Podcasts about phev

It's ev.news Briefly for Wednesday 16 September 2026, only todays headlines and nothing else, in just 4 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the ev.news Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/evnewsVOLVO XC60 PHEV CLAIMS 124-MILE ELECTRIC RANGEVolvo's restyled XC60 T6 plug-in hybrid claims 124 miles of electric range, still unconfirmed as an official WLTP figure, which is 2.5 times the previous 49 miles and makes it the UK's longest-range PHEV. The gain comes from a battery that grows from 19 kWh to 41.2 kWh and a stronger motor. The T8 manages 117 miles, easily beating the BMW X3 30e (56 miles) and Mercedes GLC PHEV (80 miles), and the XC90 PHEV rises to 100 miles, with both long-range hybrids expected in North America.BYD ATTO 1 OFFERED FOR $19,990 DRIVEAWAYBYD is offering the Atto 1 Essential for A$19,990 driveaway in Australia until 15 December unless extended, a 26% discount from A$23,990 plus on-road costs. That makes it the country's cheapest new car and undercuts the petrol Kia Picanto. It has a 65 kW motor, a 30 kWh LFP battery, 220 km WLTP range, 65 kW DC charging, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and adaptive cruise control, while the rival Geely EX2 starts from A$26,490 plus on-road costs.HYUNDAI AND KIA EXPORT 591,000 ELECTRIFIED VEHICLESHyundai and Kia exported 591,000 electrified vehicles in the first half of the year, up 22.3%, according to the Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association. Hybrids drove the growth as Hyundai prioritised the US, lifting hybrid exports there by 38% in response to IRA tax-credit changes and consumer demand. Combined EV exports rose 12.7% to 162,000, but Hyundai's fell 12.4% while Kia's climbed 34.3% to almost 104,000 between January and July, helped by the EV2, EV4, EV5 and PV5 van in Europe.RENAULT UNVEILS 800 V ELECTRIC TRAFIC VANRenault unveiled the Trafic Van E-Tech Electric at IAA Transportation 2026 in Hanover, built on the 800 V RGEV medium-van platform with an 81 kWh battery. It claims more than 470 km of range, nearly 690 km in urban driving (not an official figure), and 280 km added in 20 minutes of charging. Renault says total cost of ownership is 10% lower than a combustion equivalent, and the van adds vehicle-to-load, new multi-link rear suspension, and a planned electric power take-off for conversions such as refrigeration and ambulances. It is part of a plan for five new LCVs by 2028, following 2.8 million Trafics sold since 1980.SCANIA SAYS BATTERY LAYOUT CAN INCREASE RANGE TO 720 KMScania's new Battery Behind Cab layout adds two MP20 packs behind the cab to supplement chassis-mounted batteries, raising electric truck range to up to 720 km for long-haul operators. Scania claims this doesn't reduce operational flexibility, and the layout works with its aerodynamic Increased Vehicle Dimension front and vehicles longer than 16.5 m, alongside the rollout of megawatt charging (MCS).CATL UNVEILS TECHTRANS 2 TRUCK BATTERYCATL unveiled Techtrans 2, a modular battery for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses, at IAA Transportation. It claims up to 1,000 km of range, 80% charging in 25 minutes via a megawatt charger, and 70% capacity retention after 12 years or 1.5 million km. At 170 Wh/kg it still forces fleets to trade range against payload, while 300–400 Wh/kg chemistries head to test vehicles in 2027 and solid-state could double density, starting in high-end applications.ENGLAND PLANS CROSS-PAVEMENT EV CHARGING RIGHTSFollowing consultation, the government has confirmed plans for permitted development rights that would let eligible homes in England with on-street parking install cross-pavement charging gullies without a planning application. Highways authority approval remains a separate requirement. With four in ten UK households lacking off-street parking and relying on pricier public charging, the change aims to cut costs and red tape, though it won't stop others taking the space outside your home.GERMANY CONSIDERS PLUG-IN HYBRID AND EREV TARIFFSGermany will seek cabinet approval on 14 October for economic-security measures that could include tariffs on plug-in hybrids and EREVs. Chinese makers have used these vehicles to sidestep EU tariffs on battery-electric cars and grow European sales. Ministers are also weighing mandatory joint ventures with European majority ownership and stronger investment requirements, a tougher, more reciprocal China stance for export-reliant Germany before it seeks uncertain EU backing.JAC PLANS 2027 HUNTER PHEV CAB-CHASSIS FOR AUSTRALIAJAC plans to launch a Hunter PHEV cab-chassis in Australia in 2027 to rival the BYD Shark 6, letting tradespeople, fleets and farmers fit trays, canopies or toolboxes. It is expected, but not confirmed, to share the powertrain of the dual cab. That dual cab is now in dealerships from A$50,000 plus on-road costs for the Pro, and offers up to 100 km electric range, more than 1,000 km combined, 3.3 kW V2L, 3.5-tonne towing, 915 kg payload, and seven-year commercial warranty, servicing and roadside cover.HULL 096 REACHES SOUTH AMERICAHull 096, the world's largest battery-electric ship, built by Incat in Tasmania, has arrived in South America after a heavy-lift vessel carried it from Hobart across the Pacific and around Cape Horn in under a month. After commissioning, it will carry more than 2,000 passengers on a 30-nautical-mile River Plate route between Buenos Aires and Colonia, Uruguay. Incat is also building three similar ferries that will be the EU's largest of their type.

On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV and explore whether the plug-in hybrid is worth its sizable price premium. With up to 54 miles of electric range, 324 horsepower, impressive fuel economy, and no EV range anxiety, it may be the most versatile RAV4 yet—but it still has a few frustrating compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about whether a reliable, high-mileage vehicle is a smart choice for a teen driver.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 0:37 Overview: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid 1:23 Is the PHEV Worth It? 6:14 Electric Range and Efficiency 9:31 Charging at Home 13:07 Ride and Handling 15:36 Acceleration and Power 19:15 Controls and Technology 27:02 Interior and Comfort 31:59 Reliability 35:45 Final Verdict 42:43 Viewer Question: Are High-Mileage Cars Safe for Teens?     ----------------------------------  Test Results: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/rav4-plug-in-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   First Drive: 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV Is Quick, Efficient, and Packed with Useful Tech https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-toyota-rav4-phev-review-a1016340226/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Find an Efficient Vehicle That's Right for You https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Safest Car Brands Ranked by CR's Safety Verdict https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-car-brands-a1065426408/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Best Used Cars and SUVs Under 10K https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-used-cars-suvs-under-10000-dollars-a8966344858/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- Consumer Reports experts: Jon Linkov, Jake Fisher, Alex George

On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV and explore whether the plug-in hybrid is worth its sizable price premium. With up to 54 miles of electric range, 324 horsepower, impressive fuel economy, and no EV range anxiety, it may be the most versatile RAV4 yet—but it still has a few frustrating compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about whether a reliable, high-mileage vehicle is a smart choice for a teen driver.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 0:37 Overview: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid 1:23 Is the PHEV Worth It? 6:14 Electric Range and Efficiency 9:31 Charging at Home 13:07 Ride and Handling 15:36 Acceleration and Power 19:15 Controls and Technology 27:02 Interior and Comfort 31:59 Reliability 35:45 Final Verdict 42:43 Viewer Question: Are High-Mileage Cars Safe for Teens?     ----------------------------------  Test Results: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/rav4-plug-in-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   First Drive: 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV Is Quick, Efficient, and Packed with Useful Tech https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-toyota-rav4-phev-review-a1016340226/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Find an Efficient Vehicle That's Right for You https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Safest Car Brands Ranked by CR's Safety Verdict https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-car-brands-a1065426408/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Best Used Cars and SUVs Under 10K https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-used-cars-suvs-under-10000-dollars-a8966344858/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- Consumer Reports experts: Jon Linkov, Jake Fisher, Alex George

On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV and explore whether the plug-in hybrid is worth its sizable price premium. With up to 54 miles of electric range, 324 horsepower, impressive fuel economy, and no EV range anxiety, it may be the most versatile RAV4 yet—but it still has a few frustrating compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about whether a reliable, high-mileage vehicle is a smart choice for a teen driver.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 0:37 Overview: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid 1:23 Is the PHEV Worth It? 6:14 Electric Range and Efficiency 9:31 Charging at Home 13:07 Ride and Handling 15:36 Acceleration and Power 19:15 Controls and Technology 27:02 Interior and Comfort 31:59 Reliability 35:45 Final Verdict 42:43 Viewer Question: Are High-Mileage Cars Safe for Teens?     ----------------------------------  Test Results: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/rav4-plug-in-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   First Drive: 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV Is Quick, Efficient, and Packed with Useful Tech https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-toyota-rav4-phev-review-a1016340226/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Find an Efficient Vehicle That's Right for You https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Safest Car Brands Ranked by CR's Safety Verdict https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-car-brands-a1065426408/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Best Used Cars and SUVs Under 10K https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-used-cars-suvs-under-10000-dollars-a8966344858/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- Consumer Reports experts: Jon Linkov, Jake Fisher, Alex George

It's ev.news Briefly for Saturday 12 September 2026, only todays headlines and nothing else, in just 4 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the ev.news Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/evnewsLEAPMOTOR OPENS EUROPEAN B03X ORDERS FROM €24,900Stellantis has opened European orders for the Leapmotor B03X, a compact electric crossover starting at €24,900 (about $28,900), sold through the Chinese brand's joint venture with Stellantis and undercutting most European-built compact EVs. Two variants are offered — the Pro with a 39.8 kWh battery and 292 km WLTP range, and the ProMax with 53.0 kWh and 382 km — both with a 14.6-inch touchscreen, 8.8-inch cluster, Leap OS 4.0 Plus, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and standard Level 2 driver assistance using 14 sensors and cameras across 21 functions.VOLVO FACELIFTS XC40, EX40 AND EC40Volvo has given the XC40, EX40 and EC40 their first major styling revision in nearly nine years, with all-new bodywork ahead of the A-pillars and revised 'Thor's Hammer' matrix LED headlights that Volvo says cut glare, debuting on the model year 2028 XC40 now that matrix LEDs are legal in the United States. Powertrains are unchanged, but the cars gain an 11.2-inch touchscreen with Google Gemini voice assistance, plus added cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors supporting a smoother Pilot Assist with lane-change assist, a 3-D 360-degree camera view and an occupant alert for approaching cyclists before doors open.VOLKSWAGEN PLANS IQ.DRIVE UPDATE TO ID. BUZZVolkswagen will upgrade IQ.DRIVE functions on 2027 MEB vehicles, with the ID. Buzz receiving the fullest package including Road Experience Management, and Enhanced Travel Assist that can execute a driver-requested lane change above 45 mph using rear radar, waiting up to 12 seconds if traffic blocks the move while the driver stays responsible. The 2027 Buzz also reacts faster to posted speed-limit changes, notifying the driver before adjusting speed, slows near ramps and exits using navigation or turn-signal input, and uses crowd-sourced map data to supplement cameras where road markings are faded or weather is poor, bundled into In-Vehicle Premium with a one-year trial.NISSAN LEAF S IS CANADA'S LOWEST-PRICED EVThe 2027 Nissan Leaf S is Canada's cheapest electric vehicle at CA$34,998 (about US$25,250), nearly CA$2,000 below the Kia EV3 Light FWD and under CA$30,000 once the Electric Vehicle Affordability Program is applied. It uses a 53 kWh battery, a single 174 hp motor and up to 341 km of range, trailing the EV3 Light's 58.3 kWh, 201 hp and 356 km, and charging 10-80% in about 35 minutes against the Kia's 29, though both use an NACS port.JLR INVESTS £356 MILLION IN WOLVERHAMPTON EV PRODUCTIONJLR has spent £356m converting its Wolverhampton propulsion plant, renamed the Electric Propulsion Manufacturing Centre in 2024, to build electric drive units and assemble battery packs while continuing six-cylinder Ingenium engine production, giving it flexibility to flex output as the EV transition moves. The hall now making drive units for the Range Rover Electric, Range Rover GT, Jaguar Type 01 and smaller Defender 'Sport' previously built four-cylinder diesels on repurposed CNC machines, working to 80-micron tolerances against roughly 120 for combustion engines, with cells currently sourced from AESC in China and due to switch next year to Tata's Agratas plant in Somerset.EVGO OPENS 20-PLUG LOS ANGELES FAST-CHARGING STATIONEVgo has opened what it calls the largest non-Tesla fast-charging station in the City of Los Angeles, a 10-stall, 20-plug site on S Robertson Blvd in Mid-City just off the Santa Monica Freeway. The site has two 100 kW stalls, three 200 kW and five 350 kW, with 18 CCS cables capable of up to 350 kW and two CHAdeMO ports at up to 100 kW that keep older EVs served, though there are no NACS cables and NACS vehicles must use adapters.SKODA APPROVES NEW KAROQ FOR 2027 OR 2028Skoda chief executive Klaus Zellmer has approved a second-generation Karoq for launch in 2027 or 2028 on the Volkswagen Group MQB platform, reversing a plan under which the electric Elroq — itself a late addition to the range and now Europe's second best-selling electric car — was to have taken the Karoq's place. Zellmer said powertrains will be very comparable to the Kodiaq's and pointed to strong plug-in hybrid demand and a 100 km-plus electric range as ideal for the model, though a PHEV remains possible rather than confirmed.PENNDOT OPENS $11 MILLION CHARGER FUNDING ROUNDPennDOT has opened an $11 million round for EV charging infrastructure across 26 central Pennsylvania counties, with publicly accessible sites able to apply until 12 March 2027 under the third phase of the state's federally backed Community Charging scheme, which allocated $100 million in NEVI money from February to extend charging beyond Alternative Fuel Corridors. Local transportation planning agencies, not PennDOT, will set location priorities; the state says 50 NEVI-funded hubs have opened with 41 more planned or under construction, delivering over 146,000 charging sessions since December 2023 and avoiding more than 3,700 tonnes of CO2.TESLA CEO PROMOTES VIDEO OF DRIVER SAYING FSD IS 'EYES OFF'Elon Musk endorsed, with a heart emoji, a clip of Larry, a 98-year-old Model Y owner in Farmington, New Mexico, who says of FSD (Supervised) that he did not have to look at an intersection and does not want to, directly contradicting Tesla's disclaimer that the feature requires active driver supervision and does not make the car autonomous. The framing matters because Tesla's defence in Autopilot and FSD crash litigation rests on driver responsibility — a Florida jury already returned a $243 million judgment against the company, with up to $14.5 billion at stake across roughly two dozen cases — even as its lawyers have separately argued, successfully, that Musk's public statements should not be taken at face value.

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast returns this week with a review of the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V, a higher performance version of the mid-size crossover. Packing more power but asking for more dollars is a tough thing when EVs are already plenty quick. Benjamin breaks it down and explains whether this version of the Caddy is the one you want, or if you should stick with the other models instead. He also tackles some listener feedback about the Lyriq, including some experiences that we just don't get a chance to encounter during our review timeframes. Then Sami jumps into the saddle of the 2026 Ford Bronco Heritage Edition, which is loud, inefficient and cumbersome, but finds it delightfully endearing for Ford buyers who want something off-road oriented. Our hosts struggle to find out what makes the Bronco gain an advantage over other off-roaders, but wonder if that's ok in the long run. Then we discuss some listener feedback about the Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf, before Sami goes on to discuss some more cars he's thinking of replacing his FRS with. Thanks for listening!

It's ev.news Briefly for Friday 04 September 2026, only todays headlines and nothing else, in just 4 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the ev.news Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/evnewsBEVS BECOME UKS LEADING POWER SOURCE DESPITE INDUSTRY PUSHBACKBattery electric vehicles took 30% of the UK car market in August, up from 23% a year earlier, making BEVs the largest single powertrain category ahead of hybrids at 29%, petrol at 22% and PHEVs at 14%, with plug-ins combined reaching 44%. The performance is comfortably ahead of the effective 24.6% target New AutoMotive calculates for this year, yet the government has opened a consultation on relaxing its EV rules under carmaker pressure — a move that could backfire, given Chinese manufacturers now hold 28% of Europe's PHEV segment, up 60% year on year, with PHEVs making up 60% of BYD's European registrations.STELLANTIS SETS NOVEMBER JEEP, MID-APRIL RAM PRODUCTIONA supplier memo reviewed by Automotive News schedules electrified Jeep Grand Wagoneer production for November, six months later than the planned May start, and Ram 1500 REV production for mid-April, a nine-month slip from mid-2026 for a pickup originally due in 2025 as the Ramcharger. Stellantis maintains both extended-range models are on track — Jeep this year, Ram in 2027 — with the Grand Wagoneer built in Warren, Michigan alongside its petrol version and the Ram at Sterling Heights, delays that two supplier executives attribute to ensuring smooth launches.PHEVS EMIT 4.6 TIMES OFFICIAL CO₂ VALUESPlug-in hybrids registered in 2023 emitted 4.6 times their official CO₂ values in real-world driving, up from 3.5 times for 2021 registrations, according to an International Council on Clean Transportation study of nearly 920,000 vehicles that found longer electric range has coincided with less actual electric driving. The ICCT blames the EU utility factor formula, which assumes an 80% electric-driving share against a real-world figure of around 21% in 2022, with author Jan Dornoff arguing the rarely-achieved official values give PHEVs an unjustified advantage over combustion cars in manufacturers' CO₂ compliance.FORD AIMS FOR 100,000 FATHOM SALESFord has set an internal target of 100,000 first-year sales for its Fathom electric truck, according to WSJ sources, a figure no non-Tesla EV model has ever reached in the United States. Production is expected to begin in Q1 2027 with a starting price just under $30,000, which would place the Fathom third among US single models if rivals' volumes hold steady.BEVS OUTSELL PETROL AND DIESEL IN AUSTRALIABattery-electric vehicles outsold both petrol and diesel in Australia in August, hitting 27,078 units and 24.9% of a new-car market that grew 4.9% to 108,760 vehicles, against 25,824 petrol and 23,608 diesel cars, with BEV sales up 171% year on year. BEVs, hybrids and PHEVs together took 51.8% of sales, leaving combustion-only cars in the minority for the first time, and all eight best-selling EVs were China-built, including Tesla's Shanghai-produced Model Y and Model 3, the BYD Sealion 7 at 2,213 units and sixth overall, and the Geely EX5, up more than 385%.BATTERY TRUCKS PROJECTED TO BEAT DIESEL COSTSBattery-electric trucks are projected to undercut diesel on total cost of ownership across 70 to 90% of kilometres travelled in German heavy-duty freight by 2030, but that falls to a medium-scenario lower bound of 21 to 25% of economically feasible activities once daily range limits and charging availability are factored in. The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research study in Nature, combining cost forecasts with real-world use profiles from four million European trucks, finds small-battery electric trucks competitive on 91% of freight activity by 2030 versus 69% for large-battery variants, with drivetrain efficiency, energy costs, battery size and usage intensity driving the outcome.MAN PARTNERS PLAN AROUND €400M FOR EUROPEAN SERVICE SITESMAN dealers, service partners and importers plan to invest around €400m (about $464m) in European service locations, on top of MAN's own €300m (about $348m) network investment by 2030, with board member Friedrich Baumann calling the combined scale unprecedented in company history despite ongoing cost cuts and job reductions. Roughly a third of the partners' spending goes to electromobility and digitalisation, including high-voltage staff training, battery repair centres and public charging at MAN branches, while a separate E.On partnership announced in 2024 targets up to 400 charging points at up to 170 European locations, up to 125 of them in Germany.WAYVE AND UBER OFFER LONDON AUTONOMOUS RIDESWayve and Uber have launched supervised autonomous rides through the Uber app across London's entire urban area excluding airports, using battery-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles running Wayve's AI Driver with cameras and environmental sensors, each carrying a TfL-licensed safety driver who can intervene. UberX, Uber Electric and Uber Comfort passengers may be offered a Wayve ride at no extra cost before their trip, with London the first of twelve planned markets and a Tokyo service using the Nissan Leaf and Nvidia Drive Hyperion due later this year, though no date has been given for removing the safety driver.BARCELONA OFFERS FOUR MILLION EUROS ELECTRIC BIKE SUBSIDIESBarcelona is launching four million euros of electric bike subsidies running from 2027 to 2030, with the first call scheduled for publication in 2027, offering up to 400 euros (about $465) for pedal-assisted city bikes and up to 800 euros (about $929) for freight bikes, capped at 40% of the pre-VAT cost. Registered city residents and companies with premises in Barcelona will be eligible, with the scheme intended to extend cycling distances and open up the city's sloped areas, though the subsidy rules still require approval.XIAOMI SIGNS EIGHT GERMAN DEALER ARRANGEMENTSXiaomi has signed agreements or letters of intent with eight German dealership groups, including Emil Frey, Penske Automotive and the Lueg Group, ahead of a planned 2027 European launch that will add another Chinese entrant to an already competitive German market. The company, which has sold roughly 700,000 SU7 sedans and YU7 SUVs in China since March 2024 according to President William Lu, is raising its profile at Berlin's IFA show from Sept. 4 to 8 with around 380 products, promoting a "Human x Car x Home" ecosystem linking more than 1,000 devices to the car, though it has not said which models Europe will get.

CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King is joined on Weekend Breakfast by Motoring contributor to News24, Melinda Ferguson, who reviews the latest cars on the road and keeps us up to date with motor industry news. This week’s car: Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King is the weekend breakfast show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour morning programme is the perfect (and perky!) way to kickstart your weekend. Author and journalist Sara-Jayne Makwala-King spends 3 hours interviewing a variety of guests about all things cultural and entertaining. The team keeps an eye on weekend news stories, but the focus remains on relaxation and restoration. Favourites include the weekly wellness check-in on Saturdays at 7:35 am and heartfelt chats during the Sunday 9 am profile interview. Listen live on Primedia+ Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00 and 10:00 am (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King, broadcast on CapeTalk: https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/AgPbZi9 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/j1EhEkZ Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters: https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Este programa se emite en Onda Cero MS los jueves y los viernes a las 19:20 horas. Arrancamos temporada en AutoFM analizando las últimas novedades del mercado y estrenando el garaje con una prueba muy especial. Analizamos a fondo el nuevo Omoda 7, el SUV híbrido enchufable que promete revolucionar el segmento con su tecnología SHS, 279 caballos de potencia y una autonomía eléctrica que roza los 100 kilómetros. Desgranamos su comportamiento, el funcionamiento de su sistema híbrido, su equipamiento tecnológico y la apuesta de la marca por la posventa en España con 8 años de garantía. Un vehículo que llega para plantar cara a los referentes del segmento C y D con un precio competitivo y una calidad de acabados que marca un antes y un después para el fabricante chino. Escúchanos en: www.podcastmotor.es Twitter: @AutoFmRadio Instagram: autofmradio Twitch: AutoFMPodcast Youtube: @AutoFM Contacto: info@autofm.es

Die aktuellen Automobilkurznachrichten mit Michael Weyland   Thema heute: Charakterstarkes Design, innovative Antriebstechnologien und umfangreiche Serienausstattung: Der neue ORA 5       Mit dem ORA 5 bringt Great Wall Motor ein Kompakt-SUV auf den deutschen Markt, das gezielt auf die Anforderungen europäischer Kunden abgestimmt wurde. Das 4,47 Meter lange Modell tritt mit einem unverwechselbaren, bewusst emotionalen Design in das volumenstärkste Segment des Automobilmarktes und folgt auf der Antriebsseite dabei konsequent dem Leitgedanken „All Scenarios, All Powertrains“. Zum Marktstart stehen ein Turbo-Benziner und ein Vollhybrid zur Wahl, Anfang 2027 folgen die vollelektrische Version sowie ein PHEV. Zum Verkaufsstart bietet GWM darüber hinaus einen attraktiven Aktions-Rabatt für Frühentschlossene in Höhe von 2.000 Euro an. Damit startet der neue ORA 5 mit dem Turbo-Benziner bereits ab unschlagbaren 24.990 Euro inkl. sieben Jahren Garantie. Für den Vollhybrid liegen die Preise bei 28.990 Euro (UVP) für Premium und 31.490 Euro (UVP) für Luxury. Neben dem markanten Design und dem effizienten Hybridsystem prägen ein digitales Fahrerlebnis sowie der umfassende Zugang zu modernen Technologien den Charakter des ORA 5. Diese vier zentralen Säulen bilden die Grundlage des Fahrzeugkonzepts. Eine umfangreiche Serienausstattung, mehr als 20 Fahrassistenzsysteme und sieben Jahre Fahrzeuggarantie (bis zu 150.000 km) unterstreichen den Anspruch von GWM, hochwertige Ausstattungen in einem attraktiven Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis für eine breite Zielgruppe zugänglich zu machen. Motor / Antrieb Der ORA 5 ist zum Marktstart in Deutschland mit zwei Antriebsvarianten erhältlich, die ihre Leistung jeweils an die Vorderräder übertragen. Der reine 1,5-Liter-Turbo-Benziner erreicht 118 kW (160 PS) und 270 Nm, beschleunigt mit dem 7-Gang-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe in 9,3 Sekunden von 0 auf 100 km/h und verbraucht kombiniert 6,9 l/100 km nach WLTP. Der Vollhybrid kombiniert einen speziell für Hybridanwendungen entwickelten 1,5-Liter-Turbo-Benziner mit 110 kW (150 PS) und einen 140 kW (190 PS) starken Elektromotor zu einer Systemleistung von 164 kW (223 PS) und 476 Nm. Er beschleunigt in 7,7 Sekunden auf 100 km/h, verbraucht 5,1 l/100 km nach WLTP und hat eine Gesamtreichweite von bis zu 1.000 Kilometern. Alle Fotos: Great Wall Motor GWM/ ORA   Diesen Beitrag können Sie nachhören oder downloaden unter:

Chinese automakers just captured 77.4% of China's passenger-vehicle market—and exports have topped one million vehicles for two consecutive months.In Episode #258 of China EVs & More, Tu and Lei unpack a dramatic shift in the world's largest auto market: Chinese brands dominating at home, NEVs approaching 70% of domestic passenger-vehicle sales, and China's automakers increasingly turning to exports as domestic demand weakens.We discuss:

GM is doubling down on China for another 20 years—just as China's auto market enters one of its toughest periods in years.In Episode #257 of China EVs & More, Tu and Lei break down General Motors' extension of the SAIC-GM joint venture, China's slowing domestic auto market, booming vehicle exports, and what it all means for global automakers competing with BYD, Geely, Chery, NIO, XPeng and other Chinese OEMs.We also discuss:

Can a car be good but also get a bad review? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets its hands on the already cancelled 2027 Chevrolet Bolt, which is an affordable, useful EV, but as Benjamin explains, comes with some serious baggage in the form of charging issues. Then Sami reviews the 2026 Acura MDX Type-S, which feels 'good enough' but is up against some tough rivals that offer more space, tech, power, and refinement. This discussion leads the hosts to try to pinpoint Acuras position in the automotive world, and highlight another automaker, Genesis, who is seemingly doing everything right with the reveal of a new flagship SUV. Thanks for listening!

- Anti-Musk Backlash Fading? - U.S. EV Sales Turn the Corner - German Auto Jobs Lowest In 20 Years - Will VW Sell Off Traton? - VW To Slash R and D, Cap Ex - As Predicted, Dealer Sues Polestar - Lucid Bolts 1,200-HP Into Gravity - Acura Concept a Mirror of Chrysler Halcyon - Cadillac Hints at Hypercar - Backhoe Engines Go 400+ MPH

- Anti-Musk Backlash Fading? - U.S. EV Sales Turn the Corner - German Auto Jobs Lowest In 20 Years - Will VW Sell Off Traton? - VW To Slash R and D, Cap Ex - As Predicted, Dealer Sues Polestar - Lucid Bolts 1,200-HP Into Gravity - Acura Concept a Mirror of Chrysler Halcyon - Cadillac Hints at Hypercar - Backhoe Engines Go 400+ MPH

Ladies and gentlemen, Sami is BACK! Our dedicated host has returned after witnessing the birth of his child, and is here to talk about cars, toddlers and EVs! This week's show begins with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Kia EV5, an electric car that isn't coming to the US but will land in Canada, allowing us to get a glimpse of what kind of affordable EVs Americans are missing out on. Then Sami reviews the 2026 Honda Civic Sport Hybrid Touring, which he'd describe as an absolute peach, with just one fatal flaw: its price. Is this an adequate replacement for the Si? Would you take MPGs or a MT? The guys try to figure it out. Finally, Sami tries to introduce a new weekly segment where he tries to figure out what his next possible family friendly car will be. Thanks for listening!

- Three Chinese Automakers Crack Global Top Ten - General Motors Extends SAIC Joint-Venture - U.S. Car Sales Dip 1.4% In July - BYD PHEV Can Run on Ethanol - Honda Revenue Soars Despite Plummeting Asian Sales - Lucid Cuts Shifts and Delays New SUV Launch - Uber Profit Surges but Misses Market Expectations - Geely Wins Top Honors for Chassis Innovation - Koenigsegg Debuts 800-HP Raxial Flux Motor

- Three Chinese Automakers Crack Global Top Ten - General Motors Extends SAIC Joint-Venture - U.S. Car Sales Dip 1.4% In July - BYD PHEV Can Run on Ethanol - Honda Revenue Soars Despite Plummeting Asian Sales - Lucid Cuts Shifts and Delays New SUV Launch - Uber Profit Surges but Misses Market Expectations - Geely Wins Top Honors for Chassis Innovation - Koenigsegg Debuts 800-HP Raxial Flux Motor

It's ev.news Briefly for Saturday 01 August 2026, everything you need to know in 4 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDailyEV SALES SPREAD AS CHINA SLOWSGlobal EV sales rose 35% in Q2 2026 with record sales in 50 countries, while more than 90 countries posted year-on-year growth despite a 5% decline in overall car sales. The IEA now forecasts EVs will account for 29% of global sales in 2026, driven by growth beyond China and the US in markets like Australia, Brazil, India, Korea and Vietnam, though China's EV sales are expected to stagnate year-on-year for the first time this decade while still representing over 60% of new cars sold there.EUROPEAN BEV SHARE HITS RECORD IN JUNEEuropean new car registrations rose 13% year-on-year in June with BEV registrations climbing 50.7% to capture a record 25.7% market share of 359,300 units. Combustion vehicles fell 13.6% to 27% market share, while Tesla led EV rankings but growth broadened across Renault, BMW, Skoda, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, Volvo and BYD.RIVIAN BEATS, BUT R2 COSTS MOUNTRivian posted Q2 2026 revenue of $1.658 billion with record gross profit of $179 million and 11% gross margin, improving for five consecutive quarters, but the R2 mid-size SUV ramp added $100 million in extra costs. The company raised full-year delivery guidance to 65,000-70,000 vehicles and narrowed adjusted EBITDA loss guidance to $1.8-2.0 billion, requiring roughly 42,000-47,000 deliveries in the second half.RIVIAN SEES STRONG EARLY R2 CONVERSIONRivian reported R2 Launch Edition reservation-to-order conversion is running meaningfully above expectations, signaling strong demand at the premium price point. The company expects broader R2 trim availability in early 2027, which could drive better momentum when lower-priced versions become available.VW URGES FAST EU TARIFFS ON CHINESE PHEVSVW Group CEO Oliver Blume called for the EU to quickly apply 35% tariffs on Chinese plug-in hybrids similar to those on Chinese battery electric vehicles, citing undercutting of European car makers. Chinese brand sales in Europe rose 101% in H1 2026 to 685,990 units with 9.5% market share, up from 5% a year earlier, with BYD models dominating the PHEV top sellers list.DENZA OPENS UK BAO 5 ORDERSDENZA opened UK orders for the BAO 5 plug-in hybrid SUV priced from £69,500 to £78,880, featuring a dual-motor system delivering 544PS combined power with 62 miles of electric range and up to 100kW DC charging. The entry Elegance trim includes premium features like a 15.6-inch central screen with Google, leather upholstery, panoramic roof and a 18-speaker Devialet audio system.MERCEDES FACES YEARS OF CHINA PRICE PRESSUREMercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius warned that China's EV pricing war will persist for years as Chinese brands like BYD push aggressively into the luxury segment, challenging models such as the S-Class and G-Class. Mercedes recorded a 30% second-quarter sales drop in China, though the company is cutting costs and maintaining strength in its top-end luxury and AMG segments.GENESIS PRICES GV60 MAGMA AT $71,495Genesis priced its first performance EV, the GV60 Magma, at $71,495 with deliveries starting in select US states, targeting Mercedes-AMG and BMW M buyers with 600hp in normal use and 641hp in Boost Mode for under four-second 0-60mph acceleration. The car uses an 84kWh battery with 800V architecture enabling 10-80% charging in about 20 minutes and features an electronic limited-slip differential, Drift Mode and simulated engine sounds.CHINESE TRUCK MAKERS USE EUROPE'S FACTORIESChinese truck makers SuperPanther and Sinotruk are entering Europe through contract manufacturing at existing plants rather than building new factories, using the semi-knocked-down method to speed market entry and reduce costs. Steyr Automotive in Austria now assembles SuperPanther's eTopas 600 and Sinotruk's vehicles, with plans to expand to cab production and painting as volumes rise.VATTENFALL TESTS OPEN EV CHARGING BAYSVattenfall InCharge is piloting 300 public chargers in North Brabant and Limburg from August 2026 to January 2027, splitting them between 150 open bays for all vehicles and 150 standard bays reserved for EVs to test faster deployment by removing exclusive EV parking restrictions. The trial addresses an administrative bottleneck rather than a technical one, testing whether chargers can be installed faster without requiring traffic rulings and public objection periods.MAN STARTS MCS-READY ELECTRIC TRUCK PRODUCTIONMAN started series production of MCS-ready electric trucks, the eTGX and eTGS, at its Munich plant as the first series-produced European electric trucks supporting Megawatt Charging System at up to 750kW via MCS. With configurations of 534kWh or 623kWh usable capacity, the trucks achieve 20-80% charges in under 30-40 minutes, fitting within legally required driver breaks for long-haul use.NEXT MX-5 READIES FOR ELECTRIC FUTUREMazda CEO Masahiro Moro said the next MX-5 Miata will be designed with electrification in mind, marking a shift from earlier statements emphasizing the internal combustion engine as the current path forward. Patents from 2025 show Mazda exploring batteries running through the transmission tunnel to support a flexible chassis, with the company aiming to preserve the Miata's core character during its transition to electric power.

With Sami taking a break to welcome his new child into the world. guest host Chad Kirchner drops by to talk about the Rivian R2 EV - and to endure Benjamin's endless digressions about diesel trucks, towing, and, for some reason, Alaska.

CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King is joined on Weekend Breakfast by Motoring contributor to News24 Melinda Ferguson, who reviews the latest cars on the road and keeps us up to date with motor industry news. This week’s car: VW Caravelle Plug-in Hybrid (looking at new energy tech like PHEV). Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala King is the weekend breakfast show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour morning programme is the perfect (and perky!) way to kickstart your weekend. Author and journalist Sara-Jayne Makwala-King spends 3 hours interviewing a variety of guests about all things cultural and entertaining. The team keeps an eye on weekend news stories, but the focus remains on relaxation and restoration. Favourites include the weekly wellness check-in on Saturdays at 7:35 am and heartfelt chats during the Sunday 9 am profile interview. Listen live on Primedia+ Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00 and 10:00 am (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/AgPbZi9 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/j1EhEkZ Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a three-row crossover advertises big towing figures, you just know that the Unnamed Automotive Podcast will have something to say about it. This week, Benjamin reviews the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder, which promotes a 6,000 lbs tow rating. Benjamin puts the crossover through its paces with and without a load to let you know how it fares. Also, while on the subject on the Pathfinder, our hosts discuss the pros and cons of its future, and whether it will succeed with a body on frame future, or if it makes any difference at all. Then the guys share some listener feedback about the Dodge Charger and its platform/suspension history. Thanks for listening!

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets its first taste of Lotus this week as Benjamin test drives the new Eletre. This large electric SUV might not be the most Lotus thing you could think of, but it represents a new chapter of the automaker, one that has left Benjamin with many thoughts and impressions that he is keen to share. Then Sami reviews the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport, a car he had trouble understanding in the past, but now totally gets, especially in light of all these other fake off-road trims that have come out. With a bunch of upgrades and features, the Bronco Sport stands out, but is a bit expensive. Sami details more Pros and Cons in his full take of this cute-ute. Thanks for listening!

The show starts with Sami's thorough review of the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, an electric wagon that shares its bones with the Toyota bZ Woodland. Can a Subaru feel like the rest of its family while being so closely related to a Toyota, or does no one actually care if it feels all that different from an Outback or Forester? Then Benjamin pilots the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata around the rural backroads to find his happy place. A focused machine with no true rivals, Benjamin has plenty to say about the latest Miata, with a mostly positive spin. Finally Benjamin gives us an update on the new Hankook Ventus tires fitted to his Subaru Outback, and responds to some listener feedback. Thanks for listening!

Touchscreens are getting bigger, buttons are disappearing, and electrification is rewriting what “good value” even means in a new car. We put all of that to the test by driving a lineup that spans luxury, mainstream EV, full-size towing muscle, and sporty sedan practicality, then calling out what impressed us and what would drive us crazy after a month of ownership.We start with the 2026 Lexus RX 450H Plus, a plug-in hybrid SUV with standout styling, a high-end cabin, and the kind of premium audio that makes you take the long way home. Then we get real about the PHEV catch: if you do not plug it in, you may be paying for capability you never use. From there we jump to the 2026 Chevy Equinox EV RS, a sharp-looking electric SUV that keeps the controls surprisingly approachable, delivers smooth ride quality, and raises the big EV question: is today's range enough, or are we all still waiting for the “bigger battery” version?We also climb into the 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor 4x4, an aircraft-carrier-sized SUV with serious torque and towing capacity, and we talk about why a hybrid could be the perfect fix for its fuel economy. After that, the 2026 Mazda 3 Turbo Premium Plus reminds us how much fun a compact sedan can be, even as we wish for a refresh and simpler infotainment. Finally, the all-new 2026 Subaru Uncharted EV surprises us with great proportions and real punch, while its range sparks an honest debate about what “urban EV” should deliver.If you care about real-world MPG, EV range, towing ratings, pricing, and the small design decisions that make a car easy or annoying to live with, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a car shopper, and leave a review with the one feature you refuse to buy without.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.----  ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?     In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!  Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.-----   -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at info@inwheeltime.com

近期中型SUV市場呈現大混戰的局面，目前銷量最大的Toyota RAV4以油電動力型式在今年初先行推出，然而在眾競品推出油電混合動力車型後，Toyota近日推出配備插電式混合動力的RAV4 PHEV，綜效馬力高達329匹，平均油耗來到131.6km/L，這些數字已經夠吸引人了，而它又是全球唯二PHEV可快充的車款，這…根本不用在家設充電樁啊，但RAV4搭配上插電式Hybrid開起來如何？來聽島叔和豪哥怎麼說？   #行動星球 #聊車挺好的 #RAV4PHEV #Toyota #PHEV #插電式油電 #SUV -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast open-door policy is in full effect as we welcome another great guest, journalist Bradley Iger, who jumps in to discuss the unbelievably cool, made-in-America Czinger 21C VMax hypercar. Beyond its amazing looks and incredible design philosophy, Iger talks about what it's like to pilot one of these legitimate racecar for the streets from the centre seat. Then Benjamin chimes in to review the 2026 Ram 2500 Laramie, which was tasked with his own racecar towing duties. How'd the big diesel truck fare when dealing with the long road between Montreal and Toronto? Maybe a better question is, how did Benjamin deal with a track day gone wrong, and how has that changed his outlook on the sport? Finally, our hosts discussed the 2026 Dodge Charger one more time, this time with Bradley's perspective of being a multiple-time owner of the previous generation Dodges. What was the American automaker going for, and what mishaps further explain just how compromised this car really is? Thanks for listening!

Welcome guest Chad Kirchner on this week's episode which is loaded with all kinds of interesting car discussion. The show starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack, which boasts a 550 horsepower inline six cylinder engine. However, Ben notes some important details about the size of this new muscle-y car, and suggests that it's stuck in a sort of limbo with few actual customers and rivals. Then Chad reports on the newly detailed Slate Auto's EV pickup truck. Now with an official price, and list of features (or features missing), our round table can really begin. How influential will this startup be, when it lacks a paint job, radio, and power windows? Are other automakers checking their rear view mirrors about the Slate truck? Chad shares his thoughts and more! Thanks for listening!

Danny calls in with the story of his brand new Geely EX5 - happy as larry! After looking at a few, Welly and his wife chose the MGS5 as their first EV, while Pete loves the 2023 Tesla Y he got second hand. And Stephen has been driving the GWM TANK 500 - a beast of a PHEV! We'd love to hear from you about your EV journey - text us on 0477 657 657

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast goes full EV this week, starting with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Honda Accord Hybrid. He says it's not dull, or bland, but NORMCORE, whatever that means. Well, let him explain! It seems to do everything it needs to and can maybe even out-do its crossover cousins across the Honda showroom in a few things, like, say fuel economy. It's an interesting review of a sedan when there's so few to choose from in the first place. Then Sami revisits the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid. Following Benjamin's positive impression of the Japanese crossover, Sami took it upon himself to compare it to the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV, to find out if the Mitsubishi is actually good, or just good in a vacuum. Lots of surprises here! Then the show ends on a kind note from a listener. Thanks for listening!

Barry Mare, in for CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King, is joined on Weekend Breakfast by News24 motoring contributor Melinda Ferguson, who reviews the latest cars on the road and keeps us up to date with motor industry news. This week’s car: Haval GWM H6 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala King is the weekend breakfast show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour morning programme is the perfect (and perky!) way to kickstart your weekend. Author and journalist Sara-Jayne Makwala-King spends 3 hours interviewing a variety of guests about all things cultural and entertaining. The team keeps an eye on weekend news stories, but the focus remains on relaxation and restoration. Favourites include the weekly wellness check-in on Saturdays at 7:35 am and heartfelt chats during the Sunday 9 am profile interview. Listen live on Primedia+ Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00 and 10:00 am (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/AgPbZi9 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/j1EhEkZ Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's this? The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Electric Vehicle has zoomed onto the Unnamed Automotive Podcast for its review? Benjamin has plenty to talk about with this seriously refreshed compact crossover. Loaded with more range, a new interior and that same controversial third row, does this one of a kind PHEV make sense for today's buyers? And what is going on at Mitsubishi these days anyways? Then Sami talks quickly about the 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70, before quickly going on a tangent about weird car features that haven't been perfected and what that means for a mature market like the automotive industry. Thanks for listening everyone!

- GM Dives into Energy Storage… - …And Bi-Directional Charging - Ford Says Right Incentives Boost PHEV Charging - Mexico's Home Grown $8,600 EV - Volvo Trucks Sees $3 Billion Business with AVs - Volvo Trucks Sees Strong Demand - BASF Warns Iran War Will Hurt Car Production in H2 - Magna Could Make Chinese Cars in North America  - Audi Unveils All New Q7 - BYD Interested in F1 and WEC

- GM Dives into Energy Storage… - …And Bi-Directional Charging - Ford Says Right Incentives Boost PHEV Charging - Mexico's Home Grown $8,600 EV - Volvo Trucks Sees $3 Billion Business with AVs - Volvo Trucks Sees Strong Demand - BASF Warns Iran War Will Hurt Car Production in H2 - Magna Could Make Chinese Cars in North America  - Audi Unveils All New Q7 - BYD Interested in F1 and WEC

When a car is reviewed so well that one of our hosts actually considers buying one, you know its going to be a good podcast discussion. This week starts off with such talk with Benjamin's review of the 2026 GMC Canyon AT4, which was so perfectly suited for his lifestyle that he seriously pulled up the spreadsheets and budgets to see if it could work for him. Hear what makes this truck so good, and maybe one of the best mid-size trucks on the market. Then Sami jumps in with a review of the only-for-Canada (so far) 2026 Kia EV4, something he said was revolting to look at when Benjamin reviewed it last month, but now has much more to talk about after testing it for a week. He dishes his pros and cons with this affordable EV and comes out feeling pretty good about the state of entry-level electric cars. Thanks for listening!

As gas prices fluctuate and drivers look for ways to cut costs, on this week's episode we answer the questions drivers are asking most: Is premium fuel worth the extra cost? Does ethanol save money? Do Eco modes actually improve fuel economy? And should high fuel prices push you toward a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or EV? From choosing the right fuel and finding the best prices at the pump to understanding the long-term costs of different vehicle types, we separate fact from fiction and share practical strategies to help drivers spend less on fuel without sacrificing performance or reliability.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 Intro 00:15 Gas prices 00:51 Ethanol fuel blends 08:30 Premium vs. regular gas 17:04 Real ways to save at the pump 18:47 Hybrids, EVs, and PHEVs 29:08 Oil shortages, diesel, and alternative fuel 34:17 Eco mode and fuel-saving driving tips 37:06 The future of fuel efficiency and electrification     ----------------------------------  Best deals on fuel-efficient cars & SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/best-deals-on-fuel-efficient-cars-a4329802409/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Expert fuel-saving tips https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/expert-fuel-saving-tips-how-to-get-more-miles-per-dollar-a1096060259/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 tips to get the most out of a tank of gas https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/10-tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-a-tank-of-gas-a2642110189/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most fuel-efficient SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/the-most-fuel-efficient-suvs-best-mpg-a5599990140/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Cars with the best gas Mileage https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/   Will a hybrid, PHEV, or EV save me money? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Top Tier gas is worth the extra price https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/top-tier-gasoline-worth-the-extra-price-a7682471234/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Find the best hybrids and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most reliable used electric vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-reliable-used-electric-vehicles-a8864540677/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 best deals on electric vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Popular EVs to avoid and what to get instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Should you use synthetic oil in your car? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/should-you-use-synthetic-oil-in-your-car-a9220487946/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   CR's real-world electric car range comparison https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/real-world-ev-range-tests-models-that-beat-epa-estimates-a1103288135/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Tested: Does eco mode really save gas? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/does-eco-mode-really-save-gas-a6653523930/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

As gas prices fluctuate and drivers look for ways to cut costs, on this week's episode we answer the questions drivers are asking most: Is premium fuel worth the extra cost? Does ethanol save money? Do Eco modes actually improve fuel economy? And should high fuel prices push you toward a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or EV? From choosing the right fuel and finding the best prices at the pump to understanding the long-term costs of different vehicle types, we separate fact from fiction and share practical strategies to help drivers spend less on fuel without sacrificing performance or reliability.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 Intro 00:15 Gas prices 00:51 Ethanol fuel blends 08:30 Premium vs. regular gas 17:04 Real ways to save at the pump 18:47 Hybrids, EVs, and PHEVs 29:08 Oil shortages, diesel, and alternative fuel 34:17 Eco mode and fuel-saving driving tips 37:06 The future of fuel efficiency and electrification     ----------------------------------  Best deals on fuel-efficient cars & SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/best-deals-on-fuel-efficient-cars-a4329802409/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Expert fuel-saving tips https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/expert-fuel-saving-tips-how-to-get-more-miles-per-dollar-a1096060259/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 tips to get the most out of a tank of gas https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/10-tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-a-tank-of-gas-a2642110189/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most fuel-efficient SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/the-most-fuel-efficient-suvs-best-mpg-a5599990140/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Cars with the best gas Mileage https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/   Will a hybrid, PHEV, or EV save me money? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Top Tier gas is worth the extra price https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/top-tier-gasoline-worth-the-extra-price-a7682471234/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Find the best hybrids and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most reliable used electric vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-reliable-used-electric-vehicles-a8864540677/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 best deals on electric vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Popular EVs to avoid and what to get instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Should you use synthetic oil in your car? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/should-you-use-synthetic-oil-in-your-car-a9220487946/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   CR's real-world electric car range comparison https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/real-world-ev-range-tests-models-that-beat-epa-estimates-a1103288135/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Tested: Does eco mode really save gas? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/does-eco-mode-really-save-gas-a6653523930/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

- Tata Pivots from JLR to China - New Taxes Kill Foreign PHEVs in China - Lithium-Air Batteries Could Match Gas Energy Density - Used EV Sales Surge in the U.S. - Reported U.S. May Sales Up 5% - Rivian Hits 1,000+ Fast Chargers - BMW M2 Gets AWD for the 1st Time - New Fiat Grizzly Coming in H2 of 2026

- Tata Pivots from JLR to China - New Taxes Kill Foreign PHEVs in China - Lithium-Air Batteries Could Match Gas Energy Density - Used EV Sales Surge in the U.S. - Reported U.S. May Sales Up 5% - Rivian Hits 1,000+ Fast Chargers - BMW M2 Gets AWD for the 1st Time - New Fiat Grizzly Coming in H2 of 2026

As gas prices fluctuate and drivers look for ways to cut costs, on this week's episode we answer the questions drivers are asking most: Is premium fuel worth the extra cost? Does ethanol save money? Do Eco modes actually improve fuel economy? And should high fuel prices push you toward a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or EV? From choosing the right fuel and finding the best prices at the pump to understanding the long-term costs of different vehicle types, we separate fact from fiction and share practical strategies to help drivers spend less on fuel without sacrificing performance or reliability.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 Intro 00:15 Gas prices 00:51 Ethanol fuel blends 08:30 Premium vs. regular gas 17:04 Real ways to save at the pump 18:47 Hybrids, EVs, and PHEVs 29:08 Oil shortages, diesel, and alternative fuel 34:17 Eco mode and fuel-saving driving tips 37:06 The future of fuel efficiency and electrification     ----------------------------------  Best deals on fuel-efficient cars & SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/best-deals-on-fuel-efficient-cars-a4329802409/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Expert fuel-saving tips https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/expert-fuel-saving-tips-how-to-get-more-miles-per-dollar-a1096060259/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 tips to get the most out of a tank of gas https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/10-tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-a-tank-of-gas-a2642110189/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most fuel-efficient SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/the-most-fuel-efficient-suvs-best-mpg-a5599990140/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Cars with the best gas Mileage https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/   Will a hybrid, PHEV, or EV save me money? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Top Tier gas is worth the extra price https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/top-tier-gasoline-worth-the-extra-price-a7682471234/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Find the best hybrids and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most reliable used electric vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-reliable-used-electric-vehicles-a8864540677/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 best deals on electric vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Popular EVs to avoid and what to get instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Should you use synthetic oil in your car? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/should-you-use-synthetic-oil-in-your-car-a9220487946/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   CR's real-world electric car range comparison https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/real-world-ev-range-tests-models-that-beat-epa-estimates-a1103288135/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Tested: Does eco mode really save gas? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/does-eco-mode-really-save-gas-a6653523930/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets deep into it this week, with a "review" of the impressive and high end 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, a performance oriented version of the off road SUV. While Jaguar and Range Rover get the SV treatment for their high output models, Defender gets an Octa badge, though it features the same BMW sourced turbo V8 and 6D suspension as the Range Rover Sport SV. Which JLR super SUV camp do you belong to? What makes a six figure SUV special? What differentiates this from a G63 AMG? Then Benjamin checks out the 2026 Buick Encore GX, a subcompact crossover that used to represent the growth of the American premium brand, but now seems a bit dated compared to other Buick vehicles. Benjamin explains it all with careful perspective of where the Encore stands with the impressive Envista sitting next to it. Then the show introduces a new concept: tire testing! Benjamin throws on some new summer rubber on his Daily Driver and can't wait to tell you the results. Thanks for listening!

Has the Unnamed Automotive Podcast really never reviewed a Volkswagen Jetta? That's situation has been resolved, and Benjamin has a full and thorough test of the German compact car, as Sami asks him tons of questions. What makes the Jetta a worthy pick over other small sedans? And how does it compare to hybrid options out there? Benjamin has plenty answers as we review this sedan for the first time ever. Then Sami checks out the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor, an off road variant of the three-row crossover that replaces the old Timberline trim. Packed with a 3.0L turbocharged engine, the Ford Explorer has plenty of cool features and equipment, but Sami was really caught off guard by the hands-free driving tech. Thanks for listening!

It's EV News Briefly for Saturday 16 May 2026, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDailyVW BRINGS BACK ID. BUZZ TO U.S FOR MY2027Volkswagen is returning the ID. Buzz to the US market for model year 2027 after skipping 2026, with four trims including a new Tourer 4Motion camping variant featuring a fold-out mattress, Overnight Mode, and factory-built sleeping setup. The 2027 model also adds true one-pedal driving and updated ID.S 6 software with a larger App Store including YouTube and Spotify.TESLA TESTS VIRTUAL SUPERCHARGER QUEUETesla has launched a virtual queue pilot at five Supercharger stations, allowing drivers to join a waitlist via the Tesla app instead of forming a physical line, a feature that arrived a year later than promised. The system is voluntary with no enforcement, and has been opened to non-Tesla EVs — significant given roughly 70% of Supercharger stalls now accept third-party vehicles.FORD URGES BROADER ELECTRIFICATION PITCHFord's European boss Jim Baumbick argued at the FT's Future of the Car summit that the industry must sell EVs on personal benefit rather than CO2 reduction, and that PHEVs and range-extender hybrids should be accepted alongside pure BEVs as valid routes to net zero. He highlighted a stark policy contrast: Sweden's PHEV charging tax incentive results in 70% of drivers plugging in regularly, while the UK's lack of equivalent incentive sees that figure drop to just 10–20%.CANADA ZEV SALES JUMP AS MARKET SHRINKSCanadian EV adoption nearly doubled from 6.5% to 12.2% of total vehicle sales in March 2026, with battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles combining for 21,574 units even as the broader new-vehicle market fell 6.6% year-over-year. Ottawa's reinstated CA$5,000 purchase incentive in February and competitive pricing — with some models starting from CA$30,000 — were key drivers of the surge.POLESTAR EXPANDS UPDATED 3 AND 4 ORDERSPolestar has opened orders for updated versions of the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 across Canada, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands and Germany, with the headline change being the Polestar 3's upgrade to an 800V architecture enabling 350 kW DC charging and a 22-minute 10–80% charge time. The Polestar 3 also gains a major compute upgrade from Nvidia DRIVE AGX Xavier to Orin — lifting processing power from 30 to 254 TOPS — with existing owners receiving the chip upgrade at no cost.MAN ADDS 16-TONNE ETGM TO ELECTRIC RANGEMAN Truck & Bus has unveiled the eTGM, a 16-tonne battery-electric truck for urban and regional distribution, debuting at Transpotec Logitec 2026 in Milan and completing a fully electric range from 12 to 50 tonnes. It offers up to 320 kWh of usable battery capacity, a 480 km maximum range, and a mechanical power take-off (mPTO) that MAN says is rare in the segment and reduces bodybuilder conversion costs.CALIFORNIA LAUNCHES $250 MILLION ELECTRIC TRUCK REBATECalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom has launched the California Clean Fuel Reward, a $250 million rebate programme for electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks funded by Low Carbon Fuel Standard revenue, with rebates ranging from $7,500 to $120,000. The state expects over $1 billion in total rebates through 2030, making it the largest utility-administered electric truck rebate programme in the US.BAGLINO LAUNCHES SECOND STARTUP IN HEAT PUMPSDrew Baglino, former Tesla SVP who left in April 2024, has launched Sadi Thermal Machines, a heat pump startup incorporated in June 2025 and co-located with his first venture, Heron Power, in Scotts Valley, California. Baglino is well-positioned for the role, having been a named inventor on Tesla's thermal management patent that underpinned the octovalve system debuted in the Model Y.CATERHAM PROJECT V HITS TEST TRACKCaterham has released new test track footage of its Project V electric sports car running under its own power, performing high-speed charging and braking manoeuvres. The car targets 268bhp, a 1,430kg kerb weight, a sub-5.0-second 0–62mph time, a 249-mile range, and a 20-minute 20–80% charge time.

The Unnamed Automtoive Podcast jumps back into the subcompact sphere and gets to review the 2026 Volkswagen Taos. Benjamin wonders what the correct pronounciation of the crossover is, then gets into the nitty gritty about the pros and cons of this small, but steady SUV. They also talk about what makes for a good subcompact crossover, and what doesn't make the cut. Then Sami brings up some recent harrowing news about Honda, and the weird pricing strategy over at Toyota regarding its three-row crossovers. Thanks for listening!

تجربة عرب جي تي الكاملة في جيبك!

What's the deal with the Jeep Grand Wagoneer? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast thoroughly explores the 2026 model which has a new design, revised lineup, reduced powertrain options and a million screens. Sami's review is all encompassing though he brings up a lot of competitors in the space. Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. It's the most powerful Crosstrek yet, and is barely the most efficient, but theres more to the story than that. Hear the full review to learn more! Thanks for listening!

Benjamin's 2026 Kia EV4 review may leave our American listeners confused since it isn't coming the the US market, but the Canadians get to enjoy this weird looking EV and its several positives. It looks good, has pretty good range and an attractive pricetag, so whats the catch? Then Sami reviews the 2026 Lexus TX with seven seats, and he gets to use all seven of those luxury-lined seats. The review leaves Benjamin and Sami wondering what other true three-row luxury crossovers are out there, and which ones can compete at the TX's price point. Thanks for listening!

It's EV News Briefly for Monday 27 April 2026, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDailyKIA CUTS EUROPE PRICES TO FIGHT CHINESEKia CEO Song Ho-sung announced a deliberate price-cutting strategy at the company's Investor Day, narrowing the price gap with Chinese rivals like BYD from 20–25% to 15–20%. Despite reporting a quarterly profit decline on 24 April due to higher European sales incentives, Kia says its solid profit base can sustain the strategy, with the upcoming EV2 small SUV set to challenge the BYD Dolphin Surf directly.BYD DENZA Z TAKES AIM AT TESLABYD unveiled the production Denza Z at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show — an all-electric supercar with around 1,000 hp, a sub-two-second 0–60 mph claim, and three variants including a coupe and convertible. Estimated at around $65,000 in China, it targets the Tesla Roadster 2 and is prioritised for European sales, with a Goodwood Festival of Speed debut planned and full technical details due in July 2026.OIL SHOCK COULD SPEED UK EV UPTAKERising oil prices following US and Israeli strikes on Iran and closure of the Strait of Hormuz are shifting the economic case toward EVs, accelerating a consumer tipping point already supported by better batteries. A large EV fleet could transform UK grid stability through vehicle-to-grid systems, with Ofgem estimating that half of projected EVs on V2G by 2030 could provide 16GW of flexible capacity — five times the projected output of Hinkley Point C.PHEVS COST MORE TO BUY AND RUNECIU data shows eight of the UK's 10 best-selling PHEVs carry a higher sticker price than comparable EVs, with an average gap of £4,150 or 10%, even as the average new EV has fallen below the average new petrol car for the first time. Real-world PHEV fuel costs run 490% above official figures, pushing annual fuelling costs to around £1,030 — £620 more per year than an equivalent EV — making total cost of ownership over £1,000 per year higher than going fully electric.OMODA & JAECOO HITS ONE MILLION SALESOmoda & Jaecoo reached one million cumulative global sales in April 2026, just three years after its international debut, recording monthly sales of over 60,000 units in March and operating across 69 markets with 1,364 dealers. Europe drove 41.5% of total global sales, with a 246% year-on-year rise in March, and the brand ranked sixth in the UK with a 4.7% market share — with Omoda & Jaecoo now targeting one million annual sales by 2027.GWM PULLS ORA 03 FROM UKGWM has withdrawn the Ora 03 electric hatchback from the UK market after only 542 units were registered across all of 2025 and just 26 in Q1 2026, ending a four-year run for the model originally launched as the Funky Cat. No new stock will be supplied, with the car available only from existing dealer inventory as GWM shifts focus to a broader European growth strategy.LEAPMOTOR B05 TARGETS EUROPE WITH LOW PRICESLeapmotor's B05 compact hatchback will launch in Europe starting at €26,900 in Italy, undercutting every major rival by at least €10,000, including the Volkswagen ID.3 at €40,990, the BYD Dolphin at €35,000 and the MG4 at €34,000. At 4,430 mm long with rear-wheel drive, 160 kW, a 0–100 km/h time of 6.7 seconds and DC fast charging peaking at 174 kW, it combines size, performance and price in a package that directly targets the mainstream European EV market.US EV MAKERS PRESS DIRECT SALES FIGHTUS EV makers including Tesla, Rivian and Lucid are escalating efforts to bypass the dealer franchise model, which still controls 96% of new-vehicle deliveries, using new legal strategies and ballot initiative threats — though the three brands combined held less than 4% of the US light-vehicle market in 2025. The bigger industry fear is not EV startups but legacy or foreign brands like Volkswagen's Scout Motors breaking the model open for all manufacturers, which could fundamentally reshape US auto retail.MG WEIGHS SPAIN FOR EUROPEAN EV PLANTMG Motor reportedly favours Spain — particularly Galicia — over Hungary for its first European EV manufacturing plant, driven largely by Galicia's strong shipping links to the UK, MG's most important European market. No final decision has been made, but the move is driven by SAIC facing the EU's highest Chinese automaker tariff rate of 35.3%, even as producing cars in Europe will cost more than manufacturing them in China.AVERAGE EV RETAINS 97% OF ITS RANGE AFTER THREE YEARSRecurrent's 2026 EV Market and Trends Report found that the average EV retains 97% of its range after three years and 95% after five years, with five brands — Cadillac, Ford, Hyundai, Mercedes and Rivian — showing zero apparent range loss over five years. Used EV demand surged 53.9% between February and March 2026, with the average used EV now priced at $34,653 — just $1,012 below an equivalent ICE vehicle — while average new EV range for 2026 models rose 11% to 325 miles.

How do you create a toddlers core memory? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast discusses Sami taking his son to see Monster Jam when it crashes and bashes into town. Hear how a child—who believes all trucks are monster trucks—can still enjoy the spectacle of jumbo-sized motorsports. Then Benjamin reviews the significantly redesigned and upgraded 2026 Toyota bZ, and has many things to say about it, both positive and negative! Is the bump in power and range really noticable? What about all of the bZs rivals? Benjamin shares his thoughts and more. Thanks for listening!

It's EV News Briefly for Wednesday 25 March 2026, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDailyAFEELA EV PROGRAMME SCRAPPEDSony Honda Mobility has scrapped its Afeela EV programme after Honda's broader EV strategy reassessment — which included a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) — left the joint venture with no viable route to market. The Afeela 1, priced from $89,900 with deliveries planned for late 2026, has been cancelled alongside a second model targeting 2028, with California reservation holders receiving full refunds.MG TEASES SOLIDCORE BATTERYMG Motor has opened a third European engineering centre in Frankfurt and unveiled SolidCore, a semi-solid-state battery cell using a manganese-based cathode, semi-solid electrolyte shield, and graphite anode — claiming improvements in safety, range, durability and cold-weather performance without providing specific figures. MG claims to be the first automaker to mass-produce a semi-solid-state battery, though the distinction from a similar cell already in China-market MG4s since December 2025 remains unclear; SolidCore is expected in European EVs by end of 2026.EV CAR/VAN CONVERSIONS FROM RENAULT AND VOLVORenault has revealed an electric Twingo van conversion developed for EDF, doubling load capacity from 360 to 797 litres via a removable rear seat, mesh bulkhead, and cargo cage — though the concept remains unlikely to reach UK sale. Volvo UK is already in market with the EX30 Cargo, a fleet-only compact van offering 1,000 litres of capacity, 390kg payload, and a top dual-motor variant producing 423bhp with a 0–62mph time of 3.6 seconds.AUSTRALIAN FUEL SHORTAGES SPREAD WITHOUT SUPPLY LOSSPanic buying — not supply disruption — has left over 500 petrol stations across Australia short of at least one fuel grade, with New South Wales worst affected at 289 sites, including 164 diesel-dry locations pushing diesel prices above $3 per litre. Authorities have not declared a national fuel emergency or introduced rationing, with Victoria's Energy Minister confirming the strain is entirely driven by consumer behaviour rather than any import disruption.VAUXHALL ASTRA FACELIFT STARTS AT £29,995The facelifted Vauxhall Astra starts at £29,995 across mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full EV variants in both hatchback and Sports Tourer estate, with the PHEV's battery growing from 12.4kWh to 17.2kWh for 52 miles of official electric range and a BiK rate of 10% — undercutting the Golf eHybrid by £6,490. The Astra Electric uses a 154bhp motor with 55.4kWh usable battery, 281 miles of quoted range, and 100kW DC charging covering 20–80% in around 30 minutes.UK PLEDGES £1 BILLION FOR FLEET ELECTRIFICATIONThe UK government has committed £1 billion to commercial fleet electrification, with the Zero Emissions Truck and Van scheme covering up to 40% of purchase costs — reaching £81,000 for the heaviest electric trucks and £5,000 for vans, though reduced from a previous maximum of £120,000 for trucks over 26 tonnes. A separate £170 million uplift to the Depot Charging Scheme allows businesses to reclaim up to 70% of depot charging installation costs, capped at £1 million per application.SK SIGNET STARTS TEXAS BUILD OF 400-KW CHARGERSK Signet has begun production of a 400-kW all-in-one DC fast charger at its Texas facility, using silicon carbide electronics to achieve 96.5% conversion efficiency while reducing its physical footprint by up to 54% versus its predecessor. A modular design offers 320–400kW output tiers, supports one to four CCS1/NACS ports delivering a stable 150–250kW per vehicle simultaneously, and features a 32-inch outdoor touchscreen with Plug & Charge, credit card, and RFID payment support.ROLLS-ROYCE OPENS ELECTRIC COACHBUILD PROGRAMMERolls-Royce has launched the Coachbuild Collection, a new electric coachbuilding programme for ultra-high-net-worth clients, with every vehicle fully road-legal and homologated — unlike predecessors Sweptail, Boatail, and Droptail. The first model will be fully electric, with powertrain, design, and interior details expected later in 2026, supported by a Private Office Network across Dubai, Seoul, Shanghai, New York, and Goodwood.FERRARI TUNES LUCE FOR FEEL, NOT FIGURESFerrari says its first fully electric car, the Luce, will prioritise driver feel over headline performance figures, with CEO Benedetto Vigna consulting NASA and medical centres to identify the point at which EV acceleration becomes neurologically disturbing. Ferrari identified five distinct generators of driving thrills and is focusing on issues such as battery placement to address the mismatch between visual and vestibular cues in cornering caused by heavy EV battery packs.XPENG AUSTRALIA DISTRIBUTOR ENTERS ADMINISTRATIONXPeng's sole Australian distributor, Sydney-based TrueEV, has entered external administration after a lender stepped in over unmet financing arrangements, with insolvency specialists now managing and selling close to 200 G6 vehicles across Melbourne, Brisbane, Wollongong, and Fremantle. A simultaneous legal dispute between TrueEV and XPeng has escalated to court action, leaving the brand's planned 2026 Australian expansion — including the X9 and G9 models — in serious doubt with no clarity offered to existing customers.