One would think that Europe has enough small SUVs to satisfy the growing demand, but every once in a while, a new addition to the segment proves there’s always room for one more. A fitting example is the Renault 4 E-Tech, an EV-only alternative to the Clio-based Captur with a retro-modern design and Renault 5 E-Tech underpinnings.

A few months after we drove the R5 hatchback, we got the keys to the R4 crossover which – unlike what the numbers may suggest – is a larger and more practical offering.

Review: The Fun 2026 Renault 5 EV America Will Never Get To Buy

Our press car is the mid-spec Techno trim, slotting right in between the entry-level Evolution and the flagship Iconic. Besides the standard Renault 4 E-Tech, the company is also offering a Plein Sud variant with a retractable fabric top creating an open-air feeling.

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But let’s start with the basics. The original R4 was introduced in 1961 as the first front-wheel-drive passenger car by Renault. The 4L was designed to serve families and workers, and ended up selling 8.13 million units over its 33-year production run, becoming one of the most successful French vehicles in history.

Modern Revival With A Twist

Fast forward to the present, Renault has infused the spirit of the classic estate/hatchback into a modern electric crossover. The production version debuted in 2025, following the rugged Renault 4ever Trophy concept from 2022.

Of course, 64 years of evolution brought big changes to the technology and the footprint, with the R4 E-Tech being almost half a meter longer compared to its predecessor. Still, the EV remains on the smaller side of Europe’s B-SUV segment measuring 4,144 mm (163.2 in) long. When compared to the R5, the R4 is 222 mm (8.7 in) longer, with 84 mm (3.3 in) of the extra length between the axles.

Photos and Videos: Thanos Pappas/Carscoops

Despite the bump in dimensions and the jump into crossover territory, Renault designers managed to seamlessly integrate multiple styling references to the original. The R4 might not be as attractive as the R5, but it still turns heads on the road thanks to its retro yet fresh appearance.

More: Renault’s R4 Concept Just Became A Beach Buggy That Moonlights As A Pickup

Highlights include the tastefully illuminated grille integrating the semi-circular LED headlights, the protective cladding on the bumpers, the squared-off wheel arches, the sculpted lines on the profile, and the signature greenhouse. The pill-shaped LED taillights and black roof are reminiscent of the previous-gen Mini Countryman, but some of these features were taken from the classic 4L.

Modern Interior Design

Moving inside, the dashboard and and digital cockpit are carried over from the Renault 5 E-Tech. While the upper and lower sections are dominated by hard plastics, the fabric inserts on the dashboard and the door cards help improve the perceived quality.

Review: The 2026 Renault Austral Facelift Is Polished, But It Has A BMW-Sized Problem

The 10.1-inch infotainment display sits right in your face, but thankfully there’s a power button so you can switch it off when you’re driving at night. The Google-powered OpenR software is easy to use and responsive, although I did encounter a few Android Auto bugs during my time with it. The “Reno” AI assistant is also a bit annoying, popping up at random times.

Minor ergonomic issues include the volume buttons which are mounted on the top of the screen, even though there is a dedicated media stalk behind the steering wheel. Another thing that needs time to get used to is the position of the column-mounted gear selector, creating a stalk-heavy setup. On the bright side, the physical controls on the center console are a wonderful touch, giving you immediate access to the climate settings.

Space And Equipment

The real advantage of the R4 over the R5 lies in passenger accommodation thanks to the longer wheelbase and the taller roofline. Rear-seat headroom is generous and knee room is adequate, while the rear bench can accommodate three adults for short trips.

The 420 lt (14.8 cubic feet) boot is large enough for a vehicle of its size, although it would be nice to have a dedicated compartment for the charging cables since the electric motor occupies all of the space under the hood.

More: Renault’s E-Space Concept Reboots A Minivan Icon

I was also impressed with the standard equipment. Our mid-spec Techno trim comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, the digital cockpit, a six speaker audio system, a wireless charging pad, four USB-C outlets, auto climate control, a hands-free tailgate, auto-folding mirrors, Multi-Sense drive modes, and a comprehensive ADAS suite with auto parking.

The only reason to upgrade to the flagship Iconic is if you really need the heated steering wheel and heated seats with a massaging function for the driver and synthetic leather upholstery. And the only important omission from entire lineup is rear climate vents, although this is common amongst B-SUVs.

Superb Road Manners

Believe it or not, the greatest strength of the R4 E-Tech is how it drives. The EV-dedicated AmpR Small architecture is a lot more sophisticated than its size suggests. The superb suspension setup with a standard multi-link rear axle is only slightly softer than the R5, enough to make it a bit more comfortable without loosing its sharpness.

More: Can Pixels Beat Nostalgia? We Compared Nissan’s New Sub-€20k EV To Its Renault Twin Up Close

On B-roads, the R4 drives like more like a hatchback than a crossover, keeping its composure in the corners with almost no body roll. At full throttle and in slippery conditions the FWD setup might struggle to put the power on the road, causing torque steer. The steering might not be as communicative as in the Ford Puma, but it is quick and direct. In the Sport mode, it gets a slightly more weighted feel, making the driving experience more enjoyable than your average EV.

At the same time, the R4 offers a refined and quiet ride on the highway, while being zippy and agile in urban environments. Thankfully, Renault listened to our feedback and added a One Pedal drive function making life easier in everyday traffic.

Our press car featured the flagship powertrain with a front-mounted electric motor producing 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS), accelerating from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8.2 seconds.

In reality, the R4 feels a lot faster than the number suggests, especially within the 40-120 km/h (25-75 mph) threshold. The Sport mode unlocks full power, the Comfort is slightly smoother in its response, while the Eco significantly limits the output for the sake of efficiency making it perfect for the city.

In terms of range, the R4 E-Tech with the 52 kWh battery can easily exceed 400 km (250 miles) in suburban and city traffic, meaning that the average driver will be charging it less often than once per week. However, if you are constantly driving at highway speeds, real-world range drops closer to 250-280 km (155-186 miles). Thankfully, the battery can replenish 15-80% of its energy in roughly half an hour when connected to a 100 kW DC charger. In my case, I only had to stop for 10-15 minutes to complete a 260 km (160-mile) journey.

For buyers seeking a lower price point, Renault also offers a cheaper version with a 40 kWh battery offering a 310 km (193 mile) range, and a 118 hp (88 kW / 120 PS) electric motor. By the end of the year, the lineup will grow further with an entry-level Jogging variant featuring an even smaller 37 kWh battery, 305 km (190 miles) of range, and an 107 hp (80 kW / 110 PS) electric motor.

More: Alpine’s Hot Hatch Just Became More Stylish With A Simple Trick

Still, based on my experience with the 52 kWh battery, I wouldn’t recommend opting for the smaller units if you intend to use the R4 as a family hauler or outside the city walls. Fortunately, the 2027 model year updates have increased the range of the flagship variant to 415 km (256 miles). Overall, I believe that the R4 would still benefit from the addition of a longer-range battery option later in the product cycle.

As for a potential dual-motor AWD option like the one offered by the rival Kia EV3, it would certainly make the R4 more suitable for all-weather adventures, although there’s no indication there will ever be one. After all, even the larger Megane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech EVs are exclusively available with FWD setups despite riding on the AWD-compatible AmpR Medium architecture.

Pricing And Rivals

We tested the Renault 4 E-Tech in Greece, where it is priced from €28,900 ($32,400) for the base 40 kWh Evolution 120 PS model – dropping to as little as €24,400 ($27,300) when you account for the local EV subsidies and scrappage benefit. This is only €2,000 ($2,200) more expensive than the smaller Renault 5 E-Tech hatchback with the same powertrain, making it a good deal.

More: Renault 8 Gordini Is Back As A Bold Electric Coupe With Rally Heritage

Stepping up to the larger 52 kWh battery with 150 PS brings the entry point to €33,500 ($37,500) before subsidies for the Evolution trim. Our mid-spec Techno retains at €35,500 ($39,800), while the flagship Iconic tops out at €37,500 ($42,000). Finally, the Plein Sud canvas roof adds a €1,200 ($1,300) premium.

Key rivals in the crowded subcompact electric SUV segment include the Peugeot E-2008, Ford Puma Gen-E, Kia EV2 and EV3, Jeep Avenger Electric, Mini Aceman, Fiat 600e, as well as the budget-conscious and family-friendly Citroën ë-C3 Aircross.

More: Renault Rafale Hypnotic Is The Brand’s Most Expensive SUV To Date

Besides EVs, the model is also facing competition from numerous well-established hybrid and ICE alternatives like the super-popular Toyota Yaris Cross and the Dacia Duster. Another option is Renault Captur sibling which starts from as little as €20,900 ($23,400) for the cheapest LPG/gasoline version and from €24,500 ($27,500) for the self-charging hybrid.

Verdict

The Renault 4 E-Tech does a great job in expanding the charm of the closely-related R5 hatchback by adding genuine day-to-day practicality without sacrificing much of its fun-to-drive character. While a longer-range battery option would have made it even more desirable, it already stands out as one of the most complete subcompact electric crossovers.

The combination of eye-catching looks with a generous equipment, and a superb chassis setup for the standards of the segment, makes the R4 E-Tech a compelling case for being the best mainstream retro EV on the market. Too bad it’s availability is currently limited to Europe and the UK.

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In a bizarre turn of events, rather than focusing on developing replacements for the aging Stelvio and Giulia, it appears the storied Italian automaker is instead trying its hand at the dating scene. The pitch? That the Junior Elettrica is the perfect segue to a romantic date.

According to its research, which comprises a 1,000-member sample size of people actively dating in the U.K., 60% of daters are tired of their dating apps. The solution? Go on a drive. Again, based on Alfa’s own research, 44% would prefer to go on a drive or a day trip versus the traditional dinner and drinks.

Read: Alfa Romeo’s Junior Has Some Appeal, But It’s Not The Smart Choice | Review

Fear not, singles. Because Alfa Romeo has partnered with Kate Mansfield, a dating and relationship coach, to craft the “Love Thy Romeo” guide to dating in real life, and not from behind a screen. Mansfield is apparently outstanding in her field, and specializes in helping women move from those pesky apps to a real-life connection.

It’s an odd development for a car company, sure. But then, we’ve seen weirder, and we suppose Alfa Romeos are often associated with passion, right?

A Ploy For The Junior

Now, obviously, we’re not really suggesting that Alfa has diverted its R&D budget away from replacements (even if the lineup is beginning to look a bit aged a la Chrysler) into creating a dating guide. What’s actually happened is it spent some of its marketing budget on something a bit different, if a bit odd.

But the way the Junior is being shoehorned in as the perfect road-trip companion is what makes it especially entertaining, with Jules Tilstone, Managing Director, Alfa Romeo UK, saying: “Junior Elettrica is the perfect date companion for a romantic escape, combining performance with passion and style, rooted in its Italian DNA.”

We’re not convinced, and it’s got us thinking: what might be the perfect car for that long, romantic road trip? A few suggestions we’ve come up with: perhaps a classic R107-generation Mercedes-Benz SL500, with that smooth, torquey V8 and the wind in your hair. Or, if you wanted to keep the Italian passion front and center, how about the Pininfarina-designed Fiat 124 spider. New or old, we’d probably take either of these over the electric Alfa.

Let us know what kind of vehicle you’d choose for a first-date getaway.

The Anahuac Independent School District board approved a $159,150 in funding for purchasing and installing video cameras on existing school buses after a pickup truck nearly struck a 9-year-old girl approaching her bus in Chambers County, Texas, reported KFDM News.

Angela Nelson told local news reporters that her daughter, Lorigan, was preparing to board her school bus outside her home Sept. 18, when a pickup truck passed the stopped bus.

Video Nelson shared with local news shows Lorigan looking both ways before approaching the bus, which had its stop arm extended and red lights flashing. The girl spotted the pickup and moved away just before it passed, reportedly missing her by inches.

Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne said investigators had identified and spoken with the motorist, who could face a reckless driving charge, a Class B misdemeanor.

Angela Nelson said the county attorney indicated that additional video and other evidence would be gathered and that the case could be presented to a grand jury.

Nelson also provided investigators with footage from a camera outside her home. That recording reportedly shows the school bus coming into view with its lights flashing several seconds before the pickup passes.

Texas law requires motorists approaching in either direction to stop for a school bus loading or unloading students, when its required visual signals are activated. Drivers may proceed when the bus moves, its driver signals them to proceed, or the signals stop.

Anahuac Superintendent David Walker told local reporters that the district currently has no cameras on its buses. He presented information to trustees who approved the new bus purchase and additional camera equipment.

The district was reportedly considering systems with approximately five interior cameras and two exterior cameras per bus. Walker is reviewing vendors, costs and potential funding sources, including the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Supplemental Environmental Projects program.

Written with the assistance of AI.

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The post Texas District Approves School Bus Cameras After Girl Nearly Struck by Pickup appeared first on School Transportation News.

BYD has quickly responded to cybersecurity concerns about the popular Shark 6 pickup truck following the release of an Australian documentary, which revealed how easily it could be hacked. The Chinese brand has also clarified how a hacker gained control of the plug-in hybrid’s headlights and windshield wipers.

As part of the ABC’s Four Corners program, cybersecurity expert Dan Hreszczuk was given a Shark 6 for two weeks and was able to listen in to the interior microphones, take control of the door locks, and mess with the Shark 6’s audio. To avoid giving any other hackers any bad ideas, details about how Hreszczuk hacked into the BYD weren’t disclosed.

Read: A Hacker Took Control Of A BYD For TV, But Should You Be Worried?

BYD says it’s found out how he did it. To hack into the truck’s infotainment system, it says he breached the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) with a special tool and installed an untrusted third-party application. BYD was able to replicate this vulnerability in its own testing but says for a hacker to gain access to a vehicle’s location data and microphone, the driver must accept a permission prompt that will be displayed on the screen, something the documentary didn’t disclose.

To address this vulnerability, BYD says it’s working on an over-the-air software update that will remove the pathway used to enable the ADB, which is ordinarily disabled. It hasn’t said when this update will be ready, but says if similar vulnerabilities are found in its other models, they too will get the new software.

What The Documentary Didn’t Tell You

Then there’s the matter of the headlights and windshield wipers. In the Four Corners program, the hacker was shown remotely turning on the wipers and then turning off the headlights as the Shark 6 was being driven at night. According to BYD, gaining control of these functions required far more than installing some third-party software.

It says the hacker tapped into the vehicle’s wiring and accessed the internal CAN bus, which obviously isn’t something a hacker sitting behind a computer screen can do. Hreszczuk confirmed in a blog post that he spliced into the Shark 6’s wiring and installed a low-cost Raspberry Pi computer, something that could be replicated on plenty of other new cars.

To minimize the chance of any would-be hackers using an OBD device to gain access to critical vehicle functions, BYD says it has implemented new security measures for the OBD interface. Now, it will require physical isolation and device authentication.

Changes are coming to Alfa Romeo’s entry-level car for 2027, though this time the badge on the tail isn’t looking for a new home. The Junior, which was originally called Milano before the Italian city objected to its use on a car built in Poland, benefits from some upgrades that promise to give it a more premium feel.

New 18-inch three-hole, and 19-inch four-hole alloy wheels help you spot one of the upgraded SUVs from the outside, though the biggest changes are found inside. And not just on the more expensive variants. Junior and Sprint trims head into MY27 with new ‘Icona’ upholstery that mixes black fabric seats, gray stitching and black Scuba material across the dashboard, console and door cards.

Related: Alfa Romeo’s Mystery Concept Looks Like A Low-Slung Supercar

Step up to Ti or Veloce spec and you upgrade to Alfa Romeo’s ‘Carbon’ interior. Scuba fabric is used again, but this time with red stitching and details and a new Microcloud material on the dash and doors. What you won’t find, despite that name, is any carbon trim, but these upgrades might offset criticism that the Junior’s cabin has always felt a bit low rent for something wearing a premium badge.

A load of extra standard equipment ought to lend an extra hand in that department. Sprint versions look like the sweet spot in the range now that they come with navigation, keyless entry, adaptive cruise, a reversing camera, wireless phone charging and blind-spot monitoring. But the Ti’s heated, powered and massaging seats, and ambient lighting will surely help open a few wallets wider.

Elettrica EV Holds The Performance Card

What Alfa hasn’t messed with is the mechanical package. Base Junior Ibrida models still feature a 143 hp (145 PS) 1.2-litre, mild hybrid engine in front-wheel drive, or Q4 all-wheel drive forms. The Junior Elettrica EV makes 154 hp (156 PS), but only drives the front wheels. Top dog is another EV, this one the 276 hp (281 PS) Junior Veloce, which relies on a sportier suspension tune and a mechanical limited-slip differential to help its front end handle the extra muscle.

Tonale Tweaks

The brand already upgraded the Junior’s Tonale big brother – Alfa’s base model for the US – and you can read about those changes, and why the model might soon be axed, here. But it’s only thrown a few teaks the way of the geriatric Giulia SUV and Stelvio sports sedan. By rights both of those models should have been replaced by now, but the planned replacements were EVs and in the wake of falling electric sales in the US Alfa was forced to go back to the drawing board and come up versions that could also take combustion power.

Giulia And Stelvio Tread Water

We won’t see those new Giulia and Stelvio models until at least next year, by which time the pair will be 12 and 11 years old. To keep potential buyers interested while we wait, the current models gain updated software and driver monitoring kit required by EU law, black and white Alfa Romeo badges and a new Anodized Blue paint option. Hardly, the kind of thing to worry BMW when it has a brand new 3 Series and i3 EV ready to ship to dealers.

But the new M3 and X3 M are a year or two away, and you can still buy both Alfa Romeos in 520 hp (513 PS), 2.9-liter V6 Quadrifoglio guise. Go for the hot Stelvio Quadrifoglio and you now get 21-inch wheels instead of 20-inch rims, while buying either of the QVs unlocks a day’s on-track training at the Alfa Romeo Driving Academy.

All of these Alfa updates will be on display at Alfa’s Paris Motor Show Stand, though they might not get much attention. The brand has teased a new concept for Paris called the Cuorerosso (image below) that looks like a low-slung supercar, and it’s sure to dominate the conversation.

Alfa Romeo

Suzuki has introduced its first fully electric passenger kei car in Japan ahead of its market launch in Europe and the UK. The all-new Suzuki eSky brings an impressive range for the size of its battery, aided by its lightweight design and efficient e-Axle. More importantly local EV subsidies lower the starting price of the pint-sized hatchback to ¥1,552,000 ($9,800).

The eSky was revealed in August 2026 as an evolution of the Vision e-Sky from 2025. The kei car retains the five-door silhouette and compact footprint of the concept, but its lighting units and bumpers have been redesigned for production, as with the wheels, door handles, and mirror caps.

More: Think You Know The Suzuki Alto? There Are Five Different Versions On Sale Right Now

The four-seater cabin is focused on practicality with various storage solutions and a tray on the dashboard. The driver has access to a digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch infotainment on the flagship trim, and a separate panel for climate controls.

Suzuki eSky Mild Sporty Package

For owners who want to personalize the EV, Suzuki offers a range of optional accessories. The catalogue includes a pair of styling packages with colorful accents, a recyclable floor mat made entirely of polyester, and various charging items.

The Mild Sporty package adds pink, blue, and gray decals on the bodywork alongside white mirror caps, while the Neo Future package opts for a yellow and black theme. Both are combined with matching stickers for the dashboard and LED fog lights. Those who want something more subtle could get the quarter garnish in eight different colors. Suzuki is also offering three playful decals for the tailgate.

Suzuki eSky Neo Future Package

The eSky rides on the Heartect e platform and comes fitted with Suzuki’s new e-Axle (electric motor, inverter, and reduction unit) powering the front wheels. The electric motor is capable of producing 94 hp (70 kW / 95 PS) but the output of the Japanese-spec model will most likely be limited to 63 hp (47 kW / 64 PS) in order to comply with kei car regulations.

More: Suzuki Confirms Light Range Extender Setup Alongside More Efficient Hybrids

The floor-mounted 26 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack promises a WLTC range of 193 miles (310 km), and has 50 kW DC charging capabilities.

Suzuki eSky

The Suzuki eSky will reach Japanese dealers on November 16 with the company setting a sales target of 1,000 units per month. The entry-level A trim starts at ¥2,120,000 ($13,400), while the flagship X grade climbs to ¥2,790,000 ($17,600). Still, buyers are eligible for a local government subsidy of up to ¥568,000 ($3,600), which lowers the entry point to ¥1,552,000 ($9,800).

More: Suzuki’s Decade-Old $6,500 Hatch Loses A Cylinder To Chase Mileage

As for the optional catalogue, the Mild Sporty styling kit costs ¥103,840 ($660), the Neo Future kit ¥116,160 ($730), and the eco-friendly floor mats are listed for ¥28,600 ($180).

Suzuki’s smallest EV yet will also be exported to Europe and the UK, starting in 2027. There it will join the eVitara, and compete with Europe’s A-Segment EVs such as the Renault Twingo, Dacia Spring EV, Nissan Pixo, Fiat 500, and VW ID. Up!.

Suzuki eSky

Alpine fans might be excited to see the sculpture of the next-gen A110 sportscar in Paris Motor Show, but the company has another ace up its sleeve. A new concept car dubbed PS1 will be unveiled at the same event, likely previewing a future production model.

The PS1 name has nothing to do with the legendary Playstation console, as it is short for Project Special 1. In other words, it will be the first example of the “special projects” pillar from Alpine’s future product strategy, likely positioned above the “Extraordinary Everyday” pillar including the A290 hot hatchback and A390 sport fastback volume sellers, and the “Icons” pillar spearheaded by the A110 sportscar.

More: Americans Might Force Alpine To Put Gas Back In Its New Electric Sports Car

The official teaser is focused on the unconventional headlight design of the concept. When not in use, the lights remain hidden under a cover that sits flush with the flat hood. These covers recess into the bodywork, revealing slim LEDs with the colors of the French flag.

The pop-down headlight mechanism is similar to Eccentrica’s modernized version of the Lamborghini Diablo and sends retro-futuristic vibes. At the same time, this design would comply with safety regulations for production models, unlike the pop-up headlights that pose a threat to pedestrians in the case of an accident.

Alpine

The dark teaser doesn’t reveal the bodystyle of the PS1, but we can still see a portion of the its wide fenders and mirror-replacing cameras hinting at a low and aerodynamic stance.

More: Alpine’s New 911 Rival Is Hiding Under This Little Known French Racecar

The rectangular shape of the headlight clusters and the surfacing are reminiscent of the classic A310 produced between 1971 and 1984. In fact, Alpine is working on a new generation of the grand tourer with a 2+2 layout and a fully electric powertrain. This makes us believe that the concept could preview an upcoming zero-emission Porsche 911 rival, sharing its Alpine Performance Platform (APP) with the next A110.

Alpine said that this will be the only hint before the actual reveal which is scheduled for the press day of the Paris Motor Show on October 12. The PS1 will be showcased next to the new A110 Sculpture, and several examples of the A290 hot hatch and A390 sport fastback with new colors, trims and finishes by the Atelier Alpine personalization program.

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Students in Pennsylvania stopped a moving school bus after their driver experienced a medical emergency near a Hollidaysburg Area School District junior high building, reported USA Today.

The Sept. 17 incident was captured on a security camera inside the school bus. Several students rushed to the front of the vehicle, while others directed their classmates to apply the brakes and call for help over the radio.

Ben Caldwell, the district’s director of human resources and transportation, said a few students sustained minor injuries. The bus driver is doing well following the medical emergency and returned to work.

The approximately 40-second recording begins with students exiting the bus while it is stopped. Moments later, the vehicle slowly begins moving forward, and one student asks the driver whether she can get off.

As the bus continues moving, students reportedly recognize that something is wrong and begin responding. Some scramble toward the driver’s area, while others shout instructions about stopping the vehicle and contacting someone for assistance.

“Our bus driver just passed out,” a student says near the end of the clip.

A few students fall forward during the incident, but Caldwell said via the article, “all injuries were extremely minor and superficial.”

According to the news report, an earlier district statement recognized 10th grader Alexis Smith for helping stop the bus after the driver became unresponsive. The statement credited Smith with requesting emergency assistance over the bus radio and checking the driver’s pulse and breathing until first responders arrived.

District officials said Smith’s participation in health and medical science training at the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center helped prepare her to respond calmly during the emergency, according to that report. Medical personnel took over the driver’s care upon arrival.

Caldwell’s subsequent update indicated that the driver had resumed working following the medical emergency. The information he provided did not specify the nature of the driver’s medical condition.

Written with the assistance of AI.

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The post Pennsylvania Students Stop School Bus After Driver Experiences Medical Emergency appeared first on School Transportation News.

The Toyota Hilux is widely considered one of the most indestructible vehicles out there, with the famous Top Gear stunts from 2003 solidifying the legend. Fast forward to 2026, Toyota has recreated one of the grueling tests, to see whether the new Hilux BEV could still take a beating like its predecessor.

The UK arm of the Japanese automaker went on Reddit, asking users to pick a punishment for the zero-emission workhorse. Participants in the survey could choose between hitting the Hilux with a 1-tonne (2,205 lbs) wrecking ball, or subjecting it to a high-altitude caravan drop. The internet overwhelmingly chose the latter, and we can’t really blame them for doing so.

More: What Happens To A Toyota Hilux When You Drop It From 10,000 Feet In The Air?

Keeping their promise, engineers hoisted a 760 kg (1,676 lbs) caravan roughly 30 feet (9.1 m) into the air using a big crane. Then they parked a brand-new Hilux BEV underneath and let gravity do what it does best.

Toyota UK

The camper smashed directly on the roof of the midsize truck, with its weak fiberglass and wood construction crumbling under the forces of the impact. For a more dramatic effect, Toyota captured the stunt with high-speed cameras, and even installed one inside the mobile home showing what it feels like to land on a Hilux while being upside down in your living room.

More: Ford Covered A Ranger Super Duty In 1,300 Pounds Of Mud And It Kept Going

Despite taking a direct hit from a falling house on wheels, the Hilux BEV powered up immediately and drove away from the wreckage. Battle scars included a deformed roof, a cracked windshield, and a dent on the rear bed looking as if a baby Godzilla tried to climb on it.

The suspension appears to absorb the forces of the impact, briefly creating a street version of the truck. The battery which is mounted on the ladder frame chassis and the electric motors were unharmed, although the truck is likely a write-off due to the roof damage.

Toyota UK

Toyota warns viewers not to attempt to recreate or replicate any action shown in the video, as it could cause serious injury, death, or property damage. Furthermore, the company noted that all caravan debris was recovered from the Bentwaters Airfield in Suffolk, and sent to a recycling facility.

More: Tata Buried Its New $5.5K Sedan Under 20 Tons Of Gravel To Prove A Point

Interestingly, the caravan drop, filmed with the help of Very Nice Films and Bickers, was just the “warm-up” for the Hilux BEV. Toyota offered the truck to Top Gear’s YouTube channel, to continue the rough treatment. It will be interesting to watch the second round of Hilux torture, at least until WhistlinDiesel gets his hands on the latest generation of the midsize truck which is not available in North America.

The new Toyota Hilux is currently available in mild-hybrid diesel and fully electric powertrain options, with a hydrogen variant confirmed for 2028. Still, the diesel truck accounts for the vast majority of Hilux sales, due to the combination of a lower price, a more usable fuel type, as well as superior towing and payload ratings.

Alfa Romeo is gearing up for the debut of a mysterious concept at the Paris Motor Show next month, but before that happens they have a new special series in store. The Biscione brand has introduced Edizione Luna Rossa editions for its entire lineup, including the Junior, Tonale, Giulia and Stelvio.

Luna Rossa is an Italian yacht-racing team competing at the America’s Cup. Its collaboration with Alfa Romeo was inaugurated in June 2025, followed by the debut of the ultra-exclusive Giulia Quadrifoglio Luna Rossa in January 2026. While the first model was only produced in 10 units with custom colors and a unique aero package, the Edizione Luna Rossa models are available for everyone, serving as the flagships of their respective lineups.

More: Take A Ride With Me To Alfa’s Homeland In Its Smallest SUV, Sins And All

The special editions feature boat-inspired colors, custom touches inside-out, and a dedicated Alfa Romeo emblem. However, not every model is the same, with the Junior and the Tonale getting a different treatment than the stealthier and more exclusive Giulia and Stelvio.

Alfa Romeo Junior Edizione Luna Rossa

Starting with the subcompact and compact SUVs, the Junior and the Tonale Edizione Luna Rossa feature a gray shade with Gloss Black accents and red stripes on the profile, although buyers can also choose black or white for the main color of the body.

Review: The Junior Is Everything Alfa Romeo Needed And Nothing Alfisti Wanted

The wheels measure 18 inches on the Junior and 20 inches on the Tonale, both featuring a gloss black diamond cut finish and three-spoke designs. Besides the larger wheels, the Tonale also gets Brembo brakes with red brake calipers.

Alfa Romeo Tonale Edizione Luna Rossa

Inside, we find black and gray upholstery, with 3D knit technology on the premium fabric, red stripes featuring Luna Rossa lettering, and red Alfa Romeo emblems. The SUVs also feature aluminum sports pedals and kick plate, new graphics for their digital cockpits, and ambient lighting.

More: Alfa Teases The Tonale’s Successor, And Maybe A Dodge Called Goes Like Hell

Equipment is pretty generous, with the Edizione Luna Rossa being the highest-spec trims. In terms of powertrains, the Junior offers the option between hybrid and fully electric setups, while the Tonale is available with hybrid and PHEV options.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Edizione Luna Rossa

Moving on to the midsize offerings, the aging Giulia and Stelvio take a different route, focusing more on exclusivity and sportiness. The mechanically-related models are pictured with a blacked-out configuration, but the color palette of the Edizione Luna Rossa editions also include white and Etna Red shades.

More: Alfa Romeo Swears The Next Giulia And Stelvio Aren’t Dead, They’re Just ‘Under Study’

Independently of the color, the aging duo benefits from extensive use of carbon fiber on the exterior and the interior, red Alfa Romeo emblems, and the Luna Rossa logo on the mirror caps. The Giulia features Quadrifoglio-inspired side skirts and rear spoiler combined with Gloss Black 19-inch alloy wheels, with the Stelvio riding on 21-inch wheels.

Alfa Romeo Giulia Edizione Luna Rossa

The monochrome interior features a generous amount of carbon fiber on the dashboard, center console, and door cards, alongside leather and recycled Econyl fabric upholstery. Red stripes on the steering wheel and seatbacks break the monotony of black, alongside the matching Alfa Romeo emblems.

Review: Alfa’s 2026 Giulia Quadrifoglio Is Over A Decade Old And Still Out-Handles A New M3

The Edizione Luna Rossa Giulia and Stelvio come standard with a Harman Kardon Hi-Fi system and the electronically controlled suspension. Finally, the electric sunroof is standard on the sedan and optional on the SUV.

As with the regular Giorgio-based models, the special editions are available with the 2.2-liter turbodiesel in two power outputs, while UK buyers also have access to the 2.0-liter gasoline engine that has been phased out in Europe. In other words, only the V6-powered Quadrifoglios escape the Luna Rossa treatment.

The Junior, Tonale, Giulia, and Stelvio Edizione Luna Rossa will gradually go on sale on European markets, positioned at the top of the lineup of each non-Quadrifoglio model. Pricing will be announced closer to the market launch.

More: Alfa Romeo Charged $22,000 Extra For Gold Trim, And Dubai Said Yes

According to Stellantis, the partnership between the two Italian brands goes deeper than colors, materials, and special emblems. More specifically, Alfa Romeo “has provided its expertise in simulation, dynamics and virtual analysis to Luna Rossa, while also collaborating on the development and fine-tuning of the control software for the systems that manage sail movement.”

Alfa Romeo

Nissan is dusting off an old nameplate for a new urban EV. The Nissan Pixo is a twin to the Renault Twingo E-Tech and a sibling to the Dacia Spring EV, featuring pixelated styling and modern technology. The model will be sold in Europe and the UK, serving as an entry point in the lineup positioned under the R5-based Nissan Micra.

Measuring 3,796 mm (149.4 in) long, the Nissan Pixo is only 7 mm (0.3 in) longer than the Renault Twingo, while sharing the 2,492 mm (98.1 in) wheelbase. The greenhouse, roof structure, and most of the profile are identical to the Renault, with Nissan designers focusing their efforts on the front and rear ends.

More: Renault Shipped 100 Frog-Eyed Twingos To The UK Purely So You Can Stare At Them

The Pixo swaps the curves and frog-style headlights of the Twingo for a boxier grille-less nose. The squared-off headlights with diagonal LED graphics are inspired by pixels, while the front bumper adopts clean surfacing with plastic cladding around the central intake.

Setting aside the front fenders and the futuristic alloy wheels, the profile doesn’t hide its Renault roots. However the rear end gains redesigned taillights and a simpler tailgate, which are slightly reminiscent of the Nissan Micra K12 from the ’00s. These are joined by Nissan-specific cladding on the rear bumper and Pixo lettering on the plastic trim around the rear windshield. Finally, the color palette gains the fresh Wonder Purple and Gear Blue shades.

More: New Dacia Spring EV Flees From China And Pays The Price

Inside, the dashboard, the steering wheel, and the digital cockpit with Gemini integration are derived from the Renault twin. The same applies to the reclining and foldable rear seats adding practicality points to the urban EV. Nissan brags about the 356 lt (12.6 cubic feet) cargo capacity including the 50 lt (1.8 cubic feet) compartment for charging cables, and the extra 18 lt (0.6 cubic feet) of in-cabin storage. Furthermore there are 23 Easter eggs for owners to discover.

Under the skin, the Pixo is identical to the Renault Twingo and the Dacia Spring. A front-mounted electric motor is good for 81 hp (60 kW / 82 PS), while a 27.5 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery delivers a WLTP range of 161 miles (259 km). The EV is compatible with 50 kW DC charging, replenishing the battery from 15-80% in 28 minutes.

More: The Nissan Micra is Back And It’s Unrecognizable

The Nissan Pixo will go on sale in Europe and the UK, with production taking place at the Novo Mesto factory in Slovenia alongside the closely-related Renault Twingo and Dacia Spring. Pricing and pre-order information will be announced from December 2026 onwards. However, judging from the Renault, the entry-level EV from Nissan will most likely start from under €20,000 ($22,800).

Hardcore Nissan fans might remember that the original Pixo which was sold in Europe between 2009 and 2013, was also a rebadged urban hatchback. However, this one was based on the Suzuki Alto and came fitted with a 1.0-liter gasoline engine.

Nissan

The roadeo for teams of school bus drivers and aides who serve students with disabilities and preschooler returns to the TSD Conference this November with expanded hands-on training, new team challenges and an open invitation to school transportation professionals who want to test — and strengthen — their skills in real-world scenarios involving students with disabilities and special needs.

The roadeo sponsored by Q’Straint/Sure-Lok will be held Friday and Saturday, Nov. 6-7, in conjunction with the Transporting Students with Disabilities & Special Needs Conference and Trade Show in Frisco, Texas. The event is produced and organized by the industry group WIT., LLC, Women in Transportation, which is dedicated to leading, mentoring and empowering women in student transportation,
The teams from across the country will take written exams Friday. Prosper Independent School District is again hosting the Saturday competition that is open to all.

Participation is not limited to teams that have qualified through a state or regional competition. Driver-attendant teams may represent a school district, contractor, state association or other organization, while independent participants and “pickup” teams are also welcome to take part in the challenging professional-development experience.

While friendly competition remains part of the roadeo, the emphasis is on learning, teamwork and strengthening the skills needed to safely transport students with disabilities.

Teams will need to work together throughout the course, with particular attention paid to communication with students, safety and care. This year’s event will also feature additional activities and hands-on training designed to challenge participants beyond traditional driving skills. On-site team challenges will provide opportunities to earn extra credit during the competition.

The Saturday course at Prosper ISD will place driver-attendant teams in situations that require them to communicate, make decisions and apply best practices while working together.

Preparation begins well before teams arrive in Texas. The 2026 roadeo test package will be distributed to registered teams by Oct. 1. As in previous years, the written portion of the competition will be open book, allowing participants to use the preparation process as another opportunity to build their knowledge of specialized transportation.

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View the TSD Conference Agenda

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Friday, Nov. 6 will combine roadeo preparation with access to TSD Conference education. Registered team participants can attend the opening keynote by behavior expert Patrick Mulick, who will present “Promoting Independence and Reducing the Reliance on 1:1 Adult Support.” Mulick will examine how student transporters can maintain safety while helping students develop greater independence.

Roadeo participants will also have access Friday to the Foundations of Transporting Students with Disabilities & Preschoolers seminar, which provides instruction on laws and regulations, the IEP process, terminology, operational practices and other fundamentals involved in transporting students with disabilities and young children.

The roadeo team and judges meeting will be held Friday afternoon in preparation for Saturday’s competition.

Those remaining through Sunday morning can participate in American Sign Language for Student Transporters, which provides practical instruction for improving communication with deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The hands-on training introduces useful ASL phrases, accessibility considerations and strategies transportation teams can apply on the school bus.

The broader access to TSD Conference education is intended to make participation in the special needs team roadeo more than a one-day skills competition. Drivers and attendants can learn from national experts, practice techniques with other transportation professionals and then apply those lessons to challenges modeled on situations they may encounter while serving students with disabilities.

Scholarship opportunities also remain available to help qualified participants attend.

Team registration is separate from main TSD Conference main registration. Visit the TSD Conference website for registration information, scholarship details and the latest event agenda.

The 2026 TSD Conference and Trade Show takes place Nov. 4-10 at the Embassy Suites in Frisco, Texas, and features specialized education and training focused on transporting students with disabilities and special needs. Early Bird registration is currently available through Oct. 2, a savings of $100 off the standard registration rate. Main conference registration includes keynote, general and breakout educational sessions, networking events, the Ride & Drive + Technology Demonstration, and the TSD Trade Show and reception.

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Related: Workshop on Solving Challenging Transportation Scenarios to Close TSD Conference
Related: ASL Training at TSD Conference to Equip Student Transporters for Safer Communication 
Related: Legal Keynote to Examine Court Rulings Reshaping Special Needs Transportation
Related: Behavior Expert to Help TSD Conference Attendees Rethink 1:1 Adult Support
Related: New Date Set for NHTSA Child Passenger Safety Training at TSD

The post Special Needs Roadeo Returns to TSD Conference with Expanded Training, Team Challenges appeared first on School Transportation News.

Between 2013 and 2016, VW built 250 diesel plug-in hybrid XL1s. Capable of traveling 62 miles (100 km) on a single liter of diesel, it came to life after more than a decade of development. VW is now about to unveil a spiritual successor to the XL1, dubbed the Mission Efficiency.

The new model, created as a battery-electric vehicle, has been teased ahead of a debut this week. Like the XL1 that came before it, the Mission Efficiency aims to go as far as possible while consuming very little energy.

Read: VW’s ID. Polo Waiting List Is So Long You’ll Get A McLaren Sooner

VW will use the Mission Efficiency concept to travel from Wolfsburg to Vienna as part of what it calls a “record-setting journey.” Very little is known about what VW will do on this near-500-mile journey, but it’ll probably try to either make the trip on a single charge using a very small battery, or instead, set out to achieve a breathtaking efficiency rating.

A Modern XL1

The concept car’s design clearly draws heavily on the XL1 from just over a decade ago. Like that car, this one has a sleek, teardrop shape that’ll let it slip through the air with as little disturbance as possible.

At the front of the concept is a full-width LED light bar, along with subtle daytime running lights and an illuminated VW emblem. Sketches of the sides reveal flowing panels and wheel covers at the rear. In addition, the rear end appears to be noticeably slimmer than the front, much like the XL1. The rear features a single light bar and a glowing badge.

In a statement, VW says the vehicle’s mission is “to explore the boundaries of what is possible with a fully functional everyday vehicle that is largely based on production technology.”

Volvo has announced substantial updates for the 40 series SUVs, including the evergreen XC40, its fully electric EX40 twin and the closely-related EC40 coupe-SUV. All three models receive a redesigned face, larger screens, AI tech, and improved safety features in a quest to stay relevant against younger rivals.

The XC40, in production since 2017, received a facelift in 2022, but the 2027 update is more substantial. The fully electric coupe-SUV variant debuted in 2021 as the C40 Recharge before being renamed to EC40 in 2024 and receiving its first facelift for 2027.

More: New Volvo EX50 Could Be Better, Bigger And Cheaper Than The SUV It Replaces

Visually, the first thing you notice is the reshaped headlights with the trademark Thor’s Hammer LED graphics, joined by a cleaner front bumper. The grille is wider than before, reaching out to the headlights, and adopts the body-colored finish of the zero-emission EX40 and EC40.

Volvo XC40

The sculpted profile is largely unchanged, but the diamond-cut alloy wheels measuring 18, 19 or 20 inches are new. The rear end benefits from sharper LED taillights in the XC40 and EX40, alongside fresh surfacing on the tailgate and the rear bumper. Volvo has also shown photos of the Black Edition variants combining a stealthy finish with a dark-themed cabin.

More: Volvo May Bring Sedans And Wagons Back To America

Inside, the centerpiece is the larger 11.2-inch central touchscreen (up from 9 inches), with its top end sticking out of the dashboard. The display runs Volvo’s latest infotainment software with Google Gemini integration. Other interior updates include a new wireless charging pad, “refined” ambient lighting, and new materials such as Arianne Cardamom leather, Brown Ash or Black Ash wood accents, and aluminum inserts.

Volvo EC40

On the safety front, the XC40 gets new hardware and software. Volvo threw in new radars, a new forward camera, and a total of 12 ultrasonic sensors. These enable a 3D view for the optional 360-degree camera system and make the optional Pilot Assist with lane change assist run more smoothly. The company has also added a Door Opening Alert and real-time hazard detection for the emergency braking and steering functions.

More: The EX30 Is Dead, But Volvo’s Next Cheap EV Is Already On The Way To America

The XC40 continues to be powered by the familiar mild-hybrid turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, available with different outputs depending on the market.

The fully electric EX40 and EC40 also retain their existing single-motor and twin-motor configurations, delivering up to 584 km (363 miles) of WLTP range. Note that the PHEV powertrain option has been discontinued.

Volvo EX40

The updated Volvo 40 series is scheduled to enter production in Belgium later this fall. Depending on the market, deliveries are expected to start in early 2027 with pricing to be announced.

The main rivals of the Volvo 40 series in the premium compact SUV segment include the soon-to-be facelifted BMW X1 and X2, the brand new Mercedes-Benz GLA, and the Audi Q3 / Q3 Sportback.

Nearly a decade after wrapping up production in Australia, Ford has announced big plans for the land down under. As part of an event, the company announced plans to “double coverage of the Australian vehicle market to over 60% within three years.” The automaker is also aiming for “over 90% of its volume sold to be all-new or significantly refreshed by the end of 2030.”

The centerpiece of this plan is to bring the Bronco Basecamp to Australia and New Zealand in the second half of 2027. The model launched in China last year and targets a “new breed of outdoor enthusiasts.”

More: Ford’s Electrified Bronco Arrives In China With A Pop Up Roof Surprise

Ford didn’t say much about the local variant, but confirmed it will have a “super hybrid extended-range electrified powertrain.” It consists of two electric motors, a 49 kWh battery pack, and a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that acts exclusively as a generator.

The company said this will deliver the smooth and responsive driving dynamics of an electric vehicle, but with a range of 497 – 559 miles (800 – 900 km). It also goes without saying, you can simply fill up with gas and be back on your way.

Ford didn’t talk numbers, but the Bronco Basecamp starts at ¥229,800 ($34,245 USD / $47,565 AUD) in China and features a combined output of 416 hp (310 kW / 421 PS) and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque. The model also has a CLTC electric-only range of 137 miles (220 km).

While Ford didn’t say much about the vehicle, they noted it’s built for adventure and would make the perfect camping companion. When it’s time to go to sleep, all the seats fold down and an inflatable mattress can be placed on top of them to create a bed.

When morning comes, the rear swing gate has a “Wild Kitchen” with a fold-down table. The model even has Pro Power Onboard, which enables owners to access up to 6.6 kW of juice to power equipment such as coffee makers, cooktops, and lights.

The upscale Bronco Basecamp Outer Banks goes even further as it has an electric pop top that rises at the touch of a button to increase headroom, such as when camping. The Outer Banks also has a 7.5-liter center console compartment that can be warmed or chilled.

Besides the Bronco Basecamp, Ford announced the electric Transit City will arrive in November for $50,000 AUD ($36,100 USD). Around the same time, the Mustang Dark Horse T8-Spec will land at dealers. The automaker also announced the local launch of Ford Pro, which will be supported by a new seven-year, unlimited kilometer warranty for commercial customers who exclusively rely on Ford dealerships for servicing.

Dacia has unveiled a new generation of the Spring, marking a complete overhaul for one of Europe’s most affordable urban EVs. The small hatchback is built on Renault bones, promising a 155-mile range, clever design features and a sub-€20k ($23k) price tag. Unlike its Chinese-built predecessor, the new Spring will be manufactured in Slovenia, avoiding import tariffs in Europe.

The new model swaps the aging CMFA-EV platform of its predecessor for the new RG-EV architecture. This is another name for the AmpR Small platform, already underpinning the Renault Twingo E-Tech, Renault 5 E-Tech and Nissan Micra hatchbacks.

More: Dacia’s Sub-$28K Striker Claims To Be Three Cars At Once

Power comes from a Twingo-sourced electric motor producing 80 hp (60 kW / 82 PS) and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque, sending power to the front wheels. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint is completed in 12.1 seconds and top speed is limited at 130 km/h (81 mph). Energy is stored in a small 27.5 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack, offering up to 250 km (155 miles) of WLTP range.

The battery needs 28 minutes to charge from 15-80% when connected to a 50 kW DC fast charger, or 2 hours and 55 minutes from a 7 kW wallbox using the standard AC charger.

The shift to the new platform gives the urban EV different proportions and a larger footprint while keeping weight low at 1,212 kg (2,672 lbs). The new Spring is 150 mm (5.9 in) longer and 180 mm (7.1 in) wider compared to its predecessor, stretching to 3,850 mm (151.6 in) long. It is also 61 mm (2.4 in) longer than the Renault Twingo E-Tech twin, while adopting a different styling language.

More: Renault Shipped 100 Frog-Eyed Twingos To The UK Purely So You Can Stare At Them

Unlike the Renault which is known for its frog-style headlights and soft curves, the Dacia looks less playful and more utilitarian. Designers gave it boxy LEDs, a generous amount of plastic cladding on the bumpers, conventional door handles and steel wheels measuring 15 or 16 inches in diameter.

Inside, the larger body translates to a more spacious cabin although the model retains the four-seater layout. The cargo space has a capacity of 337 liters (11.9 cubic feet) and grows to 1,283 liters (45.3 cu ft) when folding the 50/50 split rear bench. Dacia has also added a optional 18-liter (0.6 cubic feet) frunk, plenty of storage solutions around the cabin, and the modular YouClip accessory mounting system.

More: Renault’s New Duster Looks Like An Expensive Dacia, Until You See The Price

The dashboard appears to be covered in hard plastics with a large piece of colorful trim above the practical tray breaking the monotony of black. The standard 7-inch digital instrument cluster is joined by a 10.1-inch infotainment display on the flagship Journey trim, although the entry level Expression will be limited to a smartphone mount.

Occupants are treated with fabric seats and scratchy plastics on the door cards, designed to keep the costs low. Finally, the model has a familiar “My Safety” button allowing the driver to quickly disable or enable ADAS.

Production of the new Dacia Spring takes place at the Novo Mesto plant in Slovenia alongside the Renault Twingo E-Tech. The market launch is expected in late 2026, with the first deliveries scheduled for early 2027. Dacia has yet to announce detailed pricing but confirmed that all variants will cost under €20,000 ($23,000) before local EV subsidies.

More: Opel’s Cheapest New Car Is Now A Family SUV With Three Pedals And Steelies

This suggests that the new model will be more expensive compared to the outgoing Chinese-built Spring, which started from a heavily discounted €11,900 ($13,800) in Germany earlier this year. The latter will remain on sale alongside the new generation for a transitional period, serving as a cheaper alternative.

The new Spring is one of four new Dacia EVs set to debut by 2030 according to the official roadmap, including the upcoming Sandero EV with a slightly larger footprint.

Dacia

Being ahead of the curve sounds great unless nobody is ready for what you’re selling. Twenty-five years ago, Audi toyed with a radical vision of what a clever compact car could be: light, slippery, incredibly efficient and premium-feeling. Now that thinking and the A2 badge it wore is back, wrapped in a far more marketable electric crossover that might finally have arrived at exactly the right moment.

This is the new Audi A2 e-tron, and while another electric crossover might not sound like something worth cancelling dinner plans for, this one is worth your attention – even if you’re in the US, where the A2 was, and will continue to be, off limits. For a start, it takes some of the design cues of the original A2, the boxy, almost minivan-like body and split-glass rear window, and transplants them on a much wider car with a solid, four-square stance and the cheekiest grin we’ve seen an Audi wear.

Related: VW Group Confirms Plans To Kill Half Its Lineup And Slash 50,000 Jobs

The second reason to pay attention is Audi’s claim that the A2 e-tron is the most efficient production model in the brand’s history. Yes, even more efficient than the fuel-sipping, 78 US mpg A2 3L diesel, though we’re not sure how Audi calculated that. In the right configuration, the baby e-tron consumes just 12.8 kWh per 62 miles (100 km), while the real mile-muncher of the lineup manages up to 401 miles (645 km) on the European WLTP cycle.

And Ingolstadt’s engineers haven’t achieved that by simply throwing a battery the size of a studio apartment underneath their VW ID.3 and Volvo EX30 rival. Instead, Audi has gone hunting for wasted energy pretty much everywhere. The A2 has a drag coefficient of just 0.24, helped by an enclosed underbody, active cooling intake, aero wheels and clever little pieces around the wheel arches designed to calm turbulent air.

Even the door handles have joined the efficiency crusade. They’re wing-type handles at the base of the door pillars that use sensors rather than conventional mechanical hardware. Audi scrapped them in favor of conventional handles on the new Q9 luxury SUV but promised we’d see them on a future Euro product. Tug gently and the door opens electrically. There’s even backup energy storage in case the electrical system decides it’s having the day off.

There are three battery sizes, measuring 52, 61 and 84 kWh gross, so something to suit pretty much every kind of use-case scenario. Stick with the 52 kWh battery and you get a 168 hp (170 PS /125 kW) single motor that helps your A2 hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 8.8 seconds and cover 262 miles (422 km) of range before needing to plug-in.

Quattro Notable By Its Absence

An optional 61 kWh pack comes with a 187 hp (190 PS / 140 kW) electric motor, dropping the stoplight sprint to 7.9 seconds and offering a handy range boost to 320 miles (515 km). Splash for the 228 hp (231 PS / 170 kW) A2 and you chop the 62 mph time to 7 seconds flat and unlock that 401-mile headline range figure we mentioned earlier, courtesy of an 84 kWh battery.

And if you’re prepped to swap some of that range for more zip, the 322 hp (326 PS / 240 kW) flagship delivers 5.7-second and 391-mile (629 km) stats. It’s also the only A2 capable of stretching its legs to 124 mph (200 km/h) instead of 99 mph.

In each case that power is settled to the rear wheels because the A2 is based on the MEB platform in use on cars like the Audi’s VW ID.3 rival and Audi Q4 e-tron SUV, not the newer front-drive MEB+ architecture found under the VW ID. Polo, Cupra Raval and Skoda Epiq. That means no Quattro tech or badges.

DC charging tops out at 183 kW on big battery cars, which require an unimpressive 29 minutes to fill from 10-80 percent. The two smaller batteries sound like they’re going to be even worse due to their feeble 100 kW charge rates, but they cut the fill time to 24 minutes by virtue of their tiny capacities. Like other VW MEB EVs, this one supports bi-directional charging.

Fidlock? What’s That?

Inside, an 11.9-inch digital instrument display sits alongside a 12.8-inch curved touchscreen, while the gear selector has migrated to the steering column. That leaves more room in the center console for a Qi 2.2 charging pad that can juice two smartphones simultaneously at up to 25 watts. Useful, but hardly revolutionary. The Fidlock system, though, promises to be both.

Fidlock is actually a magnetic mounting system with a mechanical lock, allowing owners to click things like cupholders and charging cable bags into dedicated points around the cabin and trunk. If you’re an avid cyclist you might be familiar with them already, but Audi claims the tech makes its production car debut on the A2.

Ordinary Trunk, But At Least There’s A Frunk

But what about real practicality? It’s okay, but not class leading. The A2 rides on the same 2,770 mm (109 inches) wheelbase as its Q4 e-tron brother, so legroom should be good, but where the Q4 offers 520 litres of trunk space, the A2 can only muster 396 liters (14 cu-ft). It also loses out to the Renault Megane E-tech (440 liters), but beats the VW ID.3 (385 liters) and cramped Volvo EX30 (318 liters).

One of the original A2’s most innovative features was its aluminum construction, but that also made it expensive, contributing to its poor sales. So this time the A2 e-tron is mostly steel with some aluminum content. But what does feel advanced is the development timeline. It took Audi 20 years to reboot the A2 after the last was discontinued, but only 21 months to get it from drawing board to debut.

The original A2 was ahead of its time, but with a slick design, some clever interior touches, impressive efficiency, a genuinely affordable £32,200 starting price and European EV sales on fire right now, maybe this is finally the right time for the A2.

Audi

Kia is gearing up to introduce the new PV7 at the IAA Transportation show on September 14 and they recently released a handful of teaser images. Spy photographers are now filling in the blanks as they’ve spotted the commercial vehicle undergoing testing in Europe.

Set to become the second member of the Platform Beyond Vehicle lineup, the PV7 follows in the footsteps of the PV5 that was introduced last year. As a result, it features a stepped front end and an expansive windshield. They’re joined by black upper accents and lower black plastic body cladding.

More: Electric Kia PV7 Is Coming For The Ford Transit

SHProshots

The model has a “one-box profile” and that’s putting it lightly as the van is essentially a box on wheels. The prototype seen by spy shooters features dual sliding doors with an odd window arrangement in the middle. They’re accompanied by a relatively flat roof that helps to maximize cargo capacity.

Around the back, there’s a vertical liftgate and a small rear bumper. They’re accompanied by vertical taillights as well as a recessed license plate area. The van also has thick rear pillars with black accents to create the illusion of a wraparound greenhouse.

SHProshots

The PV7 was previewed by a concept in 2024 and will reportedly measure around 208.6 inches (5,300 mm) long. To put that into perspective, the PV5 Cargo Long is 184.8 inches (4,695 mm) long and has a 117.9-inch (2,995 mm) wheelbase.

The model will ride on the Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S), which is a fleet-focused version of the E-GMP architecture that underpins the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Genesis GV60, among others.

Powertrain details remain a mystery, but the PV5 offers a 43.3 kWh LFP battery pack as well as 51.5 and 71.2 kWh NCM batteries. They power electric motors with outputs of 120 hp (89.4  kW / 122 PS) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque as well as 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm).

Given the PV7’s size, we wouldn’t be surprised to find the 51.5 and 71.2 kWh batteries, and they could potentially be joined by an even larger pack. The 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS) electric motor also seems like a safe bet and it could be joined by an even more powerful one as well. That being said, we’ll find out for sure later this month.

SHProshots

Back in October 2024, Tesla’s “We, Robot” event introduced the world to Optimus, the Robovan, and the Cybercab. Drawing design inspiration from the Cybertruck, the Cybercab offered yet another look at the proposed driverless car future, this time sans a steering wheel and pedals.

But the biggest shocker was the Tesla CEO’s claim that not only did he expect the Cybercab to be offered to customers at under $30,000, but that it would also enter high-volume production before 2027. Granted, by his own admission, Elon Musk said at the time that he tends to be “a little optimistic with timeframes,” but it got tech creator Marcus Brownlee, aka MKBHD, thinking.

More: Tesla Offers Rides In A Car With No Wheel Or Pedals, So Naturally The Feds Showed Up

So confident was MKBHD that Tesla wouldn’t meet such a timeline, he made a bit of a one-sided bet: he offered to shave his head live on camera if they made good. To be specific, Brownlee said that Tesla wouldn’t sell a Cybercab to a customer for $30,000 before 2027.

Semantics aside, that moment triggered a bunch of AI videos and memes, particularly from fans of Tesla, with Elon Musk even replying to one such post on X, saying, “Gonna happen. 😂”

A Long Time Coming

Since the Cybercab reveal, we’ve seen more information about the car trickle out, including it would likely deliver around 300 miles (482 km) of range, use large castings to save costs, and still projected to cost $30,000 or less. In February, the team even appeared to be ahead of schedule, with the first Cybercab rolling off Tesla’s Texan production line.

Brownlee himself admitted he was a little nervous when it came to light that a new Cybercab event had been scheduled for the 3rd of September. But luckily for him (and his hair), the event had nothing to do with customer sales. Instead, it announced that the Cybercab would be added to the Tesla Robotaxi network within their existing geofenced areas.

But while it looks like his hair is safe for now, the Tech Tuber went on to say that although he thinks Tesla may be ahead of its time with the Cybercab, he expects self-driving cars to become more mainstream in the next 10 years. Oh, and regardless of whether he wins the “bet” or not, he’ll be donating to Cancer Research in January.

Tesla Cybercab

Getting a good look at the Fathom has been about as easy as capturing a real phantom on camera. However, Ford CEO Jim Farley recently took to social media to release high quality teaser images.

They show the midsized electric truck traveling past the iconic Las Vegas sign. Of course, we’re more interested in the pickup than the tourist trap.

More: Ford Spent $2 Billion On A Factory To Build Its $28K Fathom Pickup In Three Pieces

Dressed in colorful camouflage, the Fathom follows in the footsteps of the Maverick as it has an upright front end with a wide lower intake. Bulky cladding hides the grille, but it’s flanked by mid-mounted headlights that have an angular accent toward the inside.

Photos Ford / Jim Farley

Further back, we can see streamlined bodywork and aerodynamically optimized wheels, which are also wrapped in disguise. They’re joined by traditional door handles as well as tiny mirrors. The latter don’t look particularly good, but Ford has previously said their 20% smaller size results in an extra 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of range.

Other notable highlights include rounded wheel arches and what appears to be an angular lip around the upper bed. Elsewhere, there are vertical taillights and a relatively plain rear bumper with an offset license plate.

A closer inspection reveals the cab is slightly smaller than it appears as the prototype has been equipped with a sizeable rear spoiler. This pushes out the black camouflage and undoubtedly contributes to the truck’s efficiency.

Photos Ford / Jim Farley

Despite being smaller than it appears, Ford has previously confirmed the Fathom has more passenger volume than the Toyota RAV4. This means we can expect more than 98.9 cubic feet (2,801 km) of space for occupants.

Additional details are limited, but Ford has said the truck will have a large touchscreen display with an easy-to-use navigation system powered by Apple Maps. It will also have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, digital key technology, a bidirectional charging capability, and next-generation BlueCruise hands-free driving.

#FordFathom in the wild. https://t.co/SwmOUzeJv1 pic.twitter.com/CNERthHQEV

— Jim Farley (@jimfarley98) September 1, 2026

Specifications remain a mystery, but Ford has hinted at multiple battery packs. The base model comes with the “standard-range battery,” so that suggests there will also be a long-range variant.

Unfortunately, we still have a wait ahead of us as Ford won’t introduce the model until 2027. When pre-orders begin early next year, pricing will start at $28,350 before a $1,595 destination fee.

Baldauf