The all-electric BMW iM3 will rock four electric motors and a dramatic design.
It looks as though BMW will preview the new model at the Le Mans 24 Hours.
The electric model will co-exist alongside the current ICE M3 and the next-gen G84.
It’s only been a little more than a couple of months since the all-electric BMW i3 was unveiled, and already, the German brand is edging closer to lifting the veil on the all-electric M-branded version. The long-awaited model may debut at this weekend’s 24 Hours of Le Mans or be previewed by a motorsport-inspired concept.
Photos snapped in the Le Mans paddock this week show BMW has set up a dedicated fanzone at the event, and within it is a large box with glass doors. An image circulating online provides a preview of the car hidden behind the glass, and it looks to be the electric M3, potentially known as the iM3.
A couple of months ago, a handful of images reportedly showing this car leaked online, and the car shown at Le Mans looks very similar. Like the standard i3, it features BMW’s Neue Klasse-era front fascia but it is noticeably wider, with two square LED daytime running lights on either side.
The wing mirrors are particularly interesting, as shown in these photos from the German Car Forums. They don’t look like those on any current BMW M production car; instead, they look more like the mirrors we’d expect to see on a race car. This has prompted some to suggest the vehicle previewed won’t be the production-spec iM3, but rather a concept that previews its design.
The vehicle’s presence at Le Mans will come just a few days after BMW released the latest episode in its multi-part documentary detailing the development of the electric M3 sedan. This episode focuses on the car’s brutal testing regime at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, where it’s covered more than 4,970 miles (8,000 km).
While many details about the car remain under wraps, we know it will have a quad-motor setup with an electric motor at each wheel and individual gearboxes. This will enable BMW to precisely control torque distribution. In this clip, BMW says, “this new technology allows us to push the boundaries of vehicle dynamics even further.”
“This allows us to send more power to the wheels that can use it most effectively,” BMW adds. “You can get back on the throttle much earlier, exactly to the slippage area of a wheel, so you can step on the throttle very, very early. The car doesn’t push outwards but is pulled and pushed through the corner, without any understeer or oversteer.”
So, while moving to electric power will no doubt upset some purists, it’s clear BMW is committed to making the iM3 as intoxicating to drive as possible.
Rivian refuses to bring back the physical buttons rivals are restoring.
Its software chief believes voice should be the primary car interface.
The new R2 ditches HVAC buttons for scroll wheels on the steering wheel.
Some automakers have caved to buyer demand and started bringing physical buttons back, including VW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Hyundai. Rivian, on the other hand, has no interest in joining them, insisting its advanced AI-driven voice assistant is simply a better way to control a vehicle’s functions.
While recently speaking with Rivian’s chief software officer, and co-CEO of the Rivian and VW joint venture, Wassym Bensaid, The Verge dug into the new Rivian Assistant, which rolled out to existing R1 models in mid-May. It’s built on a shared, multimodal AI foundation and can handle core vehicle functions, HVAC included.
Existing Rivian R1 models, along with the new R2, are largely free of physical buttons, and given the brand’s commitment to its new assistant, that isn’t likely to change anytime soon.
“I deeply believe that voice has the chance to be the primary interface in the car,” Bensaid told The Verge. “I also think that buttons can exist, but they shouldn’t be the primary way with which you interact with the car. I think there’s more that is possible with voice since you can do more than one single function. You don’t have to fiddle with so many functions.”
Are Scroll Wheels The Solution?
“You don’t have to go deep into the touchscreen to look into specific features. A great voice experience can elevate all of that, allow users to talk to the car as a human would, and really take the overall experience to the next level,” he added.
Bensaid went on to note that in the R2, there are no traditional HVAC buttons; instead, the large scroll wheels on the steering wheel can be used to adjust settings like fan speed on the fly. While not quite a button, they do seem like a better solution than tapping on a small icon on the touchscreen to tweak the fan speed.
According to Rivian, “the only reason that drivers and consumers do not interact with the car through voice is that, to put it really bluntly, the technology has been broken,” up until this point. A key difference between Rivian’s Assistant and those of competitors is that it uses its own Android-based infotainment system, which doesn’t offer support for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, so the AI-assistant works seamlessly regardless of what screen is displayed.
Rivian also points out that the system takes a more conversational approach than traditional voice assistants. Instead of barking “Open the frunk,” for instance, you can simply say “I have a bag in the front of the car,” and the assistant will pop the frunk for you. It all sounds rather slick, though we’d still take a few physical buttons. What about you?
The EV maker says voice control will be the primary interface for new vehicles.
Owners of the Rivian R2 will be able to tweak fan speed through the steering wheel.
Rivian started rolling out its new AI-powered Assistant for the R1 models last month.
Some car manufacturers have caved to demand from buyers to bring back physical buttons, including VW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Hyundai. Rivian doesn’t seem interested in following suit, declaring that its advanced AI-driven voice assistant system is a better way to control a vehicle’s functions.
While recently speaking with Rivian’s chief software officer, and the co-CEO of the Rivian and VW joint venture, Wassym Bensaid, The Verge dived head-first into the new Rivian Assistant, introduced to existing R1 models in mid-May. It’s built on a shared, multimodal AI foundation and can control core vehicle functions, including HVAC.
Existing Rivian R1 models, as well as the new R2, are largely devoid of physical buttons, and given the brand’s commitment to its new assistant, it doesn’t appear as though this will change.
“I deeply believe that voice has the chance to be the primary interface in the car,” Bensaid told The Verge. “I also think that buttons can exist, but they shouldn’t be the primary way with which you interact with the car. I think there’s more that is possible with voice since you can do more than one single function. You don’t have to fiddle with so many functions.”
Are Scroll Wheels The Solution?
“You don’t have to go deep into the touchscreen to look into specific features. A great voice experience can elevate all of that, allow users to talk to the car as a human would, and really take the overall experience to the next level,” he added.
Bensaid went on to note that in the R2, there are no traditional HVAC buttons; instead, the large scroll wheels on the steering wheel can be used to adjust settings like fan speed on the fly. While not quite a button, they do seem like a better solution than tapping on a small icon on the touchscreen to tweak the fan speed.
According to Rivian, “the only reason that drivers and consumers do not interact with the car through voice is that, to put it really bluntly, the technology has been broken,” up until this point. A key difference between Rivian’s Assistant and those of competitors is that it uses its own Android-based infotainment system, which doesn’t offer support for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, so the AI-assistant works seamlessly regardless of what screen is displayed.
Rivian also notes that it provides a more conversational approach than traditional voice assistant systems. For example, you don’t have to say “Open the frunk,” and can instead say “I have a bag in the front of the car,” and the system will automatically open the frunk. It all sounds rather nice, but we’d still prefer some physical buttons. What about you?
BYD’s humanoid robots could include technology similar to that in its cars.
It’s possible the car manufacturer could work alongside existing robot firms.
Last year, rival brand Chery unveiled its own advanced humanoid robot.
The man who once couldn’t stop laughing at BYD probably isn’t laughing now. Back in 2011, Elon Musk dismissed the Chinese company outright when asked about it. These days BYD outsells Tesla over the course of a year and ranks among the largest carmakers on the planet, and like the brand it has overtaken, it now wants a piece of the world beyond cars.
Earlier this week, BYD executive vice president Li Ke revealed that the company is developing its own humanoid robots, noting that they will share common technologies with the brand’s cars. In addition, they could also be sold through BYD’s existing dealership network, not only in China, but also in other markets.
BYD hasn’t stated when its own humanoid robots could be ready to hit the market, nor has it said how it will develop and manufacture them. It’s possible they could be brought to life through an open platform where BYD works alongside established robotics companies, according to CarNewsChina. This would likely slash development times by relying on firms with extensive experience in this space.
China’s Robotic Future
While it’s Tesla that generates plenty of headlines for its humanoid robot, dozens of Chinese technology companies have already developed robots seemingly far more advanced than what Musk’s company has done. Earlier this year, more than 100 humanoid robots from different companies participated in a half-marathon in China. The winning robot, created by smartphone manufacturer Honor, needed just 50 minutes and 26 seconds to complete the half-marathon, almost seven full minutes quicker than the fastest half-marathon ever run by a human.
BYD isn’t the first Chinese brand to venture into the world of humanoid robots, either. Last year, Chery unveiled its own feminine humanoid robot, the Mornine M1, built by the company’s AiMoga subsidiary. Complete with long blonde hair, fake breasts, and a BBL, it’s a bizarre-looking creation that went on sale last month. It’s not cheap, however, starting at 285,800 yuan, or more than $41,000.
Rolls-Royce has introduced the new Spectre Series II.
Model sports a beefier battery pack and upgraded motors.
Luxury coupe has a revamped interior with new options.
Four years after its introduction, Rolls-Royce has introduced an updated Spectre. Known as the Series II, the model benefits from styling changes, an upgraded powertrain, and significantly increased range.
Looking instantly recognizable, the electric coupe eschews the expected facelift. Instead, the only exterior changes appear to be a new Ethereal Blue paint job and 23-inch forged alloy wheels, which offer a part-polished or fully polished finish.
That’s a tad surprising, but the Spectre Black Badge goes a step further as it now features Iced Black Exterior Detailing, which sees most brightwork replaced by a matte finish. The performance variant also rides on new wheels for an “even more imposing visual character.”
A Modernized Interior With New Options
Bigger changes occur inside as the car adopts a modernized dashboard with a new widescreen display. Rolls-Royce didn’t bother explaining, but noted there’s “new Illuminated Fascia artwork.” It sports a directional wave pattern, which is composed of 8,108 individual pixel-like illuminations. Buyers will also find a new clock, which draws inspiration from aircraft instrumentation.
Elsewhere, Rolls-Royce “significantly expands the interior palette, offering new materials, treatments and crafted details of remarkable depth and variety.” Among the new additions is Duality Twill, which is a rayon fabric made from bamboo.
The eco-friendly material features embroidery “reminiscent of the interweaving rope lines found on sailing yachts.” The textile is available in four colors – Black, Chocolate, Lilac, and Sage – while there are more than 50 different color options for the embroidered elements. Overall, Rolls-Royce said a Duality Twill interior can incorporate up to 2.6 million stitches, 10 miles (16 km) of thread, and up to 25 hours to create.
Customers can also opt for new Placed Perforation leather, which allows for precision-cut patterns to form unique works of art. As an example, Rolls-Royce created an image of clouds in moonlight by making 78,138 perforations in three different sizes on the backrests and headrests. While it sounds impressive, the design doesn’t look particularly good as it resembles more of a camouflage pattern than a night sky.
Last but not least, Rolls-Royce offers a new high gloss Brindled Walnut veneer. It incorporates fine powder glass flakes to give the trim a shimmering appearance.
More Power And Range
On the performance front, the dual motor all-wheel drive system has been upgraded to produce 593 hp (442 kW / 601 PS) and 749 lb-ft (1,015 Nm) of torque. That’s a notable increase over the old rating of 577 hp (430 kW / 584 PS) and 664 lb-ft (900 Nm). Thanks to the extra oomph, the dash from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) takes 4.4 seconds.
The upgrades don’t end there as Rolls-Royce mentioned “re-engineered battery cell technology” that increases the range up to 18%, while reducing recharging times by up to 14%. The automaker was vague on specifics, but confirmed the battery capacity has increased to 112.4 kWh.
This enables the standard model to travel up to 390 miles (628 km) in the WLTP cycle between charges. When the battery is low, a 195 kW DC fast charger can take it from 10-80% in as little as 28 minutes.
The Black Badge, on the other hand, produces up to 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) and 811 lb-ft (1,100 Nm) of torque. This lowers the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time to 4.1 seconds.
PROS ›› Design, exceptional ride, handling, equipment CONS ›› Rear legroom, limited range on the highway
Plenty of carmakers reach into their own past and come back with clumsy pastiche. Renault is one of the few that gets it right. The R5 E-Tech is among the more desirable electric subcompacts in Europe right now, so we took the keys for a week to find out whether it holds up as something you actually live with.
The production version landed in 2024, three years after the concept, carrying retro-futuristic styling that reaches back to the original R5 of 1972. The French subcompact serves as a zero-emission alternative to the closely sized Clio and a successor to the aging Zoe, while sitting just above the Twingo E-Tech that has only recently joined the range.
None of this is coming to America. Renault left the US decades ago, and the R5 was built around European prices, European streets, and European tastes, with no plan to cross the Atlantic. So consider this a look at the charming little electric hatch America would probably love but can’t have.
Our press car is the flagship Iconic trim painted in the striking but optional Pop Yellow shade with a sparkle effect, arguably the best fit for the new R5. The vivid color comes paired with a Diamond Black roof, a red accent strip along the flank, and 18-inch Chrono alloys, though I would take the Techno wheels given the choice. Iconic trim is also the only way to get the stronger 148 hp electric motor and the larger 52 kWh battery pack.
QUICK FACTS
› Model
2026 Renault 5 E-Tech Iconic
› Powertrain
Single Electric Motor (FWD)
› Output
148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS)
› Torque
245 Nm (180 lb-ft)
› 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)
8.0 seconds*
› Top Speed
150 km/h (93 mph)*
› Battery
52 kWh Lithium-ion
› Range (WLTP)
410 km (255 miles)
› Dimensions
154.4 in L x 69.8 in W x 59 in H (3,922 x 1,774 x 1,498 mm)
› Wheelbase
100 in (2,540 mm)
› Boot Capacity
326 lt (11.5 cubic feet)
› Curb Weight
1,524 kg (3,360 lbs)*
› Price (Greece)
from €33,200 ($39,100)
SWIPE
*Manufacturer
Photos Thanos Pappas for Carscoops
Looks are subjective, but everyone I interacted with had good things to say about the design of the R5, which turned more heads than most press cars I have reviewed. Besides the exotic color, my favorite details are the vertical LED taillights with a three-dimensional finish, the sculpted fenders, and the rally-style DRLs on the front bumper.
The result is a car with a sporty, playful character that is genuinely hard to ignore in a market drowning in interchangeable SUVs.
I am also taken with the small bump on the hood, a clear callback to the cooling vents of the classic 5 that earns its keep functionally too. Walk up to the car and the 5 emblem lights up in segments, reading out the battery charge level before you have even opened the door.
Premium Tech In A Small Package
Photos Thanos Pappas for Carscoops
The interior is filled with tech, especially in the flagship Iconic trim. The rather bulky digital cockpit sits high, comprising a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster that changes colors depending on the driving mode and a crisp 10.1-inch touchscreen that’s slightly angled towards the driver.
Renault’s Google-powered OpenR infotainment has intuitive menus and connects seamlessly to a smartphone. More importantly, it is joined by a row of physical climate controls on the center console. The only ergonomic foul is the volume buttons which are awkwardly positioned on top of the screen, although there is a dedicated stalk behind the steering wheel for easier operation.
Another slightly irritating thing is that the ChatGPT-powered “Reno” AI assistant kept popping up at irrelevant times during my conversation with the front passenger, reminding me of the animated paperclip from the old Windows Office.
The buttons on the steering wheel control most functions, including a Multi Sense button for switching drive modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Perso). The gear stalk only has drive and reverse, leaving park out of the equation. Equipment is quite generous with heated seats and steering wheel, wireless charging, and a full suite of ADAS including an auto parking function that works great.
Photos Thanos Pappas for Carscoops
In terms of materials, Renault’s color a trim department did a great job in creating a youthful environment. The yellow recycled textile on the seats and front doors is a nice touch, paired with synthetic leather and yellow stitch, also found on the passenger side of the dashboard.
As for practicality, the rear seats of the 3,922 mm (154.4 inches) long hatchback might feel cramped for tall passengers if they sit behind a tall driver. Legroom and headroom are tighter than a Fiat Grande Panda, although adequate for an urban-focused offering. The boot has a capacity of 326 lt (11.5 cubic feet) which is slightly above average for the segment. Don’t look for a frunk as the electric motor takes up all of the space under the hood.
Sharp Reflexes and Highway Manners
On the road, the Renault 5 E-Tech clearly punches above its weight. The real surprise is the balanced chassis setup with the sophisticated multi-link rear axle giving it the ride refinement of a much larger vehicle.
Photos Thanos Pappas for Carscoops
The suspension soaks up potholes in the city and make it a comfortable cruiser on the highway where you’ll appreciate the exceptional noise insulation. At the same time, it is firm enough to stay flat and composed on a twisty road. The planted stance and low center of gravity are combined with a direct and communicative steering which is a rarity among modern EVs.
The front mounted electric motor produces up to 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) which feels like the right number for the size and positioning of the EV, making me wonder if the Alpine A290 is really necessary. While the R5 is far from Tesla-fast with a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in a modest 8 seconds, the power delivery is more usable and natural, especially to those coming from a combustion vehicle.
Photos Thanos Pappas for Carscoops
In the city, it is helpful to use the B function with regenerative braking every time you lift off the throttle. I was going to complain about the lack of a one-pedal drive function although this was recently added to the Techno and Iconic trims with the more potent engine. Still, this won’t be offered as an update to existing owners.
Range And Charging
The 52 kWh battery pack offers a claimed WLTP range of up to 410 km (255 miles), which sounds far better than the 300 km (186 miles) of the smaller 40 kWh unit. In real life, you can easily match and surpass the 400 km (249-mile) barrier within an urban environment, where the EV is surprisingly efficient.
On the highway you’re probably looking at something closer to 250 km (155 miles) depending on the conditions and the speed.
Photos Thanos Pappas for Carscoops
During my time with the EV, I completed a 240 km (150-mile) highway trip without a charging stop. I had the A/C on and kept a stable 120 km/h (75 miles) speed for the most part, arriving to my destination with 10% battery charge and 40 km (25 miles) of remaining range.
However, the returning trip was different. While I traveled at similar speeds and even used the Eco mode that limits power and drops the top speed to 115 km/h (72 mph), I was forced to stop on the way as the range estimate was not enough to complete the trip. Thankfully, I found a fast charger so I only needed to stop for about 15 minutes to get back to a safe range estimate.
The R5 is capable of 100 kW fast charging, taking the battery from 15-80% in 30 minutes. Using a standard 11 kW wall box, a full charge takes around 4.5 hours. Furthermore, the model has V2L capability with a special adapter.
Pricing And Rivals
Photos Thanos Pappas for Carscoops
In Greece, where we tested it, the R5 E-Tech range opens with the Evolution trim at €26,900 ($31,700), or €22,400 ($26,400) once the local EV subsidies are applied. Keep in mind, prices include VAT (sales tax), which in the case of EVs is at the reduced rate of 13% rather than the standard 24%, as well as delivery fees.
Base kit is generous, but the entry car comes only with the smaller 40 kWh battery and the 118 hp (88 kW / 120 PS) motor. Step up to the mid-spec Tecno and you can have the 52 kWh battery paired with the 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) motor, priced at €33,200 ($39,100). The flagship Iconic, with the full features list, lands at €35,200 ($41,500) before subsidies.
Overall, the cheapest R5 E-Tech closely matches the more budget-oriented and family-friendly Fiat Grande Panda Electric, while high-spec trims are priced on par with the base Mini Cooper E. Other contestants in the subcompact segment include the Peugeot e-208, Opel Corsa-e, Lancia Ypsilon Elettrica, and Citroen e-C3.
Still, the biggest rivals of the French EV are the upcoming VW ID.Polo and Hyundai Ioniq 3, both expected to hit European roads in the coming months. The R5 also faces strong internal competition from the new Renault Clio Full Hybrid E-Tech, especially for buyers who don’t have access to a home charger.
Notably absent from that list is the United States. In Greece the R5’s high trims line up on price against the base Mini Cooper E, a car Americans can actually buy. The Renault sitting next to it at the same money, the more characterful of the two, is the one they cannot.
Verdict
After spending a week with the Renault 5 E-Tech, I found myself just as excited as the day I first picked up the keys. This small hatchback successfully balances a sporty, playful character with genuine everyday usability.
Besides its stunning looks, the R5 makes a compelling case for the ideal second vehicle, one that excels as a refined urban dweller while remaining equally capable of handling weekend getaways, comfortable highway stints, and spirited runs on twisty B-roads.
While it may not offer segment-leading interior space, and the desirable high-spec flagship trim carries a premium price tag, the R5 is a car that never fails to put a smile on your face, making you feel several years younger.
Ferrari presented Pope Leo XIV with a steering wheel from the new Luce.
The Pontiff asked the Italian brand’s chairman if the Luce was its first sedan.
Shares fell after the reveal, though the stock has since started to recover.
Ferrari is making a big hoopla about the Luce, its first-ever electric car. However, in the days since the vehicle’s unveiling, it’s not the fact that it doesn’t sip a drop of gasoline that’s generated headlines, but rather the controversial design. To say the reception to it has been frosty would be an understatement, and it doesn’t appear as though even Pope Leo XIV can get excited about it.
As part of the global premiere of Luce, Ferrari visited the Pope in Castel Gandolfo, a tiny hillside town he calls home when he’s not in Vatican City. A white-and-black Luce was presented to the Pope by Ferrari chairman John Elkann and chief executive Benedetto Vigna.
In a video shared by Ferrari from the visit, Pope Leo XIV is seen touring the electric Luce. Perhaps he’s not a car guy, but when Ferrari lifts the covers, he doesn’t appear particularly enamored, and we can’t blame him. Shortly before jumping behind the wheel, he asks if this is the “first four-door Ferrari,” which obviously it isn’t. Elkann confirms that it is the company’s first five-seater model. Even the head of the Catholic Church needed a moment to figure out what he was looking at.
The Luce is also the first Ferrari styled by an outside firm, specifically the design company led by Jony Ive, the former head of design at Apple. Whether Ferrari is comfortable with that arrangement now is another question. The car’s unveiling wiped more than $3 billion off the company’s market value, though the share price has begun clawing back ground over the past day.
Ferrari didn’t leave the Pope empty-handed. Rather than gifting him the car, the company presented Leo XIV with the Luce’s leather-and-aluminum three-spoke steering wheel, displayed in a clear case.
If Ferrari set out to get people talking with the Luce, then it’s certainly achieved that. The company has been candid that the Luce isn’t aimed at its traditional customer base, targeting instead young, ultra-high-net-worth buyers who have never owned a Ferrari before. Whether that audience is more enthusiastic about the styling than the Pope was remains to be seen.
Luca di Montezemolo says the Luce shouldn’t have the Prancing Horse badge.
Ferrari’s former boss says the Luce risks destroying the fabled Italian brand.
Italy’s deputy Prime Minister has also fiercely criticized the all-electric Ferrari.
Some car launches court controversy by accident. The Luce did it on purpose, and the man who ran Ferrari for two decades is not amused. Back in February, iPhone designer Jony Ive warned us the all-electric Ferrari Luce would be controversial. Even he likely did not anticipate how sharply the market would turn on the exterior design.
Just a few months ago, pundits were praising the interior of the Luce, which ditches the over-reliance on touch-sensitive controls found in other Ferraris in favor of physical buttons, switches, and toggles. But while LoveFrom, the design agency run by Ive that penned the Luce, nailed the cabin, the same cannot be said for the exterior. Even former Ferrari boss Luca di Montezemolo, who served as Chairman and CEO from 1991 to 2014, is not a fan.
Shortly after Ferrari pulled the wraps off the Luce, di Montezemolo gave Italian publication Askanews his unvarnished take. In his view, this is the rare Ferrari even the Chinese will not bother to copy.
“If I had to say what I really think, I would be hurting Ferrari,” he said. “We’re risking the destruction of a legend, and I’m very sorry about that. I hope they at least remove the Prancing Horse from that car. This is surely a car that at least the Chinese won’t copy from us.”
It’s not just di Montezemolo who appears shocked by the new Luce. Even Italy’s deputy prime minister and transport minister, Matteo Salvini, expressed his feelings on X.
“It looks nothing like a (Ferrari),” he wrote. “Is this supposed to be ‘innovation’? Who knows what Enzo Ferrari would say.”
Elettrica, costosissima (550 mila euro!) e, dal punto di vista estetico, si commenta da sola… Sembra tutto fuorché un'auto del Cavallino. E questa sarebbe “innovazione”? Chissà Enzo Ferrari cosa direbbe… pic.twitter.com/zITSlz1a9j
Shortly after Ferrari lifted the covers on the Luce, shares in the brand dropped 8.4 percent in Italy and 5.1 percent in the US. Ferrari has been open about its ambitions for the Luce to attract a new generation of wealthy buyers, particularly those who are environmentally focused, but whether or not it’ll even appeal to them remains to be seen.
Luca di Montezemolo says the Luce shouldn’t have the Prancing Horse badge.
Ferrari’s former boss says the Luce risks destroying the fabled Italian brand.
Italy’s deputy Prime Minister has also fiercely criticized the all-electric Ferrari.
In February, iPhone designer Jony Ive warned us that the all-electric Ferrari Luce would be controversial, but not even he would have predicted the market’s initial response to the car and its exterior design.
Just a few months ago, pundits praised the interior of the Luce, which eschews the over-reliance on touch-sensitive controls of other Ferrari models in favor of physical buttons, switches, and toggles. But while LoveFrom, the design agency run by Ive that designed the Luce, nailed the car’s interior, the same can’t be said about the exterior. Not even former Ferrari boss Luca di Montezemolo likes the car.
Shortly after Ferrari lifted the veil on the Luce, di Montezemolo briefly spoke with Italian publication Askanews about it. According to him, it’s the type of vehicle that not even the Chinese will be willing to copy.
“If I had to say what I really think, I would be hurting Ferrari,” he said. “We’re risking the destruction of a legend, and I’m very sorry about that. I hope they at least remove the Prancing Horse from that car. This is surely a car that at least the Chinese won’t copy from us.”
It’s not just di Montezemolo who appears shocked by the new Luce. Even Italy’s deputy prime minister and transport minister, Matteo Salvini, expressed his feelings on X.
“It looks nothing like a (Ferrari),” he wrote. “Is this supposed to be ‘innovation’? Who knows what Enzo Ferrari would say.”
Elettrica, costosissima (550 mila euro!) e, dal punto di vista estetico, si commenta da sola… Sembra tutto fuorché un'auto del Cavallino. E questa sarebbe “innovazione”? Chissà Enzo Ferrari cosa direbbe… pic.twitter.com/zITSlz1a9j
Shortly after Ferrari lifted the covers on the Luce, shares in the brand dropped 8.4 percent in Italy and 5.1 percent in the US. Ferrari has been open about its ambitions for the Luce to attract a new generation of wealthy buyers, particularly those who are environmentally focused, but whether or not it’ll even appeal to them remains to be seen.
Jason Fenske’s 2025 Lucid Air began showing faults almost immediately.
Lucid failed to source a matching replacement Air for the YouTuber.
The automaker instead agreed to buy back the troubled EV outright.
On paper, the Lucid Air is one of the most accomplished electric sedans on sale, a technological tour de force wrapped in clean bodywork with class-leading efficiency. For one prominent YouTuber, the past eleven months of actually living with one have been a study in attrition.
Jason Fenske of Engineering Explained signed a three-year lease on a 2025 Lucid Air Touring last year. The problems started almost immediately. Door handles, phone-as-key functionality, the cupholder, the list grew quickly. Lucid reached out and promised to sort it.
Fast forward a few months, and the YouTuber has reached his breaking point. During a recent four-day road trip, the Air kept suffering problems. For example, there was a time when the rear doors couldn’t be opened, even though they were unlocked. The HVAC system threw its own curveball.
As his dog sat in the rear, he noticed it was getting too hot. He checked the air vents and realized that while both were set to 65°F, one side was blowing much hotter than the other. He also experienced an issue where the reversing lines on the screen with the reversing camera would randomly disappear, and, most annoyingly, a number of Apple CarPlay issues, including it completely failing to load.
Then There’s A Big Safety Issue
His biggest issue is particularly concerning. Fenske also drives his Lucid Air with the vehicle’s Stop Mode set to hold. This essentially means that when it comes to a stop, it will automatically hold without applying the brake. It can also be set to roll, as a traditional automatic car would if you let off the brake while stopped. One time, when the YouTuber turned on the EV, put it into reverse, and lifted off the brake pedal, the car randomly started rolling forward. If this had happened on a steep hill, it could have caused an accident.
After contacting Lucid, the company first suggested it could take back Fenske’s Air and replace it with a like-for-like example, allowing him to continue his lease. That plan fell apart when Lucid couldn’t source a matching Air, so the automaker instead agreed to buy back the EV outright and reimburse him for every payment he’s made. It works out well for Fenske, though owners dealing with the same issue, minus the 4.2 million YouTube subscribers, probably shouldn’t expect identical treatment.
Tata has revealed the facelifted Tiago and Tiago.EV in India.
The budget-friendly hatchbacks gain a more modern design.
We expect them to gain a 360-degree camera and six airbags.
Tata is preparing a serious overhaul of its most affordable urban model in India. The company has released the first teaser video of the new Tiago and Tiago.EV, with the full reveal set for May 28.
The original Tiago launched in 2016, picked up a mid-life refresh in 2020, and got minor tweaks in 2025. Tata is calling the 2026 car a new generation, but in reality it is the third and most thorough facelift the nameplate has received, with sharper exterior work and an updated and upgraded cabin.
The body has been worked over with styling cues that owe more than a little to European hatchbacks like the Opel Corsa. The new front end adopts slimmer headlights and grille, joined by interconnected bumper intakes. The fully electric version sets itself apart with body-colored trim and a matching bumper pattern that, frankly, looks like Tata factory workers forgot to bolt on the actual face.
The profile keeps familiar proportions, but designers found clever ways to freshen it up. Plastic cladding now wraps the wheels arches, extra black trim breaks up the C-pillar, and the new 15-inch wheels with a diamond-cut finish handle the rest of the visual lift.
The rear end has been heavily reworked too, with slimmer full-width taillight clusters and a fresh bumper that now houses the relocated reverse light. The only giveaway between the ICE and EV versions is the Tiago and Tiago.EV badging on the tailgate, since the exhaust pipe is tucked out of sight under the rear bumper anyway.
Tata has yet to show the interior, which is expected to received better equipment. The cameras mounted on the mirrors suggest the inclusion of a 360-degree camera borrowed from the recently facelifted Tata Punch baby SUV.
The 2025 update brought a redesigned dashboard with a 10.25-inch infotainment display that might be joined by a new digital instrument cluster and redesigned seats with integrated headrests. Furthermore, local media expect the Tiago to gain six airbags as standard, up from the current dual-airbag setup.
Technical specifications remain under wraps, but the latest reports suggest that the Tiago will continue with carry-over powertains. The current naturally-aspirated 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine produces 85 hp (63 kW / 86 PS), while the CNG variant is good for 75 hp (56 kW / 76 PS). The fully electric Tiago.EV is available in medium-range and long-range versions with different power outputs.
Pricing for the updated models will be announced at the market launch on May 28. Judging from the notable upgrades they might be slightly more expensive compared to their budget-friendly predecessors. To get an idea of how cheap the outgoing Tiago is, it currently starts from as low as Rs. 4.60 Lakhs ($4,800 at current rates) before on-road costs, with the zero-emission Tiago.ev priced from Rs. 7.99 Lakh ($8,300).
Rivals of the Tata Tiago in India include the Maruti Suzuki Celerio and the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios.
AMG’s latest EV mimics V8 noises using over 1,600 separate sound samples.
Simulated shifts and burbles aim to recreate ICE drama in the performance EV.
GT is available as a 55 or a 63, with the top one good for 62 mph in 2.1 seconds.
Mercedes-AMG’s new GT 4-Door Coupe might not burn gasoline, but it definitely burns rubber, and wants you to convince you it torches both. The all-electric super sedan debuted yesterday packing up to 1,153 hp (1,169 PS / 860 kW) and enough synthetic V8 noise to make nearby Hellcats nervously check their mirrors.
AMG also released footage of a bright yellow four-door coupe being hammered around a test circuit so we can make our own minds up about the fake V8 growls, aggressive crackles, and simulated gearshifts.
The mischievous Mercedes brand calls the system AMGFORCE S+, and unlike the generic spaceship noises many EVs settle for, this setup specifically tries to mimic the sound and feel of the AMG GT R’s V8. That means fake upshifts, fake drivetrain interruptions, fake burbling on overrun, and apparently enough bass-heavy theatrics to shake your chest while accelerating.
The company’s engineers went seriously over the top when creating it, too. Mercedes says the sound system uses more than 1,600 individual audio samples combined in real time depending on throttle inputs, speed, shifting events and driving behavior. There are even custom sounds for unlocking the car, plugging in the charger and starting launch control.
Three Axial-Flux Motors
All mouth? Not at all. The AMG with the fugliest back end we’ve seen on a new car for a long while has more than enough firepower to back up the noise. Riding on the company’s bespoke AMG.EA architecture, the GT 63 4Matic+ packs a 106 kWh battery, an 800-volt electrical system, and three axial-flux electric motors producing up to 1,153 hp and 1,475 lb-ft (2,000 Nm) of torque with launch control activated.
AMG claims it’ll hit 62 mph (100 kmh) in 2.1 seconds with US-type drag strip rollout, top out at 186 mph (300 kmh), and recharge from 10-80 percent in only 11 minutes thanks to 600 kW charging capability.
Fast, But Not For Real
So it’s brutally fast in every sense. But the fake V8 soundtrack is what everyone’s going to argue about. Some enthusiasts will love that AMG’s trying to preserve some emotional drama in the EV era. Others will probably think it’s the automotive equivalent of lip-syncing. But what do you think?
Watch the video, crank the volume up, and tell us whether AMG nailed it or completely lost the plot.
The YU7 GT took the crown away from the Audi RS Q8.
Twin motors allow the flagship Xiaomi YU7 to deliver 990 hp.
The SUV used had a stripped-out interior and a roll cage.
Xiaomi just can’t stop snatching Nurburgring lap records away from its European rivals. After the SU7 Ultra grabbed the four-door record in late 2024 before losing it again to the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT Manthey, the company has returned to take the outright production SUV record.
With chief test driver Ren Zhoucan behind the wheel, the new YU7 GT went around the Nordschleife in 7:34.931. That figure is enough to displace the Audi RS Q8’s 7:36.698, which itself had taken the record from the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT Coupe at 7:38.925.
There is, predictably with most Nurburgring record runs, an asterisk. The YU7 GT that set the time wasn’t the standard, or base, if you will, version you buy from a Xiaomi dealer. The Chinese carmaker says the vehicle was equipped with what appears to be an optional “Track Professional Package,” which sounds a lot like the Manthey upgrades Porsche uses for its record-setting cars.
Xiaomi has at least spelled out part of the kit. The package brings 265mm front and 325mm rear semi-slick tires, along with widened rear wheel arches to cover them. But there’s more.
“At the Nürburgring’s request, we performed safety modifications inside the car, including a full-cage roll cage, racing bucket seats, and six-point harnesses,” the company said. “We also removed some interior trim to balance the added weight of the roll cage. This is a production car that has passed the Nürburgring’s official certification and testing.”
The onboard video tells you the rest. The cage is in, the rear seats are gone, and the driver is sitting in what looks like a single lightweight bucket.
Xiaomi presented the YU7 GT to the world at last month’s Beijing Auto Show. While not as extreme as the SU7 Ultra, it still offers the kind of power and performance once reserved for multi-million-dollar hypercars and previously unthinkable for a luxury SUV.
Beneath the skin is a 101.7 kWh battery pack that drives a 386 hp electric motor at the front wheels and a 604 hp motor at the rear wheels, delivering a combined 990 hp. There’s no official word yet on how quickly it can hit 100 km/h (62 mph), but it should leave most performance SUVs sold in the West for dead off the line.
Aiding in the YU7 GT’s on-track prowess is the fact that it uses a trick suspension that offers adjustability for the compression, rebound, and ride height, a setup that was specifically honed at the Nurburgring.
Stellantis and Dongfeng plan French-built Chinese cars to dodge import tariffs.
Underutilized Rennes factory will reportedly produce Voyah-brand EVs in Brittany.
The pair recently announced plans to build Jeeps in China, including for export.
If you can’t beat them, join them. Stellantis keeps getting deeper into China’s automotive world, first with Leapmotor, and now with Dongfeng. Not content with building bargain-priced Leapmotors in Spain, Stellantis announced plans today for a new joint venture with long-time Chinese partner Dongfeng that could see premium Voyah-brand cars built in France for European buyers.
The proposed deal would create a Stellantis-led company split 51-49 between the two manufacturers. Its responsibilities would stretch beyond simply importing cars. The new business would oversee manufacturing, engineering, purchasing, sales and distribution activities tied to Dongfeng’s new-energy vehicles across selected European markets.
Though Stellantis hasn’t confirmed where production would take place, Autonews says Dongfeng would set up shop at the Rennes plant in Brittany, in western France. Once capable of pumping out more than 400,000 vehicles annually, the site’s output has slowed dramatically over recent years. Today it mainly builds the Citroen C5 Aircross, leaving plenty of unused capacity waiting for fresh products.
That’s where Voyah enters the picture. Dongfeng’s upscale EV brand sold relatively small numbers in Europe last quarter, but local production could completely change its prospects. Building vehicles inside Europe would help sidestep tariffs aimed at Chinese-made EVs while also satisfying increasingly important Made-in-Europe expectations.
Courage Enters Brave New World
One model being suggested as a likely production candidate is the Voyah Courage SUV (seen below). The dual-motor, 429 hp (435 PS / 320 kW) EV has a 4.9-second 0-62 mph (100 kmh) time, a claimed 292-mile (470 km) WLTP range and Chinese-made versions are already on sale in Europe.
The move also adds another twist to Stellantis’ growing dependence on Chinese EV know-how. Just last week, the company confirmed future Jeep and Peugeot electrified models will be built in Wuhan beginning in 2027 for China and export markets. That means future Jeeps sold abroad could owe plenty to China’s rapidly evolving EV ecosystem.
From M-Hero To Jeep
Jeep’s image has always played heavily on its rugged Americana and military-flavored heritage. But under Stellantis, the brand’s electric future – at least outside of the US – is tapping into Chinese technology, manufacturing and supply chains. Last year we reported on rumors that the Dongfeng M-Hero M817 SUV (seen below) could be transformed into a Jeep.
Peugeot last month showed the Concept 6 and Concept 8 sedan and SUV that previewed a sharp-looking pair of future models that will also be built in China by Dongfeng, both for domestic consumption and export to global markets.
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa framed the latest deal as a natural evolution of the companies’ decades-long partnership. “With this new chapter in our collaboration, we will give our customers an even greater choice of competitive products and pricing,” he said, adding the alliance combines Stellantis’ global footprint with Dongfeng’s advanced EV expertise.
An upstate New York school bus driver has been fired after video allegedly shows him repeatedly slamming on the brakes and yelling at student riders during his route, reported KTTC News.
Sarah and Matt Martineau, whose three children attend schools in the Boquet Valley Central School District, said their daughter first told them in early March that the driver had been “brake-checking” students during a bus ride.
Video obtained by local news reporters from cameras inside and outside the bus appeared to support the children’s account. Speed data from the footage showed the bus slowing by nearly 10 mph during the brake-checking, or sudden braking incidents. Students were seen jolting forward in their seats, while exterior footage showed no vehicles immediately in front of the bus.
The Martineaus said their son later complained of neck pain after an incident. According to the parents, the boy stood up and moved into the aisle to sit near his sister when the driver allegedly brake-checked again.
“I had told her to have him go sit with her to make sure he was OK, and as he got up to go sit with her, the bus driver brake checked the bus again and then started screaming at him,” Sarah told local news reporters
School Bus Video Tells the Tale
The video also appeared to show the driver arguing with a student and suggesting the braking was related to students not following directions. “There’s no need for anyone to drive a vehicle of that size to brake check for any reason,” Matt Martineau said.
Matt Martineau reportedly said he contacted the district superintendent, who acknowledged there had been inappropriate yelling and braking but considered the braking justified.
After weeks without further action, the Martineaus raised their concerns during a school board meeting in late April. Five days later, the school board voted unanimously to fire the driver, identified as Jeremy Ward. District officials did not provide details about the dismissal. School officials declined immediate comments to reporters.
The sleek sedan will use three axial-flux electric motors and a large battery pack.
Mercedes has also teased an ICE-inspired soundtrack and fake gears.
Following in the footsteps of this model will be an all-electric SUV from AMG.
The all-electric Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door has been a long time coming, and a popular YouTuber may have just inadvertently leaked the all-new model. As the first EV built from the ground up by AMG, this new model will directly target the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT.
The new model will debut in just a matter of hours, but it appears that a YouTuber published a preview video of the car a little too early, with a nearly 10-minute-long clip briefly appearing on their page. While it was swiftly deleted, a screenshot of the video’s thumbnail was captured, giving us an unimpeded view of the car.
As recent prototypes have revealed, the front end is dominated by a gaping, wide blacked-out front grille, just like many other Mercedes models. Positioned just above this grille is a small slit running under the hood, likely to also aid in cooling. As for the headlights, they feature an intriguing shape with Three-Pointed Star daytime running lights. Compared to the old ICE-powered AMG GT 4-Door, this new one looks a bit like a catfish.
Somewhat making up for the EV’s odd front end is an exceptionally sleek roofline, with blacked-out wing mirrors and door handles that sit flush. A set of black wheels with red outer rims and red brake calipers is also visible.
An EV That Should Be Fun To Drive
Of course, it’s not just the design of this sedan that will impact whether or not it’s a success. Driving the wheels will be a trio of advanced Yasa axial-flux motors, likely combining to deliver over 1,000 hp. This will be more than enough to help the new AMG compete with the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT.
Mercedes-AMG is also eager to ensure the car sounds like a proper AMG should. Recent testing videos have revealed that it will include a V8-inspired soundtrack and faux gears, as pioneered by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
A lightly disguised Type 01 prototype is now being tested in public.
Key features include the lack of a traditional grille and a radical interior.
Jaguar hopes to steal sales away from Bentley and Rolls with this model.
Few places telegraph a target buyer quite like Monte Carlo in race week. That is presumably the calculation behind Jaguar parking a fresh Type 01 prototype in the Principality just before this weekend’s Formula E Monaco E-Prix, giving onlookers another preview of the all-electric flagship before its global reveal in September. The crowd that summers in Monaco is the crowd Jaguar wants.
The development of Jaguar’s new electric sedan has been hugely controversial, and many car enthusiasts still can’t forgive the brand for its infamous 2024 marketing campaign and rebrand. However, if you set the marketing aside, the new EV has the potential to carve out a small but important niche in the industry, targeting those who would normally buy a Bentley or a Rolls-Royce.
This camouflaged prototype is finished in red, white, and beige and features the car’s official name, Type 01, on the roof. The skin-tight wrap doesn’t really provide us with any design details that we haven’t already seen, but there’s no denying this thing is a head-turner, and not just because of the color.
The One And Only Jaguar
Just like the Type 00 concept that inspired it, the Jaguar Type 01 will lack a traditional grille and feature slim daytime running lights and LED headlights. Despite being an EV, it features a long hood, which will hopefully accommodate a generous frunk. It also uses pop-out door handles. There’s also no visible rear window, and a small trunk opening.
The brutish exterior aesthetic will continue into the cabin. Recent images have shown that the Type 01 will include a steering wheel with thick horizontal spokes housing a slew of important controls and buttons. It will also include a large wraparound infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster.
In terms of power, the electric Type 01 is expected to use a 120 kWh battery pack. This battery will drive three electric motors that together produce over 1,000 hp and 959 lb-ft (1,300 Nm) of torque.
First electric GTI brings hot hatch spirit to Volkswagen’s new EV era.
Single front motor delivers 223 hp for a 6.8-second 0-62 mph time.
LSD, adaptive dampers, 19-inch wheels and retro screens are standard.
The GTI badge has spent 50 years making small Volkswagens feel more exciting than they probably had any right to be. Now it’s going electric for the first time, but the Wolfsburg team reckons the new ID. Polo GTI still has the right hot hatch character, even if the recipe is very different.
Unveiled at the Nürburgring 24 Hours where VW is racing a widebody Golf R, the ID. Polo GTI gets a single electric motor that sends 223 hp (226 PS / 166 kW) and 214 lb-ft (290 Nm) to the front wheels. That’s enough for 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.8 seconds and a far less exciting 109 mph (175 km/h) top speed. The larger gas-powered Golf GTI handles the same sprint in 5.9 seconds and keeps pulling to 155 mph (250 km/h).
It’s punchier than the top version of the regular electric Polo, which only recently launched and tops out at 208 hp (211 PS 155 kW). But there’s a tradeoff. The standard car claims 283 miles (455 km) of range, while the GTI’s 52 kWh net NMC battery is rated at up to 263 miles (424 km) on the WLTP cycle. That’s still good for the segment though, and we’ll come back to it later.
Charging should be painless enough. The GTI can take up to 105 kW at a DC charger, and VW says its flat charging curve means a 10 to 80 percent top-up takes around 24 minutes. AC charging is rated at 11 kW.
Electric LSD And Adaptive Dampers
VW hasn’t simply turned up the motor and thrown some red stitching at it. Every ID. Polo GTI gets an electronically controlled front differential lock, adaptive DCC sports suspension, progressive steering, 19-inch alloy wheels, premium sports seats, IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, and a dedicated GTI driving mode.
Hit the GTI button on the odd, two-spoke squircle steering wheel and the motor response, steering, dampers and chassis systems all switch into their angriest settings. The ambient lighting turns red, the graphics change, launch control becomes available, and Volkswagen even pipes in a combustion-style soundtrack.
ID. Polo Clubsport In The Works
Fake gearshifts, which featured on the almost identical-looking ID. Concept GTI back in 2023, don’t appear on the production GTI, sadly. But they will make it to the more hardcore ID. Polo Clubsport currently in development, a recent report claimed. Hopefully the Clubsport will also get the concept’s black plastic arch trims, a nod to the original Golf GTI’s, but which are missing from this one.
Other than the arch spats and fatter mirrors though, this 2027 car looks damn near identical to the concept. There’s a full-width red stripe across the nose, a 3D GTI badge, honeycomb lower intake, a split rear spoiler, illuminated rear graphics, and a chunky black diffuser. Six colors will be offered, including Tornado Red, Candy White, Oyster Silver, Celestial Blue, Magnetic Grey, and Grenadilla Black.
Tartan Seats, Real Buttons
Inside, the GTI gets red stitching, a 12 o’clock steering wheel marker, illuminated GTI logos, sports seats with traditional GTI tartan trim, and brake regen paddles. A 10.25-inch digital cluster is paired with a 12.9-inch touchscreen, and best of all, there’s a retro display mode that replicates an old Golf dashboard and plenty of real buttons on the wheel and dashboard to press.
It’s practical, too. The electric platform’s 2,599 mm (102.3 inches) wheelbase is only 37 mm (1.46 inches) shorter than a Golf’s, and the Polo’s 441 liters (15.6 cu-ft) of trunk space actually shames the supposedly much bigger car’s 381-liter cargo bay (13.5 cu-ft), despite not having a frunk.
Options include a 425-watt Harman Kardon sound system with 10 speakers, a panoramic glass roof, 12-way electrically adjustable front seats with pneumatic massage, and Bridgestone Potenza Sport performance tires for drivers who want to give the 1,540 kg (3,395 lbs) GTI a real workout.
Alpine A290 And Mini JCW In The Crosshairs
Stick to the base spec and VW says you could take a GTI home for less than €39,000, or around £35,000 in the UK after government EV incentives. That’s a big step up from the regular ID. Polo’s €25,000 starting price, but it’s on a par with the 255 hp (258 PS / 190 kW) Mini John Cooper Works E and 215 hp (218 PS / 160 kW) Alpine A290 GTS.
Both are at least 0.4 seconds faster to 62 mph than the Polo, and the Opel Corsa GSE and its Peugeot 208 GTI cousin both punch out a massive 276 hp (280 PS / 206 kW) and hit 62 mph in as little as 5.5 seconds. But none of these cars can do more than 230 miles (370 km) on a charge. The Polo, remember, does 263 miles (424 km).
This Or A Combustion GTI?
What’s also interesting is that the performance Polo comes in around €7,000 / £6,000 / $8,150 cheaper than a Euro-spec 262 hp (265 PS / 195 kW) petrol Golf GTI. True, it’s 0.9 seconds slower to 62 mph, but with the EV being closer in size to the Golf than to the old combustion Polo, we wouldn’t be surprised if a few would-be Golf GTI buyers find themselves in an ID. Polo GTI instead. Except in North America, of course, which isn’t taking the ID. Polo in any form.
The ID. Polo GTI might not be the quickest electric hot hatch on sale, but VW GTIs have rarely been the fastest in their class. What they are is great all-rounders, and with a strong electric range, loads of standard hardware, proper retro charm, and a famous badge finally dragged into the EV age, it might be the one electric hat hatch ICE fans actually care about.
Despite missing its launch target, Caterham continues working on Project V.
Company released new video of a prototype sporting updated design and interior.
Model is expected to have a 268 hp rear e-axle and around 249 miles of range.
Earlier this year, Caterham unveiled its first working prototype of Project V at the Tokyo Auto Salon. At the time, the company said the model would be used to evaluate its chassis, powertrain, and battery.
We haven’t heard much about the car since then, but the automaker has released a new video showing the prototype being put through its paces. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot we can glean from the clip, but the company has previously said testing would continue throughout 2026.
Project V has been a long time coming as work started in September of 2022. A concept was unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023 and the production model was originally slated to arrive in late 2025 or early 2026.
That never happened and it remains unclear when production will finally begin. However, Caterham continues to test and refine the sports car.
As a refresher, Project V was designed by Anthony Jannarelly and embraces a “pure and simple” aesthetic. While the prototype remains relatively faithful to the original concept, the rear end has been revised and now sports four circular taillights to “comply with regulatory requirements in various markets.” Other highlights include an oval grille and staggered 19- and 20-inch wheels.
The changes continue inside as the prototype sports a new 2+2 interior and a circular digital display. However, the flat dashboard inspired by the Seven largely carries over.
Project V rides on a tubular spaceframe and features a 47 kWh immersion-cooled battery, which “ensures high safety and reliability even under severe operating conditions.” It feeds power to a Yamaha-sourced rear e-axle developing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS).
This setup will reportedly enable the 3,153 lb (1,430 kg) coupe to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in less than five seconds. If drivers keep their foot planted, they’ll eventually reach 143 mph (230 km/h).
The company also expects a WLTP range of 249 miles (400 km). When the battery is low, a 100 kW DC fast charger is projected to take it from 20-80% in approximately 20 minutes. However, the automaker has cautioned that “all specifications are target figures and may be subject to change during development.”
Amazon has been selling electric motorcycles that exceed e-bike speed limits.
Dirt-bike-inspired e-motorcycles have grown increasingly popular among teens.
A mother has been charged over a fatal accident caused by her son on an e-bike.
The popularity of powerful all-electric motorcycles has surged in recent years, partly because of their affordability and the fact that they are often classified as e-bikes, meaning they do not require registration or a driver’s license. Amazon is now moving to make some of them harder to buy in California.
The retail giant announced it will stop selling certain electric bikes capable of exceeding California’s legal speed limits. The state currently caps pedal-assisted e-bikes at 28 mph (45 km/h) and throttle-assisted e-bikes, the type more commonly used by casual riders, at 20 mph (32 km/h).
Many manufacturers of more powerful electric two-wheelers, often with designs inspired by traditional dirt bikes, have been able to skirt local legislation by labeling them as e-bikes, even though some can exceed 60 mph (96 km/h). However, state laws do require e-bikes that exceed speed limits to be registered and to comply with certain age restrictions.
“The things people are selling as e-bikes are clearly motorcycles, mopeds, off-road dirt bikes, out-of-class devices that might have pedals, and they can sell them as ‘e-bikes’ because they are electric and they are bikes, but they’re totally illegal for electric bicycles,” Bill Sellin from the Orange County Bicycle Coalition told ABC 7.
Crashes Are On The Rise
Amazon’s crackdown comes shortly after California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized existing laws around e-bikes. Over the past four years, crashes and injuries linked to e-bikes and electric motorcycles have risen 430 percent in Southern California.
More recently, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer’s office filed manslaughter charges against the mother of a 14-year-old boy accused of hitting and killing an 81-year-old man while riding an electric motorcycle. Authorities say the mother had been warned multiple times that her son was not legally allowed to ride it.
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