Author: Casper Benedict

In September, global sales of plug-in electric cars soared to unprecedented levels, reaching 1.3 million units, marking the highest recorded figure to date. This surge, reported by EV-Volumes data and shared by researcher Jose Pontes, represents a notable 23 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Rechargeable cars secured a robust share of 17 percent in global car registrations, with all-electric cars alone claiming 12 percent. When factoring in non-rechargeable hybrids, the total share of electrified cars, collectively known as xEVs (BEVs, PHEVs, HEVs), reached an estimated 29 percent. The breakdown of plug-in car registrations for the month…

Toyota’s luxury division, Lexus, is ramping up its efforts by providing substantial discounts of up to $15,000 on 2023 RZ 450e leases, marking its most significant discount to date. Lexus, known for its commitment to luxurious automobiles, entered the electric vehicle market last April with the introduction of the 2023 RZ 450e. The debut of this all-electric SUV signifies Lexus’ shift towards becoming a brand centered around battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The 2023 RZ 450e started its rollout in the first quarter of 2023 and has garnered significant attention, with Lexus having sold over 2,500 models through September. Sharing a…

Toyota has introduced its all-new Crown Sedan model in Japan, set to be available for orders starting November 13, 2023. This release is part of Toyota’s larger initiative, “Crown for a new era,” which seeks to push the boundaries of innovation and cater to a wider range of customer values and lifestyles. This new Sedan model is a departure from conventional sedan designs, as it strives to offer not only exceptional ride comfort and a high-quality driving experience but also a relaxing and spacious interior designed to meet the requirements of chauffeured cars. Toyota envisions it as a “new formal”…

Polestar, the Swedish electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced its expectation to meet the lower end of its 2023 delivery target. Despite the adjusted expectations, the company remains optimistic about the surge in demand with the upcoming launch of new EV models. In a significant move, Polestar’s first electric SUV coupe, the Polestar 4, is set to begin production next week. During the third quarter, Polestar reported the delivery of 13,976 vehicles, marking a 51% year-over-year increase. However, this number is slightly down from the 15,800 vehicles delivered in the second quarter. This year-over-year growth coincides with the rollout of…

In a significant development for Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) market, the all-electric MG4 is now being locally manufactured in the country. The first MG4 Electric unit recently rolled off the production line at the SAIC-CP car factory in Chonburi, which is a joint venture between SAIC Motor and the Charoen Pokphand Group. SAIC-CP’s state-of-the-art facility in the Chonburi province has a production capacity of up to 100,000 vehicles annually. Beyond conventional combustion vehicles, this plant has diversified its portfolio to include the assembly of electric cars, catering to both the domestic Thai market and international export. Additionally, SAIC recently unveiled…

As the November 30th delivery event for the Tesla Cybertruck approaches, the electric vehicle manufacturer is leaving no stone unturned in the quest for the perfect interior design for their eagerly awaited all-electric pickup. Recent aerial footage captured by Joe Tegtmeyer, a devoted follower of Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas, sheds light on the company’s experimentation with various interior options. Among the glimpses provided by Tegtmeyer’s drone video, it is evident that Tesla has explored a semi-white interior concept. This design choice features white door panels and a partially white dashboard, offering a departure from the all-black interior seen in several…

Glasgow-based automaker Munro Vehicles has achieved a remarkable feat as their Series-M Utility, an all-electric 4×4, rolls off the production line a mere ten months after the unveiling of the prototype. The company has grand plans, aiming to increase annual production to 2,500 units by 2027. The Series-M Utility offers two different powertrains: the M170, providing 170 kW, and the M280, delivering 280 kW. With a maximum range of approximately 200 miles or 322 kilometers, this electric 4×4 promises both power and practicality. While Munro initially introduced the prototype, the Munro Mk_1, in December 2022, it presented versions with 220kW…

Toyota, the Japanese automotive giant, has experienced a prosperous year with growing sales and profits during the first eight months of 2023. However, the company has made significant revisions to its sales projections for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), reflecting an evolving strategy in the rapidly changing electric vehicle market. In a previous forecast for the fiscal year running from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, Toyota set ambitious targets, aiming to sell 202,000 BEVs, 137,000 plug-in hybrids, and 3,497,000 traditional hybrid vehicles. In the most recent update, Toyota has scaled down its BEV sales expectations for the financial year to…

Exciting news for e-bike enthusiasts as the eagerly anticipated Fiido Titan e-bike is officially available for pre-order. Unveiled just a few days ago, customers can secure their own model at a competitive price of US$1,699/£1,545/€1,699, with shipments scheduled for early to mid-November, depending on your location. Even more enticing, Fiido is sweetening the deal by offering complimentary accessories valued at US$200/£168/€200 for the first 300 orders. The Fiido Titan is a rugged all-terrain fat-tire e-bike equipped with a robust 750W motor, capable of delivering a peak power output of 1,130W. This powerhouse on two wheels boasts a top assistance speed…

Kia is gearing up to introduce its first electric seven-seater vehicle in the United States by the end of this year, and the company is taking a proactive step to protect its customers from potential price markups. Interested buyers can already secure their reservations for the base model, the EV9 Light, priced at $56,395, which includes a $1,495 shipping fee. Kia has reportedly communicated with its dealers, urging them to maintain pricing in line with the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). A letter obtained by CarsDirect, sent by Kia to its U.S. dealers, emphasizes the importance of transparency and a…

The Honda Motocompacto, a compact and foldable electric scooter, has officially gone on sale at select Honda and Acura dealerships across the United States, as well as through online channels. Boasting the title of one of the most endearing e-scooters on the market, the Motocompacto is designed to cater to urban commuters, students, and city dwellers seeking an efficient last-mile transportation solution. Unveiled in September, the Motocompacto represents Honda’s innovative foray into the world of electric micro-mobility. This charming scooter is a modern reimagining of the classic Motocompo, originally powered by a 49cc engine and celebrated for its foldability. The…

Last month, Ford and the United Auto Workers (UAW) reached a tentative agreement, shedding light on Ford’s ambitious plans for future products and substantial plant investments. According to the UAW, Ford’s commitments encompass a whopping $8.1 billion in product development and other investments integral to the company’s future vision. One of the noteworthy allocations from this budget is a significant $2.1 billion set aside for Ohio Assembly. This facility will take on the production of an all-new electric van and continue manufacturing Super Duty and Medium Duty trucks, as well as stripped-down versions of the E-Series van. These developments mark…