Mercedes is developing a two-door concept previewing its next design direction.
Gorden Wagener says it draws inspiration from the Vision Maybach 6 concepts.
The debut date remains unannounced, though it could be revealed any day.
Mercedes is nearly ready to unveil a new concept car that could resurrect the spirit of the long-departed S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet. The unnamed model has already appeared in official teasers, flaunting a massive light-up grille and a classic two-door coupe shape that feels like Benz trying to remind everyone it still knows how to do glamour.
The brand’s design chief, Gorden Wagener, dropped a few hints about the upcoming debut on Instagram. He called the mystery model “the shape of things to come” and said the new grille first shown in Munich was “the spark for a creative impulse”
One of the teaser shots captures the car’s front three-quarter angle, mostly shrouded in darkness. Even so, the details are telling: slim headlights with star-shaped LED graphics, a deep front splitter, and large, black-finished alloy wheels.
The grille, fully illuminated and completely enclosed, points strongly toward an electric powertrain under the sculpted bonnet.
Another teaser zooms in on the car’s swollen rear arches, confirming its two-door coupe layout. The door handles sit unusually close to the side gills, hinting at rear-hinged doors and frameless windows.
The company has offered a fleeting look at the cabin, bathed in blue light and lined with materials that seem plucked from a bespoke atelier. The styling nods to the Art Deco era, pairing intricate details with a modern layout.
Earlier Instagram posts by Wagener cited the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Coupé and Cabriolet concepts as sources of inspiration for the upcoming model. Those show cars, unveiled at Pebble Beach in 2016 and 2017, remain some of the brand’s most memorable recent design statements, even if they never reached production.
Rumors about the return of a flagship coupe in the Mercedes lineup first sparked earlier this year when the company trademarked a pair of two-door S-Class models in Maybach and AMG forms.
However, these were based on the current generation of the S-Class sedan, which is expected to undergo a facelift next year. The next generation model, expected closer to the decade’s end, should offer both internal-combustion and battery-electric powertrains.
Whether this new concept is merely a design study or a genuine preview of what’s to come remains uncertain. But if the teasers are any indication, Mercedes isn’t done exploring the art of the grand coupe just yet.
Daihatsu teases the Midget X concept, reviving the spirit of the original.
The compact LCV pairs a three-seat cabin with a flexible cargo configuration.
It features an electric powertrain and debuts at the Japan Mobility Show.
Daihatsu joins Toyota’s larger showcase at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, taking part in a series of concept car debuts that highlight each brand’s vision for the future. Among them is the Midget X, a fully electric concept designed to bring one of Daihatsu’s classic nameplates into a new era.
The Midget is a pint-sized workhorse with a big personality. Born in 1957 as a tiny three-wheeler for shopkeepers and delivery drivers, it zipped through Japan’s narrow streets with motorcycle-like agility.
The model returned in 1996 as the Midget II, blending nostalgic styling with a can-do spirit. Production ended in 2001, but it seems Daihatsu isn’t quite ready to let the story end there.
A Tiny Classic Recharged
The Midget X concept appeared in a short teaser ahead of its official debut in Tokyo later this month. Now, the model has been reborn as a tiny LCV with an electric powertrain.
Its exterior design nods to the original Midget lineage, featuring round LED headlights and a helicopter-style windshield. It also has semi-exposed wheels with integrated lights and a battery charge indicator on the profile.
Inside, the cabin adopts a central driving position with an unconventional steering wheel flanked by two passenger seats. The concept shown includes a backpack-style storage compartment and an extended rear bed, although more variants could follow. Another cool feature is the rotational handle design for the rear hinged doors.
Daihatsu
Daihatsu hasn’t released technical specifications yet, only noting that “because it’s small, it can fit into a variety of lifestyles,” and that the company “aims to make everyone happy.”
Carrying the Torch
The Midget X stands as the next chapter in Daihatsu’s story, carrying forward the legacy of some of its most influential models. Among them are the original Midget three-wheeler, the fourth-generation Hijet LCV, the first-gen Charade hatchback, the sporty Mira TR-XX, the Copen roadster, the second-gen Tanto kei car, and the Nibako mobility service that transforms LCVs into mobile shops.
For now, the Midget X remains a concept. Even so, it wouldn’t be surprising if it eventually transitions into a production model, potentially for both Japan and export markets. More details will follow once the Japan Mobility Show opens its doors, and we’ll update this story as soon as new information becomes available
The LS Concept is a new take on Lexus’ flagship with a minivan bodystyle.
It features six wheels, a fully electric setup, and a spacious three-row interior.
Akio Toyoda confirmed the team is serious about developing it for production.
Just a few weeks ago, Lexus declared the end of its long-serving LS sedan. Yet, as Mark Twain might have dryly noted, reports of its death have been greatly exaggerated. The brand has revived the nameplate not with another stately four-door, but with something far stranger.
The long-running luxury sedan gives way to something altogether different, a six-wheeled electric minivan with three rows of seats and a distinctly experimental air. The once-conventional LS badge now fronts a concept that feels futuristic, if slightly absurd.
Six Wheels and a Statement
Yet that’s not even the wildest part. After all, it is a concept. What’s really unexpected is that the company plans to evolve it into a production vehicle, though plenty of development still lies ahead before that becomes reality.
The official teaser is titled “Discover” and signals a new era for Lexus. It shows the profile of the LS Concept, wearing a set of large front wheels and two smaller pairs at the rear.
The concept adopts a single-box minivan silhouette with tiny overhangs and a generous wheelbase. Overall, it looks bigger than the LM, which is based on the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire.
Besides its unusual wheel arrangement, highlights include vertical LED headlights and taillights that stretch into the sides, along with an illuminated roof fin. A wide sliding door opens to reveal a roomy cabin with soft lighting and a six-seat, three-row configuration.
Not Just A Concept Car
While a six-wheeled minivan sounds too wild for production, Chairman Akio Toyoda insists this is more than a design exercise. In a message from two years ago, he challenged the team to reinvent the Lexus flagship:
“If you think of the LS as a BEV chauffeur car, wouldn’t it become a new pillar of Lexus, with a new package that no one has ever thought of? Lexus doesn’t copy anyone else, so that’s the motto, so please start thinking about it...The LM is an evolution of the Alphard, after all, but… Will it evolve further from the LM, or… a completely new form.“
From Luxury Sedan to Luxury Space
The LS nameplate was originally conceived as an acronym for “Luxury Sedan”, but Toyoda now translates it to “Luxury Space”, opening the door for a three-row BEV interpretation. The aim is to create a chauffeured experience that still feels airy and open, even with six occupants on board.
When asked whether the concept will reach production, Toyoda initially hedged: “No, I’m not sure if they can do that yet.” Later, though, he added, “It is still a long way off but everyone is serious about it. So I’m sure it will definitely come true.”
The team’s current challenges involve achieving the trademark quietness and ride comfort expected from a Lexus, while also making the vehicle practical for the road. When asked if six wheels meant a 6WD system, Toyota’s head of design simply replied, “Maybe.”
Toyoda also wants the brand to “demolish the spindle grille for a while,” saying it has “no potential for development.” Designers are now exploring ways to “assimilate the spindle throughout the entire body” instead, signaling a new design philosophy for the marque.
The Lexus LS Concept will be fully unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. What remains uncertain is whether the team can turn it into a viable replacement for the aging LS sedan. The current LS is expected to end production next year, with Lexus confirming its departure from the US market.
Yet even if Lexus manages to bring the six-wheeled concept to life, its real-world prospects will vary by region. Luxurious minivans have a strong foothold in Asian markets such as China and Japan, but North America is a different story altogether. There’s also the question of where this new concept leaves the LM, Lexus’ existing premium minivan, which already caters to a similar clientele.
Toyota will unveil a Corolla-branded concept at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show.
The electric sedan features sharp styling cues and full-width LED lighting.
It will debut alongside several concepts designed for diverse mobility solutions.
Toyota has shared new details about its broad lineup for the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2025, promising a varied selection of premieres across its range. Taking the spotlight is a new concept that appears to preview the next chapter for one of the brand’s best-selling and longest-standing nameplates, the Corolla.
The concept made its first appearance in a teaser campaign called “To You, Toyota,” setting the tone for its full debut in Tokyo later this month. At first glance, it bears little resemblance to the current 12th-generation of the Corolla.
Instead, it features crisp, modern lines and proportions more in tune with an electric vehicle, hinting at a new design direction for the familiar compact, much like Toyota achieved with the latest generation of the Prius.
A Sharp Exterior Design
The front end introduces a refined take on Toyota’s hammerhead design, with full-width LED headlights merging horizontal and vertical lighting signatures. Gone is the traditional grille, replaced by a narrow lower intake on the bumper and a subtle vent at the base of the windshield.
From the profile, the car presents itself as a sleek four-door sedan that could carry forward the Corolla nameplate. The front fenders appear to host a charging port beside a new vertical accent beneath the mirrors. Other notable features include a descending window line, sculpted side panels, and conventional door handles.
Toyota
The rear view is defined by a clean, integrated ducktail spoiler extending from the sloping roof. Sharp shoulders lead to full-width taillights with pixel-like illumination, and “Corolla” lettering sits across the flat tailgate. The rear bumper adds some depth with a sculpted finish and centered license plate placement.
Toyota has yet to share any specific details about the concept’s powertrain.
More Concepts in the Spotlight
Beyond the main reveal, Toyota is also teasing a collection of other intriguing concepts. Among them are colorful, futuristic vehicles intended for children, a tennis-capable mobility device for people with disabilities, spider-like transporters for moving goods, and a minimalist cab-over pickup envisioned for developing markets.
All of these will take their place at Toyota’s stand when the Japan Mobility Show opens on October 30. The company also confirmed announcements for its GR, Lexus, Century, and Daihatsu sub-brands, which will be explored in separate reports.
Leapmotor D19 is a new flagship SUV debuting globally on October 16.
It will offer both fully electric and range-extender hybrid powertrains.
The large SUV targets premium rivals with high-tech features and style.
Leapmotor, the Chinese EV manufacturer partly owned by Stellantis, continues to expand its lineup into new segments. Fresh off the debut of the B05/Lafa 5 hatchback last month, the company is now teasing its new flagship SUV, the D19. Scheduled for an official debut on October 16, the D19 is promising to deliver premium features and cutting-edge tech at an accessible price point.
The official teasers highlight the shape of the full-size SUV and its lighting signature, with slim DRLs up front and a full-width LED bar at the rear. That said, photos of the model have already surfaced on Chinese social media.
Big SUV Energy
In terms of proportions, the D19 lines up with other full-size electrified SUVs from China such as the Li Auto L9, Dongfeng Yipai 008, Chery Fulwin T11, GAC Trumpchi S9, Zeekr 9X, Nio Onvo L90, and Geely Galaxy M9.
One of the most distinctive design elements is the thick chrome trim that wraps around the side windows and obscures the D-pillar, giving it a Rolls-Royce Cullinan meets Mercedes-Maybach GLS vibe.
It also features split headlights, clean body surfacing, and chrome-finished disc wheels that further echo styling cues from Rolls-Royce and Maybach. At around 5.2 meters (204.7 inches) in length, the D19 is roughly the same size as a BMW X7 or a Mercedes GLS.
We haven’t seen the interior yet, but it’s expected to feature an advanced digital cockpit with a dedicated passenger display, along with high-quality materials throughout the cabin. The D19 will reportedly run on dual Qualcomm Snapdragon 8797 chipsets, one handling infotainment, the other powering the ADAS suite. Leaked images also show a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor.
While full technical specifications haven’t been released, the D19 will be offered with both fully electric and range-extender hybrid powertrains. The battery-electric version is expected to offer a CLTC range of over 630 km (392 miles), while the extended-range version should cover more than 1,300 km (808 miles) between charging and refueling stops.
How Much Will It Cost?
Perhaps most noteworthy is the pricing. Leapmotor has suggested a starting price between ¥250,000 and ¥300,000, which converts to around $35,000 to $42,000. And yes, that figure sounds like a bargain for anyone trying to buy a car in the West these days.
In fact, that’s roughly what you’d pay for a hybrid Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V in the States, or, worse still, a mid-level Toyota Yaris Cross if you happen to live in Germany. And that’s not even getting into the more painful pricing realities in other parts of Europe.
Even so, you might be surprised to learn that the D19 won’t be the cheapest in its class. The Geely Galaxy M9 undercuts it with a current starting price of ¥173,800 ($24,400), thanks to discounts.
When it launches later this year, the D19 will sit above the T03, B01, B10, C01, C10, C11, and C16, making it the new range-topper in Leapmotor’s domestic lineup. Spy shots have also hinted at a flagship minivan currently in development, which may share the same platform as the D19.
On September 25, Leapmotor announced that its one millionth vehicle had rolled off the production line. The automaker reaffirmed its commitment to “fully in-house R&D” and its goal of becoming a “respected, world-class smart electric vehicle company.”
Nissan previewed the updated Ariya before its debut at the Japan Mobility Show.
The EV features a grille-less face, a new infotainment, and upgraded suspension.
Fourth-generation Elgrand hybrid minivan will also premiere at the same event.
Like they say, life goes on. While the Nissan Ariya may be on its way out of the U.S. lineup after the 2025 model year, a refreshed version has just broken cover in Japan. The facelifted electric crossover will be unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, where it will share the spotlight with the next-generation Elgrand minivan and several other new arrivals.
Originally introduced in 2020, the Ariya didn’t enter production until 2022. Three years on, Nissan has decided it’s time for a thorough update to keep the electric SUV looking fresh against an ever-growing list of rivals.
New Looks and Tech
The most noticeable change is the redesigned front end, which adopts a cleaner, grille-free appearance paired with Leaf-inspired LED headlights. The bumper has been reworked for a simpler look that drops the previous side intakes, while the lower intake gains a more restrained shape. The fog lights have quietly disappeared as well, streamlining the overall design.
The profile is carried over, but the five spoke alloy wheels have gained a new texture, combined with a fresh color option for the exterior. Nissan didn’t share photos of the rear end, where we expect more subtle updates.
Besides the new looks, the Ariya will gain a Google-powered infotainment, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, and a revised suspension setup “tailored for Japanese roads”. There is no word on any changes to the electric powertrain options and battery packs.
Underneath, a revised suspension setup tuned specifically for Japanese roads aims to deliver a more composed and comfortable drive. So far, Nissan hasn’t mentioned any updates to the electric powertrain or battery options.
The refreshed Ariya will reach Japanese showrooms later in the fiscal year. Whether it returns to the U.S. market for the 2027 model year remains uncertain.
The facelifted Nissan Ariya (above) and the teasers for the next-generation Elgrand (below).
The Next-Gen Elgrand Steps Forward
Another major highlight of Nissan’s Tokyo showcase will be the all-new, fourth-generation Elgrand. Previewed through earlier teasers, the new model takes inspiration from the futuristic-looking 2023 Hyper Tourer concept.
At the front, it features a sculpted nose with pixel-like LEDs and body-colored elements blending with its covered grille. We can also see it has sliding doors, more curves on its boxy silhouette, and full-width taillights.
Under the skin, the Elgrand will use Nissan’s third-generation e-Power hybrid setup. This combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that acts purely as a generator with electric motors driving the wheels, resulting in smooth, quiet performance and improved efficiency.
The new hybrid configuration positions the Elgrand to compete more directly with the Toyota Alphard. Nissan also promises an upgraded interior with enhanced comfort, finer materials, and more advanced driver-assistance technology.
The market launch of the all-new Elgrand is expected in 2026. The previous generations debuted in 1997, 2002, and 2010 respectively.
Expanding Mobility Concepts
In addition to its production vehicles, Nissan will present an autonomous mobility service prototype based on the Serena minivan. The pilot program begins in November near Nissan’s Yokohama headquarters, aiming to test transport solutions for Japan’s aging population.
The brand’s booth will also feature a full roster of vehicles, including the newly launched Leaf, the next-generation Roox kei car, the recently facelifted X-Trail Rock Creek, the Fairlady Z, and the upcoming 2026 Skyline 400R Limited Edition.
Furthermore, visitors will be able to check out the Micra EV subcompact hatchback from Europe, the N7 electric sedan from China, and the Patrol flagship SUV from the Middle East. Finally, Nissan will showcase the GEN3 Formula E car from Season 11 that helped win the driver’s championship title.
The Japan Mobility Show 2025 will be held at the Tokyo Big Sight between October 31 and November 9. However, Nissan’s press conference will be livestreamed on the first media day that takes place on October 29.
Renault has teased its fourth-generation Twingo ahead of next month’s launch.
The sub-Clio-sized hatch is going electric and should cost under £17k/€20k.
Design is inspired by the 1990s Twingo and was previewed by 2024 concept.
Renault is primed to deliver its third mashup of electric power and feelgood retro design. The all-new, fourth-generation Twingo E-Tech makes its debut on November 6, less than a month from now.
The sub £17k/€20k hatch is a size down from the Clio and 5 E-Tech, and a direct rival for the production version of Volkswagen’s ID. Every1 concept, which could be called ID. Lupo. But the VW isn’t due to launch until 2027, meaning Renault, as well as BYD with its new Dolphin Surf, have a big headstart.
And that might not be the Twingo’s only advantage. While the ID. Every1 looked stylish, grown-up and modern, we can imagine plenty of buyers – particularly the younger ones Renault is targeting – falling for the cute frog-like face of the French model.
As with the 5 EV, the rebooted model takes design inspiration from a decades-old Renault, in this case the 1990s first-generation Twingo. So it’s bound to invoke some nostalgic feelings, among those who remember the original, but it won’t matter if you don’t – the UK never got the gen-one, for instance.
Judging by these fresh teaser shots and last year’s concept, which the production car should mostly replicate, the 2026 Twingo is a great-looking bit of design in its own right.
Renault
Modern LED technology creates a friendly, cartoon-like face, with the same wide-eye signature being repeated at the back. The laid-back windshield once again stretches out towards the nose, compressing the size of the hood, but unlike the two-door original Twingo, this one will be strictly a four-door affair.
We’re still waiting to see the interior, but there’s every reason to believe it will feature a 10.1in infotainment touchscreen and a 7.0in digital instrument cluster, as shown in the concept.
Renault’s base 5 E-Tech makes 94 hp (95 PS / 70 kW) and gives a 194-mile (312 km) range from a 40 kWh battery, but don’t be surprised if the Twingo specs are cut down to help make its sub-€20,000 price a reality.
The group’s newly revised Dacia Spring, for example, is fitted with a 24.3 kWh LFP battery and offers 140 miles (225 km) of range. In any case, we’ll find out the full details on November 6.
We’ve included images below of the 2024 Twingo concept and spy shots of the production car prototype.
Jim Farley says the new Ford EV will have more cabin space than a RAV4.
Innovative new production methods will make it faster and cheaper to build.
Universal EV Platform will underpin many upcoming models in the next years.
Ford is preparing to expand its EV lineup in a way that could reshape how the company builds and markets its vehicles. And according to CEO Jim Farley, the upcoming mid-size electric pickup won’t just be another truck, but something designed to stretch beyond the typical template.
While the company remains cautious about how the loss of federal tax credits may affect demand, development is moving ahead on the new Universal EV Platform. This fresh architecture will debut with a $30,000 mid-size pickup truck, first mentioned in August, and now detailed further by Ford’s top executive.
Not Just a Truck
During a recent interview with The Verge’s podcast, Farley explained that the pickup will be the first model underpinned by the new architecture “but it’s not really a pickup. I would say it’s a new silhouette.”
It’s hard to know exactly what Ford’s head honcho means, as the teaser image Ford released earlier this year suggested a conventional truck shape, one instantly recognizable across all segments with the exception of the outlier Tesla Cybertruck.
Farley added that the new EV “has more room than a RAV4, the best-selling passenger car in the US. That doesn’t include its trunk and pickup truck bed”. The teaser indicated it’ll hit the market with a dual-cab design, helping to ensure that the second row has enough room for adult passengers.
It’s not just space that Ford is promising. Farley noted that the vehicle will be rear-wheel drive, “very fast,” and “super fun to drive,” which isn’t the case for most pickup trucks. Not only that, but it will offer a “digital experience that no one’s seen – at least that we’ve seen – even in China.”
“The digital experience is quite different for customers,” Farley said. “I think the whole package is something that has not been offered in the US or anywhere else to date. I think this first product is quite revolutionary.”
Building EVs Differently
It’s not just the technology of the model that is promising to be revolutionary; the Universal EV Platform will be brought to life on an all-new form of assembly line and be made of three large cast pieces.
The revolution isn’t limited to the product itself. Ford plans to manufacture the Universal EV Platform in a new way, using just three large castings to form the vehicle’s structure. The process will involve 20 percent fewer parts, cut plant workstation needs by 40 percent, and speed up assembly at the Louisville facility by a similar margin.
Farley underlined the ambition of this approach. “No one has ever built a car in three pieces,” he said. “No one’s offered their own electric architecture at this price. We’ve never done it. We’ve never had two large unit castings and high quality. No one’s done it. Tesla’s talked about it, but it hasn’t done it. In fact, our manufacturing process has radically moved on beyond what Tesla’s ever shown in its unboxing. So, there’s a lot of risk here. This is not a guarantee that Ford’s going to get this done.”
Genesis has wrapped up testing on the upcoming GV60 Magma.
The high-performance crossover will debut later this year.
The all-wheel drive model could have around 641 hp and 568 lb-ft.
The Genesis GV60 Magma is almost ready for its big debut as the company has announced the high-performance electric vehicle has completed validation testing. This paves the way for an unveiling later this year.
While Genesis is staying tight-lipped on specifics, they said the car has proven itself in the “world’s toughest conditions.” They’re not kidding as prototypes traveled to Arjeplog, Sweden earlier this year for cold weather testing. On the flip side, the model was subjected to extreme heat at their California Proving Ground, which helped to “validate power output, cooling efficiency, and thermal protection.”
In New Zealand, the crossover faced “sub-zero conditions at 1,500 meters (4921 feet) above sea level, where engineers examined chassis precision, traction stability, braking robustness, and agile cornering on icy, wind-swept terrain.” Back at home in Korea, the model was pushed to the limits at the Inje Speedium Circuit.
Thanks to all this testing and development, Genesis says the GV60 Magma will deliver “exhilarating performance and refined comfort.” That’s not a lot to go on, but the company released an official teaser image showing a camouflaged prototype.
It reveals the model will be distinguished by a more aggressive front fascia that features three oval-shaped intakes. They’re joined by a new front bumper, which sports a larger simulated intake.
Moving further back, we can see canards and a high-performance braking system with orange calipers. We can also get a glimpse of a sporty rear wing. In effect, the model will closely resemble the GV60 Magma concept that debuted in 2024.
How Much Power Will It Have?
The company hasn’t said much about the crossover, but it’s expected to follow in the footsteps of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Kia EV6 GT. This means the model will likely have an 84 kWh battery pack that feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with around 641 hp (478 kW / 650 PS) and 568 lb-ft (769 Nm) of torque. The Magma may have a range of approximately 231 miles (372 km), but we’ll learn full details in the coming weeks.
Lucid’s midsize SUV and rugged version are expected to debut in 2026 and 2027.
The brand will bring advanced tech from its flagship models to these affordable EVs.
All three midsize models will be built at Lucid’s AMP-2 plant in Saudi Arabia.
Now that the luxurious Gravity SUV is on the market alongside the Air sedan, Lucid can start focusing its efforts on making more affordable models that’ll appeal to the masses. It has already confirmed a sub-$50,000 SUV is in the works, and has now said that the new mid-sized platform will also spawn two more models including a more rugged SUV that takes inspiration from the Gravity X concept.
Lucid released a single teaser image of its third model roughly 12 months ago. The SUV, potentially called the Earth, will have familiar Lucid design cues but be noticeably smaller than the Gravity. While recently speaking at the Munich motor show, Lucid interim chief executive Marc Winteroff revealed the Gravity X will shape the look and feel of one of its upcoming mid-size vehicles.
That influence could translate into standard off-road details such as a raised ride height, all-terrain tires, distinctive bumpers, protective skid plates, and tow hooks. The design points toward a crossover that blends Lucid’s sleek aesthetic with a more adventurous personality.Timing and challenges
Timing and challenges
Sadly, we’ll have to wait quite some time before this vehicle hits the market. Lucid plans to start production of its sub-$50,000 electric SUV by the end of next year, but speaking with Car and Driver, Winteroff confirmed that Lucid needs additional funding to make this happen. When it secures that backing, it’ll be able to ramp up production and likely be in a position to launch the off-road version in early 2027.
Once the midsize SUV and its rugged sibling are on sale, Lucid will move ahead with a third model that remains a mystery for now. The company confirmed it won’t be a sedan but it said it’s targeting a launch by late 2028. All three vehicles are expected to be produced at Lucid’s AMP-2 factory in Saudi Arabia.
While speaking about the mid-size models with CarBuzz, Lucid’s senior vice president of design and brand, Derek Jenkins, said the firm is eager to take the technology from its more expensive models and put them within reach of a larger customer base.
“We’re working on our mid-size program right now, and of course, these are going to be compact, lighter vehicles with every bit of focus on aero, efficiency, and space,” he said. “It’s not going to be as quick as Air, but it’s going to be impressive, and it’s going to be at a value that many more people can access. The whole idea is to take our technology and hit a wider swathe of consumers and accelerate that transition.”
Baby G-Class gets downsized styling nearly identical to the full-sized off-roader.
The SUV rides on a bespoke ladder-frame-based platform designed for rugged use.
Reports suggest the new compact off-roader will launch exclusively as an EV.
You can never have too much of a good thing, and Mercedes-Benz has finally realized this, spending the last couple of years developing a baby version of the G-Class. This new model, currently known as the Mini G, will feature a similar boxy design to the full-size G but will utilize a new platform. With Jaguar Land Rover also developing a smaller version of the Defender, there’s never been a better time to be a fan of the two brands.
Mercedes has remained tight-lipped about the smaller G-Class for quite some time now, but at the ongoing Munich motor show, company boss Ola Kallenius and tech leader Markus Schafer announced some very interesting details about it.
Built From The Ground Up
For starters, Schafer confirmed that it will have an entirely new platform, described as a “miniature ladder-frame chassis,” complete with the suspension and wheel size setup you’d expect from a traditional ladder-frame-based model, albeit “not ladder-frame to [the] extent” of the current G-Class.
“Over time, just looking at the car’s capabilities and what’s needed, I came more and more to the conclusion that everything has to be unique, the whole upper body and everything,” Schafer said according to Autocar. “You know, I can’t even take a door handle from [the current] portfolio, because the G-Class has such unique door handles.”
“So we spent a lot of time tuning this car, and over time we started to develop so many unique components to make sure it’s very, very good-looking car and very capable,” he added.
Ola Kallenius added that test mules of the new model will “be appearing on roads very soon.” He also flashed a darkened teaser image on a screen, revealing the baby G will have virtually identical taillights to its larger sibling, as well as a rear-mounted spare wheel.
Mercedes design boss Gorden Wagener noted the Mini G will look very familiar, noting “we will give a slightly different tweak: a bit more sharpness, a bit younger graphics, but still circle. So it’s really details,” he said. “But otherwise we stick to the G, and it’s a modern G – even a touch more modern than the big one.”
Electric Future
In every respect the Mini G is being engineered to stay true to the G-Class formula, but the one exception is under the hood, where Autocar reports it will launch exclusively as an electric vehicle, skipping combustion engines entirely. That sets it apart from the full-size G, which still offers both powertrain choices. When asked directly about the plans, Schäfer kept things vague, replying only, “Stay tuned. I don’t want to go into this detail.”
Cupra has unveiled a camouflaged prototype of the production-spec Raval in Munich.
The EV will have evil looks and a sport chassis, producing up to 223 hp in the VZ version.
It will be manufactured in Spain next to the VW ID. Polo, and will hit the roads in 2026.
Cupra chose the IAA Mobility Show in Munich to reveal more details about the upcoming Raval, the fully electric subcompact hatchback that will be formally launched in 2026. The automaker showed a camouflaged series-production prototype of the sporty model that will be a sibling to the VW ID. Polo and wants to show that EVs “can be exciting and desirable”.
The Raval looks similar to the concept that debuted exactly two years ago, although a few details have slightly been toned down. Highlights include the aggressive LED headlights, the sporty bumper, the sharp taillights and the three-spoke alloy wheels finished in copper and black.
The subcompact hatchback measures 4,046 mm (159.3 inches) long, 1,784 mm (70.2 inches) wide, and 1,518 mm (59.8 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of 2,600 mm (102.4 inches). This means it has a similar footprint to the ICE-powered Seat Ibiza from its sister brand.
An EV With Hot Hatch Traits
The Raval rides on the MEB+ architecture with a front-mounted electric motor at “several output stages” and two battery options. This is shared with the ID. Polo hatchback, as well as the upcoming ID. Cross and Skoda Epiq crossovers.
In order to differentiate it from its VW Group stablemates, Cupra gave the Raval a sport chassis to match its angry looks. All variants of the EV sit 15 mm (0.6 inches) closer to the ground and have a unique suspensions setup, progressive steering, and ESC Sport.
The performance-focused VZ trim takes things further as the evil twin of the ID. Polo GTI. More specifically, it will be fitted with a more potent electric motor generating 223 hp (166 kW / 226 PS), a VAQ electronic slip differential on the front axle, a DCC Sport suspension, an ESC Off mode, and 19-inch wheels shod in wider 235 mm (9.3-inch) tires. Cupra didn’t specify whether the Raval VZ will feature a different bodykit, but confirmed the presence of “CUPBucket” seats inside the cabin.
Safety equipment will include sophisticated ADAS like the Travel Assist with lane changing and traffic light recognition, the Intelligent Park Assist, and the 360° Area View camera.
Markus Haupt, Cupra’s Interim CEO, said regarding the brand’s new EV:
“The Cupra Raval is now shaping our future. Because with it, we’ve brought together everything Cupra stands for: emotion, striking design, electrifying performance and as always, driver focused. For us, the Cupra Raval is more than a car. What truly makes it special is the project behind it – the Electric Urban Car Family – which we are proud to be leading from Spain. We are strengthening synergies within the Brand Group Core and turning the country into a hub for electric mobility, making these cars accessible to millions.”.
Made In Spain
Cupra‘s entry-level EV will hit the roads in 2026 as the brand’s eighth model and will mark its eighth anniversary. The company expects to hit the milestone of one million deliveries sometime in the coming months.
Production of the Raval will take place at VW Group’s Martorell factory in Spain alongside the VW ID. Polo. Rivals will include the Renault 5 E-Tech, the Mini Cooper Electric, and the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 3.
The electric sedan will be based on the new MB.EA architecture with 800-volt tech.
Like the GLC EQ, the new C-Class EQ will likely debut with a 94 kWh battery pack.
Mercedes says the new sedan will be able to travel up to 497 miles (800 km) on a charge.
Mercedes-Benz doesn’t just have a rival to the second-gen BMW iX, unveiling the new GLC with EQ Technology in Germany, but it is also gearing up to launch an all-electric version of the C-Class to rival the new BMW i3. Now, an intriguing teaser has been released of this new model.
This darkened image was dropped during the unveiling of the new GLC and shows that just like the SUV, it’ll have a massive front grille. This grille, which can be illuminated through hundreds of small LEDs, will give the new electric C-Class an imposing stance on the road, but is bound to leave many brand loyalists scratching their heads. It features four illuminated horizontal slats, one more than the three found on the GLC EQ.
Elsewhere, this teaser shows the electric C-Class will include the latest Mercedes-Benz headlights, complete with star-shaped LED daytime running lights. The overall proportions of the car are expected to be similar to the combustion-powered C-Class, which this model will be sold alongside.
Underpinning the sedan will be the MB.EA platform, also used by the GLC EQ. This means we can expect to see the same 94 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and 800-volt architecture, allowing for charging speeds of up to 330 kW. Perhaps most impressive is that the German brand is promising 497 miles (800 km) of driving range in the electric C-Class, likely set to be badged the C-Class with EQ Technology.
Baldauf
Technical Specs
Further powertrain details remain uncertain, but the C-Class EQ should be available in several different rear- and all-wheel drive configurations.
Little is known about the interior of the new model. It could hit the market with the same 39.1-inch seamless MBUX Hyperscreen as the GLC EQ, or it may be equipped with the slightly simpler Superscreen of the new-age CLA, complete with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment display, and a 14-inch screen for the passenger.
BMW i3 electric sedan launches in 2026, following the closely related iX3 SUV.
It rides on the Neue Klasse platform and will gain a hot M-branded version.
The i3 will join BMW’s new 3-Series lineup alongside the ICE-powered variant.
The arrival of the new 2026 iX3 marked more than just another model launch for BMW. It signaled the beginning of the brand’s Neue Klasse era, setting the stage for 40 fresh or updated models expected by 2027. Among the most significant will be the all-electric version of the 3-Series sedan, simply called the i3, which BMW has teased in camouflaged form ahead of its official debut next year.
Closer to Reality
While BMW has already shown a similarly camouflaged prototype of the i3 earlier this year in China, the latest version appears to be a little closer to production. The electric sedan is now fitted with the final LED headlights and taillights (instead of provisional units), and rides on a new set of alloy wheels. Overall, it looks like an evolution of the Vision Neue Klasse concept from 2023 with refined details.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, confirmed that the new i3 will debut in 2026, as the first model variant of the next generation 3-Series, though despite the shared design, these two cars will ride on separate platforms, as is the case with the iX3 and X3.
“The next vehicle is already waiting in the wings,” Zipse said. “The details are still hidden beneath the camouflage, but I’m sure you’ll recognize the classic proportions of a sporty sedan.”
He also highlighted the importance of the 3-Series to BMW’s identity. “For the past 50 years and over seven model generations, no other vehicle has been as closely tied to the success of the BMW brand. The 3 Series embodies everything at the very core of BMW. Innovation. Digital user experience. Comfort. Sportiness. Together, these characteristics create an incomparable driving experience,” he added.
The next iteration will double down on those virtues, benefiting from cutting-edge technology in terms of electric motors, batteries, connectivity and autonomous driving systems.
Given that the larger and less aerodynamic iX3 already carries an EPA rating of 400 miles, it’s reasonable to expect the i3’s lower, sleeker profile to stretch that impressive figure even further.
The i3 will not stand alone for long. Zipse confirmed that the launch will be followed by additional variants, including performance-focused models. An electric equivalent of the M3 is already in development, featuring four electric motors and technology inspired by the Vision Driving Experience concept showcased earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the next-generation combustion-powered 3-Series will mirror much of the i3’s styling and cabin design, but it will ride on an updated version of the current platform since the Neue Klasse architecture is dedicated exclusively to EVs. Spy shots suggest some subtle differences in proportions between the two, with the ICE model carrying a longer hood and a more upright windshield.
40 New Models By 2027
Besides the new iX3 and i3 siblings, the Neue Klasse treatment will be gradually applied to the entire BMW range. Zipse said that every model from 2026 onward will be new, suggesting that over the next 12 months, they will keep us busy with numerous mid-lifecycle updates.
BMW also offered a preview of its refreshed lineup, showing the silhouettes of “40 new and facelifted” models set to arrive by 2027. The outlines appeared on a video wall during the iX3’s presentation, though the low resolution made it impossible to pick out finer details
Mercedes has given us our first official look at the interior of the new electric GLC SUV.
One-piece, 39.1-inch display is the biggest single dashboard display from Mercedes yet.
GLC with EQ Technology makes its debut at this month’s Munich IAA show in Germany.
Update: With only a day to go before its official debut in Munich, the first exterior photos of Mercedes’ new GLC EV, a direct rival to the newly revealed BMW iX3, have surfaced online through outlets like KindelAuto and Reddit.
Mercedes had suggested it would move away from the soap-bar styling of the EQ series, but in these images, the change seems mostly apparent at the front. An in your-face grille outlined in bright chrome takes center stage, filled with 942 pixel-like dots. Its overall design takes inspiration from classic Benzes such as the W108 and the Pullman. Taken on its own, it’s an intriguing modern reinterpretation, though it feels at odds with the rest of the car.
In contrast, the rest of the GLC EV’s exterior feels more evolutionary than revolutionary. The silhouette is sleeker and somewhat more dynamic, yet it still carries echoes of the EQE SUV without the star-studded lighting elements. For now, the photos give only a partial sense of direction, so we’ll hold final judgment until clearer images arrive.
Mercedes has already teased the new electric GLC’s boldest exterior feature, its retro-futuristic light-up grille. Now it’s giving us a look at its wowest interior detail, a next-generation MBUX Hyperscreen display that stretches the full width of the car.
At first look, the new baguette-shaped dashboard looks very similar to the setup in the electric CLA sedan that was revealed in March. But the CLA’s display is actually three (including an optional passenger display) cleverly concealed under a single pane of glass to make it look like one display, as was the original Hyperscreen that debuted on the 2021 EQS.
A True Single Display
The GLC’s, however, is a true single display, and at 39.1 inches it’s the biggest Mercedes has ever fitted to a production car.
Mercedes claims the high resolution and 1,000 LEDs that make up the display’s backlight technology deliver “exceptional clarity and vivid color,” but says drivers don’t need to worry about the Times Square of dashboards distracting them on the move. Intelligent zone dimming allows areas of the display to become less prominent while preserving important info. A bit like Saab used to, but one million times more high tech.
Two wireless smartphone charging pads are housed inside the uppper portion of the console, separated from the screen by a pair of central air vents. And directly below the chargers is a small strip of hard keys, plus a volume dial whose twin is located on the right-hand steering wheel spoke.
Lighting With Purpose
Ambient lighting is nothing new, but on the GLC it doesn’t only change according to the “mood” selected, but also shifts to notify the driver of changes to the system. Nudge the climate control’s digital temperature button and both the main ambient lighting and vent illumination briefly switch color to confirm the change.
The GLC with EQ Technology makes its full debut at the Munich auto show (IAA Mobility 2025) on September 7. The first of the new GLCs to launch is the GLC 400 4Matic with EQ Technology, which can add around 162 miles (260 km) of electric range in just 10 minutes thanks to its ability to charge at over 320 kW.
The all-new Smart #2 will debut in late 2026 as the successor of the discontinued Fortwo.
The first official teasers hint at a familiar silhouette, a tiny footprint and a two-seater cabin.
Designed by Mercedes-Benz and produced in China, the #2 will ride on a new EV platform.
After years of speculation, the long-awaited return of Smart’s tiny city car is finally taking shape. The Smart #2 is set to arrive in late 2026, stepping in as the successor to the discontinued fortwo and riding on a brand-new electric platform.
Official teasers reveal a familiar silhouette with a short hood, a generous height, and a tiny footprint. The rear glass appears to be slightly more inclined than the fortwo, but the shape is instantly recognizable. Just like its predecessors, the #2 will have a two-seater cabin.
According to the automaker, the new model will “integrate mindful technology solutions while evolving the unique characteristics that made the original smart fortwo an urban icon”. It’s a direct nod to the car that first appeared in 1998, went through redesigns in 2006 and 2014, and eventually bowed out in 2024.
New Platform, Electric Drive
While Smart was looking for a potential collaboration to develop the underpinnings, they finally managed to successfully pass the feasibility check with their own platform. The new #2 will ride on an “all-new proprietary architecture for ultra-compact vehicles” and will be exclusively offered with a fully electric powertrain.
smart
As with all modern smart products, the #2 will be designed and developed by Mercedes-Benz, with Geely being responsible for production in China. Naturally, it will be positioned as the entry point in the Smart lineup below the #1, #3, and #5 crossovers, and the rumored #6 sedan.
The Smart #2 will be sold in China, Europe, and “other selected global markets”. Its debut is scheduled for late 2026 but chances are we’ll see more of it in upcoming teasers as it enters the final stages of development.
A Word From The CEO
The company’s CEO, Tong Xiangbei, commented: “I’m thrilled to confirm a new two-seater smart – the Smart #2. Developing an ultra-compact vehicle on an entirely new all-electric architecture is far more complex than creating a larger car. But now, we’re ready. Thanks to the unwavering support of our shareholders, we’ve strengthened our production and development capabilities and successfully renewed our brand and product lineup. It’s the perfect moment to reinvent our iconic city car.”
VW revealed sketches of a new concept set to debut at the Munich auto show.
The design previews a subcompact electric SUV heading to production next year.
This EV will serve as the electric equivalent of the current Volkswagen T-Cross.
Volkswagen’s lineup for the IAA Mobility Show in Munich will include more than just the next-generation T-Roc. Visitors will also get a first conceptual look at an upcoming entry-level electric SUV, previewed in official design sketches that surfaced ahead of schedule.
The images were posted on social media by Andreas Mindt, Volkswagen’s head of design. While the teaser stops short of revealing a name, it describes the model as a “near-production concept car.” Positioned as the zero-emission counterpart to the T-Cross, it will also serve as a smaller sibling to the popular ID.4.
Big presence in a small package
Although it sits in the subcompact SUV class, the sketches give the model a surprisingly imposing presence, helped along by oversized alloy wheels and stretched proportions. It is worth remembering, though, that design drawings often exaggerate these elements, and in this case we are still looking at a concept rather than a finished production car.
The front end sports slim LED headlights and a rugged skid plate on the bumper. The profile features sculpted fenders similar to the ID.Every1 concept, and a wraparound greenhouse. Finally, the rear end sports full-width taillights and a futuristic diffuser with extra LEDs. The latter will likely be toned-down in the final product together with some other details.
The SUV will ride on MEB Entry underpinnings, just like the production versions of the ID.1Every and ID.2All hatchback concepts. Buyers can expect both front- and all-wheel-drive versions, with single- and dual-motor configurations likely in the lineup.
Volkswagen hasn’t confirmed when the production version will arrive, though a debut next year seems plausible. The EV will be produced at the Pamplona facility in Spain, next to the ICE-powered T-Cross and Taigo crossovers that also occupy the B-SUV segment. The same factory will be home of production for the closely-related Skoda Epiq that was shown in concept form last year.
How much will it cost?
With the ID.2all hatchback targeting a €25,000 starting price in Germany (about $27,000), including the country’s 19% Value-Added Tax, this higher-riding SUV is expected to slot slightly above, likely in the €25,000–30,000 range (roughly $27,000 to $32,000).
When it arrives, it will enter a crowded arena of compact electric SUVs, competing with models such as the Kia EV2 and EV3, Toyota Urban Cruiser, Suzuki e-Vitara, Ford Puma Gen-E, Peugeot E-2008, Opel Mokka Electric, Jeep Avenger, Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica, and Volvo EX30.
Leapmotor is ready to expand its lineup with a new five-door hatchback.
The Lafa 5 is expected to share its underpinnings with the B10 crossover.
The fully electric model will be unveiled at the IAA Mobility Show next week.
A new player is about to join Europe’s compact EV hatchback scene, and it comes from a brand gaining momentum. Leapmotor, backed by Stellantis, has offered a first glimpse of its upcoming Lafa 5 before the official unveiling at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich on September 9. Positioned directly against Volkswagen’s ID.3, it marks the company’s first step into the competitive hatchback segment.
The shadowy teasers reveal a five-door silhouette with clean proportions and a sporty edge. Up front, the headlights carry Leapmotor’s recognizable LED design language, tying the car visually to the rest of its lineup.
Design Cues with a Twist
The front end with the short hood is slightly reminiscent of the pre-facelifted Kia EV6, the pronounced rear shoulders send Renault Megane vibes, while the full-width LED taillights at the back have a hint of Porsche (if you squint…). We can also see a roof-mounted LiDar sensor that hints at advanced driver assistance tech.
The hatchback is expected to sit on the same LEAP 3.5 architecture as the B10 crossover. That platform currently supports a rear-mounted motor with up to 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and a battery pack offering as much as 67.1 kWh, so the Lafa 5 will likely share similar numbers.
A Record Month for Leapmotor
Leapmotor shared the Lafa 5 teasers on its social media accounts, celebrating a new record month in terms of sales. The brand delivered 57,066 units in August, which is an all-time high and represents an 88% increase compared to the same month last year.
The company’s vice president Cao Li described the Lafa 5 as a car designed for “young people who refuse to settle, conform, or be ordinary.” That ambition will put it directly in competition not only with the VW ID.3 but also with the Cupra Born, Peugeot E-308, Opel Astra Electric, MG 4, BYD Dolphin, and Renault Megane E-Tech.
More details are set to be revealed when the Lafa 5 takes the stage at the Munich Motor Show next week, so stay tuned for mow.
Tesla appears to be gearing up to introduce the Model Y Performance on August 29.
The crossover could have a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 510 hp and 546 lb-ft.
Europeans will apparently get the crossover first, but it should eventually come to the US.
Do you like the Tesla Model 3 Performance, but wish it came in a slightly more practical package? If so, you’re in luck as the Model Y Performance will apparently debut tomorrow.
While the automaker isn’t saying much, they released a “spoiler alert” on X showing a mysterious vehicle with a blurry spoiler. It’s presumably the Model Y Performance, which was spied earlier this year.
As previous pictures have shown, the crossover will look virtually identical to the regular model. However, the production variant could have sportier bumpers, a revised spoiler, and a modified diffuser. We can also expect unique wheels that are backed up by a high-performance braking system with red calipers.
The sportier styling should extend to the cabin thanks to supportive seats and carbon fiber trim. Other than that, it should largely carryover and include a 15.4-inch display as well as an 8-inch rear touchscreen.
Like the Model 3 Performance, the crossover will likely have an upgraded dual-motor powertrain that produces 510 hp (380 kW / 517 PS) and 546 lb-ft (741 Nm) of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 2.9 seconds with the rollout subtracted.
We can also expect a “performance-oriented chassis” with unique components that reduce mass and improve stiffness. Other highlights could include adaptive dampers, ultra-high strength steel springs, and stiffer suspension mounts.
We’ll learn full details soon enough, but it appears the Model Y Performance will initially be launched in Europe and the Middle East. It should eventually come to the United States and cost around $58,000.
China-based Dreame Technology wants to enter the automotive industry.
The company currently makes vacuum cleaners and household appliances.
They want to build an electric hypercar and pursue a top speed record.
Chinese automakers have been steadily pushing the limits of speed and track performance, often outpacing their Western rivals in recent years. Now, an unlikely challenger has joined the race: a company best known for its vacuum cleaners aims to build “the world’s fastest car.” Ambitious stuff for a brand that made its name chasing dust bunnies.
The company behind the plan is Dreame Technology, which refers to itself as the “Apple of China.” According to its website, Dreame’s current product lineup includes cordless and robotic vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, hair dryers, robotic lawn mowers, and pool cleaners. Founded in 2017, Dreame has since moved beyond its home turf, carving out a growing presence in the US and other international markets.
In a post on Chinese social media, Dreame laid out plans to enter the automotive world, following in the footsteps of tech groups like Xiaomi and Huawei. Unlike them, however, Dreame is aiming straight at the hypercar elite, setting its sights on Bugatti and Koenigsegg with a goal of chasing speed records.
It’s worth recalling that another company known for its vacuum cleaners, Dyson, once explored a Tesla-rivaling EV before shelving the project altogether as “not commercially viable.” Dreame clearly hopes for a different outcome.
The Ambitious Plan
According to the announcement, Dreame is not starting “from scratch”. Instead, the company plans to leverage China’s mature EV supply chain and manufacturing ecosystem, positioning itself “on the shoulders of giants.” That phrasing hints at potential collaborations with established suppliers or automakers, which could give the project more credibility than it might appear to have at first glance.
Dreame’s track record with innovation could work in its favor. By the end of last year, the company had filed more than 6,000 patents, some reportedly connected to electric vehicle technologies. According to Chinese media outlet Lyiou, Dreame Auto, the firm’s newly formed automotive division, already employs around 1,000 staff, including specialists from the vehicle manufacturing sector.
That figure sounds impressive, but whether it reflects the depth of expertise needed to challenge Bugatti or Koenigsegg is another matter entirely.
The same source indicates that the electric hypercar is set to debut in 2027. What remains unclear is whether the Bugatti-style silhouette shown in the official teaser represents the actual model in development. Either way, it will be worth watching to see if the finished product lives up to the ambitious vision behind it.
Record-Breaking Rivals
To understand what Dreame is up against, consider the current benchmarks. The official speed record for a production car is held by the SSC Tuatara, which hit 474.8 km/h (295 mph) in 2022. A prototype of the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ reached a top speed of 490.48 km/h (304.77 mph) back in 2019, but it didn’t count as a record because it wasn’t replicated in the opposite direction.
In August 2025, the BYD YangWang U9 Track Edition became the world’s fastest production EV, hitting an impressive 472.41 km/h (293.54 mph) at a test facility in Germany. The Chinese EV stole the record from the Rimac Nevera R, which had clocked 431.45 km/h (268.2 mph) in July 2025.
Below is a translated version of Dreame’s official announcement, shared with employees and the public:
Dear Dreame colleagues: Today, Dreame officially announces its plan to build the world’s fastest car. This was no light decision, nor was it a whim. From drafting our first car-building plan at Tsinghua SkyWorks in 2013 to now standing at the pinnacle of the global clean energy sector, we have spent twelve years waiting for Dreame’s “opportunity.”
We revere this industry. Car manufacturing is the crown jewel of industry, the ultimate battleground of technology, and a grueling, life-or-death expedition. Competition has become multi-faceted, all-encompassing, and high-intensity, challenging not only technological innovation and iteration speed but also system capabilities, supply chain integration, brand positioning, and global market insight. We understand that only with awe can we see the path forward clearly, and only with humility can we go further.
But we also believe that great dreams are born from fearlessness. We are fearless because we are clear-headed. We are not adventurers trying to “build from scratch,” but rather we stand on the shoulders of giants in Chinese manufacturing. Countless Chinese companies have, through decades of hard work, forged the world’s most mature electric vehicle supply chain and technology ecosystem.
Our mission is to achieve global optimization: using the right products, the right strategy, and the right pace to bring Chinese smart manufacturing to the world’s high-end market. We are fearless because we are uniquely born and bred in the global market. In China, we have become the undisputed leader in the cleaning sector. Globally, we hold the top spot in over 20 countries and regions. We consistently position ourselves at the high end, insisting on value over price.
We are one of the very few Chinese brands to quickly rise to the top in every market we enter. For this reason, we are often called the “Apple of China.” We know how to make global users pay for innovation and applaud our experience. This time, in the automotive sector, we will once again prove that Chinese brands can not only be high-end, but also become symbols of global consumer love. We are fearless because we are determined.
This is not a gamble, but a test. It will test all our past accumulation: technological research and development, organizational culture, global operations… We have made sufficient strategic preparations. But we also believe that the real barrier is not capital, but the ability to make the “right products.”
We will not waste a single penny on the wrong path. Fellow students, the automotive industry will be another full-scale explosion of our technological ideals and business acumen. We may not be the first to set out, but we will be the most determined. Because we are fearless, we dare to act; because we firmly believe, we arrive. Now, let’s set off together!
Login
