Last fall, General Motors and Hyundai announced they were exploring a partnership focused on joint product development, manufacturing, and future clean energy technologies. Specifics were few and far between, but the ultimate goal was to “reduce costs and bring a wider range of vehicles and technologies to customers faster.”

Fast forward to today and Reuters is reporting Hyundai could supply electric commercial vehicles to GM. The announcement was made during an earnings call, where Hyundai Chief Financial Officer Lee Seung Jo said “We are considering re-badging our commercial EVs and supplying GM… The deal will pave the way for our entry into the North American commercial vehicle market.”

More: GM And Hyundai Want To Make Cars Together

Officials didn’t go into specifics, but discussions presumably revolve around the ST1 or PBV family of products, which includes the PV5 van. While Ford and Ram offer large commercial vans, GM has the ancient Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana. BrightDrop was also recently folded into Chevrolet, giving them large commercial vehicles that start at $77,900 and offer up to 614.7 cubic feet (17,406 liters) of cargo room.

A tie-up with Hyundai would enable them to offer something smaller and presumably more affordable, which could tackle rival vans such as the Ford E-Transit, Mercedes eSprinter, and Ram Promaster EV. It’s also worth mentioning that GM has a history of van partnerships and offered a rebadged Nissan NV200 as the Chevrolet City Express.

There’s no word on when we might see badge engineered Hyundai vans, but the company aims to sign binding agreements in the first quarter of this year.

In other news, the company reportedly announced it will build hybrids at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Georgia. The facility currently builds the Ioniq 5 and will make the Ioniq 9 starting later this year.

Speaking of U.S. production, Hyundai will use its American plants to help minimize costs from possible tariffs applied by President Trump. However, it’s too early to say what the impact could be.

Cadillac’s electrification journey is entering a new phase as the company has introduced the first fully electric V-Series. We’re talking about the 2026 Lyriq-V and it’s the quickest road-going Cadillac ever created.

Jumping right into the numbers, the high-performance crossover has a 102 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing an estimated 615 hp (459 kW / 624 PS) and 650 lb-ft (880 Nm) of torque. Those numbers carryover from the three-row Vistiq, but the Lyriq-V weighs 346 lbs (156.9 kg) less, as it tips the scales at 5,980 lbs (2,713 kg).

More: Cadillac Aims To Become America’s Best-Selling Luxury EV Brand In 2025

This enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in approximately 3.3 seconds in Velocity Max mode. That makes it the quickest Cadillac, as it’s a tenth of a second faster than the CT5-V Blackwing.

Unfortunately, the performance comes at a cost as the range is an estimated 285 miles (459 km). That’s quite a bit less than other all-wheel drive Lyriqs, which have EPA ranges of 303 and 319 miles (488 and 513 km).

When the battery is low, a DC fast charger can deliver up to 75 miles (121 km) of range in as little as 10 minutes. At home, a 7.7 kW AC charger gives up to 19 miles (31 km) per hour, while an 11.5 kW charger increases that to 27 miles (43 km) per hour. The available 19.2 kW charger is even better as it delivers up to 44 miles (71 km) of range per hour.

Performance upgrades extend beyond the powertrain as engineers installed a quicker steering ratio and a lowered multi-link suspension with continuous damping control. During a media briefing earlier this month, Lyriq-V chief engineer Dave Stutzman told us the changes allow for comfort as well as “confidence and control” for spirited driving.

The performance features don’t end there as the model has Launch Control and a customizable V-Mode. They’re joined by a Competitive Mode, which enables a “suite of traction management features specifically engineered to increase vehicle agility.”

When it comes time to stop, Brembo front brakes are called into action. They measure 15.35 inches (390 mm), which makes them nearly 2.8 inches (71 mm) larger than the discs found on the standard model. Besides the beefier brakes, the Lyriq-V offers red calipers with a V-Series logo.

Part of what makes a V-Series so special is the sound it makes. For the Lyriq-V, Cadillac created a “unique, multi-layered sound experience” that can be heard inside and out. During the briefing, officials said some elements were borrowed from their LMDh race car and noted the sound can ‘move around’ the cabin by using speakers in various locations. It will be interesting to hear what Cadillac has come up with but, if it doesn’t float your boat, you can shut it off.

A Slightly More Aggressive Design

Styling changes are relatively minor, but the Lyriq-V is distinguished by a unique front fascia and a revised intake with a mesh insert. They’re joined by sportier side skirts and additional body-color trim.

Designers also gave the model a unique chin spoiler as well as V-Series badges on the rear doors and tailgate. Customers can further up the ante with carbon fiber accents and an exclusive Magnus Metal Frost paint job.

The crossover rides on 22-inch wheels that have a dark finish as well as an etched V-Series logo. They’re wrapped in summer-only performance tires, but all-seasons are also available.

A Classy Cabin With Sporty Touches

The Lyriq’s interior has been highly praised and the performance variant doesn’t mess with success. However, drivers will be greeted by a unique steering wheel that features a V-Series logo as well as an aluminum Regen On Demand paddle. They’re accompanied by special front seats and upholstery.

A 33-inch display is the star attraction and it sports a ‘V-ified’ infotainment experience. Buyers will also find paperwood trim and illuminated V-Series door sill plates. The model will also become the first Cadillac to have a dual-plane augmented reality head-up display. Rounding out the highlights are a fixed panoramic glass roof, Super Cruise, and a 23-speaker AKG audio system.

Arrives Later This Year For Less Than $80,000

The 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V will be built in Spring Hill, Tennessee and production will begin in the first quarter of this year. Pricing starts at $79,990 including destination, which sounds like a pretty good deal considering the all-wheel drive Lyriq begins at $64,115. The model is also significantly cheaper than the Tesla Model X Plaid, which starts at $94,990 but offers better range and performance.

Nissan was one of the original proponents of electric vehicles as they introduced the Leaf in 2009. Despite a massive head start, the company doesn’t have much to show for it other than the Ariya.

That’s not to say the automaker didn’t try as we’ve seen numerous projects announced and then delayed or killed off entirely. The most memorable example is the Infiniti LE from over a decade ago but, more recently, the company delayed a pair of electric sedans that were slated to be built in Canton, Mississippi.

More: Nissan Delays US-Built Electric Sedans, Plans Rogue-Sized EV

The revisions continue today as Auto News is reporting Nissan has decided against building a subcompact electric crossover in Canton. The model was reportedly codenamed the PZ1L and it would have been larger than the Leaf, but smaller than the Rogue.

While it sounds like America will miss out on the model, the vehicle is still slated to be built at the company’s Sunderland plant in England. However, Nissan still has plans to build two other electric crossovers at their U.S. facility.

Nissan’s Brian Brockman told Auto News they want to focus on the other EVs that will be made in Mississippi. He went on to suggest they’ll be better suited for the U.S. market and sell in higher volumes.

While a number of questions remain, it’s believed slower than expected electric vehicle adoption played a role in the decision. President Trump’s return to the White House has also added a lot of uncertainty as he has promised to “end the Green New Deal” and “revoke the electric vehicle mandate.” He’s also expected to try eliminating the $7,500 clean vehicle tax credit, which would make EVs significantly more expensive.

Nissan teaser from 2021

The Dodge Charger Daytona was always going to be controversial as it’s the first electric muscle car. It’s also the first full reinvention of the Challenger in nearly two decades, marking a significant shift.

Dodge’s ‘Brotherhood of Muscle’ has been grumbling ever since. However, cars are starting to land at dealerships and into customer hands.

More: Dodge Charger Daytona Convertible Is A True Electric Hair Dryer

Corey Jones appears to be one of the first as he recently brought his car to Sammy’s Tire in Illinois to have it equipped with 26-inch Forgiato wheels. There’s no word on which ones, but the company offers two different wheels designed specifically for EVs. They’re aerodynamically optimized and offered in 20- and 22-inch configurations.

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However, those are tiny compared to the ones fitted on Jones’ Charger Daytona. They certainly standout, although the clearances look a little tight.

We’ll likely see plenty of modified Chargers in the coming months but, in the meantime, we’ll remind you the R/T starts at $59,595. It features a 100.5 kWh battery pack as well as a dual motor all-wheel drive system with 456 hp (340 kW / 462 PS) and 404 lb-ft (547 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.7 seconds and travel 317 miles (510 km) on a single charge.

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If money is no object, you can get a Charger Daytona Scat Pack for $73,190. It has an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 630 hp (470 kW / 637 PS) and 627 lb-ft (849 Nm) of torque. This lowers the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time to 3.3 seconds, but the range plummets to 260 miles (418 km).

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Volvo USA is heading into 2025 with two new electric crossovers, a refreshed XC90, and an assortment of renamed vehicles. The company has also dropped the Recharge moniker on all its plug-in hybrids. They’ll simply be known as the T8 going forward and Volvo said the change will reduce confusion between hybrids and EVs.

Sticking with name changes, the electric XC40 Recharge becomes the EX40 while the XC40 moniker will still be used for mild-hybrid variants. The EX40 also gets a slightly higher 205 kW DC fast charging capability as well as a larger capacity 82 kWh battery on the Twin Motor version.

More: Volvo Finally Begins US Production Of EX90 Electric SUV

The C40 Recharge is going on a short hiatus as it’s being dropped for 2025. However, it will return for the 2026 model year as the EC40. Volvo didn’t explain their reasoning behind the move, but the company only sold 1,420 C40s in the United States last year.

Getting back to 2025 model year updates, the EX30 is new to America and it starts at $44,900. It features a 69 kWh battery pack as well as a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 422 hp (315 kW / 428 PS) and 400 lb-ft (542 Nm) of torque. This enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.4 seconds and have an EPA range of 253 miles (407 km).

The EX90 is also new for 2025 and U.S. models are built in Charleston, South Carolina. Pricing starts at $79,995 and that nets buyers a 111 kWh battery pack as well as a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) and 568 lb-ft (769 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.7 seconds and travel up to 310 miles (499 km) on a single charge.

Lastly, there’s the facelifted 2025.5 XC90. It was introduced last September with a new front fascia and modernized Thor’s Hammer headlights. The model also sports an updated interior with a new infotainment system, higher quality materials, and NVH improvements.

Pricing starts at $58,450 and the entry-level variant has 247 hp (184 kW / 250 PS) and 266 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque. It enables the all-wheel drive crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 7.3 seconds.

The Trump administration has revealed their “first priorities” and a few of them are focused on the automotive industry and the environment. Developments are expected to happen rapidly, but the White House wants to “make America affordable and energy dominant again.”

As part of this effort, Trump will “unleash American energy by ending Biden’s policies of climate extremism.” Details are limited, but his administration is promising a streamlined permitting process and a review to “all regulations that impose undue burdens on energy production and use, including mining and processing of non-fuel minerals.”

More: Biden Bans Offshore Drilling, Trump Pledges To “Unban It Immediately”

The President will also withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord and “end leasing to massive wind farms that degrade our natural landscapes and fail to serve American energy consumers.” Furthermore, the White House will “pause burdensome and radical regulations not yet in effect that Biden announced.”

While concrete details are few and far between at this point, the new administration promised actions that will “empower consumer choice in vehicles, showerheads, toilets, washing machines, lightbulbs, and dishwashers.” This suggests it’s safe to say efficiency is being moved to the back burner and electric vehicles will be facing yet another obstacle.

The outcome remains to be seen, but previous reports have indicated the President wants to eliminate the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles. Consumers claimed more than $1 billion in funds last year and this aided in the purchase of over 150,000 ‘clean vehicles.’

Automakers and industry groups have warned about dire consequences if the tax credit is abruptly eliminated as EVs would suddenly cost thousands of dollars more. This could seriously hurt sales, production, and the bottom line.

Update: The text of President Trump’s inaugural address has been released and he promised to “end the Green New Deal” and “revoke the electric vehicle mandate, saving our auto industry.” He went on to promise, “We will build automobiles in America again at a rate that nobody could have dreamt possible just a few years ago.”

Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president earlier today, but the Biden administration rammed through a number of last minute decisions before that took place. One of them was the finalization of a loan to Rivian worth up to $6.6 billion.

The Department of Energy said the money will be used to finance the development and construction of a new manufacturing plant near Social Circle, Georgia. The facility will span approximately nine million square feet and have the capability to build up to 400,000 crossovers and SUVs annually.

More: Rivian’s Georgia Plant Gets A $6.6 Billion Lifeline Thanks To Taxpayers

The plant will build models based on Rivian’s new midsize platform. This includes the R2 and R3, which were introduced early last year. Once production at the plant is fully ramped up, vehicles built there could save approximately 146 million gallons (553 million liters) of petroleum annually.

The government added the plant should generate up to 2,000 construction jobs as well as 7,500 operations jobs through 2030. They went on to note, “Rivian intends to hire at least a quarter of its employees at the Stanton Springs facility from the local community. This investment supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which sets a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investment in climate, clean energy, and other areas flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.”

For their part, Rivian said construction is slated to begin next year and production should begin in 2028. Hiring is already underway and the project will be broken up into two phases with each having the capability to build 200,000 vehicles annually.

Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe said, “This loan will help us accelerate the launch of our Georgia plant for R2 and R3, providing thousands of jobs in the state.” He added, “People are incredibly excited to get behind the wheel of our new models, and this additional capacity for our mass market products is key to U.S. leadership in the electric vehicle industry.”

Charge Cars burst onto the scene in 2018 with an electric Ford Mustang that was slated to be launched the following year. That apparently never happened, but the company returned in 2022 with a production-intent model as well as plans to build 499 units for £350,000 ($428,400 / €415,830) a piece.

Unfortunately, things went south and Charge entered into administration last summer. However, it’s back from the dead thanks to a consortium of private investors.

More: Charge Is Back With Its Futuristic 1967 Ford Mustang EV In Production-Intent Form

The reborn company isn’t saying much at this point, but they’ll be based out of a new global headquarters in Silverstone. There, they’ll “accelerate final development” of the ’67 electric Mustang.

Charge says the hand-crafted cars will use a body licensed by Ford as well as an “entirely new platform and the very latest technology to captivate a new generation of discerning, sustainability-conscious automotive aficionados.” The model will also be equipped with a quad-motor all-wheel drive system that promises to produce 536 hp (400 kW / 544 PS) and 1,121 lb-ft (1,520 Nm) of torque.

In an interesting twist of fate, the model was originally slated to use a number of powertrain components sourced from Arrival. That company also entered administration last year and the latest update from February of 2024 said “Administrators are now exploring options for the sale of the business and asset … including the electric vehicle platform, software, intellectual property and R&D assets, for the benefit of creditors.”

It remains unclear if that will have any impact on Charge, but the company said we can expect further news in the future. You might not want to get your hopes up, but the firm said the ‘67 will have carbon fiber components, torque vectoring technology, and a bespoke suspension. They’re slated to be joined by a unique infotainment system, a premium audio system, and modern safety features.

Charge Cars CEO Paul Abercrombie said: “On behalf of the consortium, I am delighted to announce the acquisition of Charge Cars. The ‘67 establishes a new class of EV – and we will now accelerate final development at our new global HQ in Silverstone, UK, rapidly delivering this exciting luxury vehicle to customers. The Charge brand has huge global potential, and we look forward to revealing more details very soon.”

Last month, BMW M quietly released the first pictures of a high performance Neue Klasse EV. Now, spy photographers have caught the prototype undergoing cold weather testing in snowy Sweden.

Set to become the first M3 EV (or i3 M), the prototype is heavily disguised but closely resembles the Vision Neue Klasse concept. Starting up front, there’s a wide ‘grille’ that is flanked by sweptback headlights. Further below, we can see what appears to be an expansive lower intake.

More: BMW M Teases A Hot Neue Klasse M3 EV

The model also wears streamlined bodywork with flush-mounted door handles. Those aerodynamic cues are interrupted by pronounced fender flares that indicate the prototype has a wider track than the standard i3.

Additional details are hard to make out, but the model has a rakish windscreen and an evolutionary greenhouse. We can also see a rounded rear bumper as well as a nearly vertical trunk.

Spy photographers didn’t get a good look inside, but BMW recently introduced their new Panoramic iDrive system at CES. It features an expansive pillar-to-pillar display located at the base of the windscreen. The display is broken up into three sections and the one directly in front of the driver acts as a digital instrument cluster. The remaining sections are customizable and can accommodate up to six widgets that show everything from the weather to a G Meter.

Little else is known about the car at this point, but it’s expected to use a quad-motor powertrain that was tested in earlier i4-based prototypes. Those were rumored to have more than 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS) and advanced torque vectoring technology, but speculation suggests the road-going model could be a little tamer as it may have closer to 700 hp (522 kW / 710 PS).

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Electric vehicle chargers have been targeted by thieves as their cables contain copper, which can be sold for scrap. This means, in certain areas, it’s not uncommon to arrive at a charger only to find the cable has been cut off.

This is an expensive and annoying problem that impacts companies as well as drivers. ChargePoint is now addressing it with a series of anti-vandalism measures.

More: Thieves Now Targeting EV Charging Cables In Driveways

The big news is a cut-resistant charging cable that has been designed to deter theft. The company didn’t go into many specifics, but said cut-resistant materials have been incorporated into the cable and this makes it “substantially more difficult for would-be vandals to cut.”

A promotional video suggests it will be able to foil attacks with manual cable cutters. Thieves using battery-powered cut-off tools face a longer, more time consuming attempt and no guarantee of success.

While you’re probably envisioning a thick and stiff cable, ChargePoint said it’s “flexible and easy for drivers to comfortably maneuver.” The company will offer the cut-resistant cable on all its commercial and fleet charging stations, and they also plan to license its design to other charging station manufacturers. This could be a game changer that significantly reduces theft across the industry.

Licensing deals are expected to begin around the middle of the year and ChargePoint said they believe “customers and partners that elect to use its cut-resistant cable design can make any charging station more resistant to tampering and therefore more dependable for all EV drivers.”

Besides the new cable, ChargePoint announced a Protect alarm system. When cable tampering is detected, it automatically engages an alarm that uses the station’s existing speakers, screens and lighting system. In effect, it’s like a car alarm for charging stations.

ChargePoint Protect will be available on select chargers as a no cost software upgrade and the system also has the ability to notify station owners about alarms via text or email. This means they could quickly contact police, which may limit the damage and result in vandals being arrested.

January 1st has come and gone, but Cadillac is still making New Year’s resolutions. They’re not aiming low either as Cadillac’s Vice President, John Roth, has told us they’re positioning the brand to become the “best-selling luxury EV nameplate in the U.S. in 2025.”

Speaking during a media briefing, Roth highlighted the success of the Lyriq which saw U.S. sales jump 210.3% to 28,402 units last year. That made it the “best-selling electric mid-size luxury SUV” in America and the executive revealed it’s also a conquest king.

More: Lyriq EV Sales Soar 210%, Making It Cadillac’s Second Best-Seller Of 2024

A whopping 76% of Lyriq customers come from a rival brand and that’s exactly what Cadillac needs to continue growing. Furthermore, half of those buyers are new to General Motors.

While the Lyriq has plenty of momentum, it’s being joined by a slew of new EVs. The Escalade IQ launched late last year and customers have already snapped up 670 units. The Optiq and Vistiq will arrive in the first quarter of 2025 and this will give the brand an electric entry in every major luxury SUV segment.

That’s a lot of new product, but Roth suggested there’s even more on the horizon. While the company didn’t go into many specifics, they revealed there are “more EV variants to come.”

More: These Are The Best-Selling EV Brands And Models Of 2024

There’s no word on what, but Cadillac has already shown the 2026 Lyriq-V. We’re also hoping for an entry-level Optiq as the current model starts at $52,895 which positions it uncomfortably close to the $58,595 Lyriq.

While only time will tell what Cadillac has planned, Roth suggested it will be another busy year.

Skoda introduced the Vision 7S concept nearly two years ago, but spy photographers have finally caught the production model. It’s expected to be called the Space and the company has previously confirmed it will be unveiled in 2026.

Caught undergoing testing in northern Sweden, the electric three-row crossover is heavily disguised but sports a Modern Solid design. Details are hard to make out, but we can see a rounded front fascia with sweptback headlights. They’re joined by a large central intake as well as angular air curtains.

More: Skoda Previews Six Upcoming EVs Including New Three-Row Crossover

Moving further back, we can see streamlined bodywork and flush-mounted door handles. Designers also gave the crossover an expansive greenhouse that appears to remain relatively faithful to the concept. The prototype also has a long sloping roof and aerodynamically optimized front wheels.

There isn’t much to see out back, but the model has been equipped with a large spoiler and vertical taillights. The latter flow into the liftgate and mimic the concept. It’s also worth noting that Skoda has previously said the model will  measure approximately 192.9 inches (4.9 meters) long, which would be roughly 9.8 inches (250 mm) more than the Enyaq.

SH Proshots

Spy photographers didn’t get a good look inside, but the crossover will have seating for up to seven people. Skoda has also promised the model will offer “flexibility and enormous interior space.” It also appears that the Space could be equipped with a 14.6-inch infotainment system in a portrait orientation, although that’s not entirely clear at this point.

Powertrain details also remain elusive, but the concept rode on the MEB platform and had an 89 kWh battery pack. This provided a WLTP range in excess of 373 miles (600 km).

That’s not much to go on, but it’s possible the model could share some motors with the facelifted Enyaq. This means there could be rear- and dual-motor all-wheel drive systems that produce 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS).

Sales of the Mercedes EQS and EQS SUV plummeted 52% in the United States last year. That’s a dreadful showing, but the company introduced an updated sedan with an AMG Line front bumper and a revised grille that mimics the one found on the S-Class.

Designers also added a hood ornament as well as an updated interior with more comfortable rear seats and additional chrome. Engineers even got in on the action as the model was equipped with a larger 118 kWh battery pack, which provided an extra 51 miles (82 km) of range under the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure.

More: The 2025 EQS Actually Looks Like A Mercedes Now

Those were welcome changes, but it appears Mercedes wasn’t ready to call it a day. Quite the opposite as spy photographers have snapped two prototypes, which hint at a second minor facelift.

While there isn’t much to see, we can clearly make out new headlights with star graphics. These have been seen on a number of recent prototypes including the CLA and S-Class as well as the GLE and GLS.

Interestingly, the star graphics are only found up front. However, since most models are slated to get starry taillights, we wouldn’t be surprised to find them on the production EQS.

There doesn’t appear to be any other changes at this point, but it’s hard to be certain with the camouflage. That being said, one of the prototypes apparently suffered an issue as it was seen being towed behind a G-Class. There’s no word on what happened, but the stricken EQS had power as the lights were on.

SHProshots

The Tokyo Auto Salon continues as Nissan has unveiled the R32 EV. As the name suggests, the one-off model is an electromod based on the Skyline GT-R R32 that was launched in 1989.

Billed as a passion project by a small team of employees, the car doesn’t look too remarkable at first glance. However, don’t let its Gun Grey metallic exterior fool you as there are plenty of upgrades hiding beneath the skin.

More: Nissan Turns R32 Skyline GT-R Into An EV For Tokyo Auto Salon

The twin-turbo 2.6-liter inline-six has been replaced by two electric motors, which each produce 215 hp (160 kW /  218 PS) and  251 lb-ft (340 Nm) of torque. This should give the all-wheel drive model a combined output of around 429 hp (320 kW / 435 PS) and 501 lb-ft (680 Nm).

That’s considerably more than the original 276 hp (206 kW / 280 PS) and 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) of torque. However, Nissan said the goal was “not to exceed, but rather match the performance of the original GT-R.” This is important to note as the EV is around 809 lbs (367 kg) heavier, so engineers tuned its output and torque to match the original’s torque-to-weight ratio.

Nissan didn’t say how far the R32 EV can travel, but the rear seat was removed to allow for the installation of a 62 kWh battery pack from a Leaf Nismo race car. The company also noted the dual-motor all-wheel drive system responds faster and can better distribute torque between the front and rear wheels than the original mechanical system.

Besides the powertrain swap, the car has been equipped with a Nismo sport suspension featuring Öhlins dampers. They’re joined by a beefier braking system sourced from the R35. Due to the larger rotors and calipers, the team had to exchange the original 16-inch wheels for factory-inspired 18-inchers.

While the group wanted to keep the cabin as stock as possible, the factory seats were traded for custom Recaros. The gauges, meters, and audio system were also given a modern makeover as they have “high-resolution digital screens that provide key driver information while retaining their original profile.”

Those weren’t the only tweaks as the car has a paddle shift functionality that has been programmed to provide the “sensation of shift shock,” which is the “brief jolt a driver experiences when engaging the clutch and shifting up or down through a mechanical gearbox.” That’s on top of a speaker that pumps the original RB26DETT engine note into the cabin.

While purists will call the project blasphemous, the team picked the R32 to ensure it could be driven for decades to come. As project leader Ryozo Hiraku explained, “I wondered if 30 years from now – in 2055 or beyond – owners of this incredible machine could still buy gasoline and enjoy driving it. I saw merit in using electrical and digital technology to replicate the appeal of the R32 GT-R so future generations could experience it.”

The Detroit Auto Show kicked off earlier today, but you’d be hard-pressed to tell as there’s not much going on in the Motor City. While that’s a sad fall from grace, auto shows aren’t dead and that’s clear today as there’s plenty of news coming out of the Tokyo Auto Salon as well as the Brussels Motor Show.

At the European event, Renault unveiled an updated version of the Twingo E-Tech electric concept. It previews the upcoming production model, which will be launched next year and cost under €20,000 ($20,474).

More: Renault Reboots Twingo As A €20,000 Electric Mini For 2026

Essentially an evolution of last year’s concept, the latest version of the car has 3D printed bumpers with a honeycomb pattern. They’re joined by new air intakes, which adopt a more squared off shape.

The changes continue further back as we can see production-style mirrors and door handles. They’re joined by revamped fender flares and new taillights.

While the exterior updates are notable, Renault has given us our first look inside. This reveals a minimalist cockpit with a “spacious and functional layout.”

The automaker was coy on specifics, but drivers sit behind a three-spoke steering wheel and find themselves looking at a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. To their right is a ‘floating’ 10.1-inch infotainment system.

They’re joined by dedicated climate controls as well as body-color trim. The model also has a tinted cork floor and an assortment of storage compartments.

Designers installed unique upholstery with a colorful ‘splash’ inspired by the patterns on the first-generation Twingo. Speaking of the seats, there’s a split-folding rear bench that slides to maximize legroom or cargo capacity.

Rounding out the highlights are a panoramic glass roof and a seatback adjustment knob inspired by skateboard wheels. The concept also sports an assortment of Easter eggs as well as a magnetic area on the back of the front headrest that enables rear passengers to mount their phones to it.

Faraday Future’s new mainstream brand has teased two upcoming models and revealed its logo. Faraday X (FX) also made some pretty big promises, but we’re not holding our breath.

Starting with product, Faraday X confirmed plans for three models including an “AI-MPV” called the Super One. It’s billed as a “groundbreaking vehicle” that will “meet the dynamic and diverse needs of visionaries and their families.” The company also said it would deliver “twice the performance at half the price.”

More: Faraday Future Announces New Mainstream Brand To Offer Affordable EVs – If It Gets Funding

Faraday rambled on with that nonsense, so details are virtually non-existent. The blurry teaser image is about as helpful as it simply shows a generic minivan covered in camouflage.

That being said, Engadget was given a preview and they said the Super One comes with two rows of leather seats. Rear passengers are the priority as there are heated, massaging seats with integrated footrests. The model also has a small fridge, although it sounds like the van is far from finished.

Faraday X also teased their FX 6, which is slated to start between $30,000 and $50,000. It’s billed as an “extra-large luxury AIEV” and it appears to be a curvaceous crossover with a sloping roof. We can expect to learn more about it in March.

Both models are slated to be joined by an entry-level FX 5, which has a targeted price of between $20,000 and $30,000. The company didn’t say much about it, but has previously referred to it as a “large-space sporty AIEV.”

Faraday was coy on performance details, but said “FX models could potentially offer two types of powertrains” including range-extended and battery-electric options. The company also said one of the models could go into production by the end of the year, although that’s “subject to securing necessary funding and agreements.”

That, of course, is Faraday’s Achilles heel as the company limps from one crisis to the next. The company is also said to have sold a mere “15 or 16” FF 91s, so that’s not exactly a stellar track record.

Cox Automotive has released their latest Car Buyer Journey study and it found new vehicle buyers are more satisfied with the overall shopping experience than ever before. Buyers had a 75% satisfaction rate and the company chalked that up to a variety of factors including improved incentives, more inventory, and digital tools – among other things.

However, satisfaction varies depending on what you’re buying. 82% of new EV buyers were “highly satisfied,” which bested rates for hybrids (76%) and ICE-powered vehicles (75%). A large part of this is being attributed to the use of digital tools during the buying process. As Cox explained, 76% of EV buyers used digital tools, while only 42% of ICE buyers did. However, you might not want to read too much into that as 64% of hybrid buyers used digital tools and they were barely more satisfied than ICE buyers.

More: Study Suggests Heavy Dependence On Cars Makes You Unhappy

Interestingly, EV buyers are more engaged as they’re more likely to read and watch reviews. These customers also put more of an emphasis on safety and technology during their decision-making process.

Putting EVs aside, dealership satisfaction reached a record high of 81%. Furthermore, 42% of new car buyers said their latest purchase was better than their previous one.

However, satisfaction among all vehicle buyers declined 2% due to disgruntled used car shoppers. These customers are facing a number of headwinds including tight inventories, elevated prices, and high interest rates. Access to modern digital tools, that support a seamless buying experience, are also limited.

While the used car buying experience has plenty of room for improvement, Cox noted the “64% satisfaction rate among used-vehicle buyers was higher than at any time before the global COVID pandemic.”

Speaking of COVID, the shift to online paperwork is saving customers considerable time at the dealership. New car buyers save 49 minutes, while used car buyers save 40.

However, the study found buyers still value time spent at dealerships, especially test drives, vehicle pick-ups, and interactions with the sales team. Cox’s Vice President of Research and Market Intelligence, Isabelle Helms, said “It is a common misconception that most vehicle buyers today want a completely online car-buying process. The findings in the latest CBJ Study indicate that buyer satisfaction is influenced not merely by the time involved, but rather by the efficiency of the transactional aspects of the buying journey.”

Cox Automotive

Cruise’s robotaxi dreams recently died a high-profile death, but May Mobility isn’t throwing in the towel. Quite the opposite as the Toyota-back firm has unveiled an autonomous minibus.

Created in partnership with Tecnobus, the model accommodates up to 30 passengers and can reach speeds of 45 mph (72 km/h). This makes it ideal for use in cities as well as at airports and corporate campuses.

More: GM Gives Up On Cruise, Ends Robotaxi Push

May Mobility didn’t say much else about the bus, but it has been equipped with an assortment of cameras and sensors. The company also confirmed it will be fully electric and have swappable batteries, which will minimize downtime.

The first buses are expected to be ready in the first half of 2026 and they’ll hit the road later that year. There’s no word on where they’ll be deployed, but the company said the model is homologated for use in Canada and Europe, which will enable them to enter new markets.

May Mobility CEO Edwin Olson said, “Our partnership with Tecnobus shows that we’re serious about expanding transit access and reducing urban congestion. It’s a strong example of how doing the right thing for communities can also be great for growing our business.”

In the meantime, May Mobility is focused on efforts in Ann Arbor and Detroit, Michigan as well as Sun City, Arizona and Martinez, California. The company also has a presence in Arlington, Texas, Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and Miami, Florida. These programs provide free or low-cost service using an autonomous Toyota Sienna.

Sales figures continue to trickle in and the latest come from Mercedes-Benz. They paint an interesting picture that shows a preference for gas-powered performance instead of eco-friendly EVs.

Starting with the latter, Mercedes-AMG posted a record fourth quarter with sales of 16,169 units. The G-Class also had its best year ever as customers snapped up 10,987 SUVs.

More: BMW XM Had A Terrible First Full Year With Just 1,974 Units Sold In The US

While that’s good news, Mercedes bet big on electric vehicles and this appears to be a bust. EQB sales were down 36% for the year, while the EQE lineup fell 39%. The range-topping EQS lineup was even harder hit as sales plummeted 52% to a disappointing 6,963 units. Even the eSprinter is struggling as the company only found 828 buyers.

Crossovers were unsurprisingly the best-selling models of 2024. The GLE took the sales crown with 67,928 units and was closely followed by the GLC, which racked up 64,163 sales. In a distant third place was the C-Class, which moved 35,590 units for a slight increase of 1%.

The company’s other sedans experienced a decline as the CLA was down 2%, while the E-Class was off by half as much. The S-Class fared far worse as sales fell 25% to 8,809 units.

Coupes and convertibles found solid footing as the new CLE lineup generated 14,333 sales. The AMG GT climbed 77% to 3,491 units, but the SL fell 56% to 1,608.

Overall, Mercedes-Benz USA finished the year on a positive note as passenger vehicle sales were up 9% to 324,528 units. That trailed BMW (371,346) and Lexus (345,669), but the brand beat Audi (196,576), Cadillac (160,204), Acura (132,367), Volvo (125,243), Lincoln (104,823), and Infiniti (58,070).

2024 Mercedes U.S. Sales

Zombies have invaded Stellantis and they’re just as hard to kill as the undead. However, multiple brands are defying the odds and continuing to exist long after they’ve stopped serving a purpose.

Chrysler is the poster child of this as their latest and greatest innovation is the 2025 Voyager. However, instead of being all-new, it’s simply a pre-facelift Pacifica with a $39,995 price tag.

More: The Stunning Halcyon Concept Is Why Chrysler Axed The Airflow

That’s hardly compelling, so it’s not surprising that U.S. sales dropped 7% last year to 124,683 units—a stark contrast to the nearly 600,000 vehicles the brand sold in 2005. That’s an 80% nosedive in two decades. The situation looks even worse when you consider the 300 is no longer with us and only a few hundred units remain in inventory.

While a mercy killing would almost be welcome at this point, Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell said the brand isn’t going anywhere. Quite the opposite as it’s “being well invested in” and has a “very bright future.”

Speaking to CNBC, Feuell said the company found a new audience with the Halcyon concept and stated some of the design elements seen on the car will carryover to production models. She went on to say we can expect a very modern and sleek styling language that isn’t overly complicated.

While the concept was largely a flight of fantasy, Feuell said they’re working on bringing a “real industrialized” version of the car to market. She added it will be affordable, although the price tag and timing is anyone’s guess.

In the near term, a facelifted Pacifica is due next year. It will reportedly offer an updated plug-in hybrid powertrain. A Pacifica EV will follow, but the gas-powered model will reportedly stick around until the end of the decade.

More importantly, a large crossover is slated to arrive in 2026 and fill a sizable gap that has been left vacant ever since the Aspen was axed. It will reportedly be offered in hybrid and electric guise, and dealers are said to be delighted. Of course, at this point, they’d be happy with almost anything.