Volkswagen ID. Buzz sales plummeted 35.2% in the first quarter as dealers only moved 1,232 units. The disappointing result came roughly three months after the automaker confirmed they’ve made the “strategic decision” to skip the 2026 model year following a “careful assessment of current EV market conditions.”

They added a 2027 ID. Buzz would arrive later this year, once dealers clear out the existing inventory of 2025 models. That work continues and it appears the company only has about a month and a half supply of vehicles remaining.

More: VW ID. Buzz Markups Hit $35,000 As Greedy Dealers Run Amuck

While that sounds like good news, some dealers are slapping on huge discounts to move inventory. Ken Ganley Volkswagen of Bedford, Ohio has a new 2025 ID. Buzz Pro S listed for $42,000. That’s $20,737 below the original MSRP of $62,737 and it undercuts the $42,795 Honda Odyssey.

Outside of the Buckeye state, Nalley Volkswagen in Georgia has an electric van priced at $44,695. That’s significantly cheaper than the original sticker price of $62,195, thanks to a $10,000 dealer discount and a $7,500 incentive from Volkswagen.

Even dealers in EV-friendly California are offering sizable savings as New Century Volkswagen in Glendale has a $62,318 ID. Buzz on sale for $49,810. The $12,508 reduction was made possible thanks to the aforementioned $7,500 incentive as well as a dealer discount of $5,008.

Those are just a few examples, but dealers are even discounting the ID. Buzz 1st Edition. Missouri’s Volkswagen of Kirkwood has a $12,000 discount on their van, which lowers the price to $60,570 before a $599 “admin fee.”

That’s still ridiculously expensive for a minivan, but it’s a far cry from the days when dealers were applying markups of between $5,000 and $35,000. It’s hard to say how much blame greedy dealers deserve for the ID. Buzz’s failure, but there’s plenty to go around.

There’s a new electric vehicle king in the United Kingdom and it’s not one that you’d expect. Quite the opposite as BYD has taken the podium.

More: BYD Sold 700,000 Electrified Cars Last Quarter And Still Lost More Than Half Its Profit

Citing data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), BYD said they have sold 12,754 EVs through April and that gives them over 7% of the market share. This makes the Chinese firm the “UK’s largest electric vehicle brand” and places them ahead of rivals such as BMW, Tesla, and Volkswagen.

BYD went on to note they’ve also “become the best-selling EV brand among private buyers.” This is a notable achievement since the company’s vehicles don’t qualify for government subsidies. The electric vehicle grant provides discounts of up to £3,750 ($5,079) for certain vehicles including the Ford Puma Gen-E, Nissan Leaf, and Mini Countryman Electric.

The automaker credited its success to a diverse lineup of vehicles that includes everything from the £18,675 ($25,290) Dolphin Surf to the £47,025 ($63,682) Sealion 7. The latter features an 82.5 kWh battery pack that provides a WLTP combined range of 300 miles (483 km), although higher-end variants have more advanced powertrains.

BYD UK’s Bono Ge said, “With fuel prices remaining high, more drivers are turning to electric vehicles as a smarter and more economical choice. We are delighted to see the UK EV market grow by 22% year-on-year, and even more proud that BYD has become the UK’s leading EV brand in a little over three years.”

Year-to-date BYD sales are up 124% to 26,396 units, which puts the brand ahead of a number of European automakers including Citroen (12,142), Cupra (15,171), and Dacia (10,250). The brand is also beating Fiat (2,320), Land Rover (25,313), Mini (18,814), and Renault (23,645) – among others.

UK Sales April 2026

* Includes all types of powertrains. Source SMMT

Through the first four months of the year, Kia EV6 sales have tumbled 37.4% to 2,751 units. That’s a steep decline and it can likely be attributed to the elimination of the federal electric vehicle tax credit.

Kia is now trying to shore up sales by announcing a steep price cut for 2026. Kicking things off is the EV6 Light Standard Range, which begins at $37,900 before a $1,545 destination fee. That’s a savings of $5,000 compared to the 2025 model.

Review: The Kia EV6 GT-Line Still Feels Great, Yet Something’s Missing

The EV6 Light Long Range also sees a $5,000 price cut, while the all-wheel drive variant gets marked down $5,100. The Wind trim benefits from a $5,500 reduction across the board as pricing now begins at $44,800.

Last but not least, the GT-Line will set you back $48,700. That’s $5,500 less than last year’s model, while the AWD variant offers a savings of $5,900.

Kia didn’t mention the EV6 GT, but the automaker stopped importing the high-performance variant earlier this year “due to changing market conditions.”

Minor Model Year Updates

Besides lower prices, the 2026 EV6 now comes with a standard dual level charging cable. Buyers in ZEV states also get a free DC fast-charger adapter. Speaking of charging, the model now sports a plug and charge capability, which allows for automatic billing at compatible chargers via Kia Charge Pass.

Additional changes are limited, but the EV6 Light Long Range drops the Tech Package to “reduce complexity.” Buyers will also find an updated color palette inside and out.   

As a refresher, the EV6 offers 63 and 84 kWh battery packs as well as ranges of between 237 miles (381 km) and 319 miles (513 km). Buyers will also find outputs of 167 hp (125 kW / 169 PS), 225 hp (168 kW / 228 PS), and 320 hp (239 kW / 324 PS).

2026 Kia EV6 Pricing

Prices exclude a $1,545 destination fee

Skoda has teased the interior of the all-new Epiq and revealed the crossover will be unveiled on May 19. Billed as the “first series-production model to fully implement all aspects of the Modern Solid design language,” the cabin embraces a horizontal architecture as well as a minimalistic aesthetic. While few details were shared, we can see a tiered dashboard with an upholstered lower section as well as rectangular air vents.

More: Skoda’s Smallest EV Has One Big-Car Surprise

Drivers sit behind a two-spoke steering wheel and find themselves looking at a hexagonal 5.3-inch digital instrument cluster. It’s joined by a freestanding infotainment system that spans 13 inches.

Beneath the large screen is slender air vents and a row of “haptic shortcuts,” which resemble buttons. The model also sports an open storage compartment, which has a wireless smartphone charger in the center.

Rounding out the highlights are a slender center console and an ambient lighting system, which creates a “welcoming, cozy atmosphere.” Skoda also noted the model will incorporate sustainable materials including “100% recycled PES for the seat textiles.”

The cargo compartment holds 16.8 cubic feet (475 liters) of luggage, but that can be expanded to 47.5 cubic feet (1,344 liters) by folding the rear seats down.

Three Powertrains And Up To 267 Miles Of Range

Like the Cupra Raval and Volkswagen ID. Polo, the model rides on the MEB+ platform. The entry-level Epiq 35 has a 38.5 kWh battery pack that feeds a front-mounted motor developing 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS) and 197 lb-ft (267 Nm) of torque. It enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in a leisurely 11 seconds and have a range of 196 miles (315 km).

The mid-level Epiq 40 has the same LFP battery and range as the 35, but sports a more powerful motor developing 133 hp (99 kW / 135 PS) and 197 lb-ft (267 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra oomph, the dash to 62 mph (100 km/h) falls to 9.8 seconds.

The range-topping Epiq 55 is notable for featuring a larger 55 kWh NMC battery pack as well as a beefier motor producing 208 hp (155 kW / 211 PS) and 214 lb-ft (290 Nm) of torque. 62 mph (100 km/h) comes in 7.4 seconds, while the top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h) is 6 mph (10 km/h) faster than the other variants. Drivers can also expect to travel up to 267 miles (430 km) between charges.

Production will be handled in Spain, and Skoda has previously indicated pricing will open around €26,000 ($30,400), or about the same as its Kamiq gasoline equivalent.

The R2 recently went into production in Normal, Illinois, and Rivian expects it to be a success. As a result, they’ve announced a new plan for their Stanton Springs North plant in Georgia.

Under the new strategy, the automaker is increasing the plant’s initial production capacity to 300,000 vehicles annually. That’s 100,000 units more than the original target and Rivian said the change will “facilitate a lower cost per unit, while also providing significant room for future expansion of capacity in later phases.”

More: Biden Admin Finalized Rivian’s $6.6 Billion Loan Before Trump Took Office

As part of the change, Rivian worked closely with the Department of Energy to update its original $6.6 billion loan. Its value has been reduced to $4.5 billion and is “aligned with the updated facility design and roadmap for the initial phase.”

The devil is in the details, with CNBC reporting that the loan was originally structured for two phases of production and an annual capacity of 400,000 units. The new agreement reportedly just has one phase and enables Rivian to “draw on the loan sooner and have greater initial production.”

Rivian expects to start using those funds in 2027, and the plant is scheduled to begin production in late 2028. Vertical construction is set to begin this spring, and “preparations are underway for the development of the stamping press area, one of the most capital-intensive and technically demanding projects within the plant from a construction perspective.”

Q1 Results

Besides the Georgia plant changes, Rivian announced its first-quarter results. The automaker built 10,236 vehicles and delivered 10,365 to customers.

Consolidated revenue increased 11% to $1.38 billion, and the company posted a $416 million net loss for the quarter. That’s down from a $541 loss in Q1 2025, but they “benefited from a $506 million gain in other income related to the Series A capital raise and related deconsolidation of Mind Robotics.”

Their outlook for 2026 isn’t stellar as they’re expecting to deliver between 62,000 and 67,000 vehicles. While those are decent numbers, their adjusted EBITDA is a $1.8 – $2.1 billion loss.

Ford has high hopes for their upcoming mid-size electric truck and CEO Jim Farley recently revealed the company did an “incredible job” creating its UEV platform. However, its advancements won’t be limited to next-generation electric vehicles.

Speaking during an earnings call, Farley said the platform “represents a step change in efficiency and cost, especially for the EV market.” While the company has been touting those benefits for awhile, the executive revealed they’re now integrating these “skunk works breakthroughs” into their mainstream products and processes.

More: Ford Reveals Details Of $30K Electric Truck Due In 2027

He went on to say the Blue Oval is applying learnings from the program to their high-volume internal combustion and hybrid lines, and this will help to reduce costs as well as improve quality. Farley added that by the end of the decade, 90% of their global nameplates will offer electrified powertrains including hybrid, electric, and range-extended options.

When asked about Chinese automakers, Farley wants to have his cake and eat it too. As he explained, “As America’s largest auto producer, we are totally dedicated to a thriving U.S. auto industry and safeguarding our country’s industrial base.” However, he noted the company leverages global partnerships – including with Chinese automakers – to grow their business.

Despite occasionally partnering with them, Farley wants to keep Chinese automakers out of America. He said it’s not just a case of “economic vitality,” but also “national security.”

The executive briefly addressed the war in Iran by saying they’re monitoring the situation. Farley went on to note the company has successfully navigated the pandemic, chip crisis, and tariff headwinds, so they’re used to making adjustments on the fly.

That being said, the automaker is expecting some impacts including commodity headwinds. This could end up costing them $1 billion more than they originally anticipated and it’s largely due to higher aluminum prices as a result of global supply constraints.

While there was a lot of talk about aluminum, we’ll spare you the boring details and skip right to pickups. Ford is particularly bullish about them, despite a number of new contenders on the horizon including Kia.

As Farley explained, the market continues to broaden and grow. He said car and crossover buyers are moving into pickups, and he’s really excited about their $30,000 EV because its packaging will appeal to both truck and crossover shoppers.

Automakers have been introducing 2027 models for months, but the 2026 Fiat 500e has been curiously absent. Given this, we reached out to the brand last week to see if the hatchback was going on hiatus like the Jeep Wagoneer S.

Fiat told us the 2026 model would be announced soon and they’ve finally followed through by introducing a vehicle that virtually no one wants. Given the low demand of less than one per day, the updates are unsurprisingly minor.

More: Fiat Dealers Slapping $15,000 Discounts On Slow-Selling 500e

When the 2026 500e arrives this summer, customers will find empty showrooms and a new Miami Sunset exterior. That isn’t the only change as the new Pop trim features a body-color dashboard, instead of the pearl one found on the Icona.

The only other major change appears to be access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. However, this requires using a NACS adaptor that costs $230.

Other than that, it’s your typical overpriced and underwhelming 500e. That being said, the lineup has been adjusted for 2026 as the 500e Giorgio Armani Edition is dead.

On top of that, the entry-level Pop begins at $35,700 which is a huge jump from the previous starting price of $30,500 for the INSPI(RED). That trim is apparently dead, although Fiat did mention a (RED) Edition, which appears to be a package.

The Icona trim returns for 2026, but it now starts at $37,700. That’s $5,200 more than the 2025 model and it’s a hilarious ask considering dealers are struggling to get rid of existing vehicles even with discounts of $15,000.

While no one in their right mind would buy a 500e, we’ll remind you the car has a 42 kWh battery pack that feeds an electric motor developing 117 hp (87 kW / 119 PS) and 162 lb-ft (219 Nm) of torque. It enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 8.5 seconds and have a range of approximately 149 miles (240 km).

Needless to say, there are far better options including the $27,600 Chevrolet Bolt with 262 miles (422 km) of range. Shoppers should also check out the $29,990 Nissan Leaf, which can travel 303 miles (488 km) between charges

2026 Fiat 500e Pricing

Prices exclude an undisclosed destination fee

Bipartisanship is rare in Washington, but there’s one issue that Democrats and Republicans can seemingly agree on. We’re talking about the threat of cheap Chinese cars, which are slowly spreading across the globe.

The Biden and Trump administrations have setup a series of roadblocks including huge tariffs and a ban on connected vehicles, but some in Congress want even more action. As a result, dozens of House Democrats sent President Trump a letter expressing “significant concern” with his remarks “about allowing Chinese automakers access to the United States market.”

More: Chinese Cars Get Cheaper And Better, So U.S. Automakers Want Them Banned Even If They’re Made Here

The letter came in response to a speech Trump made at the Detroit Economic Club in January, where he said if Chinese automakers “want to ​come in and build a plant and hire you and hire your ​friends and ⁠your neighbors, that’s great, I love that.”

While those remarks were made months ago, the letter was apparently sent now because Trump is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next month. Democrats apparently fear the President could give Chinese automakers the green light in exchange for a possible trade deal or agreement.

Getting back to the letter, it urged Trump to “take any and all decisive action necessary” to prevent Chinese automakers from gaining access to the United States. Signers went on to say “any effort to lower barriers for Chinese automobiles or otherwise facilitate their entry into the U.S. market would pose a direct threat to American manufacturing, workers, and national security.”

It went on to claim the American automotive industry supports approximately 10 million jobs and accounts for five percent of the gross domestic product. The letter then said the “Chinese auto industry does not compete on a level playing field” as it is “driven by a state-directed strategy to dominate global markets through government subsidies, below-market financing, and non-market behavior across the supply chain.”

It went onto suggest the entry of Chinese vehicles into Canada and Mexico could create a “backdoor into the United States under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” The letter added, “Chinese-owned or controlled vehicles, regardless of where they are assembled, must not be permitted to enter our market through USMCA or any other mechanism.”

That’s a little awkward for Polestar and Volvo, but the message called for Trump to “maintain and strengthen existing tariffs and trade enforcement measures on Chinese automakers and automobiles” as well as prevent them from establishing manufacturing operations in America. Democrats went on to ask that vehicles produced by Chinese-owned or controlled entities in Canada or Mexico be explicitly prohibited from qualifying for USMCA benefits or entering the United States. On top of that, they want the government to “accelerate and expand restrictions on Chinese-connected vehicle technologies.”

Reuters reached out to the White House and was told, “While the administration is always working to secure more investment into America’s industrial resurgence, any notion that we would ever ​compromise our national ​security to do so ⁠is baseless and false.”

For their part, the Chinese Embassy called for officials to “stop overstretching the concept of national security, cease discriminatory and exclusionary measures, and provide a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment.”

However, that seems unlikely as fear of Chinese automakers is one thing that almost all politicians can get behind.

When Rivian unveiled the production R2 last month, the company briefly mentioned a Launch Package. With production now underway, the automaker has circled back and provided a few more details.

For a “limited time,” the Launch Package comes standard on the R2 Performance and effectively rewards early owners for their vote of confidence. As their way of saying thanks, Rivian throws in a handful of extra features at no-cost.

More: Rivian R2 Goes Into Production As A Make Or Break Electric Vehicle

Most of the upgrades are relatively minor, but consumers will receive a special key fob that resembles a carabiner and features a green anodized finish. It appears to be contrasted by a golden accent on the lower half.

Customers will also find a standard tow package, which is typically an option on the R2 Performance. It enables the electric crossover to tow up to 4,400 lbs (1,996 kg), which is considerably more than the Jeep Recon’s rating of 3,300 lbs (1,497 kg).

One of the biggest upgrades is a lifetime subscription to Autonomy+. This provides Universal Hands-Free driving on over 3.5 million miles (5.6 million km) of roads in the United States and Canada.

Autonomy+ normally costs $49.99 per month or $2,500 as part of a one-time purchase. As a result, it’s free inclusion in the Launch Package is a pretty big deal.

Last but not least, customers can get their R2 in Launch Green. The hue debuted on Launch versions of the R1 and will be an extra cost upgrade. Rivian hasn’t said how much it will cost, but noted the model will also be offered in Esker Silver, Catalina Cove, Half Moon Grey, Glacier White, Midnight, and Forest Green.

As a refresher, the R2 Performance starts at $57,990 and features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system developing 656 hp (489 kW / 665 PS) and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque. It enables the crossover to accelerate from 0–60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.6 seconds and travel up to 330 miles (531 km) on a single charge.

Other highlights include Matrix LED headlights, integrated tow hooks, and a rear liftgate with drop down glass. They’re joined by Compass Yellow accents and 21-inch wheels.

The interior is available in two colors known as Black Crater and Coastal Cloud. Both feature Birch wood trim and “soft textile accents.” They’re joined by 12-way power front seats with heating and ventilation as well as heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. Buyers will also find a nine-speaker premium audio system and a flashlight integrated into the driver’s door.

Hyundai has introduced their “most luxurious electric SUV to date.” It’s the 2027 Ioniq 9 Performance Calligraphy Black Ink and it comes with a spec sheet almost as long as its name.

Designed to appeal to customers seeking “maximum luxury, exclusive design, and top‑tier performance,” the range-topping trim embraces the blackout trend as it sports a black chrome front skid plate, black badging, and black window surrounds. They’re joined by gloss black roof rails and black 21-inch wheels that are exclusive to the model and sport a turbine-style design. If that isn’t black enough, you can order the crossover in Abyss Black Pearl.

Review: The 2026 Ioniq 9 Calligraphy’s Biggest Threat Is Hyundai Itself

The dark theme continues inside, where customers will find a black H-Tex interior with black aluminum trim. Hyundai didn’t say much about equipment, but the crossover has a six-seat cabin with “Relaxation Seats” in the first- and second-row. They feature power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. There’s also a heated third-row.

Other highlights include an eco‑suede headliner, a digital rearview mirror, and a panoramic glass roof. They’re joined by a 14-speaker Bose premium audio system and a 10-inch head-up display.

Customers can also expect a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and a wireless smartphone charger. Other highlights should include a heated steering wheel and a power liftgate.

Power comes from a 110.3 kWh battery pack that feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 422 hp (315 kW / 428 PS) and 516 lb-ft (699 Nm) of torque. This should enable the model to have a range of approximately 311 miles (501 km) on a single charge. When the battery is low, a 350 kW DC fast charger can take it from 10% to 80% in as little as 24 minutes.

The 2027 Ioniq 9 Performance Calligraphy Black Ink will arrive at dealerships this summer and pricing will be announced closer to launch. However, we can expect the model to be even more expensive than the 2026 Ioniq 9 Calligraphy, which begins at $74,990 before a $1,600 destination fee.

Slate Auto burst onto the scene a year ago as they introduced their affordable electric truck on April 24, 2025. It generated a ton of interest thanks to a starting price of under $20,000 after federal incentives.

Fast forward a year and the company hasn’t said much since then. Sure, they post flashy videos on social media, but there’s a concerning lack of substance for a vehicle that’s supposed to be launched in the coming months.

More: Slate’s $28K EV Truck Is So Basic Even The Repair Network Is DIY

The last update came on April 16, when Slate revealed they received $650 million in funding and have secured over 160,000 reservations. That’s a lot, but you can reserve the vehicle for $50 and the fee is fully refundable. Furthermore, as we’ve seen with the Tesla Cybertruck, a huge number of reservations doesn’t always pan out to be a ton of orders – especially when the price jumps significantly.

Despite a lack of meaningful updates, the company has previously said the truck will have a 52.7 kWh battery that feeds a rear-mounted motor producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque. That should enable the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in eight seconds, before hitting a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).

This is said to give the truck a range of 150 miles (241 km), but the company has mentioned an optional 84.3 kWh battery pack that increases the distance to 240 miles (386 km). When the battery is low, a 120 kW DC fast charger can take it from 20-80% in less than 30 minutes.

While we know a number of specifications, additional details are hazy. However, Slate has said the model will have 17-inch steel wheels, crank windows, and a universal phone mount as your smartphone will function as the infotainment system.

The company has also touted a handful of driver assistance systems such as active emergency braking, forward collision warning, and up to 8 airbags. More notably, the truck will be offered with a flat-pack accessory kit that transforms the vehicle into an SUV complete with a roll cage and a rear seat. The company has also promised over 100 accessories and an assortment of wraps.

While the silence is becoming deafening, Slate has promised to reveal more details in June. That’s when final pricing will be announced and when customers can begin pre-ordering the truck.

With the federal tax credit eliminated, Slate now says the model is expected to begin in the “mid-$20,000’s.” That’s significantly more than the original estimate of under $20,000 and it’s roughly on par with the $28,145 Ford Maverick. More worryingly for Slate, the Blue Oval is also working on a $30,000 electric truck, but they’ve been pretty tight-lipped about it themselves.

Alfa Romeo was set to launch redesigned versions of the Giulia and Stelvio this year. However, the company got cold feet after seeing other automakers deal with lackluster demand for electric vehicles.

Instead of pushing the models out and hoping for the best, Alfa embraced a radical rethink and is delaying the vehicles to give them additional powertrains. While the redesigned sedan and crossover ride on the STLA Large platform, which underpins the Dodge Challenger and allows for both ICE and electric powertrains, things are more complicated than just installing an engine.

More: Alfa Romeo Scraps New Giulia And Stelvio Plans To Start Fresh

According to Autocar, the vehicles had to be reengineered to “allow more cooling for combustion powertrains.” As part of the makeover, the models will reportedly be equipped with new fascias as well as a functional grille.

The exact details remain to be seen, but patent images of the Stelvio surfaced last year and showed the model would have slender headlights and a small V-shaped grille. The crossover also had sizable intakes, although they appeared to be largely blocked off.

Elsewhere, there was streamlined bodywork, pronounced wheel arches, plastic body cladding, and a rounded roof. The original Stelvio design also included an angular rear window, a large spoiler, and a distinctive taillight area.

A Powertrain For Everyone

The Giulia and Stelvio will reportedly be offered with an assortment of different powertrains. The lineup will reportedly kick off with turbocharged four-cylinder engines with mild-hybrid technology. The company is also said to be looking at the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six that powers the Charger Scat Pack and produces 550 hp (410 kW / 558 PS).

Customers will also be able to opt for plug-in hybrid and electric options. Little is known about them, but the PHEVs could echo other Stellantis models.

The electric variants are also mysterious, but the automaker has previously said the STLA Large platform can accommodate 101-118 kWh battery packs as well as electric motors with outputs ranging from 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) to 443 hp (330 kW / 449 PS). While earlier reports claimed the Quadrifoglio variants could have a tri-motor powertrain producing more than 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS), the publication threw water on that idea and noted “no model in the Stellantis stable currently produces that much power.”

That being said, the Maserati GranTurismo Folgore has a tri-motor powertrain producing 751 hp (560 kW / 761 PS) and 995 lb-ft (1,348 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 2.6 seconds and onto a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h).

Numerous questions remain, but Alfa Romeo seems to believe that delaying the launch was the right move. As CEO Santo Ficili explained, “We need to consider the entire world because the brand is global” and not every market is ready to go fully electric. He went on to say, “We need to find a way to satisfy the needs of our customers” and that means electric, plug-in hybrid, and ICE options.

One of the biggest complaints about electric vehicles is a long recharging time. That could be about to change as ChargePoint has introduced their new Express Solo.

Billed as the “world’s fastest standalone EV charger,” the Express Solo is capable of delivering 600 kW to a single EV. That’s significantly more than typical DC fast chargers and it could pave the way for far shorter recharging times. By comparison, Tesla’s V4 Supercharger, the current US benchmark for fast charging, peaks at 500 kW.

More: BYD’s New EV Chargers Are So Fast They’re Arranged Like Gas Station Pumps

ChargePoint says the Express Solo “delivers approximately 40% higher power density than other DC charging solutions in the industry’s smallest footprint.” This makes it well-suited for use in tight quarters such as gas stations and convenience stores.

The Express Solo can simultaneously charge two EVs, while an “additional dispenser” can be added into the mix to increase that number to four. When multiple vehicles are charging, the system can “deliver any combination of power levels up to 600 kW per port.”

The charger also has an Omni Port system, which provides access to both CCS and NACS ports at each connection. Other highlights include a built-in cable theft alarm, support for contactless payments, and a 15-inch display.

ChargePoint also mentioned built-in energy storage, which can apparently charge when electricity rates are low. There’s also a DC input for use with solar panels.

The Express Solo is built on ChargePoint’s next-generation architecture, which has been designed to address the “four main challenges to scaling DC fast charging: grid constraints, faster charging speeds, reliability, and cost.” The Express Solo will also be the company’s first DC charger to be sold across Europe.

ChargePoint CEO Rick Wilmer said: “Express Solo combines unmatched power density, direct DC power input capabilities for solar integration and battery storage, and a modular architecture that scales with minimal cost and complexity. Collectively this redefines DC fast charging from a fixed asset into a future-ready energy platform.”

Lighting used to be an afterthought, but now it plays a big role in automotive design. This is clear as automakers have embraced illuminated grilles, light bars, and glowing emblems.

BMW envisions taking things even further and they’re showcasing the possibilities with the iX3 Flow Edition concept. It features a hood infused with E Ink and “demonstrates the technology’s readiness for series production.”

More: BMW’s Color-Changing E Ink Could Hit Production By 2027

The automaker has been playing around with E Ink for years and introduced the iX Flow concept in 2022. It’s now inching closer to road-going models as the automaker has integrated a display into a “large-scale bodywork element for the first time.”

In this case, it’s the hood and users can select between eight different animations. This includes illuminating the outline of a Chinese skyline in a moving pattern and lighting up the buildings themselves. The latter can be done in a variety of different ways and in multiple levels of brightness.

The resulting design is like a piece of automotive art that can range from “subtle to expressive.” BMW added the technology “makes innovation visible and conveys the driver’s style and mood in a personalized and context-sensitive way.”

BMW declined to say when we might see something like this on road-going models, but automakers have been aiming for more personalization. Audi has been doing this for awhile and models like the Q4 e-tron offer customizable daytime running light signatures.

Audi introduced the A6L last month and now they’re following up with the A6L e-tron. The extended wheelbase sedan recently debuted at Auto China in Beijing and it packs a few tricks up its sleeve.

Built by Audi FAW, the EV’s wheelbase has been stretched by 5.2 inches (132 mm). This results in a spacious rear passenger compartment with flagship-worthy legroom.

More: Audi’s New A6L Feels Like An A8 For Half The Price

Audi didn’t stop there as they put the extra room to good use by installing a larger 107 kWh battery pack on most versions of the car. This enables the model to offer a CLTC range of up to 506 miles (815 km).

The A6L e-tron will be offered in Long and Extended Range variants. Some, if not all, will have a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 543 hp (405 kW / 551 PS) and 574 lb-ft (779 Nm) of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.3 seconds. When the battery is low, it can go from 10-80% in as little as 21 minutes thanks to the car’s 800V architecture.

There isn’t much to report on the styling front, but the A6L e-tron sports longer rear doors and a less dramatic roofline. Despite the changes, the model has an impressively low drag coefficient of 0.22.

The interior is also familiar as buyers will find an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch infotainment system, and a 10.9-inch front passenger display. They’re joined by two 7-inch screens for the digital side mirrors.

Among other options, Audi mentioned sports seats with available heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Buyers can also get a dimming panoramic glass roof and a 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.

Pricing starts at ¥309,800 ($45,317), but climbs to ¥439,800 ($64,333) for the range-topping variant.

Following last year’s preview, AUDI has now put the E7X on stage at Auto China in Beijing. It is the ringless brand’s second model after the E5 Sportback, and its first move into the crossover space.

Created in collaboration with SAIC, the E7X follows in the footsteps of the E5 Sportback and features a streamlined front fascia with a “black wraparound loop.” It’s joined by a fully enclosed grille with a Light Frame that remains “elegantly invisible when inactive.” When turned on, more than 1,000 triangular lights come to life.

More: Audi’s AUDI Just Greenlit More Models Despite Early Struggles

The model also sports slender daytime running lights and vertical Digital Matrix LED headlights. They’re joined by digital rearview mirrors, frameless doors, and a rakish windscreen that flows into a sloping roof. Other highlights include flush-mounted door handles, aerodynamically optimized wheels, and an oval-shaped rear light surround.

In terms of size, the E7X measures 198.8 inches (5,049 mm) long, 78.6 inches (1,997 mm) wide, and 67.3 inches (1,710 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 120.5 inches (3,060 mm). This means the crossover is slightly shorter than the Q7, but has an additional 2.6 inches (66 mm) between the wheels.

A Minimalist, But High-Tech Interior

Moving inside, drivers are greeted by a flat-bottom steering wheel and a full-width 4K panoramic display. It spans 59 inches and features video feeds from the camera mirrors at the outside edges.

While technology is front and center, AUDI didn’t forget about luxury as the model has Nappa leather as well as premium wood trim. They’re joined by slatted door inlays, ambient lighting, and a Bose premium audio system with up to 26 speakers. Up top, there’s a panoramic sunroof that is split into two sections that have smart-dimming technology offering multiple levels of transparency.

The E7X is offered in four- and five-seat configurations. The former is the star of the show as it has two individual zero-gravity rear seats that recline 120 degrees and offer a 16-point massage as well as a pneumatic adjustment system with 23 airbags. They’re accompanied by four-way adaptive headrests and an integrated electric footrest.

The seats are separated by an elegant console, which features an integrated display as well as storage compartments. There’s also a warming/cooling compartment at the rear of the front center console for drinks and other items.

Elsewhere, there’s a 21.4-inch rear-seat entertainment system that deploys from the headliner. It can be controlled by voice, remote, or touchscreen.

On the topic of technology, there’s AUDI Assistant 2.0. It’s an “AI-powered in-car companion that goes well beyond voice control.” Developed with ByteDance, the assistant “manages vehicle functions, answers navigation and range queries, plays music, and engages in open-ended conversation on virtually any topic.”

Two Powertrains And Fast Recharging

The E7X rides on the Advanced Digitized Platform and features a 900-volt electrical architecture that enables the battery to go from 10% to 80% in as little as 13 minutes. Buyers will also find 100 and 109 kWh battery packs offering a CLTC range in excess of 466 miles (750 km).

AUDI only released a handful of performance specifications, but confirmed there will be a rear-wheel drive variant with a motor producing 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque.

Customers can also opt for an all-wheel drive crossover, which has 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. This version can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in just 3.9 seconds.

Rounding out the highlights are all-wheel steering and a lidar-based AUDI 360 Driving Assist system. The latter was co-developed with Momenta and has been “tailored specifically for China’s complex traffic conditions and unique driving scenarios.”

Dreame Nebula Next Auto is looking to make a splash in the United States and they’re hosting an event in San Francisco later this month. However, they’re not stopping there as the company has “deepened its engagement with leading academic institutions.”

The vacuum giant turned automaker pointed to a recent event at the University of California, Berkeley suggesting it could help accelerate the “development of AI-defined vehicles and next-generation autonomous systems.” As part of the “engagement,” engineers met with Berkeley researchers specializing in autonomous control systems, intelligent transportation, and artificial intelligence.

More: Chinese Vacuum Brand Drops A Taycan-Trampling Concept At CES

The group discussed “translating advanced research into real-world vehicle systems, with particular emphasis on safety, control and full-stack AI integration.” However, it remains unclear if this was a one-off event or part of a deeper collaboration.

The company implied it’s the latter as they said the “visit forms part of a broader strategy to anchor Nebula Next’s development in deep technical collaboration. By working closely with academic experts, the company is strengthening its approach to autonomous driving, vehicle intelligence and system-level engineering.”

Dreame is best-known for vacuums and pool cleaners, but the company showcased the Nebula Next 01 concept at CES. Billed as a “four-door electric hyper-sedan,” the firm claimed the model had over 1,973 hp (1,471 kW / 2,000 PS) and could accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 1.8 seconds.

While the Chinese company botched the introduction in January, it appears they brought the concept to the Berkley campus as a few pictures surfaced online. That detail suggests the event might have been more show than anything else.

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Affordability is in vogue these days, but apparently not at Audi. Quite the opposite as the brand is killing off the entry-level A1 and Q2.

Tucked in an announcement about their assembly network, Audi revealed production of the Q2 will end in Ingolstadt this April. Its death will apparently make room for the upcoming A2 e-tron.

More: Audi Confirms The A2 Is Back, Prays It’ll Sell This Time

While the Q2 was never offered in the United States, the compact crossover was introduced in 2016 and started at €29,000 ($33,862) in Germany, which made it significantly cheaper than the €44,600 ($52,066) Q3. It was relatively popular as consumers snapped up 887,231 units over the past decade. However, sales dropped off in recent years.

The Q2 isn’t the only model going away as A1 production is “winding down” in Martorell, Spain. The entry-level hatchback was introduced in 2010 and generated 1,389,658 sales over two generations.

The latest version started at €22,950 ($26,792) and was offered in Sportback and Allstreet guise. Like the Q2, the A1 proved successful at launch but sales tapered off in the past few years.

It’s not all bad news as the two models will effectively be replaced by the A2 e-tron. The compact EV debuts this fall and is expected to ride on the MEB+ platform that underpins the ID.3 Neo. The mainstream electric hatch recently debuted with 58 and 79 kWh battery packs as well as a WLTP range of up to 391 miles (630 km).

Electric Sports Car Arrives In 2027

Besides announcing the death of the A1 and Q2, Audi confirmed their electric sports car will go into production in 2027. It will be built at their Böllinger Höfe site, which specializes in small-series production.

The model was previewed by the Concept C and will essentially be Audi’s version of the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman. As you may recall, it was a two-seat sports car with a retractable hardtop, a minimalist interior, and an all-new design language.

Fiat’s return to America was anything but triumphant, but things have only gotten worse since then. While the brand once offered an assortment of models including an underrated 124 Spider, they’re down to a single EV.

This was always going to be an uphill battle, but the situation has gotten significantly worse since the elimination of the federal tax credit. A quick look at the sales chart reveals a brutal first quarter where the 500e found a mere 68 buyers.

More: Fiat Sold Nearly 20 Times More 500e EVs in Canada Than In The US

That’s less than one per day and 23 per month. Things were so bad that the electric hatchback was outsold by the 500X, which was killed off in 2023.

A quick search online suggests dealers have over 100 units in stock and that’s roughly five months worth of supply. Given this, it’s not surprising there are huge discounts on 2024 and 2025 models.

The cheapest car appears to be a 2024 500e INSPI(RED) at Southern Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat of Norfolk, Virginia. The model originally stickered for $34,095, but the dealer has it listed for $19,134. That’s a discount of $14,961 and pictures reveal the dealer had previously tried to sell it for $25,071 but didn’t get any takers.

If you’re in the mood for something newer, Illinois’ Hawk Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat has a 2025 500e Armani Edition listed for $21,988. That’s $15,507 below the original sticker price of $37,495.

Those are far from the only examples as Taverna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat in Florida has an Armani Edition with a $12,254 discount. It’s also worth noting Stellantis appears to be offering a $7,500 national incentive to help make up for the aforementioned tax credit.

A little over two years after unveiling the R2 concept, the production model is now being built in Normal, Illinois. That’s particularly impressive considering a tornado hit and damaged the facility last Friday.

Rivian didn’t have much to say about the production process itself, but noted the first vehicles will undergo a series of final quality and validation checks. If everything pans out, the first customer deliveries will begin later this spring.

More: Rivian’s Most Affordable Model Arrives First In Its Most Expensive Form

The automaker called production a “milestone moment” for the R2 and said it means the “manufacturing process has been verified, every weld has been checked, every software string has been validated, and every interior material has been scrutinized to meet the high bar we set for ourselves and for you, our community.”

Rivian’s COO Javier Varela went further as he said the R2 “represents a major advance in engineering excellence and manufacturing efficiency, driving meaningful improvements in cost and quality.” Those sentiments were echoed by CEO RJ Scaringe, who called the vehicle “incredible.” The executive added he can’t wait until customers get their hands on the EV.

The R2 is being launched in $57,990 Performance guise, which features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system developing 656 hp (489 kW / 665 PS) and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque. It enables the model to accelerate from 0–60 mph (0-96 km/h) in as little as 3.6 seconds and have a range of up to 330 miles (531 km).

The range-topping variant comes nicely equipped with a Black Crater Signature interior with Birch wood trim as well as 12-way power front seats with heating and ventilation. They’re joined by heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a nine-speaker premium audio system.

Early models also come with a Launch Package, which includes a lifetime subscription to Autonomy+ as well as a towing package that enables the crossover to haul 4,400 lb (1,996 kg). Buyers will also find a green anodized key fob as well as an available Launch Green paint job.

A more affordable R2 Premium is scheduled to follow later this year. It starts at $53,990 and has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 450 hp (356 kW / 456 PS) and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm) of torque.

The R2 Standard lineup is set to arrive in 2027 and offer Short and Long Range variants. The former will cost “around $45,000” and have a range in excess of 275 miles (443 km).