This Charger has a misaligned driver’s door, a non-functional trunk, and other faults.
Nicholas Sharrett says the whole car is now “practically useless” due to the issues.
The driver’s seat also slides back automatically, once trapping the owner’s daughter.
Electric muscle cars were supposed to mark a bold new chapter, but the reality has been less than thrilling. Dodge may not want to admit it, but the Charger Daytona has not ushered in an exciting era for all-electric muscle cars as the brand would have hoped.
In the first quarter of the year, just 2,115 were sold in the US and Canada, prompting Dodge to kill off the entry-level R/T model. And for at least one buyer, it seems to be riddled with issues.
This particular Charger R/T Daytona, which we must say looks excellent painted in Peel Out Orange, is currently being leased by a man named Nicholas Sharrett. He collected it in May from Wetzel Dodge in Richmond, Indiana, and says it has been nothing but trouble. In fact, he now describes the car as “practically useless.”
The Trunk That Won’t Open
Sharrett’s biggest frustration is with the trunk. It doesn’t open, and it hasn’t worked from the day he picked it up. Curiously, Dodge has not added a trunk opener to the keyfob, nor is there a button or a latch in the cabin.
Instead, the only way to open it is to press a tiny rubber button on the taillight. That button doesn’t work, so the only way to load things into the trunk is to open the door, lower the back seats, and throw items to the rear.
Doors Out of Line
The problems don’t end with the trunk. Sharrett says the driver’s door is so badly misaligned that it rubs against the body in three different spots, even wearing away the paint at one point. Wetzel Dodge, located more than 100 miles from his home, tried to correct the alignment but told him Stellantis refused to repaint the exposed metal.
Additionally, there’s a fault with the passenger door, and it only works roughly half the time. So, if Sharrett needs to open the passenger door, he has to do so from inside the Daytona. He also says he receives error messages on the Uconnect infotainment system almost every single time he starts up the car.
The driver’s seat comes with an especially frustrating flaw. When someone in the back pulls the strap to move it forward, the seat slides as expected. But once it reaches the end of its track, it won’t stay in place and immediately begins sliding back on its own. This glitch once trapped Sharrett’s seven-year-old daughter as she was trying to climb out of the rear seat.
Sharrett’s experience might be just one case, but it leaves room for a bigger conversation. If you own a Charger Daytona, have you faced similar issues, or has your car lived up to expectations? Share your experience in the comments below.
Ford CEO Jim Farley has revealed he’s interested in a 1,000 hp off-road supercar.
He implied it could be electrified and capable of actual off-road racing.
The executive said the model would be fully adjustable and not a truck.
The Ford Bronco Raptor is one of the coolest off-roaders on the market and it’s powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with 418 hp (312 kW / 424 PS) and 440 lb-ft (596 Nm) of torque. While those are respectable numbers, they pale in comparison to the Jeep Wrangler 392, which has a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 pumping out 470 hp (350 kW / 476 PS) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm).
However, Ford could use the nuclear option and create an ungodly $300,000 off-road beast that draws inspiration from Dakar Rally racers. While the idea sounds crazy, the Mustang GTD appears to be a success and the automaker could replicate that idea in different ways.
Ford CEO Jim Farley disclosed the idea to Bloomberg’s Hot Pursuit! podcast as he said there’s “no Porsche of off-road and I’m shocked people don’t think about that.” While Porsche and their 911 Dakar may beg to differ, the executive said he’s very interested in that idea.
Farley went on to claim no one’s done an off-road supercar, despite the existence of the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato. However, he dismissed it as saying the car wouldn’t last on the Baja 500.
The executive went on to mention a 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS) supercar that would be partially electric. Farley suggested the model would be fully adjustable and this would apply to suspension travel, damping, and ride height. He went on to specify it’s “not a pickup truck” and would be able to race off-road.
The Blue Oval boss went on to suggest it would be a high-speed supercar for gravel, sand, and dirt but not rock crawling. Farley said he’s talking to his team about such a vehicle and isn’t sure if it should be a two- or four-seater.
While nothing has been decided, the executive said he’s “thinking really deeply about it” and “that usually turns into something.” He went on to suggest there’s too much sameness with modern supercars and this could be a way to shake things up.
Not A Brand For Posers
Besides talking about a possible off-road supercar, Farley said Ford’s a “weird brand” as they have no problem selling affordable vehicles as well as 5,000 F-150 Raptor R’s at $120,000. In the case of the ultra-expensive Mustang GTD, he suggested the brand can do this because they have “motorsports history” and that gives them permission to do things other automakers can’t.
Speaking of the GTD, the executive said they “don’t want posers” or people who will just keep it in their car collection. More refreshingly, he said ‘Let’s not screw the people that bought these expensive cars’ by building too many or allowing flippers to take over the market. As he explained, if people love the car and don’t end up losing money on it, they’ll likely be willing to buy the next special vehicle from Ford. We’ve already seen this play out as there have been repeat Ford GT buyers as well as GT buyers who have purchased a Mustang GTD.
The Transit-inspired lapped the famed circuit in an impressive 6:48.393.
Not even the Ford Mustang GTD can keep pace with the SuperVan 4.2.
This technical demonstrator from Ford shows what big EVs are capable of.
It’s been less than a month after the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X crushed the Ford Mustang GTD’s lap time at the Nurburgring, but it hasn’t taken the Blue Oval long to one-up its rival. However, rather than attempting a new record for the GTD, Ford took to the ‘Ring with its wild Transit SuperVan 4.2, setting a time that puts some supercars to shame, including the ZR1X.
Ford says it was inspired by a famous segment from Top Gear when taking the SuperVan 4.2 to Green Hell. In the show’s fifth season, Sabine Schmitz coached Jeremy Clarkson around the circuit in a Jaguar S-Type Diesel, attempting to set a sub-10-minute lap time.
She later proclaimed she’d be able to lap the circuit in less than 10 minutes in a Ford Transit, and in Top Gear’s sixth season, recorded an impressive time of 10:08.
While the SuperVan 4.2 may have ‘Transit’ in its name, it shares nothing in common with the road-going model. With Romain Dumas behind the wheel, who recently took out top honors at the Goodwood Festival of Speed with the F-150 Lightning Supertruck, the SuperVan 4.2 set a best time of 6:48.393.
Where Does The SuperVan Rank?
This places it ninth among non-road-legal prototypes that have lapped the circuit, although it’s well behind the VW ID.R in terms of outright EV records, which lapped the track in just 6:05.336 back in 2019.
More importantly, the SuperVan 4.2’s time edged out the Corvette ZR1X’s best time of 6:49.275 and the standard Corvette ZR1 with its 6:50.763. It is also quicker than the Mustang GTD that put in a 6:52.072 time.
The Ford has also managed to outperform some other impressive supercars, such as the Lamborghini Huracan Performante, Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, and Porsche 918 Spyder.
Admittedly, this doesn’t mean much as this is a bespoke one-off that has three electric motors and delivers 1,400 hp. It was also running on slick tires during its Nurburgring run. So no, no one will ever be able to helm anything close to it whether on road or track since it’s an one-off created by Ford just for fun – and grabbing headlines.
RJ Scaringe says the Rivian family could eventually include as many as six models.
Future affordable models may not arrive until the next decade, after the R2 and R3.
Rivian’s boss has previously complained about the lack of good sub-$50,000 EVs.
Rivian has its sights set on a much bigger future. Although production and sales of the R1S SUV and R1T pickup have leveled off over the past two and a half years, the company is already deep into development of its next generation of vehicles.
The R2, a smaller and more affordable model, is set to enter production next year, followed by the R3, which should arrive around 2028 once Rivian’s new Georgia plant is fully operational. And according to the company’s leadership, this is only the beginning.
Future Lineup Taking Shape
Speaking on the Tosh Show podcast with Daniel Tosh, Rivian chief executive RJ Scaringe confirmed that the lineup is expected to grow well beyond the R2 and R3. In fact, he suggested Rivian could eventually offer as many as six distinct models.
“We think we’ll probably end up with like, maybe, five or six different vehicles,” Scaringe explained. “So after R1, there’s R2 and R3. And after R2 and R3, there’s R4 and R5. And that’s as far out as our product plan goes today, and what we’re working on, but there may be like an R6. I can’t obviously talk about it here or show it to you… but the R4 and R5 are so cool, that’s the next, next thing after R2 and R3.”
Affordable Mass Market EVs
This isn’t the first time that Rivian has hinted at its expanded product plans. During last year’s investor day, Rivian previewed three potential “affordable mass market” vehicles to launch after the R2 and R3.
All of these vehicles were covered by sheets, hiding their designs, but if they do see the light of day, they’ll benefit from the same electrical architecture and software as other Rivian models, as well as future VW products.
Earlier this year, Scaringe noted that there are “very, very few highly compelling choices,” of EVs that cost less than $50,000, noting this is why Tesla has been able to gain such significant market share.
Rivian will no doubt hope that with more affordable models, it will be able to drastically ramp up deliveries and establish itself as a serious threat to not only Tesla but also legacy automakers, which are also investing heavily into EVs, including GM and Ford.
A semi carrying seven Teslas caught fire on I-5 in Sylmar, shutting down lanes for hours.
Firefighters faced a prolonged blaze due to EV batteries, though no injuries were reported.
Traffic snarled well past midnight; the cause of the fire was still under investigation.
Traffic in California isn’t often pleasant, but it was even worse than normal on Saturday night. Drivers on the southbound side of the 5 freeway saw something rare: a semi truck fully engulfed in flames that spread to new Teslas on the attached trailer. It took crews several hours to get the conflagration under control.
Road users reported the fire at around 5:35 p.m. local time. Based on the video of the scene, it appears as though the fire began on the truck itself and spread. In some footage, it’s clearly growing in and around the cab. Later on, it spreads up to the Tesla Model Y directly above the cab. From there, it seems that it worked its way back, damaging all but two cars on the trailer.
According to SignalCV, authorities confirmed that the driver escaped without injury. California Highway Patrol officers issued a SigAlert for two hours just before 6 p.m., but that ended up lasting far longer. At 10 p.m., it was still telling locals to expect a two-hour backup in the area. Some vehicles had to sit for so long that they ran out of fuel on the highway.
No doubt, the lithium-ion batteries onboard made putting the fire out harder than usual. Notably, it’s unclear at this point what started the fire to begin with. One person who claims to have seen the fire early on said that it began near the back tires of the truck. Reviewing topography from the area also shows a steep decline of several hundred feet on I-5 just before the location of the parked semi.
While we can’t be definitive, the combination of that statement and the steep decline suggests that overheated brakes could’ve played a role in the initial fire. At this point, we’ll have to wait for authorities to release additional information. We’re just happy that everyone escaped without injury.
Mahindra has introduced four concepts in India, previewing production SUVs for 2027.
Vision.T SUV and Vision.SXT pickup evoke Jeep Wrangler vibes with rugged, boxy styling.
Concepts ride on brand’s NU_IQ platform supporting ICE, hybrid, and electric powertrains.
The launches of glitzy supercars and high-dollar restomods at Monterey Car Week may have dominated headlines, but a different kind of automotive show unfolded thousands of miles away. In India, Mahindra used a special event to showcase four new concept vehicles, each serving as a glimpse of production models slated for 2027.
At the center of the lineup are the Vision.T off-roader and Vision.SXT pickup, both looking like futuristic interpretations of a Jeep Wrangler. They’re joined by two more SUVs, the sporty Vision.X and the more rugged Vision.S, giving Mahindra a wide spectrum of designs aimed at future buyers.
The concepts were designed in Mahindra’s Global Design studios in Mumbai, India, and Banbury, UK, adopting the automaker’s Heartcore styling language. Underneath, they sit on the new NU_IQ platform, a flexible architecture designed for gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains in both front- and all-wheel-drive layouts.
Built for Global Reach
The NU_IQ platform isn’t just versatile in terms of propulsion. It also supports both left- and right-hand drive setups, an essential feature for export ambitions. Mahindra says the platform will underpin SUVs ranging from 3,990 to 4,320 millimeters in length (157.1 to 170.1 inches), with a 2,610-millimeter (102.8-inch) wheelbase.
The company claims that the new underpinnings enable a commanding seating position, a spacious cabin with “class-leading” boot space, a flat floor (even on the ICE versions), a lightweight construction, and advanced safety.
The Indian Wranglers
The Mahindra Vision.T and .SXT concepts are an evolution of the Thar.e from 2023. However, they look a lot closer to production status, giving us a preview of the models that will eventually expand Mahindra’s model family next to the existing Thar and Thar Roxx.
The concepts have sharp grilles with LED headlights, boxy fenders, off-road bumpers, and an upright stance. Both are fitted with all-terrain tires and have a generous ground clearance. The main difference is that the Vision.T has a five-door SUV bodystyle while the Vision.SXT is a four-door derivative with an exposed cargo area. The small bed carries two full-size spare wheels secured behind a custom tailgate.
Inside, the two concepts share a five-seat layout highlighted by a tall portrait-oriented touchscreen running the center console, a digital instrument cluster, and a panel of overhead switches for added functionality.
Compact and Rugged Concepts
Moving on to the other SUV concepts, the Vision.S looks like a baby Land Rover Defender with fancy LEDs and off-road gear. It also has a rugged stance and could evolve into the smallest member of the Mahindra Scoprio family.
Boxy proportions, high ground clearance, and short overhangs give the SUV a rugged, go-anywhere stance despite its compact size. The look is reinforced by details such as roof-mounted LEDs, a roof rack, a small side ladder, and a rear-mounted spare wheel carrier. Inside, two digital displays are split by central air vents, complemented by more physical controls than typically seen in Indian concept vehicles.
The final reveal, the Vision.X, is the most athletic of the lineup. With slim LED lighting, sculpted surfaces, and contrasting glossy black accents over matte bodywork, it brings a sportier character. Inside, the curved digital cockpit and two-spoke steering wheel suggest where Mahindra’s design language could be heading for its XUV and XEV families.
Mahindra plans to bring production versions of these concepts to market starting in 2027. The rollout is expected to begin in India before spreading to export markets.
Volvo has adjusted course on its electrification strategy, choosing not to go EV-only but instead continuing to offer updated versions of its combustion-powered models alongside their electric counterparts. The first to illustrate this dual-track approach is the 90 series, where the facelifted XC90 joins the all-new EX90. At a recent local test drive event, we had the chance to experience both SUVs side by side, taking each for a spin to see how they compare.
The EX90 was originally introduced in late 2022, but production didn’t start until mid-2024 due to supply issues and lingering software bugs. On the other hand, the second-generation XC90, originally debuted in 2014, received a mild refresh in 2019, and has just been treated to a more thorough update in 2024.
The two Swedish SUVs have similar footprints with three rows of seats. However, they ride on different underpinnings, as the XC90 retains the original SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform, while the EX90 utilizes the much newer SPA 2 architecture. More importantly, the XC90 offers mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options, while the EX90 is exclusively available in fully electric form.
QUICK SPECS
Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance
Volvo XC90 T8 PHEV AWD
Powertrain
Electric
Plug-in Hybrid
Power
510 hp (380 kW / 517 PS)
449 hp (335 kW / 455 PS)
Torque
910 Nm (671 lb-ft)
709 Nm (523 lb-ft)
0-62 mph (0-100 km/h)
4.9″
5.4″
Top Speed
180 km/h (112 mph)
180 km/h (112 mph)
Battery
111 kWh
18.8 kWh
EV Range (WLTP)
614 km (382 miles)
71 km (44 miles)
Platform
SPA 2
SPA
Length
5,037 mm (198.3 inches)
4,953 mm (195 inches)
Width
1,964 mm (77.3 inches)
1,958 mm (77.1 inches)
Height
1,747 mm (68.8 inches)
1,771 mm (69.7 inches)
Wheelbase
2,985 mm (117.5 inches)
2,984 mm (117.5 inches)
Boot (behind 2nd row)
662 lt (23.4 cubic feet)
668 lt (23.6 cubic feet)
Price (GR)
€117,986 ($135,400)
€104,709 ($120,100)
Price (US)
$86,290
$74,295
SWIPE
With the specifications laid out, the question becomes how these SUVs measure up in design, cabin quality, and on-road character.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Who’s the Fairest of Them All?
Both models cut an imposing figure on the road, though the EX90 stretches a little longer with its extended rear overhang. The XC90’s 2024 facelift, particularly its redesigned front fascia, succeeds in giving the veteran SUV a fresher appearance without altering the bulk of its bodywork.
The XC90’s grille features a distinctive pattern that immediately sets it apart from the EX90’s minimalist, closed-off face. I personally prefer the look of the XC90’s slimmer LED headlights with Thor’s hammer graphics over the EX90’s pixel-style DRLs with the overly complex split-opening theatrics. As for the faux side intakes of the XC90, in my opinion it wouldn’t hurt if they were smaller as they serve no real purpose.
From the side, the EX90 asserts its modernity with a clamshell hood, sharper dynamic lines, and flared fenders that integrate more seamlessly into the body. The same applies to the futuristic design of the 22-inch wheels that edge out the classy but conservative looks of the XC90’s 21-inch alloys.
The rear end is probably the weakest point of the XC90, with the EX90 looking one generation ahead. Don’t get me wrong – I always liked the aristocratic elegance of the big ICE-powered Volvo SUV but its tail has remained the same over the past decade and it can no longer hide its age. Having said that, I’m not a huge fan of the split taillight arrangement of the EX90 with extra LEDs flanking the rear glass.
Minimalism Over Perceived Quality
Moving inside, the EX90 bets on minimalism, while the XC90 does a better job in the perceived quality with bigger chunks of fabric and wood inserts on the dashboard. The floating center console of the EV has more space for storage and a cool little case for the key, but I still prefer the more traditional setup of the XC90 with the crystal-like shifter.
In terms of tech, the XC90 has recently gained a 11.2 inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The EX90 has a bigger and more commanding 14.5-inch touchscreen that’s joined by a smaller but easier to read 9-inch instrument cluster.
The Google-powered infotainment software with crisp graphics is shared between the two, although the absence of physical buttons and shortcuts is a bit more frustrating in the EV. Overall, I didn’t like the fact I was several clicks away from accessing the selectable driving modes, but at least the climate controls are always visible on the lower end of the screen.
Predictably, the cabins of the SUVs feel similarly spacious. According to the spec sheets, the XC90 has slightly less headroom than the EX90, although it does have a touch of extra hip room on the third row. The boot is nearly identical, with 662 lt (23.4 cubic feet) for the EX90 and 668 lt (23.6 cubic feet) for the XC90 (both measured with the third-row seats folded). The seats are superb in both models, offering great levels of comfort and support for various body types.
Staying loyal to Volvo’s safety fixation (and reputation), both models come with sophisticated ADAS suites and a limited top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). However, only the EX90 has a roof-mounted LiDAR, with the XC90 still relying on radar and camera sensors.
The Driving Experience is the Decisive Factor
My drive started with the XC90, as I wanted to see if it would still impress me as much as its predecessor did when I first drove it many years ago. It most certainly did. The ride is smooth, the cabin is serene, and it still feels like an excellent long-distance cruiser.
Predictably, the XC90 still feels like a big and heavy SUV when you push it in the corners, with a healthy amount of body roll despite the efforts of the self-leveling air suspension. With a combined output of 449 hp (335 kW / 455 PS) from its plug-in hybrid powertrain, the SUV is no slouch, but it’s clearly more geared towards comfort than outright performance.
The EX90, on the other hand, feels like a step into the future. You immediately feel the difference the newer chassis makes in ride quality, combined with the more sophisticated dual-chamber air suspension. In Comfort mode, it glides over bumps, while Performance mode tightens it up reducing body roll. Furthermore, the steering of the EV feels quicker and more direct, doing a better job in disguising its heavyweight nature.
The EX90 we drove came fitted with the Performance powertrain which is a $5,000 option in the US. This dials up the combined output of the dual electric motors to 510 hp (380 kW / 517 PS) from the standard 397 hp (296 kW / 402 PS). Overall, the half-second advantage over the PHEV in the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint might not sound that big on paper, but the instant torque delivery and overall responsiveness make the EV feel significantly quicker on the road.
Final Thoughts
After spending a limited amount of time with Volvo’s two flagship SUVs, I reached two clear conclusions. The facelifted XC90 remains a strong contender in the segment, with welcome improvements in the design and ride quality. However, when driven back-to-back with the fully electric EX90, it’s clear the latter takes the lead in performance, comfort, and driving dynamics. Volvo was right to keep the ICE-powered XC90 in the lineup with thoughtful updates, but for those open to an electric-only option, the newer EX90 makes the more compelling case – even with a higher price tag.
Security footage shows water pouring after forklift hit pipe at Rivian factory.
According to the ex-worker, the flood caused more than $457k in damages.
Employee allegedly posted about the incident on TikTok and was fired months later.
Big ambitions sometimes meet unexpected detours, and for Rivian, one such moment reportedly involved a flooded factory floor in Normal, Illinois. A few months ago, operations came to a sudden stop when a forklift operator hit an overhead water pipe, sending water through the facility.
In a TikTok video reportedly posted by someone identifying as the driver, he alleged that he was under the influence and listening to music through his headphones at the time.
It shows him reversing the forklift along the line, but unbeknownst to him, it was too high, and the bright red water pipe was running a little too low. The top of the forklift can be seen smashing into the water pipe, splitting it in two, and causing water to pour into the factory.
According to the operator, who goes by the handle “deryiooo” on TikTok, work on the line had to be halted while other staffers were forced to clean up the mess. While he no longer works for Rivian, he says he was not immediately fired for slamming into the water pipe and only had to file an incident report.
While he was not initially let go, he says that several months later, he did lose his job at Rivian. At around the same time, he also received a letter in the mail, revealing that the incident had caused $457,345 worth of damage.
Carscoops has reached out to Rivian, asking for additional information about the incident and when it occurred. Some online commenters have claimed it took place in the factory’s battery department and that similar incidents have occurred at least twice before. According to those same unverified accounts, the forklift driver may have struck the overhead water pipes on two or possibly three occasions.
The Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition channels The Dark Knight Trilogy’s stealthy style.
It features unique exterior and interior touches, including countless bat emblems.
The special edition of the EV is limited to 300 units for India, each priced at $27,200.
Those of you who thought the Mahindra BE 6 had a touch of Batmobile flair may feel vindicated, as the company is now offering a Batman Edition of the EV. Marketed as “the world’s first commercially available Batman-inspired SUV”, it will be limited to 300 units and sold exclusively in India.
The Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition was developed in partnership with Warner Bros Discovery Global Consumer Products, similar to last year’s Pininfarina specials. Unlike the ultra-exclusive, high-priced models from Mahindra’s luxury arm,this collaboration applies the Batman aesthetic to a more accessible electric SUV.
The movie franchise may have moved on to Matt Reeves’ The Batman starring Robert Pattinson, but this edition takes its cues from Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Trilogy, where Christian Bale donned the iconic suit.
Bat Stickers Galore
Visually, the stealthy exterior of the BE 6 combines a custom Satin Black shade with gloss black accents. However, the standout feature is the Batman decal on the front doors, complemented by a golden bat emblem on the front fenders. Gold also appears on the springs and brake calipers, tucked behind the 20-inch alloy wheels.
Mahindra designers added more bat emblems on the hub caps, rear bumper, windows, and rear windshield, knowing that the SUV will be driven by the biggest fans of the DC Comics superhero – if not by Bruce Wayne himself.
Furthermore, there is a Batman Edition sticker on the rear door cladding and special puddle lights serving as the equivalent of the Bat Signal spotlight for the road. Another highlight is the Infinity Roof with an illuminated Dark Knight Trilogy Bat emblem on the glass.
As expected, the Batman treatment carries through to the cabin. Black suede and leather upholstery are paired with gold accents and detailing. The bat silhouette appears on the seats, interior labels, door straps, dashboard trim, and in the custom welcome graphics of the digital cockpit. A final touch is the “Brushed Alchemy Gold Batman Edition” numbered plaque mounted on the center console.
Mahindra
Pratap Bose, Chief Design and Creative Officer at Mahindra & Mahindra commented: “The BE 6 has always been about boldness and forward thinking. With the Batman Edition, we wanted to go further – to create something so personal, so visually arresting, that owning it feels like owning a piece of cinematic history. We’ve obsessed over even the smallest detail, so that every time you look at it, you discover something new.”
Performance and pricing
This special edition is based on the most powerful BE 6 variant, producing 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque from a single rear-mounted electric motor. Its 79 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of 550 km (342 miles).
Mahindra even gave it “Batman-inspired” exterior sounds, because if you are going to drive something like this, it might as well sound like it’s about to chase down the Joker.
Pricing starts at ₹27.79 lakh (about $27,200), roughly $1,000 more than the standard model, yet still making it one of the cheapest rides you could picture in Bruce Wayne’s fictional garage. Only 300 will be made, with orders opening August 23 and first deliveries timed perfectly for International Batman Day on September 20, just in case you wanted an excuse to wear a cape to the dealership
Several other police departments throughout California and using EVs.
A Palo Alto police captain says the R1S is more spacious than the Ford Explorer.
It’s unclear if the agency will purchase any other EVs from Rivian.
Update: The Palo Alto Police Department has received its first patrol-ready Rivian R1S for testing, following an announcement earlier this year. In an interview with KRON4, which had the opportunity to ride along in the specially equipped electric SUV, Assistant Chief James Reifschneider commented, “This car works perfectly with a lot of the other technologies we use here in Palo Alto that I think separate us from other agencies.”
Original story continues below.
Screenshot KRON4 / YouTube
The first-ever R1S police cruiser has officially made its debut in the United States, and it’s headed straight to Palo Alto, home to Rivian’s sprawling facility. The electric SUV was unveiled at a recent event at Rivian’s headquarters, where local Mayor Ed Lauing took a moment to shower the company with praise.
Interestingly, this charter city in the northwestern corner of Santa Clara County is also home to Tesla’s new global engineering HQ, which has been operating there since 2023. Yet, for some reason, Elon Musk’s brand didn’t quite make the cut.
Unlike the louder, garish designs you might expect from a police cruiser, the R1S keeps it understated. Most of the exterior is decked out in gloss black, while the front doors get a clean white trim. The department’s badge makes a neat appearance on the sides, adding just enough flair to remind everyone this is a police vehicle—not a luxury SUV on a road trip.
The R1S Cruiser Still Needs a Few Tweaks
For now, the R1S doesn’t have the customary red and blue roof light bar—it just didn’t arrive in time for the event. There’s also talk of a push bar being added, as well as other custom equipment for the cabin. Rivian’s engineers are reportedly working closely with the city to get the SUV ready for active duty.
Palo Alto’s Captain James Reifschneider spoke to Palo Alto Online, noting that the R1S offers significantly more cabin space than the Ford Explorers and Jeep Durangos currently used by the department.
“The electric car was created years before Rivian first shipped their EV, but Rivian wanted to be the best EV in the future, not the first EV of the past,” he said. “That sounds a lot like Palo Alto to me because Palo Alto is a great place to live and work and shop and play and go to school and that isn’t enough. We’re always looking to be more innovative going forward and to make our place in Palo Alto even better.”
Other Police EVs
Palo Alto is far from the only city jumping on the EV police cruiser bandwagon. Several agencies in California have started adding electric vehicles to their fleets, but the transition hasn’t been without its challenges.
The South Pasadena Police Department has replaced its entire fleet with Tesla Model 3s and Model Ys, but some departments have complained about the lack of space offered by these two Tesla models. The Rivian R1S is much larger, but it’s also much more expensive, starting at $75,900 in base guise before any expensive upgrades are made.
There’s no word on whether police in Palo Alto plan to add more Rivian models to their fleet.
Acura RSX Prototype previews an electric Coupe SUV arriving in the second half of 2026.
It rides on Honda’s Global EV Platform with dual motors and a sport-tuned chassis setup.
The new model will feature the new Asimo OS and be built in Ohio alongside the Integra.
A few weeks ago, a 25-year-old Integra coupe sold for $204,000. Not a typo. That kind of nostalgia tax speaks volumes about the staying power of Acura’s old coupes The Integra gave way to the RSX in 2001, which disappeared by 2006, but the nostalgia clearly stuck. Now, nearly two decades later, the RSX name is back, just don’t expect it to be anything like you remember.
Instead of a liftback coupe, the RSX nameplate returns in the form of an electric coupe SUV. Previewed by the Acura RSX Prototype, the vehicle will become the first to use Honda’s in-house global EV platform and will enter production in the second half of 2026.
Evolved Styling
Essentially a pre-production model, the crossover was unveiled at the Monterey Car Week as an evolution of last year’s Acura Performance EV Concept. This time, the exterior looks noticeably closer to production, featuring slightly thicker pillars, larger camera-based mirror units, and flush-mounted door handles.
While the prototype keeps the coupe-SUV silhouette of the earlier concept, a few design tweaks have brought it closer to reality. The bumpers and lighting elements have been updated, and it now rides on more practical 21-inch alloy wheels, down from the concept’s flashy 23-inch set. Finished in Propulsion Yellow Pearl with glossy black trim and red Brembo brakes, the RSX certainly isn’t shy.
At the front, the lower portion of the split LED headlights is hidden, while the central intake creates a smiley face. Along the sides, prominent vents on the front doors and sculpted shoulders add definition, while the rear sports a fastback-style tail with full-width taillights and a neatly integrated ducktail spoiler, which gives off strong Tesla Model Y ‘Juniper’ vibes.
Acura
A New Direction for Acura Design
Yasutake Tsuchida, Acura’s Creative Director and VP of American Honda R&D, described the RSX as “a sporty coupe style that expresses performance through excellent aerodynamics.” He added that this new model will help redefine Acura’s brand identity around “timeless beauty and a high-tech feel that is essential for a performance and unique brand.”
The interior remains under wraps for now, so there’s no word yet on the digital interface or layout. What is confirmed, however, is that the RSX will debut Honda’s new Asimo Operating System. This software is designed to learn from the driver’s habits and preferences, adapting the in-car experience to suit individual needs.
New EV Platform Promises Sporty Driving Dynamics
Unlike the Acura ZDX, which relies on GM-sourced hardware, the RSX will ride on Honda’s proprietary global EV architecture. It will be equipped with dual electric motors and all-wheel drive, with Acura promising a responsive, engaging driving experience.
A sport-tuned suspension with front double wishbones, a low center of gravity, and Brembo braking hardware round out the performance-focused package. The RSX will also feature Acura’s latest driver assistance tech and serve as a mobile energy storage solution, an increasingly common EV perk.
When Is It Coming?
The Acura RSX Prototype will be on display at The Quail on August 15 and at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 17. The production version is expected to launch in the second half of 2026 and will be positioned below the larger, existing ZDX, which starts at $64,500.
Acura has confirmed that the RSX will be built at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio, using a combination of domestic and globally sourced parts. The Marysville Auto Plant, which also produces the Integra, will handle assembly and is equipped to support gas, hybrid, and fully electric models.
A Mustang Mach-E was filmed scraping a highway wall before crashing into another vehicle.
TikTok video shows the driver with hands off the wheel, seemingly praying before the collision.
CHP says Mustang Mach-E was not in autonomous mode before the viral highway crash.
Update: Ford told us that while they are still investigating the incident, they referred us to a statement from the California Highway Patrol’s Redwood City Area office. The CHP confirmed it was aware of the video circulating on social media and said the Mustang Mach-E driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
The agency reported that the crash happened on August 13, 2025, at about 1:08 p.m. on US-101 southbound, just south of Holly Street in San Carlos. “The preliminary investigation indicates the driver of a green Ford Mustang Mach E crashed into a red Mitsubishi Mirage then collided with the right shoulder wall near the Holly Street overcrossing,” the release states.
Investigators determined the vehicle “was not operating in autonomous mode,” and officers arrested the driver “on suspicion of driving under the influence, resulting in injuries to another.”
Original story follows below.
An unusual and unsettling crash involving a Ford Mustang Mach-E unfolded yesterday in the San Francisco Bay Area. Captured on video by a nearby driver, the electric crossover was seen speeding down the highway while scraping along the side wall, just moments before colliding with another vehicle at an entrance ramp.
The footage, recorded by a commuter heading to work in San Carlos, shows a green Mach-E with its hazard lights flashing, grinding against the wall. Inside, the driver appears alert but has both hands raised and off the wheel, seemingly in a state of distress or prayer.
Unexpected Impact
The situation escalated quickly as the vehicle reached an on-ramp. With no guardrail to stop its path, the Mach-E veered into what appears to be a red Mitsubishi Mirage merging from the right. The impact caused the smaller car to roll over. Both vehicles came to a stop with airbags deployed. According to TikTok user Marty.Byrde3who filmed the scene, both drivers escaped without serious injuries.
The viral clip has already racked up around half a million views on TikTok in just a few hours. Commenters are baffled as to why the Mach-E driver could not regain control using the steering wheel or brakes, which typically override the vehicle’s electric drive system.
Reddit
Still More Questions Than Answers
From the video, it’s difficult to determine whether the vehicle was malfunctioning or if the driver was unable to take control for another reason, such as experiencing a medical episode or simply panicking.
Even in the event of a serious fault with the BlueCruise driver assistance system, like a locked steering wheel, the gas and brake pedals should still have been responsive. It’s also strange that the automatic emergency braking system didn’t activate when the car first hit the barrier or just before the final collision.
In critical situations like this, drivers can attempt an emergency stop by repeatedly pressing the parking brake button, though it’s unknown whether that was tried. The witness notes that earlier, the Mach-E had been riding the central barrier, suggesting the driver might have been using physical contact with the walls to slow the car down.
Carscoops has reached out to Ford for comment on the incident and will update this story if they respond.
California’s EV HOV access ends September 30 with the loss of an EPA waiver.
Similar programs in other states will also expire, impacting clean-energy drivers.
California’s bid to extend the program to 2027 is stalled without federal approval.
For years, driving solo in an electric or alternative fuel vehicle often came with a quiet perk: a pass into the fast-moving HOV lane. That benefit, long seen as an incentive to support cleaner transportation, is now nearing its end. California’s Clean Air Vehicle (CAV) Decal program, once a reliable shortcut for qualifying drivers, is scheduled to wind down on September 30, 2025. And the impact won’t stop at the state line.
The program exists in various forms across several states, including Maryland, Hawaii, North Carolina, and others. The system encouraged EV and alternative fuel adoption but gave drivers access to HOV lanes without meeting minimum occupancy requirements. Its continuation has always depended on an Environmental Protection Agency waiver. That same waiver is now facing a legal challenge from the Republican-led Congress.
Federal Friction
“Clean Air Vehicle Decals are a smart, cost-effective incentive that has played an important role driving the adoption of clean and zero-emission vehicles in California,” Liane Randolph, chair of the California Air Resources Board, told Road&Track. “But thanks to the federal government’s failure to act, this successful program is coming to an end.”
As of now, the program ends on September 30. After that, every vehicle in the HOV lane across the nation will need to meet minimum occupancy rules or pay a toll to gain access, regardless of propulsion type. In California alone, that’ll affect 519,000 people who have active decals for the HOV lane.
Nationwide Shift
The change won’t stop in California. According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, “Putting the brakes on this program means that starting October 1, 2025, CAV decals will no longer be valid in California, or elsewhere in the United States. All vehicles will be required to meet posted vehicle occupancy to travel in carpool lanes and pay required tolls or risk receiving a citation.”
Notably, Sacramento is trying to extend the program. State Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Bermuda Dunes) secured a bill to push the end date to January 1, 2027, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom last year. But without federal approval, that plan is dead on arrival.
Unless there’s some big surprise coming in the next month or two, HOV lanes across the USA are about to go back to being carpool lanes.
Fastest production EV at the ‘Ring stars in a Ken Block-inspired Gymkhana video.
The 1,526 hp electric sedan tears through Chinese streets with driver Ye Zhicheng.
The SU7 Ultra looks standard but hides a hydraulic handbrake for expert drifting.
Xiaomi’s latest high-performance electric sedan has been busy making history and smoke. The SU7 Ultra is now the fastest production EV to lap the Nurburgring Nordschleife, and while that achievement alone would be enough to cement its credentials, it turns out the car can dance as well as it can sprint.
In a display that might surprise those who associate all-wheel drive with understeer, a specially prepared SU7 Ultra takes center stage in a Ken Block–style Gymkhana video that could win over even the most skeptical EV enthusiasts.
Filmed on the Chinese island of Qionghai, the clip shows a bright yellow SU7 Ultra performing loads of impressive powerslides. Aiding in the car’s drifting prowess is the fitment of a hydraulic handbrake, allowing the driver to quickly lock up the rear wheels and kick out the EV’s tail.
Just like the finest of Ken Block’s Gymkhana videos, the SU7 Ultra is filmed sliding mere inches away from curbs and clipping obstacles with pinpoint precision. Behind the wheel of the EV was Formula Drift competitor Ye Zhicheng, and the production quality is just as good as anything we’ve seen from the team over at Hoonigan, who produced Block’s most famous videos.
Perhaps the most impressive stunt comes roughly halfway through the video, where the SU7 Ultra performs a figure-of-8 drift between two moving limousines. As the car pumps out a remarkable 1,526 hp, it should come as no surprise that it generates more than enough tire smoke to make the Block family proud.
Towards the end of the video, the SU7 Ultra joins up with an engine-swapped Toyota 86 to drift up a mountain road. Before long, the 86 is shown overheating, but the Xiaomi is able to continue. Xiaomi itself was so impressed with the video that company boss Lei Jun reportedly shared it on social media.
As students in Fruitland, Missouri gear up for the new school year, safety took center stage at the community’s annual Back to School Bash, where children received hands-on lessons in both school bus safety and fire emergency preparedness.
The event was hosted by the Fruitland Area Fire Protection District, which partnered with certified instructors to teach the students how to stay safe during their daily rides to and from school.
“Today we are doing a back-to-school bash. Our main focus is going to be on school bus safety for the kids,” said firefighter and paramedic Adam Hilse via a Facebook video highlighting the event,. “We want to make sure the kids stay safe while they’re on the bus.”
Hilse emphasized the importance of children knowing what to do in the event of an emergency, saying it could make a critical difference.
“It’s really important that they know this information because if an incident does happen, we want the kids to stay calm and know that there’s a plan in place,” he said to a local news reporter.
In addition to school bus safety, students also participated in a fire safety simulation, crawling through a fog-filled smokehouse to practice how to react during a house fire. The hands-on experience taught them how to stay low and navigate their way out safely.
“They can get an idea of what they need to do if that happens, how to stay low and crawl out of a building,” Hilse added to local news reporters.
The fun-filled and educational day also included a visit from Marshall, the department’s beloved fire dog, which brought plenty of smiles to the crowd. From practicing real-world safety scenarios to meeting local heroes, Fruitland students left the bash better prepared and more excited to head back to school.
Big Huey staged a video where he was allegedly broken down on a highway in the US.
Tesla quickly confirmed the clip was fake and that it doesn’t disable vehicles remotely.
Included in the rapper’s posts was a letter with a fake signature from Tesla’s VP of Legal.
An American rapper by the name of Big Huey has spectacularly claimed that Tesla remotely deactivated his Cybertruck after he released a song named after the controversial electric pickup. However, the whole saga has been staged, likely concocted as a way to generate PR for the song and drive traffic to the rapper’s Instagram page.
Things started over the weekend when Big Huey posted a video to Instagram alleging that Tesla had remotely shut down his Cybertruck, leaving him stranded on the side of a highway. The rapper shows the infotainment screen of the EV displaying a bright red and white warning, reading ‘Tesla Cybertruck De-Activated’. It also says ‘Critical issue detected, contact customer service,’ and instructs the rapper to ‘Comply with cease & desist to re-activate.’
According to the rapper, he was “stranded as (explicit),” and couldn’t move the truck. The post has generated a huge amount of attention online, generating more than 112,000 likes. A comment, reading ‘U missed ur payments bro,’ has even been liked over 51,000 times.
Shortly after posting this video, Big Huey also shared a video that he says shows a cease and desist letter sent to him from Tesla. In the letter, the automaker takes issue with the rapper his the Cybertruck name in his song, and imagery related to the pickup. The letter ends with the signature of Dinna Eskin. However, both this letter and the original video are fake.
Tesla took to X and Instagram to confirm that the clip of the Cybertruck being stranded on the highway was faked, confirming that it “does NOT disable vehicles remotely.” Additionally, the claimed cease and desist letter used the old title of Eskin as the Sr. Director and Deputy General Counsel for Tesla, whereas she is now VP of Legal at Tesla.
In addition, a Redditor was able to replicate the red and white screen that shows on Big Huey’s Tesla by plugging in a laptop and typing out a message to be displayed on the screen.
Renderings imagine a facelifted Mitsubishi Triton inspired by the new Destinator SUV.
The midsize pickup gets a new front fascia, updated lights, and a fresh tailgate design.
Mid-lifecycle update could debut with new electrified options for better efficiency.
The Mitsubishi Triton has only been in its sixth generation for two years, having debuted in 2023, yet change is already in the air. Mitsubishi’s recent introduction of a fresh design language on the Destinator SUV has sparked curiosity about how this style might suit a facelifted Triton. Digital artist Theophilus Chin decided to explore the idea through a set of unofficial renderings.
Subtle But Effective Styling Updates
The results show how a few well-judged tweaks can noticeably alter a vehicle’s personality. The redesigned Triton differs from the current model only in its lighting units, front bumper, and tailgate. Even so, these subtle revisions give the midsize truck a more modern, upmarket presence while keeping its tough, utilitarian appeal intact.
The most significant visual change comes at the front, where the controversial split LED headlights have been replaced with a cleaner, more cohesive design framed by aluminum accents in Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield motif. A semi-covered grille and skid plate complete the refreshed look. The sculpted fenders remain unchanged, as is typical for mid-cycle updates in pickups and light commercial vehicles.
At the back, the Triton received a modern makeover thanks to the fresh graphics on the taillights, now connected through an LED bar on the tailgate. The latter has also been altered with new dynamic lines, while the rear bumper didn’t need to change at all.
Mitsubishi appears ready to spread the Destinator’s styling cues beyond a single model. The three-row SUV, aimed at Southeast Asian markets, could be joined by a rugged off-roader that, if rumors turn out to be true, will revive the Pajero nameplate. Similar updates might also appear on the future replacement for the Pajero Sport, the Triton’s three-row SUV counterpart.
While Chin’s renderings remain speculative, they could be close to what Mitsubishi has planned for the Triton’s mid-cycle refresh, potentially arriving in 2027 or 2028. Any exterior redesign is likely to be paired with cabin technology upgrades and the addition of electrified options, ranging from mild-hybrid to plug-in hybrid, and possibly a fully electric variant.
This would help the Triton remain competitive against upcoming rivals such as the next-generation Toyota Hilux, expected in 2026.
Facing tough competition
The Triton will also underpin the next-generation Nissan Navara, giving the platform wider reach. Its competition in the midsize pickup segment is fierce, with rivals including the Ford Ranger, Volkswagen Amarok, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Kia Tasman, and a growing number of entries from Chinese manufacturers.
Rivian is developing its own steer-by-wire system without a physical steering wheel connection.
A program manager will oversee development, supplier relations, and quality control processes.
Steer-by-wire offers packaging advantages, variable steering ratios, and proven reliability in aviation.
Automakers are always working on new innovations, updates to products, and ways to improve their cars. What they rarely do is reinvent the wheel, so to speak. That’s almost what Rivian is trying to do right now. Put more directly, it’s trying to reinvent how its customers connect their steering wheel to their front wheels.
Most new cars on sale today, except for a few models like the Tesla Cybertruck, Nio ET9, and overseas Lexus RZ, retain a physical connection between the steering wheel and front wheels. Tesla’s setup uses three sensors to interpret the driver’s inputs and instruct the front tires to match them. When it works, it earns plenty of praise, but when it doesn’t, it attracts just as much criticism. Rivian is now working on its own version.
A Glimpse Into Rivian’s Plans
Spotted by the folks over at Rivian Forums, the automaker recently posted an interesting job listing to its website. It’s for a Senior Staff Technical Program Manager. That program is for a steering actuator system. Essentially, it’s the brain behind a steer-by-wire system, and Rivian openly mentions that in the listing. “You’ll have full cradle-to-grave ownership of the SBW subsystem,” it says.
Essentially, whoever Rivian hires is going to be the head honcho in this endeavor. The company says they’ll oversee supplier relationships, risk management, coordinate with other teams, handle problem-solving, and quality assurance, among other duties. They’ll even have to report on progress to shareholders, so we could hear from them on earnings calls in the future.
Why Steer-by-Wire Appeals to Automakers
In some ways, it makes sense that Rivian and other automakers look into steer-by-wire more. It has the potential to reduce engineering challenges related to packaging. On the flip side, it also provides the benefit of variable steering ratios. As mentioned, the Cybertruck already shows us how this would work.
The steering wheel doesn’t have to turn over and over to get a full sweep from left to right. Instead, the Tesla reads input from the driver and then provides steering angle changes based on speed.
When it works, people seem genuinely impressed by it, and to Tesla’s credit, we have yet to see a failure leading to an accident. Notably, the technology was already mature way before Elon Musk’s company adopted it. Commercial airplanes all use a steer-by-wire system, and it’s notoriously reliable.
It’s unclear when we’ll see this technology go live in a production Rivian, but expect it to take at least a year or two. When it does arrive, we expect it’ll be in several models as the listing calls it “a critical technology that will define the future of our vehicles.”
Jeep has teased the facelifted 2026 Grand Wagoneer, ahead of its debut this fall.
New design inspired by Wagoneer S features light bar and illuminated grille.
The luxury SUV could be offered with an all-new range-extended powertrain.
During a media briefing in Detroit, Jeep officials revealed four new models are coming in the next four months. This includes the redesigned Cherokee, the facelifted Grand Cherokee, and the all-new Recon. While we’ve already seen those vehicles before, Jeep has now released the first picture of the 2026 Grand Wagoneer.
Set to arrive this fall, the full-size SUV adopts an all-new front fascia that draws inspiration from the Wagoneer S. It features a minimalist seven-slot grille with an integrated LED light bar. They’re flanked by slimmer headlights that have horizontal daytime running lights.
The changes continue below with an edgier bumper, which has a larger air intake with linear accents. They’re accompanied by new lights that give off a bit of a Volvo vibe.
Eagle-eyed observers will also notice a charging port on the front fender, indicating this is likely the Grand Wagoneer 4xe. The range-extended variant was announced over a year ago and it’s expected to use the same powertrain as the Ram 1500 Ramcharger.
This means we can look forward to a 3.6-liter V6 engine, a dual-motor all-wheel drive system, and a roughly 92 kWh battery pack. This setup gives the truck 663 hp (494 kW / 672 PS) and 615 lb-ft (833 Nm) of torque as well as a range of up to 690 miles (1,110 km).
If you’re not ready to embrace electrification, there should be a familiar twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six. It currently develops 540 hp (403 kW / 548 PS) and 521 lb-ft (706 Nm) of torque.
While the Grand Wagoneer got off to a less than stellar start, Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf sounded upbeat on the future of their full-size SUVs. He also revealed the standard Wagoneer will follow shortly after the flagship and implied there could be greater differentiation between the two models. That remains to be seen, but it would be nice if the Grand Wagoneer didn’t look virtually identical to the mainstream variant.
Li Auto’s SUV crash test video triggered backlash from Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor this week.
The electric SUV collided head-on with an 8-ton truck in a dramatic video demonstration.
Dongfeng Liuzhou accused Li Auto of misleading tactics and questioned the video’s authenticity.
As electric vehicles gain traction around the world, Chinese automakers are pushing harder than ever to stand out – and not just with their designs and tech, but also by trying to prove their safety credentials in dramatic fashion.
One recent example comes from Li Auto, which introduced the i8, a three-row electric SUV packed with promising specs. Yet it wasn’t the vehicle’s feature list that stole the spotlight during its unveiling. It was a video of the i8 crashing head-on into a heavy truck.
The footage showed a direct collision between the Li Auto and a Chenglong truck. The electric SUV, weighing between 2,580 and 2,610 kg (5,690–5,750 pounds), hit the truck at a speed of 60 km/h (37 mph). The truck, with a significantly greater mass of 8 tons (16,000 pounds), was traveling at 40 km/h (25 mph) at the time of impact.
A Closer Look at the Collision
Despite the imbalance in weight and size, the i8’s structural integrity held up well. . The short front overhang absorbed much of the force, and the pillars remained intact with no visible deformation. In the aftermath, the doors automatically unlocked and the handles extended outward, allowing testers to easily access the interior.
Furthermore, all nine airbags deployed, and the emergency call system was activated. Impressively, the floor-mounted battery pack didn’t produce any fire or smoke, even after sustaining deep scratches from a metal pole prior to impact.
Truck Frame Behavior Raises Questions
What caught many viewers off guard was the impact on the much larger truck. The force of the collision caused its cabin to tilt dramatically forward, nearly detaching from the chassis, with all wheels momentarily lifting off the ground. That unexpected outcome prompted a swift response from Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor, parent company of the Chenglong brand. On August 1, the company issued a public statement expressing concern about the test.
According to a report by QQ News, Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor accused Li Auto of “serious infringement.” The company questioned the credibility of the video, claiming it painted a misleading picture and did not reflect real-world driving conditions. Internal analysis, they said, showed that the test setup differed significantly from what would typically occur on the road.
Li Auto
Li Auto Defends Itself
Li Auto responded on August 3rd through an official Weibo post, stating that the crash test was conducted by China Automotive Engineering Research Institute (CAERI), a third-party state-owned company.
The automaker clarified that the video “was not intended to evaluate the product quality of any other brand, and the test results should not be interpreted as indicative of the quality of other brands’ products”.
Instead, they said the truck used in the test was purchased in the secondhand market and served only as a “mobile barrier.” The company noted, “It was unintentional that the testing process caused the Dongfeng Chenglong brand to be embroiled in public controversy.”
In a follow-up, Li Auto added, “As a benchmark brand in China’s trucking industry, Dongfeng Chenglong’s quality and safety have always been trusted by truck drivers. To this end, we would like to clarify that there is no direct competition between Li Auto and Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor.”
Independent Testing Body Confirms Details
The China Automotive Engineering Research Institute has confirmed Li Auto’s claims in a separate statement. They described the crash test as a “non-standard vehicle-to-vehicle collision test” that simulated a traffic accident scenario, adding that it “does not involve the safety performance evaluation of other brands of vehicles”.
The institute further explained that the only criteria used when selecting the truck was its curb weight. No performance modifications were made beyond repainting it from red to white, adding autonomous driving gear, and loading it to reach the 8-ton target weight.
Do you think Li Auto’s crash test was a genuine show of EV strength or a carefully staged stunt at a rival’s expense? Share your take in the comments below.
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