As we had expected, the new all-electric Neue Klasse sedan from BMW will revive the i3 nameplate, but it’ll be unlike the original i3 unveiled way back in 2013. This model, conceived as a direct rival to the Tesla Model 3, will arguably be the most important vehicle in BMW’s new generation of EVs.

BMW has confirmed that it will kick off its long-awaited Neue Klasse era with the second-generation iX3 that’s been already previewed by a concept. After it launches, BMW will follow it up with the new i3. Interestingly, it won’t just be sold as a sedan, but will be available as a Touring estate as well.

Read: BMW i3 Neue Klasse Sedan Spied For The First Time

During a recent interview with Autocar, BMW Group design boss Adrian van Hooydonk said that the popularity of the M3 Touring and M5 Touring has proven that there remains demand for vehicles like this.

“I think the ‘touring is making a comeback,” he said. “Of course, we’ve propelled it with the M3 Touring and M5 Touring: they seem to be very popular, even in countries where tourings or estates are traditionally not very [popular]. So yes, there is new wind in that segment, and we’re very happy about that.”

“SUVs are half of our business,” van Hooydonk continued. “The other half are still sporty, elegant sedans or coupés, and obviously we care about that as well. That’s what we’re rooted in, and we are often seen as the benchmark – and for sure we want it to stay that way.”

BMW product boss Bernd Körber added that the German brand will continue to reserve the ‘i’ badge for its EV models, noting it’s an important way to differentiate them from existing ICE offerings.

“Why the ‘i’? Because the i brand started out with more facets to it, but one element with the i3 and i8 was electrification,” he said. “So for us it’s a designator that we use to indicate within the common naming [strategy] that this is an electrified vehicle, with the ‘i’ in front of it. So we kept the ‘i’, put it in front and moved it from a kind of sub-brand to a model brand, and that will be the logic that we will follow from now on.”

The new BMW i3 is expected to include an entry-level, rear-wheel drive model with roughly 300 hp, while all-wheel drive versions will follow later. It’ll also spawn an all-electric version of the beloved M3, previewed earlier this year as the Vision Driving Experience. This model packs four electric motors.

Opening rendering by Josh Byrnes/Carscoops

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Nissan is reportedly gearing up to end production at its plant in Wuhan, China, due to dwindling production of the Ariya and X-Trail, which are built there. This is bad news for the Japanese brand and comes just a few days after it was revealed it will soon announce its biggest ever financial year loss.

News of Nissan’s plans first came from a local Chinese outlet. It’s understood that annual production at the plant has only hit 10,000 units since operations commenced in 2022. That’s pretty terrible, particularly since the plant has the capacity to build as many as 300,000 vehicles annually. Nissan is currently leasing the site from Dongfeng Motor.

Nissan’s Chinese Sales Were Way Off Target

Reuters understands that stiff competition from Chinese companies is a key reason why production has never come close to reaching capacity.

Read: Nissan’s New Frontier Pro Plug-in Hybrid Wants To Take On The World

This isn’t the only Nissan plant in China that’s under serious pressure. In June last year, it closed its plant in Changzhou due to the jump in sales of Chinese EVs and dwindling demand for imported vehicles. This site had been operating alongside Dongfeng Motor since November 2020 and had the capacity to build 130,000 vehicles annually.

Nissan’s Is Between A Rock And A Hard Place

Nissan is in dire straits at the moment. We’re only a few months removed from its planned merger with Honda falling apart, and on May 13, it’s gearing up to release its full earnings report for the fiscal year that ended in March.

Last week, the automaker said it expects to report a net loss of ¥700-750 billion ($4.91 – $5.26 billion) for the year, a huge increase from the ¥80 billion ($560 million) net loss it originally estimated.

Nissan is currently in survival mode and is implementing a massive restructuring. It has confirmed plans to cut 9,000 jobs, is closing plants, and has streamlined model lineups. It is also looking for a new partner, and could even join forces with Taiwanese tech giant Foxconn.

Nissan is currently in survival mode and is implementing a massive restructuring. It has confirmed plans to cut 9,000 jobs, is closing plants, and has streamlined model lineups. It is also looking for a new partner, and could even join forces with Taiwanese giant Foxconn.

Owning a new Tesla might not carry the same futuristic mystique it once did, but for plenty of buyers, the dream is still alive and well, especially when it involves the polarizing, attention-grabbing Cybertruck.

Read: Cybertruck Beats Fisker Ocean As Edmunds’ Biggest Loss Ever, Sold For Just $8K

While the electric pickup has not sold as well as Tesla had hoped, there are still plenty of Americans who still want to get their hands on one. For many, buying directly from Tesla’s website is the easiest option, but the used market is starting to offer some interesting alternatives. Plenty of low-mileage Cybertrucks are already available, and while most sellers are taking a big hit compared to MSRP, there are a few exceptions — even if they mostly just prove the rule.

Last week, a particularly well-specced and modified example traded hands for $78,000 on Cars & Bids. At first glance, that is a very solid result for the seller, especially considering it is possible to buy a brand-new Cybertruck Dual-Motor AWD directly from Tesla for a little over $72,000 after the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.

So, why did this Cybertruck sell for more than a new one? Well, it has several tasteful (and costly, at least for the seller) modifications that seem to have appealed to the many interested bidders. For starters, the controversial stainless steel panels now sport a satin black paint protection film, transforming the look of the Tesla. That alone likely set the seller back around $3,000 to $5,000.

Photos Cars&Bids

Elsewhere, there’s an LED light bar on the roof, aftermarket running boards, official Tesla roof bars and mud flaps, and some interesting cladding on the tailgate. It even includes the optional $2,975 Tesla CyberTent, making it ideal for some camping adventures (as long as you’re not too far away from a charger…).

Plenty of changes have been made to the cabin, too. For example, the central infotainment screen now sits on a swivel mount, meaning it can be angled towards the driver. The underside of the glass roof has also been tweaked and now sports colorful LED lights. According to the listing, the windows have been tinted too, a job that likely cost several hundred dollars.

Generally speaking, as we have seen countless times in the used car market, modifying a car does not add to its value. But clearly, the winning bidder was happy to spend more on this example than the going rate for a new one.If they were already planning to add these upgrades, which look like they cost nearly $10,000 on top of the MSRP, then maybe it makes a little more sense , but calling it a solid deal would be a stretch.

Photos Cars&Bids

Many legacy carmakers have struggled to keep pace with Chinese startups and their innovative new EVs. However, earlier this week, Mazda revealed an electric SUV known as the EZ-60, and it’s already garnered quite a lot of attention in the country. It is also proving to be a hit with customers, with more than 10,000 pre-orders placed within just 48 hours of its debut.

The EZ-60 is unlike any Mazda sold elsewhere. Technically, it is not even a full-blooded Mazda. Thanks to a partnership with Changan, the SUV rides on the same platform as the Deepal S07, one of the latest electric models to roll out of China. It is a clear example of Mazda adapting to a fast-changing market, even if it means leaning on local expertise to do it.

Read: Mazda’s New Electric SUV Packs Six Screens And A Range-Extender Powertrain

As reported by CarNewsChina, Mazda secured 10,060 pre-orders for the EZ-60 in the two days since its unveiling. This comes despite the fact that the SUV has so far only been showcased in range-extender form and details about the battery-electric version have yet to be announced.

However, one shouldn’t mistake pre-orders for actual sales. For starters, shoppers are in no way obligated to follow through with purchasing the car. Additionally, pre-orders can be placed for just 10 yuan, the equivalent of just $1.40. Not all people who did will go through and buy it, but that’s the norm in the industry anyway – only the percentage varies in each case.

Mazda may be borrowing a Chinese platform, but the EZ-60 looks every bit like a Mazda should. That is important because it will not be limited to China. In other markets, including Europe and possibly Australia, it will be sold as the CX-6e. Unfortunately, if you are in the United States, you are out of luck, because there are no plans to bring it here.

The range-extender version of the EZ-60 presented at the Shanghai Auto Show has a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder that acts as a generator for the 31.7 kWh battery, which drives a 255 hp electric motor at the rear axle. As mentioned, Mazda has yet to reveal specifications of the all-electric version, and it’ll be interesting to see how buyers react to that one.

It is no secret that car values have been riding a rollercoaster lately, but some models have taken a particularly rough plunge. In the past year alone, a surprising number of popular vehicles have shed thousands of dollars in value, offering a clear look at changing market dynamics.

Read: This Car Loses 73% Of Its Value After Just Five Years

Four Tesla models are among the top 20 used cars in the United States that depreciated the most over the past 12 months. However, Tesla is hardly alone in this honor, as several other mainstream and premium brands, including Ford, BMW, Mercedes, Hyundai, Lincoln, and Genesis, have also seen significant price drops.

The team from iSeeCars recently analyzed the prices of 1.4 million used vehicles over the past year to determine which ones have been hit the hardest. At the top of the list sits the Tesla Model S, which depreciated by an average of 17.2 percent year-over-year, representing a fall of $9,944. As of March 2025, the average listing price for a Model S was $47,931. This, perhaps, is not much of a shock considering the electric sedan has been around for 13 years and Tesla has faced its share of public relations headaches in the last few months, adding to its woes.

A Closer Look at the Biggest Losers

Trailing just behind the Model S is the Porsche Taycan, which dropped by an average of $13,422 over the past year, or about 15.1 percent. Meanwhile, the Ford Explorer Hybrid saw its average price fall by 14.1 percent to $31,228, and the BMW 5-Series Hybrid was not far behind, dropping 13.9 percent to $34,375.

The second Tesla to appear on the list is the Model Y. The study from iSeeCars shows that prices of it have fallen by an average of 13.1% to $30,611. This places it two positions ahead of the Model 3 in eighth, with prices dropping by 10.9% to $26,084. In 17th position was the Model X, with reported average price falls of 7.3% to $55,990.

Used Cars With The Largest Price Drops

Other notable entries on the list include the Maserati Levante, down 11.5 percent, the Jeep Gladiator (-10.7 percent), the Kia Niro EV (-9.6 percent), the Volvo S90 (-9.2 percent) and the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, whose price declined by 7.3 percent.

Worst Performing Brands

Tesla was named the brand with the steepest year-over-year declines in used car pricing. Across its lineup, its models lost an average of 10.1 percent in value over the past year, which translates to $3,541 on average. Chrysler followed closely behind, with an 8.9 percent drop, while Maserati, Genesis, Dodge, Buick, and Chevrolet also posted noticeable losses.

“In both the new and used car markets, Tesla prices have been dropping for over two years,” iSeeCars executive analyst Karl Brauer said. “Price cuts on new Teslas immediately impacted used Teslas, driving their prices down at a rapid rate. The new car price cuts were driven by Tesla’s desire to maintain sales growth, but that strategy stopped working last year when the automaker saw its first decline in annual sales.”

Brands With The Largest Used Car Price Drops

Developing and launching an electric vehicle is challenging enough for any mass-market brand, but for a smaller automaker like Ferrari, stepping into the world of electric cars is no easy task. While Ferrari undoubtedly has the engineering expertise, its rich motorsport legacy could make it a tough sell to its loyal fans who may not be ready to embrace the shift to electric.

Read: Ferrari Elettrica Coming In October After Years Of Development

This year, Ferrari’s first EV will finally make its debut. Currently dubbed the Elettrica, it’s expected to take the form of a hatchback-crossover. Two recently uncovered patent filings discovered by Motor1 suggest Ferrari is determined to ensure the car delivers on the emotional front.

How? By possibly incorporating artificial gear shifts, similar to the ones found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, along with a sound reproduction device that mimics the unmistakable growl of an internal combustion engine. Obviously, silence just doesn’t cut it for Ferrari enthusiasts.

Virtual Gears: A Nod to Tradition

These two systems have been detailed in a pair of patents recently filed in Europe. The first patent describes a set of ‘virtual gears’ that Ferrari has developed for the Elettrica that uses an electric motor to simulate the changing torque of a traditional engine and transmission. These virtual gears could be operated using dedicated shift paddles, or they could be activated automatically depending on the throttle and brake outputs.

According to Ferrari, the virtual gears can change in as little as 200 milliseconds or as much as 600 milliseconds. It sounds strikingly similar to Hyundai’s setup for the Ioniq 5 N, a system that’s now also in the Kia EV6 GT. While some critics argue that EVs should focus on smooth, uninterrupted power, successfully recreating an ICE experience is a win for driving enthusiasts.

Sound That Satisfies. Sort Of

The second patent centers on a device that works in tandem with the virtual gears to provide an ICE-inspired soundtrack. This isn’t the first time Ferrari has ventured down this road. In 2023, the brand patented a “sound reproduction device” designed to bring an auditory thrill to its future EVs.

Recent spy videos of Ferrari’s debut EV have offered a glimpse of this sound system in action. The footage reveals a deep, bassy rumble that eerily resembles the growl of a powerful ICE engine. Whether that sound will be enough to ease purists’ pain over the absence of the iconic Ferrari engine roar, however, remains to be seen..

SHProshots

EV startups have become a regular occurrence in recent years, but the success rate for these companies in the U.S. is far from impressive. Enter Slate, a new contender aiming to change that. The company is promising to deliver a back-to-basics electric truck, which can also be reconfigured into a five-seat SUV or a fastback utility vehicle that channels the spirit of a Jeep Wrangler. Best of all, prices will start at under $28,000, or around $20,500 if you factor in the $7,500 federal incentive, an unusually rare sight in the EV world.

Read: Slate Auto Teases 3-Door SUV That Looks Like A Range Rover Classic

Slate unveiled several prototypes at an event in Los Angeles this evening, and while the brand is new, it already has serious financial backing and has apparently raised over $100 million. Amazon head honcho Jeff Bezos has even provided some funding, giving the company an important starting point before it hits the market.

A “Blank Slate” for Customization

The automaker describes its vehicle as a ‘blank’ Slate and as such, it’s simply called the Truck. Customers will be offered extensive personalization options, allowing them to make their perfect EV.  

The truck is underpinned by a skateboard architecture and will be offered with two battery packs. The base pack is a 52.7 kWh unit that will provide the Slate with an estimated range of 150 miles (241 km). Those who need to travel a little further can opt for a larger 84.3 kWh pack that boosts the range to 240 miles (386 km). All models use a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 201 hp (150 kW).

As standard, the basic Slate has a 5-foot bed, a NACS connector, a 1,000 lbs (453 kg) towing capacity, which is half that of the least capable Ford Maverick, and a max payload of 1,400 lbs (635 kg). It supports 120 kW DC fast charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 20-80% in approximately 30 minutes.

Why Is It So Cheap?

A key reason why Slate will be able to sell its electric truck for so cheap is that it lacks much of the tech we’ve come to expect from modern EVs. It has no radio, no speakers, and no infotainment screen. All you will find inside is a basic dashboard with a small digital instrument cluster and a simple steering wheel. It even features physical window winders. A dedicated phone holder is positioned next to the steering wheel, and Slate is developing an app for it to provide some entertainment options while on the move.

All Slate models will leave the factory in this back-to-basics configuration. However, customers will have hundreds of accessories to choose from to personalize their vehicle. These will include kits to convert it into an SUV or as an open-top two-door.

If you want to pump some tunes while driving, you’ll have to opt for the optional Bluetooth speaker system. If you want any color other than grey, you’ll have to get the Slate wrapped, which the company says can be done in just 30 minutes, thanks to its simple shape. If you want wheels different than the standard steelies, they’ll be sold as an accessory, too. It’s a novel way of marketing and selling an EV, and only time will tell if it proves to be a good idea.

While the Slate lacks many creature comforts, the company is determined to achieve five-star safety ratings. It comes standard with traction control, ESC, automatic emergency braking, airbags, a reversing camera, forward collision warning, and auto high beam.

When Can I Get One?

Slate says its EV will be built at a new manufacturing facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. Until that date arrives, it’ll continue testing and developing this unique EV, and trying to convince US buyers that this should be their next vehicle.

Slate wants to build as many as 150,000 electric trucks each year. Those who wish to secure an allocation can do so with a $50 deposit.

As the EV market continues to evolve, battery technology is quickly becoming the battleground for major automakers. Most of the electric cars currently available use either lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) or nickel manganese cobalt (NMC or NCM) batteries, with some manufacturers exploring sodium-ion options.

Now, Ford is taking things a step further, announcing a new battery chemistry it plans to incorporate into its EV lineup over the next decade. Enter Lithium Manganese Rich (LMR) batteries, developed at the Blue Oval’s Battery Center of Excellence in Michigan.

Read: Ford’s Experiment In EV Distribution Hubs Is Over

In a LinkedIn post this week, Charles Poon, Ford’s director of electrified propulsion engineering, explained that the LMR batteries offer a higher energy density than traditional high-nickel batteries. This, according to Poon, translates to greater range for Ford’s EVs, which means customers can travel farther on a single charge, reducing that all-too-common “range anxiety” that plagues so many EV drivers.

The LMR battery has been engineered to achieve a safety profile similar to LFP batteries, and they promise to be “significantly” cheaper than current mid-nickel batteries. Poon went on to describe the LMR batteries as the answer to “what next?” with Ford already selling LFP and NCM-powered EVs.

Ford said this new battery will also help it achieve cost parity between EVs and gasoline-powered vehicles. There’s no word on whether Ford collaborated with any of its existing battery partners on the development of the LMR chemistry, such as CATL, LG, or SK On, with Poon simply crediting the more than 135 “world-class chemists, manufacturing engineers and scientists,” at the Ford site.

“This isn’t just a lab experiment. We’re actively working to scale LMR cell chemistry and integrate them into our future vehicle lineup within this decade. The team is already producing our second-gen LMR cells at our pilot line,” he added.

The development of this new battery comes despite Ford slowing many of its EV plans last year, including axing a three-row electric SUV and delaying a new electric version of the F-150. However, it is still working on an electric mid-sized pickup and a new electric van, among other consumer-focused EVs.

In May of last year, it was reported that Nissan had hit the pause button on two electric sedans that were originally set to be built in the United States. Now, it’s been confirmed that those models are officially canceled, with an internal memo adding that the company is also shifting gears on its plans for two all-electric crossovers.

Earlier this month, Nissan Americas chairperson Christian Meunier stated that “the sedan market is shrinking” and that the company needed to “face reality.” After an internal memo made its way to the press, the automaker confirmed that shifting market conditions had forced it to reassess the EV projects originally planned for its Canton, Mississippi site.

Read: Nissan’s New Frontier Pro Plug-in Hybrid Wants To Take On The World

“In response to recent changes in industry market conditions, we have decided to revise our plans for the Canton EV family projects,” Nissan said in a statement, as reported by Auto News. “We have made the decision to cancel development of the LZ1F/LZ1E [sedan] projects and to reassess them as part of a new vehicle program.”

These two cancelled models were intended to replace the Maxima and Altima sedans. Alongside them, an electric crossover codenamed the PZ1L, roughly the size of the Rogue, was also in the works. However, that too has been scrapped. The good news? Nissan isn’t entirely abandoning its EV plans at the Mississippi plant.

New Focus on Electric SUVs

In January 2028, Nissan plans to begin production of a new electric SUV, known internally as the PZ1K. This model will have a “brawny” design similar to the Xterra crossover. It will be joined by an Infiniti version, known internally as the PZ1J, which will enter production in May 2028. These new vehicles will be built on a flexible platform capable of supporting crossovers, sedans, and potentially even a lightweight pickup truck.

The new platform will also feature upgraded electric motors and offer faster charging capabilities. Additionally, these vehicles will use lower-cost lithium-ion batteries.

Interestingly, Nissan recognizes there’s still demand for electric sedans in certain markets, including China. This week, the company unveiled the all-electric N7 that has been jointly developed with its local partner Dongfeng. With a 400-volt architecture, the N7 will be available with 58 kWh and 73 kWh battery packs, as well as electric motors producing 215 hp and 268 hp.

While the Tesla Model Y has been the world’s best-selling car for the past two years, even Tesla understands that sometimes shoppers need some encouragement. As such, it started offering a five-year, zero-interest financing option for the new Model Y. Unfortunately, this deal is only for China.

Tesla offers the new Model Y in rear-wheel drive and long-range dual-motor guises in China, priced from RMB 263,500 (~$36,000) and RMB 313,500 (~$42,800), respectively. Through the new financing program, a new Model Y can be secured with monthly payments as low as RMB 3,060, the equivalent of just $418.

Read: Why Tesla Pulled The Model S And X From China

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. While that monthly payment is completely reasonable, there is a minimum down payment of RMB 79,900, or just over $10,000.

CNEVPost reports that the zero-interest financing deal is available with any version of the new Model Y delivered in China by June 30. A similar five-year financing incentive is also available for the Model 3 for the same period.

Will The US Get The Same Deal?

While it’d be nice to see Tesla offer a similar financing option for the Model Y in the US, we’re not getting our hopes up. While America’s EV market is growing increasingly competitive as brands release compelling new EVs, it’s nowhere near as cutthroat as in China.

There are numerous direct rivals to the Model Y in China, including the Xpeng G6, Zeekr 7X, BYD Sealion 7, Leapmotor C10, Deepal S07, and the list goes on and on. Xiaomi will also soon launch its YU7, the SUV version of its hugely popular SU7 sedan that’s become a social media sensation across China. If Tesla wants to convince Chinese shoppers to buy from an American brand, it needs to offer deals that are too good to refuse.

If you’re a car enthusiast with a burning desire to own a piece of automotive history (and, let’s be honest, an ample bank account to match), Renault is about to offer you the opportunity to splurge. The company has just announced that the all-electric Renault 5 Turbo 3E will carry a price tag starting at €155,000 (about $177,000 at current exchange rates) or £135,000, with deliveries set to begin in 2027.

For those keeping track, that’s more than the price of a new Porsche 911 GTS ($169K) in America or two new BMW M2s (£68K) in the UK. In fact, for the price of this limited-edition hot hatch, you could buy a BMW M2 ($65K), a Hyundai Ioniq 5N ($66K), and a VW Golf GTI ($32K), totaling $163K in the US! And, because this is a limited-edition model, only 1,980 of these hyper hatchbacks will roll off the production line. So, if you’re planning to snatch one up, you better move fast, or prepare to pay even more.

A Throwback to the Turbo Legends

Renault lifted the lid on the new R5 Turbo 3E late last year after first previewing it as a concept in 2022. It’s been conceived as a modern-day interpretation of the legendary Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2. It looks absolutely brilliant and packs quite a punch, too, but interested shoppers had better be quick to secure an allocation, or they may end up paying even more.

Read: Renault 5 Turbo 3E Is An Electric Hyper Hatch With Over 500 HP

According to the French brand, the factory price of €155,000 (~$177,000) or £135,000 is limited to the first 500 units. That price also comes before any options, accessories, and personalization choices. What’s more, those who want to secure an allocation must hand over an eye-watering €45,000 (~$51,000) downpayment. Oh, and by the way, that amount is non-refundable, so you’d better be sure you really, really intend to buy it.

It seems Renault needs this money to finish the car. In a press release, Renault said that funds secured from downpayments from private customers, as well as any dealers securing an allocation, will “contribute to financing the development of Renault 5 Turbo 3E.”

Customization and Delivery Timeline

From early 2026, shoppers will be contacted by their selected dealer and can then customize their car. They’ll also be given a chance to meet with Renault designers to create a bespoke exterior and interior livery, should they wish.

Underpinning the 5 Turbo 3E is a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque chassis with two in-wheel electric motors at the rear. It delivers 540 hp and can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.5 seconds. Providing the motors with juice is a 70 kWh battery pack. The electric uber-hatch an 800-volt architecture, allowing it to be charged from 15 to 80% in just 15 minutes. It sports a quoted range of over 250 miles (400 km).

A Few Rivals, Sort Of

The R5 Turbo 3E doesn’t have any direct competitors, but if we’re being real, the closest comparison might be the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Sure, it’s not limited edition, doesn’t have a carbon fiber chassis, and lacks the R5 Turbo’s legacy, but it does offer more power and costs about half as much.

But, for those who hold nostalgia in high regard (and we know you do), the Ioniq 5 N is missing something crucial: a bit of history and flair that the Renault 5 Turbo packs in spades.

After a lackluster first quarter, where Tesla’s global sales took a nosedive, the EV giant has now reported its earnings for the same period. And, unsurprisingly, the results aren’t impressive. Revenue fell short of where it was expected to be by analysts, not just because of sluggish sales, but also due to uncertainty across industries and challenges in global supply chains.

But not everything is doom and gloom for Tesla, there’s some good news tucked in there, too. The company insists it’s on the cusp of launching more affordable models.

More: VW Finally Beats Tesla In EV Sales Across Europe

Let’s start with the figures. In Q1, Tesla’s total revenue fell to $19.3 billion, a 9.4% decline from $21.3 billion in Q1 2024. When compared to Q2, Q3, and Q4 of last year, the drop is even more significant, with revenue sitting at $25.5 billion, $25.1 billion, and $25.7 billion, respectively. Even worse was Tesla’s automotive revenue, which dropped from $17.3 billion in Q1 2024 to $13.9 billion this quarter, a 19.6% decline, and peaked at $20 billion in Q3 2024, a 30.5% decrease from that high.

Declining revenue isn’t the only thing that could concern shareholders of the EV brand.T otal income plummeted by 71%, dropping to $409 million, down from $1.39 billion in Q1 2024 and $2.1 billion in Q4 2024.

Why Did This Happen?

Tesla has blamed its decline in revenue on the obvious drop-off in deliveries during the first quarter. As we reported earlier this month, Tesla delivered 336,681 vehicles, down 13 percent from the year prior. It says deliveries fell in part because it was updating its four factories to start building the new Model Y. Tesla also says average vehicle selling prices dropped last quarter.

“Uncertainty in the automotive and energy markets continues to increase as rapidly evolving trade policy adversely impacts the global supply chain and cost structure of Tesla and our peers,” Tesla said. “This dynamic, along with changing political sentiment, could have a meaningful impact on demand for our products in the near-term. We remain committed to expanding our business model to include delivering autonomous robots across multiple form factors and use cases – powered by our real-world AI expertise – to our customers and for use in our factories, as we navigate these headwinds.”

New, More Affordable Models Are Coming

Falling revenue and deliveries don’t make for pretty reading, but Tesla does have some interesting things around the corner. New production vehicles, including more affordable models, will start in the first half of 2025, echoing a statement Tesla made in January and contrary to recent reports of these new models being delayed.

Read: Tesla Reportedly Delays Cheaper Smaller Model Y, Plans Stripped-Down Model 3

Details about these affordable versions are limited, with some suggesting they’ll be stripped down versions of the Model 3 and Model Y. Tesla says they will “utilize aspects of the next generation platform as well as aspects of our current platforms and will be produced on the same manufacturing lines as our current vehicle lineup.”

Elsewhere, Tesla announced that production of the Cybercab is scheduled to begin in 2026. The company also shared that the next-generation Roadster has moved from the “development” phase to “design development,” though it has yet to provide any details on when it will actually launch. Just a reminder: it’s been 7.5 years since the Roadster was first revealed.

Musk Winding Down DOGE Work

Finally, in news that may actually make some shareholders breathe a sigh of relief, Elon Musk will start scaling back his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Starting next month, Musk will devote more of his attention to Tesla, where he’s needed most. Perhaps this will bring more stability, though, knowing Musk, expect a few distractions along the way.

Tesla has settled a wrongful death lawsuit involving the 2021 death of a Model Y driver, likely in an effort to avoid the drama of a high-profile trial. While the exact terms of the settlement remain under wraps, it seems Tesla decided it was easier to pay up than continuing to fight it in US courts.

In April 2021 2021, 72-year-old Clyde Leach was driving his Tesla Model Y in Ohio when it apparently accelerated unexpectedly and speared off the road. It then slammed into a pillar at a gas station. Leach reportedly died from burns, blunt force trauma, and other injuries. His estate filed the wrongful death lawsuit against Tesla, with the case initially scheduled to go to trial in April 2026.

Read: Someone Already Crashed A 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper After Only 197 Miles

In a filing with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, both Leach’s estate and Tesla confirmed that a settlement had been reached for all claims.

The original lawsuit alleged that prior to the deadly impact, the Model Y’s automatic emergency braking system did not engage, nor did it deploy any other automation and safety mechanisms. Additionally, Leach’s estate claimed Tesla was aware of “numerous complaints of sudden acceleration” in its vehicles prior to the 2021 incident.

As we have seen in other instances in the past, Tesla denied the allegations, maintaining that Leach was solely responsible for the crash.

In October last year, Leach’s estate asked a San Francisco judge to sanction Tesla for stalling efforts to reach a settlement. They said a deal had been reached for a confidential amount, but later learned Tesla’s designee could not approve a settlement on his own.

This is not the first time that Tesla has settled a wrongful death lawsuit in the United States. In April 2024, the company settled a lawsuit filed by the family of Walter Huang, who was killed in 2018 while driving his Model X with the Autopilot features engaged.

Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil producer and fourth-largest company by revenue, knows that the days of relying solely on oil are numbered. In a bid to future-proof itself, the company has entered into a partnership with BYD, the world’s second-largest manufacturer of electric vehicles, to collaborate on new energy vehicle technologies.

A Joint Development Agreement was signed by Saudi Aramco Technology Company and BYD this week. It “aims to foster the development and innovative technologies that enhance efficiency and environmental performance” as they are seeking “new energy vehicle breakthroughs.”

Read: This Tiny Engine Turns EVs Into Gas Hybrids

Limited details have been announced about the partnership, but it could have far-reaching effects across the automotive industry. As two titans of their respective industries, Aramco and BYD have huge amounts of power and can set trends and redefine markets that their competitors will have to follow.

Aramco says it is working to optimize transport efficiency, exploring advanced powertrain concepts and working on lower-carbon fuels. The Saudi giant believes that “multiple approaches” are needed for a practical energy transition.

“At the crossroads of technological innovation and environmental protection, BYD always believes that true breakthroughs come from openness and collaboration,” the company’s senior vice president, Luo Hongbin, said according to a Business Inquire report.

“We expect that SATC and our cutting-edge R&D capabilities in new energy vehicles will break the boundaries of geography and mindset to incubate solutions that combine highly-efficient performance with a lower carbon footprint. We are confident that this will support the world’s efforts to address the climate challenge.”

BYD no longer sells any consumer vehicles without a plug. Last year, it sold 4.27 million new energy vehicles. Of these, roughly 1.7 million were BEVs, while the remaining 2.48 million were PHEVs.

More: BYD’s Concepts Are All About Gold, Dragons, And Video Games

In China, the term new energy vehicles refers to those that are powered in part or primarily with electricity and alternative fuels. They include plug-in hybrids, battery electric vehicles, and fuel-cell EVs. Aramco will logically be eager to grow the reach of BYD‘s plug-in hybrid models, which retain an internal combustion engine running on gasoline.

This partnership with BYD isn’t the only move Aramco is making in the automotive industry. The Saudi juggernaut also owns a stake in Horse Powertrain, the partnership between Renault and Geely that aims to develop and produce innovative new combustion engines. Earlier this week, Horse unveiled a hybrid powertrain concept that can add a small combustion engine to existing electric vehicle platforms.

It feels like a new electric SUV is being unveiled every other day, and now, Land Rover is jumping on the bandwagon with its own version: a smaller, electric Defender. This upcoming model, which could be called the Defender Sport, was recently spotted during testing earlier this month. Once it hits production, it might look something like this.

Read: This Is Land Rover’s New Defender Baby EV

The renderings of the baby Defender based on recent prototype sightings give us a glimpse into Land Rover’s potential styling direction for the new model. While the prototype we spotted was heavily camouflaged, it was pretty clear the vehicle shares a boxy shape with its full-sized sibling, the Defender.

Exterior Design

Created by Nikita Chuyko for Kolesa, the front end of the vehicle features headlights that resemble those of the current Defender, albeit with a twist, as they appear to have been “cut in half” to match the smaller profile of the baby Defender. Gone is the traditional grille, replaced with a series of non-descript slits similar to those on the larger Defender, along with larger air intakes on either side of the bumper.

Much like its bigger brother, this electric Land Rover also sports flared arches at both the front and rear. The prototype was shown with blacked-out wing mirrors and pillars, except for the color-matched C-pillar, which adds a nice touch of contrast.

The rear of the baby Defender may be the most intriguing part of its design. Much like the controversial new Hyundai Santa Fe, the taillights of the Land Rover have been positioned very far down, sitting just above the bumper. While this gives the vehicle a distinctive look, we think it would look better if the lights were placed a little higher.

What Powertrain Will It Have?

The mini Defender EV is likely to be built on Jaguar Land Rover’s new EMA platform, which will also underpin the next-gen Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Land Rover Discovery Sport models. This platform is designed to support an 800-volt electric architecture, meaning it’ll come with the capability for 350 kW fast charging.

We expect the baby Defender to come with all-wheel drive as standard, with twin-motor configurations likely aimed at retaining the off-road prowess that’s synonymous with the full-sized Defender.

What Rivals Will The Baby Defender EV Have?

The baby Defender EV’s most direct rival will be a smaller version of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also in the works for production. The ‘Little G’ will be available exclusively with an electric powertrain, though specifics about its setup are still under wraps at this stage. While the practicality of all-electric off-roaders remains up for debate, we’re definitely excited to see these two newcomers hit the market.

When Can We Expect It?

Land Rover is likely to launch the new baby Defender EV in 2027, as a 2028 model, with the smaller G-Class expected to arrive around the same time, if not a bit earlier. As for pricing, expect the mini Defender to be significantly more affordable than the current Defender, which starts at $60,800 for the four-door Defender 110 and $56,900 for the two-door Defender 90.

A teenager from Kansas City is facing federal charges after allegedly setting a Tesla Cybertruck on fire at a local Tesla facility. Owen McIntire, a 19-year-old student from the University of Massachusetts Boston, appeared in court last week. His arrest comes after a stern warning from U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who made it clear that individuals firebombing Tesla properties will spend time behind bars.

The incident took place on March 17, around 11:16 p.m. A Kansas City Police Department officer noticed smoke coming from a Cybertruck parked at the Tesla Center. The officer also found a Molotov cocktail burning near the vehicle. By the time the Kansas City Fire Department arrived, the fire had spread to a second Cybertruck, and two charging stations had also been damaged.

Read: Tesla Under Siege As Multiple EVs Set On Fire And Vandalized Across The US In One Day

Before the Kansas City Fire Department could respond to the scene, the fire spread to a second Cybertruck. Two charging stations were also damaged by the blaze.

“ATF’s Special Agents and forensic experts recovered and analyzed key evidence—including Molotov cocktails—used in this deliberate and dangerous arson attack,” said Dan Driscoll, Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). “This wasn’t vandalism — it was a violent criminal act.”

McIntire is now facing charges for unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device and malicious damage by fire of property used in interstate commerce. He appeared for his initial hearing at the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts. McIntire, a student at the University of Massachusetts Boston, is now awaiting further legal proceedings.

In response to the arrest, Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, “Let me be extremely clear to anyone who still wants to firebomb a Tesla property: you will not evade us. You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars. It is not worth it.”

This marks the second arrest in just a week involving suspects allegedly tied to attacks on Tesla facilities or vehicles. FBI Director Kash Patel noted, “These actions are dangerous, they are illegal, and we are going to arrest those responsible. We will work with our partners at the Department of Justice to hold accountable anyone who commits such crimes. I commend our FBI teams in Kansas City and Boston for their work.”

Screenshot via KMBC 9

In 2017, Leapmotor, a relatively obscure Chinese car company, introduced the LP-S01, an odd four-seat electric coupe that caught few eyes at the time. Fast forward a few years, and the company has become a proper contender in China’s expanding EV market, thanks to models like the T03 city car and the C11 electric crossover. Now, Stellantis’ Chinese partner it’s readying its first electric sedan.

Showcased for the first time in photos shared by both Leapmotor and China’s trademark office ahead of its public debut at the Shanghai Auto Show later this month, the sedan is named the B01. Not to be confused with the B10, Leapmotor’s electric SUV, the B01 bears a strong resemblance to the former, with the key difference being, of course, that it’s a sedan. In a world where more and more SUVs hit the market, it’s nice to see a new electric sedan hitting the market.

Read: Stellantis Suddenly Ends Leapmotor EV Production In Poland Amid Tariff Tensions

However, if you were hoping that Leapmotor would throw out the rulebook and design a new car unlike any other, you may be sorely disappointed. Like so many other new sedans to hit the market, there’s nothing particularly extraordinary about the B01. In fact, it all looks rather bland. But if you’re the type of person only interested in driving an appliance from Point A to Point B, that might be fine.

Much like the B10, the front of the B01 includes narrow headlights, an LED light bar, and a blacked-out bumper section. The sides are quite simple, with only a few creases and flush door handles. Found at the rear of Leapmotor’s electric sedan are LED lights and (you guessed it) a light bar.

Two powertrains will be offered, and both will use lithium-iron phosphate batteries from CALB. The entry-level model will rock a 177 hp (132 kW) electric motor while the flagship model will have a 214 hp (160 kW) motor. There’s no word on the size of the battery pack and how far the car will be able to travel on a charge.

However, one thing that can’t be overlooked is the price. As with most EVs coming out of China, the B01 is expected to be affordable, with local reports suggesting a price tag ranging from 100,000 yuan to 150,000 yuan (roughly $13,600 to $20,400). And because we’re talking about a Chinese EV, you can even opt for a roof-mounted LiDAR system, just in case you’re feeling extra fancy.

Nio’s mass-market Onvo brand is venturing into the world of three-row electric SUVs and this is its new entry. Known as the L90, it launches as the brand’s second model after the Tesla Model Y-rivaling L60, which premiered in 2024. Think of it as a bit like a Chinese version of the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9, except it promises more performance.

Information from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in China reveals the L90 is 5,145 mm (202.5 inches) long, 1,998 mm (78.6 inches) wide, and stands 1,766 mm (69.5 inches) tall, with a 3,110 mm (122.4-inch) wheelbase. Visually, it shares some similarities with the much smaller L60, but it does seem as though Nio’s designers have copied some of the homework of Genesis as well.

Read: Onvo’s L80 SUV Could Look Something Like This

The SUV’s front end is quite simple, with no traditional grille and only a small one located towards the base of the bumper. The split LED headlights share an uncanny resemblance to those from Genesis models, although the L90’s lights do have a subtle curve, making them stand out.

This particular L90 is finished in a classy shade of subtle gold with silver-colored wheels and silver trim around the side windows. Like the L60, the taillights of the three-row SUV are thin LED units. We don’t yet have any images showing the cabin, but we expect to see it dominated by large screens and premium surfaces.

Onvo will reportedly offer the L90 with both nickel manganese cobalt and lithium-iron phosphate battery packs. It’s unclear what kind of driving range is to be expected from the SUV, nor do we know how quickly it can charge. However, like all other Nio models, the L90 will support battery swapping, meaning that ultra-fast charging isn’t as important as it is in other EVs.

All versions of the L90 will ship with a pair of electric motors. These consist of a 134 hp (100 kW) unit at the front axle and a 456 hp (340 kW) one at the rear, resulting in a combined 440 kW (590 hp). That’s a lot more than the flagship Ioniq 9 Performance that has 429 hp and the Kia EV9 GT with its 501 hp.

Many car enthusiasts often gripe about electric vehicles lacking “soul,” mainly because they don’t feature an engine that churns out thousands of mini-explosions every minute. And of course, they don’t need an exhaust system, since there are no emissions to expel. But one man is trying to change that, well, kind of. He’s created an exhaust system for the Tesla Model Y. And no, it’s not what you’re expecting.

Rather than blasting out smoke, soot, or toxic fumes into the atmosphere, this exhaust system sends for the Model Y spews out nothing but bubbles. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it might just be the perfect way for the Tesla to show off a little personality. The best part? It seems like other owners might be able to get in on the action too.

Read: Tesla Finally Launches Cheaper Model Y Juniper In America

A video showing the bubble exhaust in action was first shared on Reddit and attracted quite a lot of attention from Model Y owners wanting something similar. The man who created the kit has since published a Facebook Marketplace listing for it, promising to sell the bubble exhaust for $700, including installation.

The listing states that the kit includes a small reservoir installed in the trunk that is filled with the bubble solution. The system is then operated by a wireless remote control and sends out bubbles from two silver tailpipes installed into the rear bumper. Its creator says his son came up with the idea, and thanks to his engineering background, he was tasked with making it a reality.

The bubble exhaust kit can be purchased and installed in Weston, Massachusetts, a short drive from Boston. However, in a Reddit post, a neighbor of the kit’s creator mentioned that more units will be produced soon. The plan is to ship them out to customers across the lower 48 states.

It’s hardly a secret that many EVs plummet in value faster than a rock skipping across a pond, even more so when it comes to premium German brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. Even Porsche and its Taycan haven’t escaped that unfortunate fate. While that’s a gut punch for sellers, it’s a jackpot for buyers looking to snag a six-figure electric Porsche on the cheap.

More: Someone Snagged A Steal On This 1k-Mile Porsche 911 T Coupe

The Taycan is closely related to the Audi e-tron GT, the prices of which have collapsed on the used market over the past year or so. So far, it hasn’t depreciated to the same extent as the Audi, likely owing to the fact that, as a brand, Porsche is more desirable and exclusive than its sibling in the VW Group. However, one 2023 Taycan recently sold on Bring a Trailer for just $54,000 despite having an original MSRP of $109,310 before taxes and fees.

The Taycan’s Core Features Still Hold Up

This may be the entry-level Taycan, but it’s still a very good EV. It’s equipped with a single rear-wheel electric motor that delivers 469 hp and 263 lb-ft (357 Nm) of torque, powered by a hefty 93.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. When it changed hands, it had around 27,000 miles (43,400 km) on the clock and came with a clean CarFax, so it wasn’t a junkyard special.

While the Turbo S and Turbo GT versions tend to steal the spotlight, the interior of the entry-level Taycan is nearly identical to those models, and this particular example came with some appealing options.

Among them are the 20-inch Sport Aero wheels, the upgraded 93.4 kWh battery (a $5,780 option), Porsche’s InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system, and the $5,960 Premium package. The latter adds a surround-view camera, power-folding wing mirrors, a $1,200 Bose audio system, a fixed panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, power-ventilated front seats, and Lane Change Assist.

Ouch for the Seller, Win for the Buyer

We can’t help but feel bad for the individual who lost $56,000, or more than half of the original price, after just two years of ownership. But on the flip side, the new owner has likely walked away with a pretty sweet deal. The big question now is whether the price drop will continue as the heavily revised 2025 models start showing up on US roads.

More: Seller Refuses $64K For Brand New Dodge Durango Hellcat Sitting For 4 Years

The lesson here? Smart buyers can skip the sticker shock of a new Taycan and dive straight into a used one for a fraction of the price. Just make sure you get one with a remaining warranty, or better yet, an extended one, because if something critical goes wrong, it could end up costing more than the car itself.

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