Nio has finally launched the much-anticipated Firefly brand in China, which will be targeting the most affordable corner of the EV market. Its first model is a small electric hatchback with swappable batteries, aimed at global markets including Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.

Firefly EVs will be positioned below the Nio and Onvo in terms of size, features, and pricing. The goal of the brand is to make “small, electric high-end cars accessible to a broader audience”.

More: Is BYD Making A Cutprice Electric Porsche 911 Rival? (New Photos)

The urban hatchback is simply known as the Firefly. Responsible for its design is ex-BMW and Ford designer Kris Tomasson. The exterior has a few references to the discontinued Honda e, with a similar greenhouse, a black-finished roof, and matching pillars. The signature trait of the Firefly is the three-piece circular LED headlights and taillights that look like iPhone cameras.

Other highlights include the flush door handles, the six-spoke wheels, and the clean surfacing. According to Firefly, the plastic cladding on the lower part of the bodywork is made from a sustainable material. The company didn’t reveal the dimensions of the EV, which looks like a rival to the likes of the BYD Dolphin, Citroen e-C3, Fiat Grande Panda, and Renault 5.

The latest Chinese EV features a 92-liter (3.2 cubic feet) frunk with layered storage and a drainage function, which is larger than what you get in most EVs. This is combined with a boot that can reach up to 1,250 lt (44 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded flat. There are no photos of the interior, but earlier spy shots revealed a minimalist dashboard with a Tesla-style infotainment touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster.

Firefly claims that the turning circle of 9.4 m (30.8 feet) and the “multi-scene automatic parking assist function” will make it easy to navigate the EV in tight urban areas.

The EV has been engineered to score five-star ratings on the C-NCAP and Euro-NCAP tests. This was made possible thanks to the extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum comprising 83.4% of the body structure, double anti-collision beams in the front doors, and nine airbags as standard, and claims to offer the best torsional stiffness in its segment (35,700 Nm).

Details about the electric motors and battery pack have yet to be announced. However, we know that the latter will be swappable, although not compatible with the existing battery swapping stations of Nio and Onvo due to its smaller size.

The Firefly is already available to pre-order in China for ¥148,800 ($20,400), ahead of its official market launch in April 2025. The model will reportedly roll out in Europe in the first half of 2025, where it is expected to be more expensive. As reported by Car News China, Nio wants the products of the Firefly brand to be available in 25 countries by the end of 2025.

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Tesla has big plans for the Cybercab, its all-electric, fully autonomous robotaxi that it plans to start building before 2027. Not only does it expect them to be ferrying around passengers across the United States before the end of the decade, but Elon Musk foresees a world where people could own multiple Cybercabs and manage a fleet of them.

At the car’s unveiled two months ago, one element that really captured the world’s attention was its bold design. Not only is it unlike any other Tesla to come before it, but it’s different from most other four-wheeled vehicles. Of course, that’s if you disregard the VW XL1 from 2013, but that’s another story. To provide us with a glimpse into the design of the Cybercab, Tesla design boss Franz von Holzhausen recently spoke with the Petersen Automotive Museum, where one of the EVs is on display.

Read: Tesla Cybercab Is A $30,000 Robotaxi Without A Steering Wheel Or Pedals

The discussions start at the rear of the car. Just like the Polestar 4, the Cybercab lacks a rear window. Von Holzhausen says that in a self-driving vehicle designed to ferry passengers from A to B, there’s really no need for occupants to see what’s going on behind them. By ditching a rear window, Tesla has also been able to make the storage compartment as large as possible.

For the first time in a Tesla, the Cybercab uses dihedral doors which are usually reserved for high-priced supercars. These doors make it feel like “you’re stepping into the future,” according to Von Holzhausen. The wheels feature solid aero discs aimed to maximizing efficiency. Tesla has also painted strips around the tires in the same shade as discs, making it seem like the wheels are bigger than they really are.

The EV’s interior is even more minimalist than other Tesla models. Dominating the cabin is a large central screen that’ll keep passengers entertained, and there are a pair of seats that look more reminiscent of lounge chairs than traditional car seats.

Whether or not the Cybercab will be a success remains to be seen. It’ll have to sell well, and for regulations concerning self-driving vehicles with no conventional controls like a steering wheel and pedals, which currently limit their permits to 2,500 per year, to change radically. If reports about incoming President Donald Trump’s intentions turn out to be accurate, this may actually happen sooner rather than later, as his transition team has allegedly said that crafting a federal framework for self-driving cars (and likely removing existing restrictions) is a “top priority”.

The Tesla Model Y is gearing up for its most significant update since its 2019 debut. Of course, by “significant,” we mean it’s still largely the same car—just with enough fresh bells and whistles to keep it reigning atop global sales charts. Now, a camouflaged prototype of the updated Model Y was spotted in California, coinciding with reports that production could kick off in China as early as next month.

More: Everything We Know About The Tesla Model Y Juniper

According to the latest information circulating in Chinese media including Sina, production of the facelifted Model Y, codenamed “Juniper”, is set to kick off in January 2025 at Tesla’s Shanghai plant. This aligns with Elon Musk’s earlier comments indicating that the facelifted Model Y wouldn’t launch in 2024. Reports also suggest that Tesla has already built prototypes in Shanghai as part of its preparations for full-scale production, signaling that the company is moving quickly to refine the next iteration of its best-seller.

A New Longer Six-Seater Variant For China

Tesla is expected to introduce two versions of the updated Model Y: a standard five-seat model, which offers an optional third row for two additional (and very small) passengers, and a longer-wheelbase six-seater variant designed exclusively for the Chinese market, set to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2025. Both versions will come with a range of exterior, interior, and mechanical updates to keep the Model Y fresh and competitive.

Read: Tesla Exec Confirms $30K Model Q For 2025, Deutsche Bank Report Claims

The redesigned bodywork of the Model Y is expected to echo the updates seen on the Model 3 ‘Highland’, featuring slimmer headlights and a more streamlined front bumper. In a recent spy video shared on X by photographer Colin W., the new DRLs (daytime running lights) can be seen glowing through a thick camouflage wrap. The prototype is also equipped with newly styled wheels. While the rear end remains fully covered, earlier spy shots revealed a full-width LED taillight bar with a frosted finish, adding a more modern touch to the design.

Video quality is uploaded at 720p because I don’t have Premium pic.twitter.com/WOQGFztBwN

— Colin W. (@Y2KColin) December 12, 2024

Bye, Bye Stalks

Inside, the Model Y is expected to ditch its wiper and turn signal stalks, along with the gear shifter, in favor of an even more minimalist design. However, it will gain a redesigned steering wheel, an infotainment display with slimmer bezels, more comfortable seats, multi-color ambient lighting, and an additional touchscreen for rear passengers to control climate settings, just like the Model 3 facelift.

More importantly, the EV will reportedly benefit from better-quality materials inside the cabin and improved NVH, courtesy of chassis and suspension upgrades. These will be likely joined by onboard technology upgrades too.

Battery and powertrain options should be carried over from the outgoing model, although a more powerful Model Y Performance trim sounds plausible, mirroring the specs of the Model 3.

More: New Tesla Models Crippled By AP4 Computer Failures, Breaking Essential Features

In the lead-up to the updated model’s release, Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in China by an additional ¥10,000 ($1,370), dropping it to its lowest price ever. The move seems to be paying off: between January and November 2024, the Model Y was China’s best-selling vehicle, with 373,000 units sold, accounting for 73% of Tesla’s sales in the region.

Prospective Tesla Model Y buyers in the U.S. face a tough decision: wait for the updated model or buy the current version now to secure the $7,500 federal tax credit, especially with the possibility that the next administration may follow through on its promise to eliminate it.

Illustrations: Thanos Pappas for CarScoops

BMW’s M division has been experimenting with EVs for many years now, and as the development of its first electric vehicle continues, it has provided insight into one of the many prototypes that have played an instrumental role in making the Neue Klasse M3 a reality.

In 2018, BMW formed a team of engineers who have taken a first-generation M2 and turned it into an EV. The car, known internally as ‘The Beast,’ is “super powerful.” While we don’t know precisely how much power it has, Michael Sailer from the functional development team for BMW M driving dynamics, says it’s very hard to control as it doesn’t have the calmness of production-spec M models.

Read: BMW M Teases A Hot Neue Klasse M3 EV

Not to fear. The boss of BMW M, Frank Van Meel, says that it’s the company’s job to start with an uncontrollable beast early in the development stage and then to make it controllable. This is precisely what it did with the original E53 X5 Le Mans prototype. That insane SUV was fitted with the 700 hp V12 engine from the Le Mans-winning V12 LMR and served as a precursor to the BMW X5 M, one of the first high-performance SUVs to hit the market.

According to Van Meel, the all-electric M2 from BMW will also be tamed, influencing the electric M3.

BMW’s first all-electric M car is quickly taking shape and was shown under a colorful camouflage wrap earlier this month. It’s widely expected to have a quad-motor powertrain, with Van Meel saying this it’s good for as much as 1,341 hp (1,000 kW) or one Megawatt of power, although it’s unclear if the production model will be that powerful.

We know that BMW is developing its own in-house electric motors. These motors may be water and oil-cooled, and the first electric BMW M model should be able to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in less than 3 seconds.

Lexus recently slashed the price of the 2025 RZ to $43,975 which meant it was $490 cheaper than the 2024 Toyota bZ4X. The mainstream brand is now addressing that discrepancy by cutting the cost of entry to $37,070 before a $1,395 destination and handling fee.

That’s $6,000 less than last year’s model, but the crossover still costs significantly more than the Chevrolet Equinox EV, which starts at $33,600 and has an EPA-estimated range of 319 miles (513 km). That compares to a mere 252 miles (406 km) for the most efficient version of the bZ4X.

More: 2025 Toyota bZ4X Gets $10,000 Lease Discount And 0% APR Before It Even Hits Dealers

The range-topping Limited trim starts at $41,800 for a reduction of $5,380. While the price cut isn’t as drastic as on the XLE, buyers will find three new driver assistance systems. They include Front Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, and Traffic Jam Assist. The latter system is the most notable as it allows for hands-free operation at speeds under 25 mph (40 km/h) on controlled access freeways.

The other big change for 2025 is a new Nightshade Edition. It starts at $40,420 and is based on the XLE with all-wheel drive.

The model has black badging, black door handles, a black spoiler, and 20-inch wheels with a black finish. Buyers will also find a leather-wrapped steering wheel as well as SofTex and fabric-trimmed seats with red contrast stitching.

The 2025 bZ4X is slated to arrive at dealerships early next year and customers will find a familiar powertrain lineup. Front-wheel drive variants have a 71.4 kWh battery pack that powers a 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) electric motor. All-wheel drive models have a slightly larger 72.8 kWh battery and a dual-motor setup producing a combined output of 214 hp (160 kW / 217 PS).

2025 Toyota bZ4X Pricing

From an observer’s perspective, it’s clear that the Volkswagen ID.4 is far from perfect as it’s had several issues since its launch. At times, the problems are relatively trivial. However, some of them are more serious, such as when the doors open on their own because they can’t handle water on them. What we don’t often get is an inside look at life with such a car. Now, one man in Florida is telling his troubled story with an ID.4. 

Josh Cowan is a die-hard Volkswagen fan. He’s owned three Jettas, a Tiguan, and an Atlas. His wife’s very first car was a Volkswagen. It made sense to him to get an ID.4 when it came time to buy a new car for his family. What he didn’t know was that he’d end up right back in a loaner Tiguan for over seven months. 

More: VW Bringing Back True ‘Volkswagen’ Looks For Facelifted ID.3 And ID.4

Not long after taking delivery of his low-mileage but used ID.4 from Carmax, he noticed an airbag light on. He took it to the dealer and mentioned to them that he also heard a strange noise periodically. “There was a clunking sound that happened every time you kind of turned a corner and accelerated,” Cowan said to WFTV. 

First, the dealer thought the issue was a motor mount. When that didn’t work, they told him that the ID.4 needed a new transmission. Now, over seven months later, the ID.4 is still sitting at the shop. What’s taking so long? According to the dealer, Volkswagen itself hasn’t supplied it with the tools it needs to swap the gearbox out. 

“So, there it sits. Now it’s been seven and a half months. There are two additional recalls on that car that have happened in the meantime that they don’t have fixes for,” Cowan said. Interestingly, Volkswagen seems poised to wipe its hands of all liability as they offered the Cowans $3,000.

Josh believes that if he accepts it, he’ll release VW from future claims. With that in mind, Josh says “It’s frustrating, and we feel really let down by Volkswagen.” The only thing he can do at this point is wait on the dealer and the automaker to make things right. 

Image Credit: WFTV

Mercedes Benz-Vans has teased a new concept that previews the next-generation V-Class and Vito. It will debut in the spring of 2025 as a “luxurious, highly elegant, and spacious” vision of the future.

The company isn’t saying much else at this point, but the teasers show a stylish van that trades boxy looks for a curvaceous aesthetic. Details are hard to make out, but we can see a prominent hood ornament as well as a revamped greenhouse that eschews hard lines.

More: Mercedes Teases Future Electric Vans With VAN.EA Prototypes

They’re joined by a sloping roof and a heavily stylized body. We can also see metallic accents as well as ornate lighting units.

Little else is known about the concept at this point, but the model will ride on the new Van Electric Architecture known as VAN.EA. It’s modular and scalable, which will allow “clear differentiation between privately positioned vans in the luxury segment and commercial vans in the premium segment.”

The luxury segment is getting more attention this time around and the company said we can expect high-quality family vans, exclusive VIP shuttles, and “spacious limousines catering to the expectations of highly sophisticated customers.” In effect, it sounds like the company wants to grab a slice of the executive van segment, which has been dominated by aftermarket companies.

The redesigned vans are scheduled to arrive in 2026 and Mercedes has previously said they’ll offer front- and all-wheel drive as well as an 800 volt electrical architecture. They’ll also have a 22 kW AC charger and the latest version of the Mercedes‑Benz Operating System.

Some versions will have ranges “well over” 311 miles (500 km) and a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system. A Level 3 system is slated to arrive before the end of the decade, while commercial vans will offer a Level 4 system for robotaxi use.

Renault has unveiled the production version of the 2022 R5 Turbo 3E Concept, serving as a modern-day successor to the classic R5 Turbo I and II from the ’80s and the Clio V6 from the ’00s. The hyper hatch rides on a bespoke platform and features a fully electric RWD powertrain with over 500 hp.

The third iteration of the R5 Turbo homologation special has retro-futuristic styling, looking like a heavily redesigned restomod on steroids. It retains the signature boxy fender flares of the original, although here they are combined with oversized wheels shod in ultra-wide tires.

More: Radical New Renaults Will Ditch Conventional SUV Body Styles

The exterior has evolved compared to the concept, adding a sleeker greenhouse and reworked aerodynamics. The pronounced bumpers and side skirts are finished in white, contrasting with the yellow bodywork and the black roof.

The LED headlights appear to be a modernized version of the classic R5, while the taillights are sourced from the new R5 E-Tech Electric. The charging port is hidden in one of the side intakes, which were designed to cool the electric powertrain.

Despite the resemblance, the R5 Turbo 3E is not mechanically related to the standard Renault 5, as it rides on a bespoke carbon monocoque chassis which is said to be “both lightweight and extremely stiff”.

The French pocket rocket is powered by two electric motors mounted in the rear wheels. With a combined output of over 500 hp (373 kW / 507 PS), the R5 Turbo 3E is the most powerful production model by Renault, promising a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in under 3.5 seconds.

Luca de Meo, Renault Group CEO, said that the R5 Turbo 3E is something for “only for the brave”, adding that “it’s going to be fun”. According to the company, “the Group is bringing the best of its skills and expertise to the development of this ultimate Renault brand icon”, likely hinting at Alpine’s involvement in the project.

Renault didn’t announce details about the production model’s availability and pricing, but Autocar reports it will arrive in 2026. Judging from the bespoke nature of the build, we expect it to be offered in limited numbers and at a high price.

The automaker offered a glimpse to the R5 Turbo 3E in the “Anatomy of a Comeback” documentary series that is available on Prime Video. The reveal, which you can watch in the video below, took place behind the closed doors of the design center. It was hosted by Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo, Renault CEO Fabrice Cambolive, and Vice President of Renault Design Gilles Vidal.

DS Automobiles has just unveiled their new flagship, the fully electric N°8 fastback crossover, and it’s clear they’re trying (perhaps a bit too hard) to grab attention. During the official presentation, the French automaker had the gall—er, the cheek—to throw a little jab at the competition, recreating a scene from the folk tale Cinderella to make their point. And what’s that point, you ask? Well, the DS N°8 wants to be the new luxury carriage for those who fancy a bit of magic in their drive; no pumpkins required.

More: DS No8 Breaks Cover As The New French Electric Flagship

The N°8 was revealed by none other than Olivier Francois, CEO of Fiat, Abarth, and DS Automobiles, who made a rather grandoise statement by calling the N°8 a “modern-day carriage.” This, of course, was meant to evoke the heritage of DS, a brand that’s barely old enough to legally drink in some countries. A bit of a stretch, sure, but it sets the stage for what was to follow.

In a rather Cinderella-esque moment at the end of the video, Francois parks the N°8 between an Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron and a BMW i4, both of which were conveniently de-badged, but we got the message loud and clear. To top it off, he delivered a final punchline:

“Well, I’m convinced that if Cinderella were written in 2025, she would undoubtedly ride in a N°8. And allow me to say, by next summer, when N°8 is launched, it might just be like the fairy tale: the 12 strokes of midnight may very well sound for the competition’s luxurious carriages.”

At this point, the Audi and BMW are transformed nto pumpkins, while the DS N°8 remains unscathed, because, of course, it’s the star of the show. For the uninitiated, Cinderella’s fairy godmother turned a pumpkin into a golden carriage to get her to the ball, only to have the magic wear off at midnight. You know, just in case you hadn’t picked up on the metaphor.

Now, setting aside the cheeky marketing, DS Automobiles has had a bit of a rough ride since its split from Citroen in 2014. Competing with more established brands in both sales and brand recognition has proven tricky.

Positioned as one of Stellantis’s premium brands alongside Lancia and Alfa Romeo but below Maserati, DS doesn’t have the decades of heritage that BMW or Mercedes-Benz can rely on. Instead, it shares its underpinnings with other Stellantis models, while attempting to carve out its own niche with quirky French styling, more upscale interiors, and a slightly more refined chassis setup. Think of DS like Genesis, but focused more on the lower segments—if that makes sense. And that’s the approach they’ve taken with the N°8, which is designed to challenge the sedans and coupe-SUVs in Europe’s premium midsize segment.

More: How Would You Save Stellantis?

Francois was quick to highlight that the 4.82-meter-long (189.8-inch) N°8 combines the elevated driving position of an SUV with the elegance and class of a grand sedan. It also boasts the longest range in its segment with up to 750 km (466 miles) on a single charge.

In the video, the CEO went on at length about the interior, claiming it offers “extreme comfort, beauty, silence, and refinement.” He also highlighted that the N°8’s seats provide a spa-like experience, complete with massaging, ventilating, and heating functions, plus, a neck warmer for good measure.

But, as with all things that sound too good to be true, it remains to be seen whether buyers will shell out for this French luxury crossover when they can just as easily reach for a more traditional choice from the likes of BMW, Audi, or Mercedes-Benz.

DS Automobiles

Toyota’s latest entry into the ever-growing electric SUV game, the Urban Cruiser, has just been unveiled. And let’s be honest, if you think it looks familiar, you’re right. It’s basically a Suzuki e-Vitara in disguise, just with a Toyota badge and some slightly sharper edges. The Urban Cruiser is available in both FWD and AWD, offering what Toyota claims is a “spacious” cabin, for its size, at least.

Sizing Up the Urban Cruiser’s Footprint

Measuring 4,285 mm (168.7 inches) long, the Urban Cruiser slots in between the Yaris Cross and the C-HR in Toyota’s crowded European SUV lineup. Its exterior is heavily influenced by last year’s Urban SUV Concept, with just enough toned-down features to make it acceptable for production—basically, Toyota’s way of saying, “We liked that design, but we needed it to be less ‘concept car’ and more ‘can sell in 2025.’”

More: Toyota’s bZ3X Is A Sub-$14k Electric SUV That Americans Can’t Have

Now, if you’re wondering what makes it distinctly Toyota, it’s the face. Hammerhead headlights and unique tail light graphics set it apart from its Suzuki twin, but that’s pretty much where the differences end. Oh, and the wheels, they’re identical to the e-Vitara’s, so don’t bother squinting too hard when you spot one on the road.

Interior

The same goes for the interior, which features a bulky digital cockpit with a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment screen. The floating center console is decked out in glossy black inserts, paired with dark-themed upholstery. Options include a JBL premium audio system and a fixed sunroof, while all trims come standard with an array of ADAS.

Despite the small footprint of the Urban Cruiser, Toyota claims that the interior can be as spacious as a midsize SUV offering. This is made possible by the EV underpinnings and the generous wheelbase of 2,700 mm (106.3 inches), which is 140 mm (5.5 inches) longer compared to the Yaris Cross. Furthermore, the rear bench seats have sliding and reclining functions for added practicality.

Powertrain Options

As with its Suzuki twin, the Toyota Urban Cruiser rides on an EV-dedicated architecture and will be available with three power outputs and two lithium-iron phosphate battery options. The FWD models deliver 142 hp (106 kW / 144 PS) or 172 hp (128 kW / 174 PS) from a single electric motor, while the AWD version is good for 182 hp (135 kW / 184 PS) from a dual-motor setup. The smaller 49 kWh battery is exclusively available with FWD, while the 61 kWh unit can be had with both FWD and AWD.

WLTP range figures haven’t been disclosed yet, but the Urban Cruiser does feature an energy-saving heat pump for the A/C and a manually activated battery pre-heating function—ideal for colder climates.

Market Debut

The Toyota Urban Cruiser will make its first public outing at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show in January. Pricing will be announced closer to market launch in Europe sometime next year.

Toyota states that it is committed to achieving zero CO2 emissions in Europe by 2035 and full carbon neutrality by 2040. The automaker aims to have 15 zero-emission vehicles in its lineup by 2026, including six BEVs on a dedicated platform.

Luxury, meet electricity. Stellantis’ French luxury marque, DS Automobiles, has launched the DS N°8, a fully electric fastback crossover that signals a fresh direction for the brand. If you’re typing on a tight deadline, you might prefer “DS No8,” but the former adds a touch of French flair. This flagship also marks the marks the brand’s first production model to utilize Stellantis’ STLA Medium architecture.

The exterior design draws heavily from the DS Aero Sport Lounge concept, a design exercise first revealed in 2020, with an emphasis on aerodynamics. The roofline is sleek, and the bodywork is finely tuned to achieve a drag coefficient of just 0.24 cd, which not only enhances efficiency but extends the driving range.

More: DS Marks 10th Anniversary With Slammed SM Tribute Concept

At the front, the standout feature is the fully covered grille with an illuminated backdrop and DS emblem. The slim DS Pixel Vision headlights are paired with sharp DRLs that extend toward the bumper, evoking Peugeot-like vibes. Their shape is mirrored by the taillights, creating a new lighting signature for the brand. Another distinctive element is the steeply raked C-pillars, leading to an integrated rear spoiler.

The extended duo-tone exterior with a deep black finish for the upper portion of the bodywork complements the subtle plastic cladding on the lower end. Additional notable details include 21-inch forged wheels of the high-spec model, the flush door handles, and the N°8 emblem on the tailgate.

The DS N°8 measures 4.82 m (189.8 inches) long, 1.90 m (74.8 inches) wide, and 1.58 m (62.2 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of 2.90 m (114.2 inches). This means it is longer than the Peugeot 408 and Citroen C5 X fastback crossovers from the fellow Stellantis brands. Still, it remains 12 cm (4.7 inches) shorter than the more conventional DS 9 sedan.

A Premium Cabin

Inside, the premium aesthetic is in line with DS Automobiles’ upscale positioning within the Stellantis portfolio. The 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster is positioned behind a four-spoke steering wheel, joined by a wide 16-inch infotainment touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard, and an augmented-reality head-up display.

The “double-decker floating center console” with its star-inspired backlit graphics and crystal-like switches feels like it was plucked straight from a concept car. Furthermore, DS designers incorporated ambient lighting to accentuate the dashboard inserts, which seamlessly flow into the door panels. The latter incorporate some of the 14 speakers of the Electra 3D audio system by Focal, integrated within the perforated aluminum trim.

The bolstered seats are designed for comfort, featuring massaging, cooling, and heating functions for the front passengers – including a neck warmer. According to DS, there is plenty of room for the rear passengers, who also benefit from cooled and heated seats.

Options for the upholstery include Alcantara and full-grain Nappa leather, which are manufactured from recycled materials. The available panoramic glass roof has laminated glass and an infrared treatment, while the boot has a generous capacity of 620 lt (21.9 cubic feet).

The DS-specific suspension setup includes a standard variable damping system. A camera scans the road with the help of altitude sensors and accelerometers, ensuring optimal comfort and handling. The company has also put a lot of emphasis on sound insulation, using ultra-absorbent materials and double-layer laminated glass for a silent ride. Finally, the DS Drive Assist 2.0 suite gives the N°8 semi-autonomous capabilities.

Electric Exclusivity and STLA Underpinnings

The DS N°8 shares its STLA Medium underpinnings with the Peugeot 3008/5008, Opel Grandland, and the upcoming Citroen C5 Aircross. However, unlike the aforementioned SUVs which are also available in mild-hybrid and PHEV forms, the DS N°8 will be exclusively offered with fully electric powertrains. The same will apply to the upcoming Lancia Gamma, which is expected in 2026 as a sister model to the DS N°8.

In the DS, the FWD versions are powered by a single electric motor generating 227 hp (169 kW / 230 PS) or 242 hp (180 kW / 245 PS), with an extra 30 hp (22 kW / 30 PS) from a temporary boost function. The most powerful AWD model features dual electric motors producing a combined 345 hp (257 kW / 350 PS), or up to 370 hp (276 kW / 375 PS) with the boost function enabled. The latter allows the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint to be completed in 5.4 seconds. Independently of the powertrain, top speed is limited to 190 km/h (118 mph).

Battery options include 74 kWh and 97.2 kWh units, offering up to 572 km (355 miles) and 750 km (466 miles) of range respectively, although the maximum figure for the AWD model is 686 km (426 miles). The 400V batteries are compatible with fast charging of up to 200 kW DC, with the 20-80% charge being completed in 27 minutes. DS hopes that 90% of the charging will take place at home or at work, which is why they offer a home charger as standard with the N°8.

According to DS, the N°8 will be launched in Europe from mid-2025. Pricing will be announced closer to the market launch.

DS Automobiles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has confirmed it’s looking into a recent fatal crash involving a Tesla Cybertruck that killed three teenagers in California late last month.

The accident occurred in the early hours of November 27 in Piedmont. Local police officers quickly responded to the scene and found the Cybertruck engulfed in flames. A witness pulled the sole survivor from the truck. All four occupants were 2023 graduates of the Piedmont High School who had returned home to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Watch: Tesla Cybertruck Crash Leaves Three Dead After Catching Fire

While recently speaking with Business Insider, a spokesperson from the NHTSA said the agency “is aware of the crash and is gathering information from the manufacturer and law enforcement.” The official noted that no formal investigation has been launched at this stage.

In the immediate aftermath of the crash, both the Piedmont Police Department and California Highway Patrol said they were looking into the cause of the crash. Piedmont police chief Jeremy Bowers suggested that speed likely played a role.

“It’s safe to say that speed was a factor. Now, are there other factors associated? That is certainly possible, but speed is likely a contributing factor to this collision,” he said. Police added there were no immediate signs that mechanical problems with the Cybertruck had contributed to the crash.

The Tesla caught fire soon after colliding with a cement wall and getting wedged between it and a large tree, but it’s currently unknown whether its high-voltage battery pack was the cause. While Piedmont fire chief Dave Brannigan said that it resembled a “typical car fire”, Bowers commented that it was “too intense” and the police officers, who tried to extinguish it, couldn’t. Eventually, fire crews put out the blaze.

This was the second fatal accident involving a Tesla Cybertruck in the US. The first occurred in early August when a man driving his electric pickup crashed near Beach City in Chambers County, Texas, slamming into a concrete culvert and triggering a fire.

Lead screenshot ABC7/YouTube

The ever-expanding electric vehicle market in China is welcoming yet another new entrant, as Avatr introduces its fourth production model, the Avatr 06 sedan, which serves as an entry point in the brand’s lineup. The low-slung sedan is closely related to the Avatr 07 SUV that debuted earlier this year, combining Changan underpinnings, CATL batteries, and Huawei tech.

At first glance, the sedan resembles a smaller version of the Avatr 12 Gran Coupe. However, a closer look reveals more conventional proportions and a subtle evolution of the brand’s signature styling cues. These include slim, split-design LED headlights, a cleaner front bumper, and sleeker surfacing along the profile.

More: We Get Up Close To The Avatr 11 And 12 EVs From China Aiming To Shake Up The Luxury Market

The 06 sedan is also equipped with a suite of advanced sensors as part of the Huawei Qiankun ADAS system, including a roof-mounted LiDAR. The side mirrors have been replaced with cameras, a design choice that supposedly eliminates the need for a rear window—a trend that’s gaining traction, but still hard to embrace.The rear is finished off with a third brake light integrated into the edge of the sloping roofline, along with a discreet spoiler mounted on the tailgate.

The Avatr 06 measures 4,855 mm long, 1,960 mm wide, and 1,450 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,940 mm. That makes it 30 mm (1.2 inches) longer than the closely-related Avatr 07 crossover, and 135 mm (5.3 inches) longer than the Tesla Model 3.

Avatr / Weibo

While Avatr has yet to unveil the 06’s interior, it’s expected to follow in the footsteps of its more premium siblings, with a futuristic cockpit that includes large digital screens running Huawei’s Harmony OS and other high-tech features.

The 06 sedan shares the same CHN platform as the rest of the Avatr lineup. Although the company has not yet released full specifications, it’s safe to assume that the 06 will mirror the powertrain options of the 07 SUV. Expected variants include rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) electric versions. The RWD variant will likely produce 338 hp (252 kW), while the AWD model should generate around 590 hp (440 kW). Both will be powered by an 82 kWh battery pack.

Additionally, there will be EREV (extended range electric vehicle) versions, combining a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a 39 kWh battery and offering the choice of one or two electric motors.

The Avatr 06 is set for a launch in China in early 2025, with the automaker hoping it will boost sales, particularly as the larger Avatr 11 and 12 models have fallen short of initial targets in the competitive Chinese EV market. Avatr is headquartered in Chongqing, with a development center in Shanghai and a design center in Munich, Germany.

BMW M is gearing up for the debut of its first fully electric model, marking the beginning of a new era for the brand. Before that happens, a new video series on YouTube gives us a sneak peek behind the scenes of the EV development, showing early BMW M prototypes and discussing their quad-motor powertrain.

The first episode of the “BMW M Electrified” series is focused on the preparation of the “Board Management Drive”. This secret test drive is for engineers to share their most exciting work with BMW’s entire Board of Management. This is a crucial milestone for the team, as the future of each project effectively depends on what high-ranked officials will think about it.

Review: 2025 BMW M4 Competition Is An Addictive Triumph Of Speed

The video reveals that one of the early EV prototypes was based on the previous-generation BMW M2 (F87). The white model sports a slightly different front bumper and a pronounced ducktail spoiler, but looks fairly stock, setting aside the obvious lack of tailpipes. This likely allowed the development team to test the new powertrain and driving dynamics on public roads without being noticed.

Of course, the star of the video is the familiar BMW M prototype which has been spotted testing since 2022. This one is based on the BMW i4 but features various components from the M3/M4, wide fender extensions, carbon ceramic brakes, and a special camouflage wrap. More importantly, it is fitted with quad electric motors featuring advanced torque vectoring functions and rides on an extensively reinforced chassis with custom front and rear subframes.

BMW M / YouTube

CarPix

Carsten Wolf, who’s responsible for Integration Vehicle Characteristics at BMW M, said that the quad-motor EV powertrain will be used by all future models. “We will see the technical concepts that we are developing here now, four electric motors, in all BMW M high performance vehicles at some point in the future”. In this context, Wolf said that the modular system, comprising the EV powertrain and the driving dynamics, is crucial for the future of BMW M.

Speaking about EV development, Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH, said: “For me it’s not about transforming, it’s about embracing new technology, and to find out how to push to the limits of what is technically possible”. According to van Meel, their goal was to “centralize all of the control units into a central control logic”, reducing the complexity of the electronics and avoiding any interference between them.

Earlier this year, the BMW M boss made a bold statement about their upcoming fully electric sedan, saying it “will beat everything you have ever seen”. The production model is expected to spearhead the upcoming BMW i3 sedan’s range, which will ride on the much-talked-about Neue Klasse architecture. It will be the electric equivalent to the BMW M3, which will reportedly live on in ICE-powered form using a mild-hybrid six-cylinder engine.

At some point in the video, the i4-based prototype suffered a mechanical issue, and the team had to replace the front electric motors. Engineers cite how crucial it is to perform real-life tests from an early stage, as simulations can’t provide the same feedback on all-new technology. Thankfully, all of the issues were dealt with before members of BMW’s Board of Management sat behind the wheel of the EVs.

The next episode will likely show us the outcome of the test drive. According to BMW M’s CEO, the high-ranked officials “said nothing” after experiencing the driving dynamics of the electric models. Judging from the fact that the project has received the green light for production, this was probably a good reaction.

When an automaker willingly puts its own vehicle to the test in front of an audience, you know it means business. Chinese automaker Chery demonstrated its confidence in the safety of its EVs by performing a very demanding crash test on camera. The triple-car collision showcased the strength of the 2025 Exeed Sterra ES chassis and the integrity of its battery pack, all in front of an audience of media representatives.

The crash test took place in Tianjin, China, with support from the China Automotive Technology and Research Centre (CATARC). Unlike the typical crash trolleys used in standard tests, Chery opted for three actual Exeed Sterra ES vehicles, aiming for a more realistic simulation.

The Crash Test Setup

The scenario aimed to replicate a real-world situation, but there are two key caveats. First, it involves a static car attempting a U-turn, only to be struck from both sides by two other vehicles. The main difference here is that, in an actual U-turn accident, the turning vehicle would likely be moving when struck. Additionally, it’s unrealistic to assume both other cars would be traveling at exactly the same speed. More on that later, but it’s important to keep these factors in mind when evaluating the test.

More: Chery Hunting Wild Concept Previews New Wagon With Solid-State Batteries

Two white Sterra ES EVs, each traveling at 60 km/h (37 mph), struck the red vehicle from opposite angles. One car impacted the front-right corner at a 30-degree angle, while the other slammed directly into the passenger compartment from 180 degrees. While a challenging crash for any car, the footage and photos suggest that the Exeed Sterra ES maintained a strong level of protection for its occupants.

Despite enduring forces approaching 35 tons (70,000 pounds), the Exeed Sterra ES appears to have maintained its structural integrity, keeping the test dummies protected inside.

Chery reports that the pillars withstood the impact, all seven airbags deployed as expected, and the doors automatically unlocked. The emergency call function was also activated, adding an extra layer of safety. Crucially, the battery pack showed no signs of leaks, smoke, or fire, while the high-voltage system shut down automatically, as it should in the event of a crash.

The Need for Independent Validation

While Chery’s self-conducted crash test is certainly impressive, there’s always the question of how the Exeed Sterra ES would perform under the more stringent scrutiny of third-party evaluations from agencies like EuroNCAP or IIHS. After all, it’s one thing to conduct your own tests, but the true measure of safety comes when those tests are held to the rigorous standards set by industry authorities.

Also keep in mind that having one car stationary in the crash test affects realism by concentrating impact forces on the moving vehicles, which doesn’t replicate how energy is distributed in a real-world collision. In an actual U-turn accident, all vehicles would be in motion, dissipating force across the crash. By keeping one car static, the test isolates the impacts, potentially exaggerating their severity and not fully capturing how the vehicles would behave in a dynamic, unpredictable real-world scenario.

Tell Me More About The Exeed Sterra ES

The Exeed Sterra ES, first launched in 2023, shares its platform with the Huawei-backed Luxeed S7. It’s part of a growing list of contenders in the electric sedan market, all aiming to dethrone the Tesla Model 3. It comes with both RWD and AWD configurations, promising an impressive driving range of up to 905 km (562 miles) of range on a full charge, thanks to its large 97.7 kWh battery pack. For the 2025 model year, Chery has introduced several updates, including reinforced body and chassis elements, further improving its safety credentials.

Chinese cars have come a long way in terms of safety, as demonstrated by their performance in independent crash tests. Many EVs from Chinese automakers have earned five-star ratings in EuroNCAP, even as the organization has introduced stricter testing protocols in recent years. The growing safety standards among Chinese manufacturers signal a broader shift, with more models becoming increasingly competitive in global markets.

In a world where cars are often either all business or all spectacle, Toyota has gone for something a bit different. The automaker has unveiled a one-off electric vehicle designed for the popular Australian children’s music group The Wiggles. Dubbed the Big Red Ute, it combines playful design with Toyota’s off-road heritage, and while it may look like a bit of a gimmick, there’s some genuine engineering at work beneath the colorful exterior.

Designed and developed locally by Toyota’s Product, Planning, and Development division, the Big Red Ute isn’t just a show pony. While this one-off clearly serves a specific purpose, some of its styling elements could hint at the upcoming ‘baby’ Toyota FJ Cruiser.

More: Toyota’s Electric Hilux Goes Beyond The PR Stunt With Real-World Mine Testing

The front end draws from the tough, utilitarian design of Toyota’s classic Cruiser J70, with a playful twist. The headlights, for instance, are LED screens that can display everything from pupils to hearts. Muscular fenders, exposed wheels, and underbody protection reinforce the pickup’s off-road character, while the 3,120 mm (122.8 inches) length keeps it compact enough for the stage without losing presence. The same applies to the chunky tires wrapped around the rainbow-themed 12-inch Turbofan wheels.

The exposed cabin accommodates four passengers, each with their own seatbelt attached to the oversized bull bar. Adding to the fun, there’s an integrated bubble machine at the rear, capable of producing 6,000 bubbles per minute, a feature guaranteed to captivate toddlers.

Toyota Australia

The name Big Red Ute is inspired by the latest song release from The Wiggles, while the colorful livery mirrors the Toyota Hilux featured in the music video.

Despite its toy-like appearance, this one-off is a fully functional vehicle, powered by a 48V electric powertrain, independent coil spring suspension, and drum brakes. Naturally, the top speed is limited to 20 km/h (12 mph), because, really, no “ute” needs to go faster than that on a music stage.

The Big Red Ute made its debut on December 7, when The Wiggles performed in Melbourne. The EV will accompany the band on the remainder of their Australian tour, before joining them for their global tour dates. The Wiggles have been around for three decades, earning the title of “the world’s most popular children’s entertainment group.”

What do Tesla fanatics and Dodge enthusiasts have in common? At first glance, not much, except now, they both have something to argue about. Meet the Dodge Model S Plaidcat—or is it the Tesla Challenger Helldrive? Call it whatever you like, but this Dodge Challenger Hellcat has swapped its thunderous V8 underpinnings for the quiet, yet disturbingly powerful, electric might of a Tesla Model S Plaid.

The once-unthinkable body swap is the brainchild of BoostedBoiz, a YouTube channel with nearly 1.4 million subscribers, and it’s sure to raise some serious eyebrows in both camps.

The Unholy Union of Tesla and Muscle

This Frankenstein build began when the BoostedBoiz team bought a wrecked Tesla Model S Plaid, initially intending to convert it into the ultimate sleeper by dropping the powertrain into a Honda Odyssey minivan. However, a few geometry-related hurdles, mainly the Odyssey’s proportions and alignment issues, led them to rethink the project. A Tesla Model X Plaid provided a more fitting base for that build, freeing up the Model S Plaid’s drivetrain for another mad experiment.

Kyle Wade, the man behind BoostedBoiz, came up with a new plan when he noticed that the 116.5-inch (2,959 mm) wheelbase of the Tesla Model S Plaid aligns almost perfectly with the Dodge Challenger (116.2 inches / 2,952 mm). If that doesn’t sound like a recipe for controversy, we don’t know what does. Hardcore Hellcat fans, will likely be rolling their eyes at this one, unless, of course, Dodge has already talked them into the idea of an electric Daytona.

The next step was to purchase a Challenger shell, which cost just $700. As expected, plenty of cutting was needed to make the Dodge body fit onto the Tesla chassis. The similar width of both cars meant the team had to trim parts of the structure on each model. Fortunately, everything aligned in the end, athough the height of the Tesla’s rear shock towers came dangerously close to piercing the Dodge’s rear glass.

More: 2024 Dodge Charger Shows Its Wild Side In Widebody And Demon Renders

Once the fitment was sorted, BoostedBoiz sourced the missing body panels from Dodge Challenger Hellcats, while preserving as much of the original Tesla Model S Plaid interior as possible—including the dashboard, yoke steering wheel, and front bucket seats. The transformation was finalized with the addition of lightning units and Hellcat badges, though a widebody kit may be added in the future to further spice things up.

Tech Meets Torque: The Numbers Game

Weighing in at 4,330 lbs (1,964 kg) or a solid 600 pounds lighter than the original Model S Plaid (4,932lbs / 2,237 kg), this electrified Challenger packs a tri-motor powertrain with 1,020 hp (760 kW / 1,033 PS) and a staggering 1,050 lb-ft (1,423 Nm) of torque. For context, that’s enough muscle to make the drag strip your personal playground. The big question is whether this electric beast can challenge the 8.91-second quarter-mile record of the stock Challenger SRT Demon 170. We’ll be watching closely.

Setting aside the numbers, there’s no doubt the Tesla-powered Dodge will turn heads on the streets, especially when bystanders experience its silent powertrain and impressive acceleration. And when you think about it, the conversion doesn’t seem all that wild, especially considering the upcoming replacement for the discontinued Challenger is the new fully electric Dodge Charger.

Photos: BoostedBoiz / YouTube and Kyle Wade / Instagram

Dashcam footage from a multi-story parking lot in New South Wales, Australia, has captured the shocking moment a Tesla Model S went rogue, careening into multiple vehicles before launching through a barrier and plummeting to the level below. If you’re expecting the usual “driver error” explanation, you might want to think again. This one’s still a mystery.

The crash occurred last Saturday at a DFO mall in New South Wales, Australia. A video shows the Model S initially slamming into the front of Toyota LandCruiser Prado, briefly lifting it into the air and spinning it around. The Tesla then continues to speed across the parking lot, hitting the car with the dashcam. Just two seconds later, it can be heard smashing into the barrier and falling to the pavement.

Read: Tesla Cybertruck Crash Leaves Three Dead After Catching Fire

Despite the severity of the multiple impacts, the 59-year-old driver and 68-year-old passenger were not seriously injured, although they were transported to hospital for treatment.

The damage to the Model S was extensive. The front end was nearly unrecognizable, the tailgate and rear window were shattered, and one of the wheels was ripped off entirely. It’s not every day you see a car come apart like that without some sort of catastrophic failure at play.

No official cause for the crash has been given at this stage, but officers from the New South Wales police force are investigating. The wrecked Model S has also been taken to a garage to have its electronics checked to determine the cause of the crash. It’s unclear if the 59-year-old male driver was in complete control of the car at the time or if it suffered some kind of mechanical and software-related failure.

Numerous crashes involving Teslas in the United States have been blamed on the carmaker’s Autopilot driver assistance systems, but it would be highly unusual if the driver had tried to enable the system in the parking lot. Nevertheless, the cause of this particular incident is still under investigation, and it’s important to determine whether it was related to the vehicle or driver to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

You might have heard that Jaguar has a new concept. Actually, that’s underselling it. Jaguar has a new everything. The automaker wants to reposition itself as a more expensive, more exclusive brand and has scrapped its entire existing model line and come up with a suite of new badges and logos.

New logos won’t save the company from oblivion, but Jaguar is hoping a trio of new cars might, and today we were introduced to a concept designed to shows us how they could look. The Type 00 is a two-door coupe that previews a four-door electric coupe we’ll see in production form at the back end of 2025 and on the street a few months later.

Related: Radical Jaguar Type 00 Concept Previews Make-Or-Break MY26 Electric Sedan

Two more cars will follow before 2030, all riffing on the same new design language. None will look anything like today’s Jaguars when you see them heading towards you. Type 00’s square face shows no evidence of the classic E-type oval grille or the boxier, mesh-filled version seen on more recent cars that can be traced back to the 1968 XJ.

The clean surfaces and lack of curves are both modern and modernist, recalling the minimalism of cutting edge 1930s and ’40s product design and architecture. But Jag’s designers couldn’t help but make a few nods to the company’s past masters.

Though you could hardly call it a retro design, the long-hood, short-deck proportions are ripped straight from the original E-type coupe’s blueprints. And the vertical panel between the fender and the 23-inch front wheel also comes from the same Jaguar icon. Fortunately the track width to body ratio is not borrowed from the E-type – the concept’s huge rims are pushed right out to the edges of its swollen arches, and then some.

More: Everything We Know About The $130K Jaguar Type 01 Electric Sedan

It’s a brave, ambitious bit of design, no doubt, and not everyone will love it. So which camp are you in? Do you love or hate Jag’s new design direction? Take part in our poll and then drop a comment below to tell us what you like or loathe about the Type 00.

The sub-compact SUV market has a new electric contender, and it’s wearing a familiar face. Ford’s Puma Gen-E has officially joined the lineup in Europe as a fully electric alternative to the popular mild-hybrid Puma. With ST-level power, a respectable (if not groundbreaking) 376 km (234 miles) of range, and increased interior practicality, the Puma Gen-E steps into the EV ring with plenty to prove.

But does it deliver enough to hold its own against Stellantis’s electric arsenal or the reborn Renault 4? Let’s dive in.

A Familiar Punch, but Not Quite a Knockout

The Fiesta-based Puma Gen-E runs on a single electric motor mounted on the front axle, producing 166 hp (124 kW) and 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it technically less powerful by 2 hp than the hybrid Puma ST, which is the most potent version of the small SUV, but with a welcome bump of 42 Nm in torque. However, tipping the scales at 1,553 kg (3,426 pounds), the Gen-E gains some heft courtesy of its 43 kWh battery pack.

That added weight shows in the numbers: a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 8 seconds flat, making it 0.6 seconds slower than the ST variant. The top speed is capped at a modest 160 km/h (99 mph), signaling its city-focused intentions. It’s certainly not going to embarrass hot hatches at the lights, but for an electric crossover in this class, these specs land squarely in the “adequate” column.

More: Ford Slashes 14% Of European Workforce As EV Demand Fizzles

And the range? Depending on trim, Ford claims between 347-376 km (216-234 miles) on a single charge. That’s a little behind competitors like the Jeep Avenger or Peugeot E-2008 from Stellantis, which feature slightly larger battery capacities in the 50-54 kWh range. The Puma Gen-E’s smaller pack is reflected in its WLTP numbers, but Ford touts an impressive efficiency of 13.1 kWh/100 km.

On the plus side, it supports 100 kW DC fast charging, juicing the battery from 10-80% in about 23 minutes, a stat that softens the blow of its middling range. If you’re wondering, the charging port is located in the same spot with the fuel cap in the ICE-powered Puma.

A Mustang-Inspired Nose and More Room for Junk in the Trunk

Where the Puma Gen-E makes a stronger case for itself is in its design and practicality. The SUV receives a revised front bumper with a closed-off grille and sleeker intakes that nod to the Mustang Mach-E. Beyond that, it’s business as usual, with minor updates like unique alloy wheels, a slightly tweaked rear spoiler, and—of course—the absence of tailpipes.

Inside, Ford plays the practicality card, leveraging the compact electric motor to carve out more storage. The boot offers a generous 574 liters (20.3 cubic feet), plus a 43-liter (1.5 cubic feet) frunk, perfect for charging cables or groceries. Even better, the cleverly named “Megabox” under the boot floor has been upsized to a “Gigabox.” Marketing semantics aside, it seems genuinely useful.

The digital cockpit is shared with the regular Puma, including the 12.8-inch digital instrument cluster and the 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, introduced earlier this year as part of the mid-lifecycle update. However, the electric version features a raised center console with a new storage compartment taking advantage of the space normally occupied by the gearbox.

Pricing And Rivals

The Puma Gen-E is being produced at the Ford Otosan plant in Craiova, Romania, although the electric drive units are being shipped from Halewood, UK. Ford has already started accepting orders, with deliveries expected to commence in spring 2025.

The Puma Gen-E enters the European market with a starting price of €36,900 ($38,800) in Germany, making it Ford’s most affordable EV offering in the region. For context, the gas-powered Puma starts at €28,900 ($30,400), while the hybrid Puma ST goes for €40,600 ($42,700). That puts the Gen-E in a competitive sweet spot for buyers willing to go electric but not quite ready to splurge on a Mustang Mach-E or the Capri EV.

Rivals of the Ford Puma Gen-E include the Jeep Avenger, Fiat 600e, Alfa Romeo Junior, Peugeot E-2008, and Opel Mokka Electric from Stellantis, alongside the Renault 4 E-Tech, and the Mini Aceman.

Ford