Electric or not, the M3 still matters, especially when BMW decides to shake things up. Car enthusiasts haven’t exactly been begging for an all-electric version of the M3, but that hasn’t stopped BMW from building one anyway.

The upcoming EV, currently referred to as the iM3, will be sold alongside the combustion-powered version of the sports sedan. Over the past year, it’s been spotted undergoing testing in multiple locations around the globe. Now, two new prototypes have been caught by our spy photographers, giving us a closer look at some previously unseen details.

Sharp Looks, Familiar Details

One of the camouflaged test cars appears to be wearing production-ready fender flares for the first time. These widened arches are a subtle but important detail, giving the car a broader, more aggressive stance that mirrors the current G80 M3’s proportions. Visually, they make a strong first impression.

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

This same prototype is also equipped with a set of eye-catching black wheels featuring an intricate spoke design, similar to those of the G80 and the G82 M3. As we’ve seen in the past, it also has a Neue Klasse-inspired front fascia with sleek headlights that flow gracefully into the small faux kidney grilles. There are no coffin grilles in sight.

Similarly, the rear end is radically different than the current six-cylinder model, and thankfully, does not appear as short and stumpy as the weird rear of BMW’s recently unveiled Vision Driving Experience Concept.

Heavyweight Status Confirmed

A second prototype was also spotted, this time fitted with a set of 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires, sized at 295/35. More interestingly, our photographers also managed to capture a shot of the door badge displaying the car’s VIN and preliminary weight figures.

Four numbers were listed: 2,675 kg (5,897 lbs), 4,475 kg (9,865 lbs), 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs), and 1,475 kg (3,252 lbs). The first figure, 2,675 kg (5,897 lbs), appears to represent the gross vehicle weight or the total allowable weight of the car, including its own mass, passengers, cargo, and fluids. The second figure, 4,475 kg (9,865 lbs), likely refers to the gross combined weight when towing a trailer. The final two numbers specify the maximum axle loads: 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs) at the front and 1,475 kg (3,252 lbs) at the rear.

The number that stands out is the preliminary gross weight of 2,675 kg (5,897 lbs), and how that stacks up against the current ICE-powered M3 Sedan. According to BMW’s spec sheet, the base M3 has a curb weight of 1,780 kg (3,924 lbs) and a maximum permissible weight (presumably equivalent to gross weight) of 2,210 kg (4,872 lbs).

More: The 2025 BMW M5 Weighs 1,000 Lbs More Than Its Predecessor, Is Heavier Than Many F-150s!

That would make the electric M3 prototype at least 465 kg (1,025 lbs) heavier than its gas-powered counterpart, but somewhat surprisingly, possibly lighter than the ICE M5, which has a maximum permissible weight of 2,950 kg (6,504 lbs) and a curb weight of 2,510 kg (5,534 lbs).

However, it’s worth pointing out that the ICE model’s gross weight includes a full tank of fuel and various fluids not needed in an EV. For reference, the ICE M3 also has maximum axle load ratings of 1,080 kg (2,381 lbs) at the front and 1,180 kg (2,601 lbs) at the rear.

The interior of this car was also snapped. However, it has been fitted with several temporary parts, including two displays that won’t make it to the production model. Perhaps the only part visible on this prototype that could make it to production is the intriguing steering wheel.

BMW hasn’t officially announced a launch date, but according to a report, production is expected to begin in March 2027 and continue through October 2034. For now, only a sedan is mentioned, though rumors of a Touring version continue to circulate.

Baldauf

Solid-state batteries have been the big promise in the EV world for years now. Enthusiasts and experts alike have predicted they would render current battery chemistries like LFP and NMC practically obsolete by this point. So far, though, we’re still waiting for that promised breakthrough.

Still, the world’s largest carmakers aren’t ready to give up on them just yet. Companies like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis continue to pour resources into solid-state tech, lured by the possibility of EVs that could travel over 1,000 km (621 miles) on a single charge.

BMW recently started testing a specially-equipped i7 prototype in Munich with large-format solid-state cells from US company Solid Power. These cells use sulfide-based electrolytes and will be used in future Neue Klasse models from the automaker. But it won’t be until the 2030s that mass production of these cars begins.

Read: Mercedes EQS Solid State Prototype Hits The Street With 621 Miles Of Range

Cross-town rival Mercedes-Benz is also working on solid-state EVs of its own. It started real-world testing of a retrofitted EQS in February, using a battery from Factorial Energy, a company Mercedes has been working with for several years.

According to Auto News, this new battery will have 25% higher energy than current packs. It’ll also be lighter and more compact. This will also impact the designs of future Mercedes models with solid-state packs, according to the company’s head of battery development, Uwe Keller.

“[These benefits] not only lead to longer vehicle ranges but also affect the vehicle design, for example the architecture,” he revealed. “Solid state cells are also less prone to overheating.”

Stellantis is also making moves to bring solid-state batteries to the market. Like Mercedes, it’s working with Factorial Energy on the project and will start tests in 2026. According to the senior vice president of tech research at Stellantis, Anne Laliron, “Solid state is the North Star in battery chemistry,” allowing car brands to choose between “more range or fewer materials – both reduce cost and carbon footprint.”

While it’s unclear when Stellantis will bring the tech to the road, both Toyota and Nissan believe they can commercialize solid-state batteries in the very near future. Toyota is targeting production in 2027, while Nissan says it can launch a solid-state battery by 2028. However, given the turmoil Nissan currently finds itself in, we wouldn’t be shocked to see that date get pushed back.

Tesla is no stranger to recalls in the United States, but more often than not, its vehicles can be fixed with a simple over-the-air software update. However, that’s not the case with their latest recall, which will require owners to return their cars to a store or service center to be fixed. Making things worse for Tesla is the fact that the recall is for the brand-new 2026 Model Y and Model 3.

A safety report reveals that one or more fasteners joining the seat back to the seat base may not have been torqued correctly during assembly. Owners of vehicles with the defect may now have a loose or rattling seat. Unsurprisingly, the NHTSA and Tesla have determined this poses a safety risk in the event of a crash, prompting a recall.

Read: Tesla Starts 2025 With Recall For 240,000 EVs, Some May Need New Computers

Fortunately for Tesla, the recall only impacts 48 vehicles in the United States, of which just 2.1% are estimated to contain the defect. Cars being recalled include 30 Tesla Model Ys built between April 3, 2025, and May 7, 2025, as well as 18 Model 3s manufactured from Apr 3, 2025, to April 16, 2025.

The NHTSA recall reveals the fault could affect either the driver or front passenger seat, or both. Tesla became aware of an issue on May 12 after it received a customer complaint. It was quickly determined that 2 of the 4 fasteners used to secure the seat back to the seat bottom on the driver’s seat were completely missing.

Tesla claims to have pinpointed the root cause of the issue. It states that on April 2, 2025, a production change at the factory made it possible to manually advance the seat assembly from the backup manual assembly station without the system having to verify that the fasteners were present or torqued correctly.

Owners impacted by the recall will be notified on August 16. Dealers have been instructed to inspect the seat assemblies and, if necessary, replace any missing or incorrectly tightened fasteners.

BYD’s growth has been exponential, and last year, it was the sixth-largest carmaker by volume, selling an incredible 4.27 million vehicles. This year, BYD is targeting 30% growth and is pushing to sell as many as 5.5 million cars. However, unnamed sources claim the company’s expansion has slowed in recent months, and it has reduced production at some of its factories.

It’s claimed that BYD has cut night shifts at some of its factories while also reducing output by at least a third. These changes have reportedly been made at four factories, at least. In addition, BYD is believed to have suspended plans to set up several new production lines.

Read: This Country Faces A Cheap EV Invasion That Could Destroy Its Auto Industry

Sources speaking with Reuters did not specify the exact scale of the production reduction, but one said the moves were being made because BYD’s sales have failed to meet its targets, while another suggested the company is looking to reduce costs.

Growing Pains

In April, the growth of BYD’s global output had slowed to 13% year-over-year, and in May, it slowed to 0.2%. These were the slowest growth rates the company has seen since February 2024. In addition, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers’ data has revealed that BYD’s average output in April and May was 29% lower than in the fourth quarter of 2024.

BYD’s incredible expansion has put many legacy car brands on notice in key markets worldwide. With an ever-growing range of competitively priced models, BYD has triggered an industry-crushing price war. While this has helped to drive up sales, it has also increased inventories. In China, BYD dealers held an average inventory of 3.21 months, significantly above the local industry average of 1.38 months, and the highest of all brands in China.

One major BYD dealer was recently forced to close 20 dealerships across the country. Soaring inventories have also prompted the China Auto Dealers Chamber of Commerce to tell carmakers to stop offloading so many cars and to set production targets in line with sales.

A Profitable, Yet Bumpy Ride

In March this year, BYD announced that its annual revenue for 2024 reached 777 billion yuan ($108.3 billion), surpassing Tesla’s $97.7 billion. This marked a 29% increase from the previous year, driven largely by strong hybrid vehicle sales, positioning BYD as the new leader in the electrified market.

Volvo’s fleet of electric vehicles features models like the EX30, EX40, C40, and the EX90. As of a few months ago, it now also includes the ES90 sedan, conceived as a rival to the BMW i5. Soon, the brand’s EV family will welcome a new member in the form of the EX60.

First teased as a clay model during the unveiling of the ES90 in March, the EX60 will serve as an electric alternative to the compelling – but aging – XC60. This image shared on social media reveals one of the SUV’s taillights. It features a blocky design with prominent LED lighting signatures and, as is customary for a Volvo SUV, the lights extend up the rear pillars.

Read: Volvo EX60 SUV Makes Surprise Appearance

In the post, the company noted that the EX60 is “fully software-defined and built to evolve over time.” It added, “the Volvo EX60 is more than a midsize SUV, it’s the future. Arriving in early 2026.”

Volvo is remaining tight-lipped about many of the EX60’s key details. However, we know it will be its first model based on the scalable SPA3 architecture, an upgraded version of the SPA2 platform used by the EX90 and ES90.

Details about the powertrains that will be offered for the XC60 are not yet known. However, it’s reasonable to assume it may have similar specs to the ES90, likely being available in single- and dual-motor guise. If the EX60’s battery pack matches the 102 kWh capacity of the ES90, its range should be close to the 400-mile (644 km) mark. Thanks to a DC fast charging capabilities, juicing up this battery should be quick. The ES90 supports 350 kW inputs, and 186 miles (300 km) of range can be added in just 10 minutes.

Earlier this month, Volvo announced the EX60 would be the first model to receive its new multi-adaptive safety belt. This uses sensors to determine the height, weight, and shape of a passenger and can tailor the amount of force needed in the event of a crash.

A new Mercedes-AMG is coming, and while it remains shrouded in mystery, photos of it have been leaked online, following the official teasers. Painted in a bright shade of orange, it appears to be the long-awaited electric sedan, set to rival the Porsche Taycan and the Audi e-tron GT.

The automaker first teased this new model earlier in the month, releasing an image of the hood and the roof. These looked similar with the Vision One-Eleven concept from back in 2023, which also featured a bright orange paint scheme.

Read: AMG Teases Something Wild And Orange But There’s No Rear Window In Sight

In April, a different teaser was released, showing the silhouette of a sleek four-door sedan, lending credence to the earlier spy shots of a Porsche Taycan rival. This has already been previewed by the Mercedes Vision AMG Concept from 2022, although the production version appears to have evolved in terms of styling.

The latest teasers are a lot more revealing, confirming the absence of a rear window, just like the Polestar 4 and the Avatr 12. The tail boasts six circular taillights, positioned much higher than the concept. Between them, there is a pixel LED panel similar to a Hyundai Ioniq 5, which might be configurable to display custom messages.

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A set of leaked photos that surfaced online earlier today show a large grille which appears to be illuminated. The model has a sharp nose and fender-mounted LED headlights that bring to mind the SLR Stirling Moss from 2009.

The interior looks like it came straight out of a concept car, with a yoke-shaped steering wheel and a digital cockpit that looks different from other production Mercedes-AMG models. We can also see orange ambient lighting and straps instead of door handles.

More: Mercedes Won’t Let Its Cars Look Like Appliances On Wheels, Thinks This Concept Proves It

The company hasn’t said when it will unveil this car, only stating that “something is stirring in the Mercedes-AMG garage.” It adds that “a new dimension is about to unfold.” However, the leaked photos suggest that the debut is imminent.

The production model is expected to be underpinned by the AMG.EV architecture, which includes an 800-volt system. Thanks to the trick axial flux electric motors, it could deliver over 1,000 hp, posing as the fully electric equivalent of the AMG GT 4-Door.

Mercedes-AMG

BMW’s upcoming all-electric 3-Series, known as the i3 (no relation to the oddball 2013 hatchback of the same name), is set to arrive next year. New insider information hints that the lineup will be broader than expected, with several variants in the pipeline. Among them is the flagship iM3, a high-performance electric M3 that could pack over 700 horsepower.

While some automakers have been forced to rethink their EV strategy, BMW is going all-in. Starting with the iM3, it will reportedly begin production in March 2027, continuing through October 2034. This timeline comes from BimmerPost user ‘ynguldyn‘, a well-known BMW insider with a solid track record for accurate leaks.

Unlike the current gas-powered M3, which is offered in several different guises, including the base model, the M3 Performance, the first-ever M3 Touring, and the M3 CS, just a single version of the iM3 has been confirmed at this stage.

Read: BMW Vision Vehicle Is Our Best Look Yet At The iM3 Neue Klasse

Unfortunately, powertrain details remain a mystery and may not be known until a few months the car is launched. It’s been suggested that it could have as many as four electric motors, allowing for the use of complex torque vectoring.

The iM3 will also be one of BMW’s first production models to use its new natural fiber material. Announced last week, the natural fiber composite has been developed alongside a Swiss firm and is derived from flax seeds. It’s designed to be just as strong as carbon fiber, but with 40% fewer CO2 emissions required for its manufacture. It could be used on the car’s bucket seats and other trims. There will also be a head-up display as standard and a panoramic sunroof.

What About The Non-M i3s?

Beyond the iM3, the standard i3 lineup is expected to enter production in July 2026, running alongside the flagship until October 2034. Several versions are reportedly on the table, including i3 20, 40, 40 xDrive, 50, 50 xDrive, and the M60 xDrive. The M60 model is scheduled to arrive in March 2027.

Technical specifications remain under wraps, but key features could include similar multi-function seats from the 5-Series, a panoramic glass sunroof as standard, optional highway driving assistant, and a choice of 19-, 20-, and 21-inch wheels. The M60 xDrive will also sport an adaptive M suspension, M brakes, an M steering wheel, and other sporty features.

Cheap plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles from China are rolling into global markets at full throttle, and Brazil is starting to feel the pressure. One of the most aggressive players in this push, BYD, is now operating an entire fleet of its own massive car-carrying ships.

While the influx of affordable new models has its supporters, a growing number of Brazilian industry experts are voicing concerns that these imported vehicles could undermine the country’s long-established auto manufacturing sector, Reuters reports.

Also: China’s Cheap EV Bargain That Might Be Watching Your Every Move

Brazil ranks as the world’s sixth-largest car market, so it’s not exactly surprising that companies like BYD are keen to carve out their share. But unlike longtime players such as Volkswagen, General Motors, and Stellantis, which have spent decades building factories and jobs across the country, BYD and other brands including GWM and Volvo are shipping in cars from overseas, bypassing local production.

Tariffs, or a lack thereof, are one of the reasons why Brazil has become so important for Chinese car brands. A decade ago, the government scrapped tariffs on imported vehicles in a bid to drive up demand for electric vehicles built overseas. It did reinstate a 10% tariff on EVs last year, but this is relatively small compared to the company-specific tariffs that Chinese brands are facing in Europe.

The Chinese Have Arrived

Chinese brands like BYD appear to be rushing to import as many vehicles into Brazil as quickly as possible. Currently, these carmakers can import up to $169 million worth of PHEVs and $226 million EVs toll-free by July 2025. Import tariffs are scheduled to increase every six months and top out at 35% in 2026. However, some are calling on the government to accelerate these tariff hikes by a year, implementing the 35% rate as soon as possible.

BYD has imported approximately 22,000 vehicles to Brazil during the first five months of this year, and by the end of 2025, as many as 200,000 new vehicles from China could be imported into the country, or roughly 8% of all new car sales.

Local Production

BYD has been working on building a plant in the state of Bahia, but after foreign employees were found to be working in squalor late last year, the plant’s opening has been pushed back until December 2026. Similarly, GWM has delayed its local production plans by a year.

“We support the arrival of new brands in Brazil to produce, promote the components sector, create jobs and bring new technologies,” ANFAVEA president Igor Calvet told Reuters. “But from the moment that an excess of imports causes lower investment in production in Brazil, that worries us.”

Affordable electric cars are no longer just a pipe dream or limited to niche startups. Some of the biggest automakers are now stepping into the space, and the results are getting interesting. The Toyota bZ3X is a clear example that the Japanese giant, despite years of skepticism about EVs, can build a budget-friendly electric vehicle. Well, at least, with some help from its Chinese partners and manufacturing infrastructure.

One of the first markets outside of China where the bZ3X was launched is Ethiopia. It has been revealed that the electric SUV will be sold through select dealers in Addis Ababa and private importers, with prices starting at 6.3 million birr, or approximately $48,000. Local shoppers have pricey duties to blame for the bZ3X’s massive price hike.

Read: Toyota’s Cheapest EV Ever Costs $15,000, Gets 10,000 Orders In 60 Minutes

According to Birr Metrics, the new Toyota is subject to a 35 percent customs tax, an excise tax of up to 30 percent, VAT of 15 percent, a 10 percent surtax, and a 3 percent withholding tax. Talk about tax overload. Given the EV’s starting price, it’ll remain far out of reach for most new car buyers in Ethiopia.

Interestingly, the market for EVs is growing rapidly in the country. In early 2023, there were just 4,600 registered personal EVs, but this has increased to around 14,000 this year. In 2024, over 60% of newly registered cars were also EVs. This comes even though Ethiopia’s charging infrastructure remains underdeveloped, with most public chargers found in the nation’s capital. The country aims to have 3,000 charging stations operational by 2030.

Will It Be Sold Elsewhere?

Toyota has not yet announced what other markets the bZ3X will be sold in. If it can become available in regions like Europe, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, it could become quite popular, depending, of course, on its price.

In China, buyers can choose from three battery configurations: a 50.03 kWh LFP pack, a 58.37 kWh mid-range option, and a top-tier 67.92 kWh battery. These versions are labeled 430, 520, and 610 respectively. Pricing starts at 109,800 yuan (about $15,200) for the base 430 model, or as low as 104,800 yuan (around $14,500) with available subsidies. At the top of the range, the 610 Max trim goes up to 159,800 yuan (approximately $22,000).

Despite its entry-level pricing, the bZ3X doesn’t skimp on features. The cabin includes a large infotainment screen, digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charger, ambient lighting, and a standard 11-speaker Yamaha sound system. It’s well equipped for the price point.

The bZ3X is just one part of Toyota’s growing EV push in China. The company has been rolling out several surprisingly affordable models, including the bZ5 crossover aimed at the Tesla Model Y, which starts at 129,800 yuan (around $17,900). There’s also the upcoming bZ7 large sedan, expected to launch later this year at a price just north of $20,000.

While some Democratic lawmakers urged Tesla to delay the rollout of its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, the program officially kicked off on Sunday. It’s believed that around 12 Tesla Model Y robotaxis have hit the city streets and are operating in a small, geofenced area. And while the vehicles are indeed driving themselves, the company is keeping a light foot on the accelerator when it comes to public exposure.

Read: Tesla’s Robotaxi Launch Comes With Strict Rules And A ‘Safety Monitor’

Videos from early users, mostly influencers, reveal that each Robotaxi comes with a “safety driver” seated in the passenger seat. Yes, the passenger seat. It’s not entirely clear why Tesla made that choice, except maybe to reinforce the optics of a driverless experience.

After all, someone behind the wheel would be a dead giveaway that the system still needs supervision. Putting them in the passenger seat keeps up appearance, technically driverless, but not totally.

Among the first people to use the service were vetted customers who received early-access invitations from Tesla. As reported by TechCrunch, many of these are strong supporters of the Tesla brand. Evidently, the electric car manufacturer doesn’t yet want the general public to experience the service, obviously aware that mistakes or hiccups with the service could instantly draw a lot of criticism.

A $4.20 Ride with a Side of Caution

Early rides are priced at a very on-brand $4.20 flat rate, and the service runs from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, unless bad weather rolls in. In that case, the robotaxis are grounded. Probably a wise move considering even humans struggle with Texas thunderstorms.

The service appears to operate in a very similar way to Waymo’s. Users need to download a specific Robotaxi app and can then order a ride. Once inside, the vehicle’s rear passenger display will display navigation details and the expected arrival time. Additionally, passengers can control the audio through the rear screen.  

For the most part, the system appears to perform quite well, navigating certain roads in South Austin with relative ease. However, one video shared to YouTube by a TechCrunch reporter shows a Model Y Robotaxi unnecessarily braking and coming to a stop twice, after passing several parked police cars at a nearby crime scene.

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Mercedes-Benz may be pouring resources into electric powertrains like every other legacy automaker with a deadline and a vision statement, but that doesn’t mean internal combustion engines are on their way out. In fact, the company now expects its gas-powered models to stick around longer than originally planned, reflecting a more measured approach to the EV transition than earlier timelines suggested.

EVs and ICEs Will Coexist for the Foreseeable Future

That dual-track strategy is showing up clearly in the brand’s upcoming lineup. The next-generation CLA and the upcoming 2026 GLC will both be offered with either electric or combustion engines, giving buyers more flexibility, especially in markets where EV infrastructure is still catching up. In a recent interview with Auto Motor und Sport, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius referred to this as a “course correction” in the company’s electric roadmap.

Read: Mercedes-AMG Wants You To Forget About The EQC With This New EV

“The electrified high-tech combustion engines will run longer than we originally expected,” Kallenius told the publication. “I believe the most rational approach in the current situation is for an established manufacturer to do both and not neglect one technology.”

Still, More EVs Are Coming

Kallenius did not specify how long the combustion engines will stick around, but it should certainly be into the next decade. In the meantime, the number of EVs from Mercedes will continue to grow.

“The new CLA is the greeting from the kitchen of an entire family,” he told AMS. “Then the core segments will follow with the electric versions of the GLC, C-Class, and E-Class. We still have an incredible amount in the pipeline.”

The new GLC EV will serve as a replacement to the current EQC, which has never taken off quite as the brand would have hoped. This second-gen model will be a rival to BMW’s Neue Klasse iX3. It’ll be underpinned by the new MB.EA architecture, differing from the new CLA that uses the MMA platform. Importantly, MB.EA supports an 800-volt system and should support charging speeds of up to 320 kW.

Just like Porsche is currently doing with the Macan (albeit only in North America), Mercedes will sell the electric GLC alongside the combustion-powered version. The two won’t share a platform, but they will coexist, giving the brand some breathing room as the world transitions from fuel pumps to plugs.

The wait for Tesla’s next high-performance electric crossover is nearly over, and it looks like the final pieces are falling into place. Shortly after our spy photographers snapped a camouflaged prototype at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, a prototype has been filmed completely undisguised while testing in the German Alps.

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

It appears this fuzzy, rolling shot of the Model Y Performance prototype was taken by the exterior cameras of another Tesla that was passing by. Just like the prototype we recently spotted, this one also appears to be rocking the same front bumper as all refreshed Model Ys.

The footage, which appears to have been recorded by the external cameras of another Tesla driving nearby, gives us our clearest look yet at the updated Performance trim. Like the refreshed Model Y Juniper we’ve already seen, the front bumper carries over the same design.

Spin around, though, and you’ll see that it has a unique rear bumper. Like the standard Model Y, it’s blacked out, but there are two small diffusers. While their aerodynamic effects will probably be tiny, they do make the Performance easy to pick from lesser versions. A new badge has also been added to the tailgate, likely mimicking the ‘Plaid’ badge found on the Model 3 Performance.

The sporty EV also has some other noticeable changes. For starters, we’re given another look at the 21-inch wheels that will be fitted exclusively to the Model Y Performance. Visible at the rear is also a much larger lip spoiler, giving the Model Y some much-needed sporty appeal.

Then there’s the color. This Model Y looks like it has a unique shade of burnt orange, but that might not be the case. The side cameras of Teslas with the HW3 self-driving computer often make red cars appear orange, reportedly because they lack an infrared cut filter. So, while this tester looks orange, it’s very likely Tesla’s existing shade of red.

In terms of performance, the new model should have the same basic dual-motor system as the Model 3 Performance, delivering 510 hp and 554 lb-ft (751 Nm) of torque. That should allow it to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in just over three seconds. Quick enough to justify the badge, and probably quicker than most owners will ever need.

🔥🔥 New Tesla Model Y Performance spotted uncovered in the Alps!

✅ Sporty rear bumper
✅ New 21” wheels
✅ Carbon fiber rear spoiler
✅ Performance badge

H/t @stenboo pic.twitter.com/Wo7kUm9ZXu

— Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) June 20, 2025

The Lucid Air has earned its reputation as one of the best electric vehicles on the market, blending luxury, performance, and efficiency in a way that few EVs can match, especially outside of China. However, as is the case with most modern cars, the Air is basically a high-tech gadget on wheels, and like any laptop or smartphone these days, it comes with its fair share of tech troubles.

Read: Lucid Promised Luxury But All This Owner Got Was Regret And Nightmares

To make matters worse, getting a Lucid technician to fix a stranded Air seems to be more difficult than contacting tech support to help you troubleshoot your (much cheaper) phone.

A Familiar EV Saga

Recently, a member of the Lucid Owners Club on Facebook shared the saga of his Air GT, the flagship variant of the EV that starts at $110,000. According to the owner, “We have been locked out of our Lucid GT since Monday evening. Have tried phone, fob and Key Card”. And, of course, the issues don’t end there.

The owner pointed out that he’s been in contact with customer service from Lucid and they’ve tried, and failed, to get access to the car remotely. Apparently, they couldn’t connect to it or get it to wake up. That’s annoying, but it may not seem like the end of the world, right? Lucid should be able to get the car towed and fixed quickly, right? Wrong.

According to the owner, the local Minneapolis mobile service tech was on vacation until the following week, so they aren’t around to try and remedy the non-responsive Air. Not all hope is lost, however.

“Lucid has gotten in contact with me and we have tried everything but jumping 12v,” the owner added in the comments. “They are having towed to a partner collision center and it sounds like they will try to jump it. If that doesn’t work, we will see what happens.

If it doesn’t, the owner may be left without the golf clubs he so desperately needs by Saturday. What a predicament…

Are Modern Cars Too Complicated For Their Own Good?

Jokes aside, the issue does raise an interesting question: are cars too complicated nowadays? Do they feature too many fancy electronics that can go wrong, potentially leaving owners stranded like this? Without even a physical key slot for emergency cases, it appears this Air is useless if the 12-volt battery runs flat.

It’s not just Lucid, of course. Just earlier this week, Ford had to recall nearly 200,000 Mustang Mach-E EVs in the U.S. and another 100,000 overseas due to a problem where the doors could get stuck if the 12-volt battery fails.

More: Ford Pulls Mustang Mach-E From Sale Over Dangerous Door Lock Flaw

Call us old-fashioned, but this would never happen with a good ol’ internal combustion engine vehicle. In the past, you’d simply jump-start the car or swap out the battery, and off you’d go. Sure, every new technology has growing pains, and it’s only fair to give automakers time to work out the bugs. Electric vehicles are still relatively new, and there’s a learning curve. The truth is, the tech has made incredible strides in just a few short years.

Nevertheless, most end users expect everything to run smoothly and glitches to be fixed in heartbeat, especially if they’ve paid big money in the first place. Otherwise, they may lose their patience and steer clear of EVs until they’re damn good and ready.

With the all-new, all-electric Charger Daytona, Dodge had likely hoped it could usher in a new era of muscle cars. However, the reception to the new model is poor, so much so that the carmaker has already scrapped the base R/T version, leaving it with just a single electric Charger on sale. Combine this with the U.S. administration’s plans to drop EV incentives and relaxing emissions regulations, and it seems the electric Charger couldn’t have launched at a worse time.

But, Dodge has a second option to fall back on: the gas-powered version of the Charger. It doesn’t have a V8, but a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder, and will likely prove crucial as to whether the new Charger is a success or a flop. Dodge is reportedly ramping up production of both the ICE two-door and four-door Chargers at its Windsor Assembly Plant, allowing the site to return to two shifts.

Read: It’s Official, Dodge Is Killing The Electric Charger Daytona R/T

Dodge’s Canadian plant has been running on just a single shift for a while now, but starting June 23, it will ramp up to two shifts, with a planned two-week shutdown from August 18, Windsor Star reports. Sam Fiorani from AutoForecast Solutions told the publication that production of the two-door ICE Charger is expected to hit “quadruple digits” by September, while the four-door version is expected to reach full volume later in the third quarter.

“The (Charger) EV rollout was relatively uneventful,” Fiorani told Windsor Star. “It’s a great product, but the market for that vehicle wants gas-powered engines. The changing emission regulations in the U.S. have allowed for more gas-powered engines. The focus on the ICE variants is going to be much stronger than it had initially been planned.”

V8 in the Cards?

Not only will the gas-powered Charger appeal to more traditional muscle car enthusiasts, but Fiorani also expects it to prove much more appealing to fleet buyers than the EV.

Then there’s the matter of the V8. While Dodge is reportedly investigating whether they can fit a Hemi into the Charger’s STLA Large platform, Fiorani cautions that production data has yet to confirm whether that’s possible.

Earlier this month, some reports suggested a prototype with a V8 was spotted, but whether it’s a real possibility or just wishful thinking remains unclear. However, with Ram resurrecting the Hemi V8, it wouldn’t be entirely surprising if Dodge decided to bring back the classic muscle car engine for the Charger. The V8’s return would certainly resonate with enthusiasts who still want to hear the roar of a big engine under the hood.

Dodge Charger Daytona EV pictured

China’s car market has been riding high, fueled by generous government subsidies. Dealers are taking advantage of this in numerous ways, including some less scrupulous ones selling zero-mileage cars as “used” to pocket trade-in subsidies meant to help consumers. Now, at least six cities and municipalities have hit the brakes on these subsidies, meaning local buyers will soon face higher costs when driving off with a new car.

The pause comes on the heels of concerns over the long-term fallout from the ongoing automotive price war sweeping through the nation.

Read: The Company That Started The EV Price War Now Says It’s Gone Too Far

In cities like Zhengzhou and Luoyang, local governments have announced a break in the program, citing the depletion of the initial round of funding from Beijing. Other cities, including Xinjiang, Chongqing, and Shenyang, to name a few, have hopped on the bandwagon, suspending a subsidy initiative that was originally meant to stimulate consumer spending during China’s ongoing economic struggles.

Reuters reports that subsidies like those in effect for the auto industry, as well as electronics and home appliances, contributed to a 6.4% growth in local retail sales for May. What’s more, data from the Ministry of Commerce reveals that through the first five months of this year, there have been more than 4 million applications for car trade-in subsidies.

Some Are Taking Advantage Of The Subsidies

While the subsidies help make cars more affordable, the program is being abused. For example, there’s a growing trend of new cars being heavily discounted and sold as “zero-mileage used cars” to quickly shift inventory. Additionally, many dealers are describing new cars as used vehicles that can be traded in, making them eligible for the subsidies.

Local reports state that these practices are one of the reasons why the subsidies have been used up quicker than expected, prompting suspensions.

The country’s National Development and Reform Commission and Ministry of Finance say the subsidy program will continue throughout this year, although it’s not known when more funds will be released by Beijing.

How does an enthusiast-focused brand like Mercedes-AMG create an electric vehicle that genuinely excites drivers and buyers? Well, if you’re AMG, you apparently take a page out of Hyundai’s book, injecting a combustion engine-inspired soundtrack and throwing in a simulated dual-clutch transmission. Love it or hate it, this electric AMG promises to be unlike anything we’ve seen from the brand before.

Read: AMG Teases Something Wild And Orange But There’s No Rear Window In Sight

The brand has been testing and teasing its all-electric Porsche Taycan rival for months now and will unveil it later this year. While one could argue that AMG is a little late to the party in offering a Taycan and Audi e-tron GT rival, it will launch this vehicle before BMW and Audi enter the race with an electric M3 and an electric RS6.

Familiar Soundtrack

Teasers, as well as a concept from back in 2022, have provided us with a good idea of what to expect from the new AMG’s design, but it’s not until now that AMG has previewed what it will sound like. A teaser shared on Instagram first shows a heavily camouflaged prototype doing some high-speed donuts, all while its powertrain remains completely silent, just like most EVs. However, the video then cuts to a second and more interesting clip.

It shows the electric sedan accelerating towards the camera, and we can hear the simulated gearbox going up through the gears, before downshifting when the car comes to a stop. Accompanying the fake shifts, and what sounds like someone pulling paddle shifters, is a deep bellowing soundtrack, inevitably inspired by some of AMG’s fabled V8 engines.

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AMG’s Electric Future

It doesn’t necessarily sound bad, but there are plenty of folks who want EVs to be EVs, rather than EVs trying to mimic a combustion-powered car.

Regardless of how AMG customers respond to the electric sedan and its fake sounds, we don’t expect to hear any complaints about its performance. Power is expected to come from as many as three axial electric motors, each capable of delivering roughly 480 hp and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. That means it could easily surpass the 1,000 hp mark, delivering truly insane performance stats.

To keep up with the Taycan Turbo S and RS e-tron GT Performance, AMG’s new sedan will need to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in around 2.5 seconds, all while remaining comfortable and doubling as an excellent cruiser.

BMW builds some of the finest motorcycles on the planet, including the retro-themed R 12 S and the all-conquering M 1000 RR. However, one of its latest bikes, the CE 02 is quite unlike any other. First introduced a couple of years ago, it’s compact, all-electric, and certainly looks the part. Now, an even sweeter version has been introduced, although it’ll likely remain a one-off.

This particular CE 02 was born from a collaboration with Deus Ex Machina, the Australian brand that started out selling clothing, then pivoted to motorcycle customizing, and has since expanded into music and live events through Deus Records.

Read: BMW Motorrad Teamed Up With Some Of Canada’s Best Builders On Three Custom R 18 Bikes

The bike, known as the BMW Motorrad x Deus, is essentially a mobile DJ booth on two wheels, so it’d be perfect for cruising down Santa Monica pier in the summer. That’s if you could buy it, of course.

Deus was tasked with creating a new leather saddle for the CE 02 and has installed four compact Marshall speakers and a foldable DJ turntable. Are you a born performer who gets the urge to start playing music and entertaining at the drop of a hat? Well, an electric bike like this would be perfect.

BMW is currently touring the bike around France and will display it at various BMW Motorrad dealerships. Additionally, it will be showcased at Deus Ex Machina boutiques across the country.

As mentioned, this special version of the CE 02 won’t be offered to shoppers, but it could serve as inspiration for owners who want to customize their own electric bikes.

The CE 02 You Can Actually Buy

If you’re looking to buy a CE 02, it starts at $7,599 in the States. Officially labeled as an electric scooter, it’s designed to be straddled like a motorcycle. It’s powered by a single electric motor that comes in two versions: 5 hp and 15 hp. The more powerful version goes from 0 to 30 mph (48 km/h) in just 3.0 seconds.

The flagship model tops out at a modest 59 mph (95 km/h) and is equipped with two lithium-ion batteries that have a combined capacity of 1.96 kWh, giving it a range of around 59 miles (95 km). If you’re in a hurry to get back to the action, a quick charger will take it from 0 to 80% in 180 minutes. That’s plenty of time to grab a bite at a local food truck while you wait.

The US government might soon deliver a blow to electric vehicle buyers, as President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act aims to cut the $7,500 EV tax credit. While the Senate still has a few months to weigh in, Republicans have already drafted a separate tax and budget proposal that could bring the curtain down on the credit much sooner, affecting both new and used EVs.

Read: Car Prices Are Rising Again But Not How Experts Predicted

If passed, the new bill would eliminate the $7,500 credit for new EV purchases within 180 days. The plan also targets leased electric cars, particularly those made outside North America, by removing any tax incentives for them immediately. Used EV buyers wouldn’t be off the hook either, as the proposed bill would end the $4,000 credit for used EVs just 90 days after it’s approved.

Phasing Out the EV Tax Credit Faster

Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed by the House in late May, the EV tax credit would be phased out after 2026, six years earlier than the Biden administration had planned. However, for most car manufacturers, the credit would become unavailable at the end of this year, as in 2026, it would only be offered to companies that have sold fewer than 200,000 EVs in the United States.

Trump’s bill also calls for the axing of the used EV tax credit by the end of 2025. Crucially, as the bill moves through the Senate, revisions will likely have to be made before it’s approved.

The EV Credit Cuts Keep Coming

This new proposed bill from the Republican Senate Finance Committee also proposes to end the $7,500 for leased vehicles, which is currently available without restrictions on the origin of vehicle content or where an EV is built. However, EVs that are leased and meet North American content rules would remain eligible for the credit, but only for 180 days after the bill is approved, Reuters reports.

Regardless of when the bill is approved, it’s clear Republicans are coming after EV subsidies, so if you want to buy or lease a new or used EV with a generous tax credit, you probably only have a few more months at most to do so.

Tesla has long been the undisputed king of electric vehicles, but even titans eventually face competition. With a controversial CEO in the mix, it’s not exactly shocking to hear that the company is gearing up to pause production of both the Model Y and Cybertruck at its Texas factory. But before you jump to conclusions about poor sales, there’s actually a different reason behind this production halt.

A new report has revealed that Tesla recently informed workers at its Austin, Texas plant that production will be halted on June 30, before resuming the week after. The pause will allow the company to perform maintenance on production lines and make improvements to enable increased production.

Read: Tesla Wants All Of You To Sell Its Cars For Free

As Business Insider points out, temporarily halting production for upgrades is pretty standard practice across the automotive industry. While this move isn’t earth-shattering, it did rattle the market enough to knock Tesla’s stock down by nearly 4%.

Why Tesla Wants to Ramp Up, But Maybe Not for the Cybertruck

The Model Y, which was recently updated, might see an uptick in sales soon, which is likely why Tesla wants to ensure it’s ready to ramp up production. But the Cybertruck? Well, let’s just say Tesla’s ambitions for the electric pickup truck seem to have cooled off – a lot. Earlier this year, the company lowered its manufacturing targets for the Cybertruck, and current production lines are barely running at full capacity.

Musk had famously predicted Tesla could churn out as many as 250,000 to 500,000 Cybertrucks annually, but reality is proving much less ambitious. As of March, only about 46,000 Cybertrucks had been built and sold, despite the pickup’s promising debut earlier in 2024. So while Tesla may be gearing up for a production boost in some areas, the Cybertruck’s road to mass production is still a questionable one. At least for now.

The Smart brand is very different now from what it was just a few years ago. Its diminutive cars like the ForTwo and ForFour are no more, and instead, the brand is now only building electric SUVs in China. However, according to a new report, it may be preparing to revive one of its most cult models: the Roadster.

Read: The Smart Roadster Could Stage A Comeback After 20 Years

Smart’s UK boss, Jason Allbutt, was recently asked about the chances of a new Roadster making it into production, and he sounded pretty enthusiastic about the idea. “We used to have one of those in the family, and [it was] particularly good fun,” he told Autoexpress.

He even acknowledged the UK’s reputation for rain, pointing out that the country gets “more rain than probably any other European market,” but still suggested there might be a chance for the Roadster to make a comeback locally, saying there’s a “possibility” it could be sold in the UK.

Smart’s Next Moves

However, Allbutt stopped short of confirming if or when a new Roadster could hit the market. Smart is currently focused on volume models that it hopes can sell in large numbers. In addition to the three SUVs it currently has in its range, it is working on its first-ever electric sedan, known as the #6.

The Smart #6 will be positioned as the brand’s rival to the Tesla Model 3 and could share its underpinnings with the Zeekr 007 sedan, utilizing the latter’s PMA2+ platform. It should be offered in single and dual electric motor setups.

Before Smart can commit to a new Roadster, it also needs to ensure that there will be enough demand for it. Obviously, it would be all-electric like the brand’s other models, and to carry some of the same appeal of the original, it would need to be small and light. Alpine is working on a new electric sports car, while Porsche is also morphing the Boxster and Cayman into EVs. Smart could also look to MG for inspiration as its Cyberster has proven it’s possible to build a desirable electric roadster.

Still, not everyone is sold on the idea of an electric sports car. Speaking with Auto Express, Allbutt expressed some doubt about whether an electric Roadster could truly capture the spirit of the original. “I think a lot of people that drive these cars historically have been traditional car enthusiasts,” he said.

“Part of the joy of having the roof down, in case you have less hair to be ruffled nowadays, is also to hear the sound of the engine,” he added. “Maybe there’s a new audience that would be looking at [an electric roadster] in a different way. I’m not quite sure yet as to who the buyers of that car really are. It’s too early to tell right now, but we’ll see.”

It’s a fair point, though the market for electric roadsters is still largely uncharted.

Note: This article contains renderings from an independent study made by designers Geoffrey Decembry and Pierre Senelet and is not endorsed in any way by Smart.