Japan Mobility Show.

Daihatsu joins Toyota’s larger showcase at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, taking part in a series of concept car debuts that highlight each brand’s vision for the future. Among them is the Midget X, a fully electric concept designed to bring one of Daihatsu’s classic nameplates into a new era.

More: Daihatsu To Host A Funeral For Its Copen Roadster Before Killing It

The Midget is a pint-sized workhorse with a big personality. Born in 1957 as a tiny three-wheeler for shopkeepers and delivery drivers, it zipped through Japan’s narrow streets with motorcycle-like agility.

The model returned in 1996 as the Midget II, blending nostalgic styling with a can-do spirit. Production ended in 2001, but it seems Daihatsu isn’t quite ready to let the story end there.

A Tiny Classic Recharged

The Midget X concept appeared in a short teaser ahead of its official debut in Tokyo later this month. Now, the model has been reborn as a tiny LCV with an electric powertrain.

Its exterior design nods to the original Midget lineage, featuring round LED headlights and a helicopter-style windshield. It also has semi-exposed wheels with integrated lights and a battery charge indicator on the profile.

Inside, the cabin adopts a central driving position with an unconventional steering wheel flanked by two passenger seats. The concept shown includes a backpack-style storage compartment and an extended rear bed, although more variants could follow. Another cool feature is the rotational handle design for the rear hinged doors.

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Daihatsu

Daihatsu hasn’t released technical specifications yet, only noting that “because it’s small, it can fit into a variety of lifestyles,” and that the company “aims to make everyone happy.”

Carrying the Torch

The Midget X stands as the next chapter in Daihatsu’s story, carrying forward the legacy of some of its most influential models. Among them are the original Midget three-wheeler, the fourth-generation Hijet LCV, the first-gen Charade hatchback, the sporty Mira TR-XX, the Copen roadster, the second-gen Tanto kei car, and the Nibako mobility service that transforms LCVs into mobile shops.

More: Toyota Shows Its Vision For Future Corolla Sedan

For now, the Midget X remains a concept. Even so, it wouldn’t be surprising if it eventually transitions into a production model, potentially for both Japan and export markets. More details will follow once the Japan Mobility Show opens its doors, and we’ll update this story as soon as new information becomes available

Lexus Seriously Wants To Replace LS With This Absurd Six-Wheel Minivan

  • The LS Concept is a new take on Lexus’ flagship with a minivan bodystyle.
  • It features six wheels, a fully electric setup, and a spacious three-row interior.
  • Akio Toyoda confirmed the team is serious about developing it for production.

Just a few weeks ago, Lexus declared the end of its long-serving LS sedan. Yet, as Mark Twain might have dryly noted, reports of its death have been greatly exaggerated. The brand has revived the nameplate not with another stately four-door, but with something far stranger.

The long-running luxury sedan gives way to something altogether different, a six-wheeled electric minivan with three rows of seats and a distinctly experimental air. The once-conventional LS badge now fronts a concept that feels futuristic, if slightly absurd.

Six Wheels and a Statement

Yet that’s not even the wildest part. After all, it is a concept. What’s really unexpected is that the company plans to evolve it into a production vehicle, though plenty of development still lies ahead before that becomes reality.

The official teaser is titled “Discover” and signals a new era for Lexus. It shows the profile of the LS Concept, wearing a set of large front wheels and two smaller pairs at the rear.

More: Toyota Shows Its Vision For Future Corolla Sedan

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The concept adopts a single-box minivan silhouette with tiny overhangs and a generous wheelbase. Overall, it looks bigger than the LM, which is based on the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire.

Besides its unusual wheel arrangement, highlights include vertical LED headlights and taillights that stretch into the sides, along with an illuminated roof fin. A wide sliding door opens to reveal a roomy cabin with soft lighting and a six-seat, three-row configuration.

Not Just A Concept Car

While a six-wheeled minivan sounds too wild for production, Chairman Akio Toyoda insists this is more than a design exercise. In a message from two years ago, he challenged the team to reinvent the Lexus flagship:

“If you think of the LS as a BEV chauffeur car, wouldn’t it become a new pillar of Lexus, with a new package that no one has ever thought of? Lexus doesn’t copy anyone else, so that’s the motto, so please start thinking about it...The LM is an evolution of the Alphard, after all, but… Will it evolve further from the LM, or… a completely new form.

From Luxury Sedan to Luxury Space

The LS nameplate was originally conceived as an acronym for “Luxury Sedan”, but Toyoda now translates it to “Luxury Space”, opening the door for a three-row BEV interpretation. The aim is to create a chauffeured experience that still feels airy and open, even with six occupants on board.

More: You’ve Never Been Spoiled Like This In A Lexus Back Seat Before

When asked whether the concept will reach production, Toyoda initially hedged: “No, I’m not sure if they can do that yet.” Later, though, he added, “It is still a long way off but everyone is serious about it. So I’m sure it will definitely come true.”

The team’s current challenges involve achieving the trademark quietness and ride comfort expected from a Lexus, while also making the vehicle practical for the road. When asked if six wheels meant a 6WD system, Toyota’s head of design simply replied, “Maybe.”

Toyoda also wants the brand to “demolish the spindle grille for a while,” saying it has “no potential for development.” Designers are now exploring ways to “assimilate the spindle throughout the entire body” instead, signaling a new design philosophy for the marque.

The Lexus LS Concept will be fully unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. What remains uncertain is whether the team can turn it into a viable replacement for the aging LS sedan. The current LS is expected to end production next year, with Lexus confirming its departure from the US market.

More: The Lexus LS Is Dead After 2026 And This Is Its Final Goodbye In America

Yet even if Lexus manages to bring the six-wheeled concept to life, its real-world prospects will vary by region. Luxurious minivans have a strong foothold in Asian markets such as China and Japan, but North America is a different story altogether. There’s also the question of where this new concept leaves the LM, Lexus’ existing premium minivan, which already caters to a similar clientele.

Interestingly, the only other six-wheeled vehicle Toyota has built is the Lunar Cruiser which is designed to be driven on the moon. Toyoda himself once joked, “I’m starting to think that maybe I want to ride it on Earth.”

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