Even with the next-generation C9 Corvette likely deep in development ahead of its rumored 2029 debut, General Motors is already looking beyond. The company just offered a look even further down the line, imagining what a C10 could look like if it were drawn up today.

Their newly opened Advanced Design studio in Pasadena, California, pulled the cover off a striking new Corvette concept, one that leans hard into hypercar territory while rethinking the future of America’s most famous sports car.

Purists might want to look away, since this vision drops the V8 in favor of an all-electric powertrain. That choice appears to contradict recent comments from Corvette’s chief engineer, who suggested the sports car isn’t going fully electric any time soon. Then again, he did describe a fully electric Corvette as still firmly in the realm of “science fiction” which, in fairness, is what this concept is, even if it could loosely influence the eventual design of the real C10.

More: Chevy’s Biggest Surprise Might Wear A Classic Name And Look Nothing Like The Original

This is the second of three Corvette design studies scheduled to be revealed in 2025. It follows an earlier concept from GM’s European design team in the UK. According to GM, this project isn’t tied to production plans. Instead, the intent was to give designers full creative freedom to “reimagine what the Corvette could be.”

While GM stopped short of directly naming it the C10 in their release, the “C10” badge displayed on the front fender leaves little room for interpretation.

More than a Sports Car

Rather than resembling a Porsche 911 rival, the SoCal Corvette appears to have more in common with future hypercars from Koenigsegg or Rimac. It features aggressive mid-engine proportions, with bodywork that functions as part of the car’s aerodynamic system – similar to the Aston Martin Valkyrie.

The bumper intakes have hints of the C8 Corvette, combined with an F1-style carbon fiber front wing and ultra-slim LED headlights. The profile is mostly hollow, directing air to the massive rear diffuser. The rear end includes an active aero spoiler and air brake, design elements more commonly seen on high-performance exotics like Bugatti.

One of the standout features is the removable, front-hinged single-piece canopy. It lifts off to reveal a track-focused two-seat cabin. Inside, the cockpit includes a slim digital instrument cluster, an augmented-reality head-up display, and an additional screen mounted on a yoke-style steering wheel.

Sorry Folks, The Future’s Electric

Underneath, the Corvette concept is based on a carbon fiber tub and envisioned with a fully electric powertrain. GM notes the use of a T-shaped prismatic battery pack, which allows for low seating and improved airflow around and through the chassis. These choices point to performance priorities while also emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency

More: Forget About Supercars, This Corvette Is Coming For Hypercars

Back to the one-off Corvette hypercar, it measures 182.5 inches (4,669mm) long, 86 inches (2,184mm) wide, and only 41.4 inches (1,051 mm) tall, with a wheelbase of 109 inches (2,767mm). Compared to the current C8, it’s slightly longer and wider, with a much lower roofline. Its dramatic stance is accentuated by the futuristic alloy wheels measuring 21 inches at the front and 22 inches at the rear.

Global Vision, SoCal Lens

Brian Smith, design director, GM Advanced Design Pasadena explained the philosophy behind the project:

“Southern California has been at the heart of automotive and design culture for a century, and GM has had a deep design presence here for nearly 40 years. We wanted to ensure that this concept was developed through that SoCal lens, but with a global and futuristic outlook. Duality of purpose is the basis of this concept’s design strategy. The defining design aspect is the single-piece, front-hinged canopy than enables the entire upper shell to be removed, transforming the concept from an agile, slick sports car to a lightweight, open-air track car.”

We’re looking forward to the next Corvette concept that will be the work of a different design team, offering another perspective on the brand’s future. In addition to the Pasadena studio, GM also operates design centers in Detroit, Los Angeles, Leamington (UK), Shanghai, and Seoul, bringing a unique cultural influence to the table.

General Motors

The mid-engined Corvette C8 has already passed the midpoint of its production run and talk of its successor is beginning to take shape. With the C9 rumored to debut around 2029, people have been speculating whether the next iteration might abandon its trademark V8 roots in favor of a fully electric powertrain.

Fortunately, recent comments from a top GM engineer suggest there’s no need to worry – at least not yet. The Corvette will hold onto its V8 rumble, embracing a more measured hybrid approach instead of going all-in on electric.

More: Forget About Supercars, This Corvette Is Coming For Hypercars

Tony Roma, Executive Chief Engineer for Global Corvette and Performance Cars at General Motors, recently spoke with Autocar to shed light on what’s next for America’s favorite sports car. While acknowledging that EVs are clearly part of the industry’s future, Roma dismissed the idea of a fully electric Corvette as something still firmly in the realm of “science fiction.”

A Corvette EV? Not Anytime Soon

The engineering boss made it clear that his team won’t be making an electric version just to comply with the European regulations, which are set to ban ICE-powered vehicles after 2035. If an EV does one day carry the Corvette name, he said, it will need to earn it. As he put it, “nobody wants” a Corvette badge on a car that doesn’t live up to its legacy.

Back in April 2025, General Motors’ new design center in the UK unveiled a Corvette-inspired concept. Presented as a design exercise, it sported a futuristic hypercar shape and a fully electric drivetrain.

According to Michael Simcoe, GM’s Senior Vice President of Global Design, it was meant to honor Corvette’s design heritage rather than serve as a preview of a future production model. Roma’s comments now confirm that this project isn’t headed for the assembly line anytime soon.

What Makes a Corvette, According to GM

For him, performance metrics alone aren’t enough. While electric vehicles can easily deliver blistering acceleration, he believes the Corvette should be focused on something more enduring: the experience behind the wheel, noting that “it has to be engaging” and that “the art of driving” remains central to the brand’s identity.

More: Why Perfectly Good New Corvettes Are Being Cut In Half With A Garage Tool

He emphasized the importance of a strong power-to-weight ratio, as well as cost and range, but placed even more weight on the “visceral connection” a driver feels with the car. Roma admitted he’s driven many excellent EVs, but said most of them lack the emotional spark that makes a great performance car memorable.

“The computer does so much of the work,” he explained. What he wants on a Saturday morning drive is simple: “to fire up an engine and listen to all those noises.”

In his view, the transition to electric will only happen when the alternative is truly better: “Our cars will be all-electric when an all-electric car is better than what we have right now. And until then, we’ll continue to do what we’re doing right now… Everybody should just take a deep breath and relax, and we’ll get there when it’s time.”

Simplicity Over Complexity in Hybrid Design

The chief engineer also dismissed the idea of turning to plug-in hybrid technology for Corvette, citing drawbacks like added mass, higher costs, and unnecessary complexity. He said such a system would only be worth considering if it allowed GM to meet specific regulatory targets based on electric-only driving range.

While speciality makers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren are already offering plug-in hybrid supercars, Chevrolet has gone in a different direction with the Corvette E-Ray. Roma explained why.

“I won’t poke anybody in particular, but some of our competitors have been criticized for the games you have to play to get the car in the right mode, and which charging mode and this and that and the other. But when you drive an E-Ray, you just fire it up and drive it. It’s just a hybrid. It charges the battery for you. It does everything. If you want to override and make it charge the battery faster, there’s a button for that. But other than that, that’s pretty much it, and keep it simple, keep it usable.”

What Comes After the C8?

All signs point to the next-generation Corvette sticking with a V8 engine, possibly paired with a self-charging hybrid system. That keeps the formula intact while still allowing for incremental updates that improve efficiency and performance without losing the essence of what the Corvette is all about.

More: America’s Everyday Corvette ZR1X Hypercar Versus The World

Although the C9 is expected around 2029, there’s still more to come from the current model. Roma recently hinted that the 1,250-horsepower ZR1X isn’t the C8’s final act. “It’s just the latest chapter,” he said, promising that the team continues to push the platform to “new performance highs.”

MG has used the Goodwood Festival of Speed to introduce two new models, a concept, and an apparent styling exercise. The company also showcased the EX4, which is a reimagining of the Metro 6R4 rally.

Starting with the IM5 executive liftback, it’s an aerodynamic EV that vaguely recalls the Porsche Taycan. It features soft flowing curves, flush-mounted door handles, and a low drag coefficient of 0.226.

More: China’s Most British Roadster Freshens Up For 2026

Buyers will also find a panoramic glass roof and 19-inch wheels with an aerodynamically optimized design. The model also sports a prominent spoiler, LED taillights, and a liftgate that opens up to reveal a 16.1 cubic foot (457 liter) boot.

MG didn’t say much about the interior, but it has a 26.3-inch screen that functions as a digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The screen supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and is accompanied by a lower 10.5-inch touchscreen.

The IM5 has heated and ventilated “leather-style” seats and a 20-speaker audio system. We can also see metallic accents and a wireless smartphone charger.

MG didn’t release detailed specifications, but confirmed the IM5 will be offered with 75 and 100 kWh battery packs as well as single and dual-motor all-wheel drive systems. The 100 kWh Long Range variant can travel up to 441 miles (710 km) on a single charge. When the battery is low, it can go from a 10 to 80 percent charge in just 17 minutes.

The company also confirmed a Performance variant with 742 hp (553 kW / 752 PS) and 591 lb-ft (802 Nm) of torque. It enables the model to rocket from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.2 seconds.

Pricing starts at £39,450 and climbs to £48,495 for the Performance variant.

IM6 SUV

The IM6 is essentially a taller IM5 positioned as an SUV. As a result, it has a familar design but sports cladding and a revised front end. The model is also a tad more spacious as it has 23.5 cubic feet (665 liters) of cargo space.

Power comes from a 100 kWh battery pack, which delivers up to 388 miles (624 km) of range. Rear steering is standard and the Performance variant can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.5 seconds.

Pricing starts at £47,995 and jumps to £50,995 for the Performance version. There will also be a Launch Edition for £52,995.

Cyber X

Besides production models, MG showed the Cyber X. Designed to preview the brand’s new design language, the concept is a boxy electric “urban explorer.”

It features a nearly vertical front fascia with a full-width light bar and headlights that can apparently be hidden by covers when not in use. Further back, there are blacked out A-pillars and a stylish greenhouse. They’re joined by sleek bodywork, muscular fenders, and flush-mounted door handles.

Rounding out the highlights are a panoramic glass roof and plastic body cladding. They’re joined by aerodynamic wheels that are wrapped in meaty tires.

Cyberster Black

Last but not least is the self-explanatory Cyberster Black. It features a “luxurious black finish” thanks to a premium paint process that is usually reserved for luxury cars. MG didn’t go into many specifics, but said the paint has ultra-fine glass particles that help to create a subtle sparkle as well as a “shimmering effect” when in motion.

Besides the fancy paint, the roadster has been equipped with chrome wheels that contrast with red brake calipers. The model also has an all-black interior.

Bentley is gearing up to introduce their first electric vehicle in 2026 and they’re previewing its styling language with the new EXP 15 concept. It’s a big departure for the brand and it’s billed as an “elevated sporting sedan.”

While we weren’t expecting Bentley to follow in the footsteps of the Toyota Crown and Volvo S60 Cross Country, the EXP 15 is part coupe, part sedan, and part crossover. It’s an unusual combination, but Bentley Design Director Robin Page offered some context.

More: Bentley’s First EV Caught Hiding Under Porsche Cayenne Disguise

“It’s clear that SUVs are a growing segment and we understand the GT market – through four generations of the Continental GT – but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it’s changing,” he explained. “Some customers want a classic ‘three-box’ sedan shape, others a ‘one-box’ design, and others again something more elevated. So this was a chance for us to talk to people and get a feeling.”

A New Shape for the Brand

They’ll likely get plenty of feedback as the resulting concept doesn’t even resemble a Bentley. Instead, it’s an anonymous edgy blob that looks part Volvo with a dash of Jaguar.

That’s probably not what designers were going for, but the EXP 15 has an Upright Elegance front end, which is dominated by a large enclosed grille. The latter uses lights to mimic the appearance of a traditional grille, while also turning the unnecessary component into a “piece of digital art.”

Elsewhere, there are vertical headlights and Bentley’s new winged emblem. They’re joined by an illuminated hood ornament as well as a frunk, which is accessed via “piano-style hinged engine covers.”

Moving further back, we can see a relatively flat hood that meets rakish black A-pillars. They flow into a sloping black roof, which contrasts with the shimmering silver-gold body.

The concept has streamlined bodywork that mixes taut surfaces with edgy lines and rounded wheel arches. They’re joined by muscular rear haunches and a slender greenhouse. We can also see aerodynamically optimized wheels and a considerable amount of ground clearance.

The EXP 15 is an oddity due to its three-door arrangement, which has a single door on the driver’s side as well as two doors on the passenger side. Even more strangely, there are two front doors despite the car only having one front seat.

The rear end is less offensive, but a tad generic aside from two active spoilers that are mounted onto the roof. They’re joined by an active diffuser and stylish taillights, which vaguely recall Dodge’s racetrack design.

Bentley didn’t go into many specifics, but confirmed the concept is over 196.9 inches (5,000 mm) long. This suggests it could be smaller than the Flying Spur, which clocks in at 209.3 inches (5,316 mm).

While the production EV will be a far cry from the concept, Bentley said it “provides hints to the design” of future models. They suggested we can expect more modern and sculpted bodywork as well as efforts to reduce “visual weight.”

An Odd And Flexible Interior

The weirdness continues inside as the EXP 15 has a three-seat interior with “innovative in-cabin storage for treasured pets and/or hand luggage.” As part of this effort, Bentley developed a dog bed that can be strapped where the front passenger seat would normally reside. Drivers can also opt to have two suitcases next to them, presumably stuffed with cash.

The quirkiness doesn’t end there as the passenger-side seat can be moved into three different positions. There’s the Standard rear position, a reclined Relax mode, and a Co-Pilot mode that sees the seat moved up alongside the driver. The seat can also swivel 45 degrees outwards to improve entry and egress.

Bentley noted there’s plenty of legroom in rear-mounted seating positions due to the lack of a front passenger seat. The company also mentioned a Concertina Floor Storage system, which has a footrest that folds downward into the floor when not in use.

Putting the seats aside, there’s a ‘Wing Gesture’ dashboard that can act as a full-width digital display. It features a slender digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system that is represented as a “Mechanical Marvel.” The latter is billed as a “clock-like device with multiple movable and illuminated fingers … which can indicate the car’s direction of travel, the state of its electric charge and much more.” They’re joined by a lower passenger side display, which feels out of place due to the lack of a front passenger seat.

Interestingly, the displays can be switched off to reveal a veneered wood surface that is visible underneath their glass. That isn’t the only cool touch as we can see a stylish steering wheel and some avant-garde switchgear as Page said, “We think people are going to get fed up with a fully digital experience and are pining for physical mechanical elements too.”

Bentley didn’t say much about the rear seats, but they’re separated by a console that has an integrated display as well as a stylish lamp. The console also houses a refrigerator and dedicated controls.

Given that the concept is part crossover, the EXP 15 has a spacious boot that can double as an upmarket picnic area. Part of the liftgate folds down to reveal two small seats that add some much needed cushioning. The rear lamp and fridge from the console can also slide back to the boot for an elegant evening under the stars.

The Electric Bentley

While the production model is coming next year, the company was coy on powertrain details. However, the ultra-luxury brand said the concept was “conceived as having a fully-electric, all-wheel drive powertrain with a long range and recharging speeds commensurate with the convenience customers have come to expect of a Bentley.”

That’s not much to go on, but Bentley teased their EV in 2024 and billed it as a “Luxury Urban SUV.” It will only incorporate cues from the EXP 15 as the production model will have a lot in common with the upcoming Porsche Cayenne Electric.

In just a few years, Hyundai has built an impressive lineup of electric vehicles that rivals, and in some cases surpasses, what many long-established automakers have brought to market. With options ranging from the retro-styled Ioniq 5 to the spacious new seven-seat Ioniq 9 and the compact Niro EV, Hyundai is covering a lot of ground. And the brand isn’t slowing down, as another electric model is on the way.

Read: New Hyundai Inster Is A Tiny Electric Crossover For The Masses

This upcoming addition will slot in above Hyundai’s Inster, the battery-powered version of the compact Casper. While the Inster’s charm lies in its tiny footprint, it may be a bit too small for some buyers. That’s where this new model fits in.

A new report points to a debut in concept form at the Munich Motor Show this September. The vehicle is expected to land between the Inster and the Kona in terms of size, aligning closely with the Bayon, which is currently offered in European markets.

Few details are known about the new model at this stage. However, Auto News speculates that it could be dubbed the Ioniq 2 if it is to use the automaker’s well-established E-GMP platform. Styling remains a mystery, but regardless of what the concept looks like, recent Hyundai history suggests that the eventual production model should resemble it closely.

New Tesla-Like Infotainment System

One of the more significant updates is expected inside the cabin. This SUV is likely to be the first Hyundai equipped with the new Pleos Connect infotainment system. Unveiled earlier this year, Pleos Connect is based on Android Automotive and features a large, freestanding touchscreen mounted at the center of the dashboard. It’s a layout that recalls Tesla’s approach and echoes what’s becoming common in many Chinese EVs.

This new setup could prove controversial. Most current Hyundais feature sleek digital instrument clusters and infotainment systems, sometimes housed within a single curved display. While tablet-like displays often have great functionality, they’re not particularly appealing to the eye.

Shared Roots with Kia

0Underneath, the new model is expected to share much of its architecture with the forthcoming Kia EV2. That vehicle will ride on a shortened version of the E-GMP platform and be offered with a single electric motor. If Hyundai follows a similar path, it could help keep costs manageable while still delivering competitive performance in the growing sub-compact and compact EV segments.

BMW M has confirmed that it’s developing a new halo supercar, one that could revive the spirit of the M1 from the late 1970s. Though the company hasn’t released any official details yet, the news has already sparked creative interpretations. Among them is a striking digital study by independent designer Sebastiano Ciarcia, who has envisioned his own version of a next-generation BMW exotic. He calls it the Ethos.

More: BMW Almost Launched An All-Electric Hypercar With 1,300 HP

This digital concept channels the same energy as the striking Nazca C2 prototype from the early 1990s, originally penned by Italdesign. There are also clear influences from the BMW i8 and the Vision M Next concept from 2019, both of which serve as recent milestones in BMW’s design evolution.

A Study in Surface and Stance

The BMW Ethos has a dramatic, low-slung stance with a wide footprint. A glass canopy covers the cabin, while partially exposed rear wheels recall the look of vintage Italian exotics. Up front, Ciarcia reimagines BMW’s signature kidney grille with a cleaner, body-colored design and a small, offset BMW badge. According to the designer, the grille pays tribute to BMW classics from the 1950s, like the 503 and 507.

Another highlight is the LED headlights which are integrated within the front intakes, slightly reminiscent of Peugeot‘s 9X8 Le Mans Hypercar. The sculpted fenders are protruding from the rest of the bodywork, contributing to the athletic profile. Ciarcia describes the surfacing as “a contrast of soft and hard volumes”.

Around back, the Ethos features a slim, full-width LED light bar, an active spoiler, and an aggressive diffuser to tie it all together.

Illustrations Sebastiano Ciarcia

Designed With Future Powertrains in Mind

Although the concept doesn’t display any obvious signs of an internal combustion engine, it isn’t imagined as fully electric either. Instead, Ciarcia envisions a hydrogen fuel-cell setup that could deliver performance on par with a modern hypercar, an approach that leaves the door open for alternative propulsion technologies.

To help bring the design to life, the Ethos has been rendered in a Champagne finish and placed in a setting that feels perfectly suited: the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on Lake Como in Italy. It’s the same venue that BMW introduced the limited-production Speedtop shooting brake this year, following the Skytop from 2024 and 2023’s Z4-based Touring Coupe.

More: BMW Scrapped A 95% Finished Supercar For The XM SUV

When it comes to potential rivals for the Ethos, the designer points to a wide range of high-performance supercars and hypercars, including the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, Aston Martin Valhalla, and Ferrari F80. Perhaps the closest match, though, would be the rumored all-electric supercar from Mercedes-AMG, previewed in 2023 by the Vision One-Eleven concept.

Ciarcia is an Italian automotive designer currently based in Gothenburg, Sweden. A graduate of IAAD, he has worked with several major automakers, including Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Rimac, and Volvo. CarScoops readers might recognize his name from a few years back, when he unveiled an impressive mid-engined reinterpretation of the Lancia Delta.

For more of his work, you can follow Sebastiano Ciarcia on Instagram.

Sebastiano Ciarcia

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sebastiano Ciarcià (@sebastiano_ciarcia)

Wagons may no longer be the default choice for families, but they’re far from forgotten. Skoda remains one of the few manufacturers still committed to the practical, low-slung appeal of the estate format, and it’s about to offer a glimpse of what’s next. At this September’s Munich Auto Show, the company will unveil an electric concept version of the next-gen Octavia Combi.

More: Your Insane Appetite For SUVs Is Killing Skoda’s Dreams Of Fun Sports Cars, But There’s Hope

The upcoming EV was first previewed in 2023 as a “spacious” electric estate, targeting families and business users. It’s expected to measure around 4.7 meters (185 inches) in length. At the time, Skoda also released renderings of a sculpture, hinting at the styling, featuring sharp lines, large wheels, and a sporty wagon silhouette.

Originally scheduled for release in 2026, the new Combi’s launch has been pushed closer to the end of the decade. According to a report from Autocar, the electric wagon will be based on Volkswagen Group’s SSP architecture, the same platform that will underpin the next-generation Volkswagen Golf.

Despite the focus on electrification, the new model won’t directly replace the current Octavia. Skoda plans to continue offering its internal combustion engine lineup, with gasoline, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options for those not yet ready to switch to fully electric driving.

Strong Wagon Sales Keep ICE Alive

According to Auto News, the Octavia Combi remains Skoda’s best-selling model in Europe in 2025, even outperforming its hatchback counterpart. From January through May, the wagon version sold 81,353 units, despite a 21 percent drop compared to the same period last year.

The fourth generation of the Octavia was introduced in 2019 and received a mid-lifecycle update in 2024. Skoda will soon add a plug-in hybrid version to the facelifted lineup, giving more options to buyers. Given its continued popularity, it’s likely that the MQB-based Octavia will receive a second facelift before the end of the decade, keeping it in production well past 2030.

Skoda Sells More EVs In Europe Than Tesla

May proved to be a standout month for electric Skodas across Europe. The automaker delivered 14,290 electric vehicles, marking a 181 percent year-over-year increase. This was enough to surpass Tesla, placing Skoda second only to Volkswagen in EV sales for the month. Much of this growth is credited to the addition of the Elroq SUV, which joined the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe in the brand’s electric lineup.

More: Skoda’s €25K Crossover Could Knock BMW Out Of Europe’s Top Three

Looking forward, Skoda has several more EVs in the pipeline. In 2026, the company plans to introduce the Epiq, a compact electric SUV built on the same platform as the VW ID.2 and Cupra Raval. Targeting a starting price of €25,000, the Epiq will serve as an EV alternative to the Fabia, Scala, and Kamiq models, which will remain available with combustion engines for the foreseeable future.

Also expected in 2026 is the production version of the Vision 7S concept, a larger electric SUV positioned above the Elroq and Enyaq. Once launched, it will sit alongside the ICE-powered Kodiaq in Skoda’s SUV portfolio.

Skoda has a reputation for letting loose with its student-designed concepts, but when it comes to production models, it usually plays it safe. The current lineup leans heavily on crossovers and SUVs, with a few hatchbacks, sedans, and estates filling out the rest. CEO Klaus Zellmer has acknowledged that while mainstream segments remain the brand’s focus, there’s still potential for something a little more adventurous down the line.

More: Your Grandpa’s Favorit Skoda Gets An EV Reboot

Despite the ongoing shift toward electrification, Skoda has kept its performance-focused RS badge alive, though the sportiest thing it currently sells is a coupe-style SUV. Still, the 2022 Vision GT concept, which recently made its way into the Gran Turismo game in 2024, offered a glimpse of what a more expressive, performance-minded Skoda could look like.

Concept Cars That Tease, But Rarely Translate

Speaking to Car Magazine, Zellmer reflected on the Vision GT and its nods to the classic 1957 1100 OHC: “These are little experiments – they sort of charge the brand a little bit, but the business rationale is minute, unfortunately.” That pretty much sums up the challenge. Fun ideas are easy to dream up, but justifying them to a boardroom is another story.

Zellmer went on to explain why Skoda hasn’t put a more exciting car into production, admitting that the brand is doubling down on profitable, high-riding mainstream models with powertrains to suit every buyer, including EVs, hybrids, and combustion, while sidelining niche offerings for now.

“Unfortunately, we don’t currently have either the financial luxury, nor the capacity, to do that,” he said. “I’d love to. I would love to see a car that speaks to hearts, like a convertible or something like that – but currently our full focus is on the portfolio that covers that big footprint. Those cars would only be niche models.”

Mainstream First, Passion Projects Later

Skoda has become one of the VW Group’s success stories, steadily building up its brand image and boosting sales over the past two decades. In 2024, the automaker posted record-breaking numbers, with €28 billion ($32.8 billion) in revenue and 926,600 vehicles sold. With results like that, it’s only natural to wonder when Skoda might finally green-light a model that’s more about passion than volume.

More: Skoda’s Race Concept Proves Fiber Makes You Go Faster

Zellmer doesn’t rule it out, but says it won’t happen right away. For the foreseeable future, the focus remains on solidifying the brand’s EV lineup. However, he is optimistic they will be able to broaden their horizons in the next decade.

“Once we have sorted out our portfolio into a certain number of cars, where each and every bodystyle sells more than 100,000 units a year – then you can start contemplating more ideas”, he said. “We are already selling more than 200,000 Octavias every year.”

Could a Niche EV Actually Happen?

Skoda’s CEO also pointed out that developing a niche model might not be as resource-intensive as it sounds. With the right platform already in place, the brand could simply design a new body on top of an existing performance EV setup. And judging by the specs of the Enyaq RS, which delivers 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS), an electric sports car built on that foundation wouldn’t exactly be lacking in firepower.

But it’s not just sports cars on Zellmer’s mind. He also brought up the Yeti, the boxy crossover that Skoda sold between 2009 and 2017, and which still has a loyal following. “I’d love to see a Yeti again, because I think that car is such a great character, it has such a good name and a loyal base, you know. I’m amazed so many people still talk to me about it.”

When the first pictures of Mercedes-AMG’s new Concept AMG GT XX landed yesterday, the headlights seemed the least interesting thing about it when there was so much else to grab our attention. But those rather ordinary-looking headlights are hiding one of the XX’s most interesting features, and it’s got nothing to do with LEDs and light beams.

Because in the rush to check out the eye-catching rear lights, the digital display board mounted between them, the glass-free rear end and the aero wheel covers that can move in and out, it was easy to miss a mention of an unusual addition to the front light units designed not to help the concept see, but be seen – or heard.

Related: You Won’t Recognize AMG’s Cars Two Years From Now

Each of those lights has a loudspeaker fitted to its side surface to project fake engine sounds. The small speakers use the body of the headlight units as a traditional speaker cavity to amplify the bass frequencies, something essential if, like AMG, you want to replicate the growl of a classic V8.

Those riding in the car, which previews next year’s production AMG GT, a rival to the Porsche Taycan, will also hear sounds, though they’ll be delivered through the cabin speakers. The ones at the front are designed to be heard by people outside the XX, which is essentially Mercedes admitting that EVs’ naturally silent personalities are too dull.

But the noises also serve another purpose besides letting the driver show off. EVs are required by law to make some external noise to warn pedestrians of their presence, and giving the XX a moody growl seems like a more appropriate way of doing that in a 1,341 hp (1,360 PS / 1,000 kW) EV than some random bings and bongs.

AMG says the concept’s three Yasa motors deliver a 224 mph (460 kmh) top speed, and the 114 kWh battery could theoretically charge at more than 850 kW, which would add 249 miles (400 km) of range in just 5 minutes. Although there are no public chargers that fast in Europe or America, the Chinese have developed some, and Mercedes is confident they’ll become the norm in the future.

Mercedes AMG

Mercedes-AMG is going electric and they’re doing it in a big way with the GT XX concept. It’s an insane four-door coupe with three axial flux motors producing a combined output in excess of 1,341 hp (1,000 kW / 1,360 PS).

Designed to preview the redesigned AMG GT 4-Door, the concept is a huge departure from its predecessor. Besides going electric, the model has an odd exterior that will undoubtedly attract a mixed reaction.

More: 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door EV Is The Cure For Boring Jelly Beans 

The fish-like front end is dominated by a massive grille that spans nearly the entire width of the vehicle. It’s so wide that designers had to incorporate the auxiliary lights into it.

Further above, there are stacked headlights and a motorsport-inspired hood with split air outlets. Elsewhere, we can see a subtle splitter that flows into the outside edges of vertical air curtains.

Designers gave the concept a rakish windscreen, which meets a coupe-like roofline. This results in a compact greenhouse, which is notable for eschewing a rear window like the Polestar 4.

Aside from gun slit windows, the model has flush-mounted door handles and 21-inch aero wheels. The latter have sections that open and close to balance aerodynamics with brake cooling. They’re joined by sporty side skirts that have “luminescent paint segments,” which “emit light in response to an alternating current.”

The rear end is a little plain, but features muscular haunches and an active airbrake. They’re joined by a carbon fiber diffuser and six circular LED taillights. However, the concept is more notable for being equipped with an MBUX Fluid Light Panel, which has more than 700 programmable RGB LEDs. This enables communication with the outside world via text or animation.

Rounding out the highlights are exterior speakers tucked into the headlights, designed to “emit driving sounds”. Mercedes hasn’t shared any specifics, but a recent teaser showed a prototype of the production car pumping out fake engine noise that sounded like a V8.

The concept, finished in a vibrant Sunset Beam orange paint, also boasts an impressively low drag coefficient of 0.198.

A Minimalist Interior Lacking In Luxury

While Mercedes used to be all about leather and wood, the interior of the GT XX resembles a racing simulator. This feel is amplified by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, and a compact steering wheel inspired by the AMG One.

Elsewhere, there’s a unique center console with illuminated orange tubes that are designed to recall voltage cables. The concept also has carbon fiber seats, an exposed carbon fiber roof, and a floor covering made from 100% recycled materials.

Designers gave the car a minimalist dashboard and metal components that are part computer, part Back to the Future. They’re joined by lightweight door panels that have integrated bars as well as orange pull loops.

A Powertrain That Hints At The Future

While the styling will undoubtedly draw attention, the most important details are hiding under the skin. That’s clear as the concept rides on the new AMG.EA platform and features a high-performance battery developed from scratch.

The three axial flux motors come from Yasa and offer a high output in an extremely compact package. They’ll go into production next year and be found on an assortment of upcoming AMG models including the new GT 4-Door and SUV.

Mercedes didn’t reveal many details about the motors, but confirmed one is mounted up front while two reside out back. This gives the concept a fully variable all-wheel drive system as well as a combined output in excess of 1,341 hp (1,000 kW / 1,360 PS). That’s enough to enable the car to hit a top speed of more than 223 mph (359 km/h).

The motors aren’t the only interesting development as the concept has a high-performance NCMA battery that has an anode with silicon content. Mercedes said It offers an energy density of 300 Wh/kg as well as a long lifespan.

Delving a little deeper, the battery has cylindrical cells and a laser-welded aluminum cell housing. These developments promise weight savings as well as rapid heat dissipation. Speaking of the latter, the battery also has a “high-tech coolant” that “flows around each individual cell to maintain the optimum temperature.”

Fast applies to more than just acceleration as the concept can gain approximately 249 miles (400 km) of range in around five minutes.  That’s impressively quick and this was made possible thanks to a “very high average charging power of more than 850 kW.”

Since that’s many times higher than traditional DC fast chargers, Mercedes teamed up with Alpitronic to develop a prototype charging station. While the production model likely won’t be nearly as impressive, the company said they’ll expand the Mercedes‑Benz Charging Network with next-generation chargers that deliver “extremely fast charging times.”

As for the AMG.EA platform, it uses a mix of aluminum, steel and fiber composite materials to offer lightness and “exceptional rigidity.” Mercedes also noted the electric skateboard architecture enables the battery to be centrally integrated into the structure to offer a high level of crash safety.

While some brands’ commitment to the EV causes has wavered recently, Skoda is showing no sign of taking its foot off the electric gas pedal. The VW-owned Czech brand has five new EVs coming through in the next couple of years, including the little Epiq, which has been spied testing for the first time.

We’ve not heard much from the small electric crossover since Skoda revealed it in March of 2024, but a full production debut was always planned for this year and these images confirm we won’t have long to wait for the €25,000 ($29,000) EV to arrive in showrooms.

Related: New Skoda Epiq Is A €25Κ Small Electric SUV Arriving In 2025

Designed to slot below the larger Karoq-sized Elroq, which was also revealed in 2024 but is already on sale, the Epiq uses a different version of VW’s MEB platform. While the Elroq is related to VW’s ID.3 and nominally rear-wheel drive, the Epiq is more closely aligned with the upcoming ID.2 and gets the newer front-wheel drive MEB architecture that’ll also be used on the Cupra Raval.

Visually, the Epiq fully embraces Skoda’s Modern Solid design language, borrowing heavily from the big 7S concept unveiled in 2022. At around 4.1 m (161.4 inches) long, it only occupies the same amount of road space as the little Fabia hatch, but Skoda says that the EV will provide an “epic amount of space” for passengers and a relatively huge 490-liter (17.3 cu-ft) trunk will ensure they’ll have plenty of space for their luggage.

Baldauf

The interior features a large tablet touchscreen, which is thankfully backed up by a row of hard buttons further down the console. Skoda hasn’t revealed much in the way of technical spec other than to say it would offer a 250-mile (400 km) driving range and bi-directional charging.

Even so, based on what we know about the new MEB Short platform, we think the Epiq will come with a choice of 38 kWh and 56 kWh batteries and higher-spec models are likely to feature a single 222 hp (226 PS / 166 kW) motor driving the front wheels that will allow it to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than 7 seconds.

It looks like a compelling package, one that could help Skoda claim another famous scalp. It was the fourth-best-selling brand in Europe last year, and its 767,000 tally put it only 8,000 cars away from third-placed BMW. That’s an incredible achievement for a company that was once the butt of jokes.

Skoda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The CE 02 You Can Actually Buy

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

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

Update: Following its appearance at Goodwood, Honda released the first teaser image of the production model, this time without any camouflage. The company also confirmed the vehicle’s name as the ‘N-ONE e:’. We’ve now learned that it’s scheduled to debut in September, likely pointing to a full unveiling at the IAA Mobility show in Munich that same month.

Also: Honda May Finally Be Getting The Truck It Always Needed From Nissan

The cropped image reveals the familiar, charming face of a Kei-sized car, complete with expressive round LED headlamps. However, what caught our attention is that, aside from the charging port on the left side, there also appears to be a second port on the right. The function of this additional port remains unclear.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed took place this past weekend, and Honda used the event to unveil an electric urban vehicle concept. Called the Super EV, the concept is a thinly veiled production model that will technically serve as a successor to the Honda e.

The automaker isn’t saying much at this point, but the study is a five-door hatchback that recalls the Nissan Cube. It features a curvaceous front bumper and a fully enclosed grille with an integrated charging port. They’re joined by circular headlights and vertical air curtains.

More: New Honda 0 SUV Gets Real With Production Design

Moving further back, we can see a short hood and bulging fenders. The concept also has an upright windscreen, slender pillars, and a relatively flat roof.

While Honda was tight-lipped about specifics, they said the concept was “designed to demonstrate how an A-segment model might offer fresh, fun-to-drive electric performance alongside trademark Honda usability.” They added the “small, sporty model has already carried out feasibility testing in the UK in the lead-up to the event – as part of a wider global program,” once again hinting at production.

A Lot Of Other Things To See

Besides the new EV concept, Honda staged the European premiere of the 0 SUV prototype. It was accompanied by the EV Fun and EV Urban concepts, which are an electric motorcycle and scooter.

They were joined by the new Prelude, which tackled the famous hill climb. Other notable highlights include the Honda-powered Williams FW11, the Civic Type R Ultimate Edition, and a Miimo robotic lawnmower.

Emergency vehicles usually aren’t very exciting, but Renault has taken the wraps off the new Vision 4Rescue concept. It’s based on the Renault 4 E-Tech and features a drone that can be deployed from a roof-mounted storage box.

Billed as a mobile fire command center, the Vision 4Rescue features a bright red exterior with a mix of matte and gloss graphics inspired by emergency services. They’re joined by chunky fender flares and an extra 0.6 inches (15 mm) of ground clearance.

More: Ford’s Bronco Wildland Firefighting Command Vehicle Is Hot Stuff

Elsewhere, there are emergency lights and modified bumpers. The latter incorporate 3D-printed bump stops that have shock-absorbing properties to minimize damage.

The most eye-catching detail is the roof-mounted storage box, which is mounted on stylish supports. The aerodynamic compartment not only houses the aforementioned drone, but also equipment which can be used to “restore a communications network in the wake of a disaster.”

Renault says the interior was developed in close collaboration with fire services and features a split cargo area. The upper section has a slide out workspace with two monitors and a keyboard. It serves as a communications hub as well as a monitoring station for the drone.

The lower section features two storage compartments, which are designed to hold emergency equipment. This includes helmets, bags, tablets, and walkie-talkies.

The cockpit follows in the footsteps of the regular model, but has special seats with PinPon pattern upholstery. The seats are also notable for using foam sourced from recycled firefighting suits.

Elsewhere, there are walkie-talkie holders and “Je te reçois 4 sur 4” badging. The latter means ‘Reading you loud and clear.’

Renault went on to say the concept has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system and helps to promote the Software République consortium. In particular, the company said the car has nearly 20 interconnected solutions and Software République developed an ecosystem “designed to standardize the different technologies used by … emergency services for a faster and better coordinated response.”

Renault

Volkswagen’s van lineup is already one of the most expansive in Europe, covering everything from compact urban haulers to full-size electric people movers. And now, there’s a strong chance the family might be getting a new member, this time, a smaller electric MPV aimed at reviving a body style that’s mostly disappeared from the mainstream.

The German carmaker currently fields the compact Caddy, the Ford-based Transporter, the in-house developed Multivan, and the all-electric ID. Buzz. But those might soon be joined by a more compact, electric alternative that could quietly take over for the aging Touran.

More: Here’s What’s Coming To VW’s 2026 Lineup

Over the last decade, SUVs have more or less steamrolled minivans off the European market. Buyers swapped sliding doors for high ground clearance, leaving few traditional MPVs standing. Despite the trend, VW seems to think there’s still a case to be made for family-friendly vans, especially considering the format’s continued popularity in markets like China.

According to a report from Autocar, insider sources say VW recently dusted off some old minivan concepts as part of early-stage planning for a new model. Among them is the Budd-e, a study first shown back in 2016 at CES. Built on the MEB electric platform, the Budd-e was VW’s early attempt at blending heritage cues with forward-looking tech.

The Budd-e measures 4,597 mm (181 inches) long, which makes it slightly more compact than the standard-wheelbase ID. Buzz by 115 mm (4.5 inches), yet longer than the second-gen Touran by 70 mm (2.8 inches). It’s sized just right for the compact MPV segment, with dimensions that promise decent cabin space without overwhelming urban streets.

Thanks to a flat EV floor and short overhangs, the Budd-e’s interior packaging could be far more efficient than the Touran’s. Its microbus-inspired silhouette doesn’t just serve as a nostalgic throwback, it also helps maximize usable space. VW designers would also have more freedom to experiment with the seating layout, while sliding rear doors would add a dose of everyday practicality.

A More Affordable Alternative to the ID. Buzz?

More importantly, the new compact van would be more affordable than the ID. Buzz that starts from around $60,000 in America, targeting family buyers and taxi fleets. The UK publication describes it as a “no-nonsense, high-utility electric vehicle with sliding rear doors and strong day-to-day usability”.

More: VW’s Future EVs Might Run On A Platform It Didn’t Even Build

The minivan project has yet to receive the green light from VW’s top brass, and remains in early development stage. Still, if it does get the green light, production could start closer to 2028. The choice of underpinnings will largely depend on the launch date, as the EV could either ride either on an evolved version of the current MEB architecture or the upcoming SSP.

Volkswagen also plans to phase out the ID naming strategy in favor of more familiar nameplates. So if this model does come to life, don’t be surprised if it wears the Touran badge once again, this time powered by electrons rather than diesel.