Author: Derick Munoz

Mopar, the tuning brand under Stellantis, has revealed an all-electric muscle car at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. Dubbed the “Plymouth GTX Electromod Concept,” the model is based on a classic 1967 Plymouth GTX, with its original V8 engine replaced by an electric drivetrain. Designed to illustrate the potential of battery electric vehicle (BEV) conversion kits, the GTX Electromod Concept houses an electric drive system generating 250 kW (approximately 335 horsepower) and a range of 250 miles (roughly 400 kilometers) powered by four battery packs totaling 73 kWh. Mopar reports that the torque is directed…

Mercedes-Benz is facing significant challenges in its electric vehicle (EV) segment, with third-quarter sales plummeting 31% compared to the same period last year. The luxury automaker sold just 42,544 EV units in Q3, a drop of 19,077 vehicles from the previous year. This downturn raises questions about the company’s ambitious electric lineup, which includes models like the EQA, EQB, EQE, EQE SUV, EQS, EQS SUV, and the newly introduced electric G-Class. The situation is not improving year-to-date, as Mercedes has reported a 22.1% decline in EV sales, with total units sold dropping from 174,471 in the first nine months of…

Camouflaged Tesla Model Y vehicles have been sighted in China, potentially indicating an anticipated design refresh for the electric crossover, which follows the recent updates to the Model 3. Reports surfaced last year that Tesla was planning a 2024 Model Y update, internally known as “Project Juniper.” Tesla has previously downplayed the likelihood of a redesign within 2023, with CEO Elon Musk stating that no Model Y refresh was planned for this year. The emphasis on timing led some analysts to speculate that a revamp might still be on track for early 2024. https://twitter.com/BMKrpwgS8UoeWKY/status/1849415118960132131 Recent sightings of the camouflaged Model…

Bavarian electric air taxi developer Lilium announced plans to file for insolvency for two main subsidiaries, Lilium GmbH and Lilium eAircraft GmbH, following an inability to secure additional funding. This decision, disclosed in a filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Thursday, follows the recent refusal by the German government to provide state aid to the startup. Lilium stated that despite continued fundraising efforts, it has been unable to secure the necessary capital to sustain its subsidiaries’ operations, leaving the companies “over-indebted and unable to meet due liabilities.” The filing will be made to the Weilheim district…

Scout is making a return after a 44-year hiatus, revealing two new production-intent concepts: the Traveler SUV and the Terra truck. Inspired by the classic Scout models built by International Harvester from 1961 to 1980, these new electric vehicles (EVs) mark Scout’s entry into the market with advanced capabilities and off-road potential. Both models will offer up to 350 miles of electric range on their own, with an optional extended-range energy system, known as the Harvester, that provides additional range using a gas-powered generator for over 500 miles in total. Though official specifications haven’t been disclosed, Scout reports that the…

Chinese automaker GAC is set to debut its Aion V electric SUV in Europe next year, marking the company’s entry into the continent’s growing electric vehicle (EV) market. The Aion V, already a well-known model in China, was showcased at the Paris Motor Show, where GAC announced its broader European ambitions, which include future launches of additional core models such as an SUV and a B-segment hatchback. The Aion V, now in its second generation, is a midsize SUV measuring 4.65 meters in length, positioning it as a competitor to models like the Volkswagen ID.4. With power outputs ranging between…

Opel has introduced a facelift for its compact SUV, the Mokka, while significantly reducing the price of the electric version in Germany. The new pricing follows changes in the model range, with the 100 kW electric motor option no longer available. The Mokka Electric now comes exclusively with a 115 kW motor and a 54 kWh battery, with prices starting at €36,740, down from the previous €44,720 for the 115 kW variant. The reduction in price is part of a broader trend within the Stellantis group, which owns Opel. The company also recently lowered prices for the Corsa Electric, a…

Sweden-based Volvo Cars reported on Wednesday that it exceeded third-quarter operating profit expectations but revised its full-year sales growth forecast downward amid a slowdown affecting higher-end vehicles. The company indicated that demand for electric vehicles has diminished over the past year, attributed to a shortage of affordable models and the slow deployment of charging infrastructure. Additionally, competition from lower-priced Chinese models has intensified, and automakers are preparing for the impact of European tariffs on EVs manufactured in China. Volvo Cars now anticipates its retail sales will increase by 7-8% this year, a reduction from its July forecast of 12-15% growth,…

Construction and mining equipment leader Liebherr has unveiled its hydrogen-powered wheel loader, claiming it to be the first of its kind globally. The company has announced a pilot project at the Kanzelstein quarry in Gratkorn, Austria, marking a significant step in the use of hydrogen technology in heavy machinery. The new project, initiated in collaboration with STRABAG, Austria’s largest construction company, aims to serve as a proof of concept over a two-year testing period. STRABAG will utilize the L 566 H wheel loader prototype, which was first showcased earlier this year at Liebherr’s private testing facility. This collaboration highlights the…

Zeekr has announced that the first production units of its new model, the Zeekr Mix, have rolled off the production line, just days ahead of its official launch on October 23. The company shared images of the production line via Weibo and confirmed that the model will be unveiled at a launch event starting at 7 p.m. Beijing time. The Zeekr Mix, a five-seater MPV, has been on display in Zeekr showrooms since October 18. It is the first model based on Zeekr’s SEA-M architecture, a derivative of Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), which was debuted earlier this year at…

BYD has officially unveiled the Seal 06 GT, a pure electric hatchback from its Ocean series, which hit the market on October 18. The Seal 06 GT offers four trim levels, with prices ranging from 136,800 to 186,800 yuan ($19,300 to $26,300 USD). The model comes with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, and its CLTC cruising range spans 505 km, 550 km, and 605 km, depending on the variant. The vehicle is based on BYD’s advanced e-Platform 3.0 Evo, and its size is designed for practical city driving with dimensions of 4630 mm in length, 1880…

Tesla has offered a closer look at its upcoming wireless electric vehicle charging station, showcased during the recent unveiling of its Robotaxi. While the automaker previously focused on automated robot arms for charging, it now seems Tesla is shifting towards wireless solutions for its future autonomous vehicles. Historically, Tesla showed little interest in wireless charging, as it doesn’t solve a pressing problem—plugging in a vehicle is a simple task. However, with the push toward self-driving technology, automating charging becomes more relevant. If vehicles can drive themselves, they should ideally be able to charge independently without human intervention. https://twitter.com/Tesla/status/1847302296494915588 The primary…

Ford F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E drivers may face a slight delay in accessing Tesla’s Supercharger network, as Ford is set to replace some of the NACS (North American Charging Standard) adapters previously issued to owners. Although several Ford EV owners had already received their adapters, the automaker has now notified many that the units are being recalled due to potential issues. This development follows the announcement made by Ford CEO Jim Farley and Tesla’s Elon Musk last May, revealing a partnership that would give Ford EV drivers access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. Ford was the first automaker to…

Spooky season is in full swing, and Rivian is adding a playful twist with a series of Halloween-themed software updates, including a new “Car Costumes” feature. Starting on October 18, Rivian drivers can enjoy several fun, spooky upgrades that bring their electric vehicles to life—literally, in some cases. The highlight of the update is the “Car Costumes” feature, which, when the car is parked, uses the infotainment screen, sound system, and exterior lighting to imitate three iconic vehicles. One of the featured costumes is a nod to the Knight Rider TV series. Rivian’s Gear Guard mascot will appear dressed as…

Valeo and Mahle are expanding their product offerings for magnet-free electric motors, specifically focusing on the development of an electric axle system with outputs of up to 350 kW. This collaboration follows a successful development partnership between Valeo and a European vehicle manufacturer in this technology area. The partnership aims to create an innovative magnet-free e-axle designed for electric vehicles (EVs) with maximum outputs ranging from 220 to 350 kW. Both companies have set ambitious objectives, intending to enhance the performance and efficiency of magnet-free electric motors. While Mahle did not disclose specific efficiency targets, it indicated that the carbon…

Audi has officially unveiled the all-new 2025 Q6 Sportback E-Tron, a stylish coupe-style electric SUV that expands its Q6 E-Tron lineup. Building on the same Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture as the Porsche Macan, the Q6 Sportback E-Tron emphasizes a balance of performance, efficiency, and advanced technology. The vehicle’s design, characterized by its sloping roofline and aerodynamics, contributes to a highly competitive range of over 400 miles on the WLTP cycle in its top configuration. Two battery sizes and powertrain options are available for the Q6 Sportback E-Tron. The base model comes with a 75.8 kWh battery (83 kWh gross),…

Zeekr, the electric vehicle (EV) subsidiary of Geely Holding Group, has entered the Brazilian market with the introduction of its Zeekr 001 model. The vehicle was launched in São Paulo on October 10, marking the company’s first step into the market as part of its international expansion strategy. Priced at 428,000 reais ($76,390), the Zeekr 001 will be available for delivery in Brazil starting in November, according to a company press release. Zeekr also plans to open its first store in Brazil in December, with additional locations expected to follow in major cities. Zeekr has been expanding its presence across…

Lynk & Co has officially unveiled its new 02 electric vehicle, marking the brand’s first entry into the European market. The model, also known as the Z20 in China, is presented as a striking five-door crossover coupe designed to capture attention with its aerodynamically optimized front end, split lighting units, and active shutter intake. The vehicle features a panoramic glass roof, a two-tone paint scheme, and is offered with either 19- or 20-inch wheels, alongside flush-mounted door handles and a prominent rear spoiler with integrated taillights. Notably, the 02 includes a unique “Hey Honk” feature, which allows for customizable sounds…

The U.S. has the potential to lead the world in electric vehicle (EV) battery development, driven by a strong local customer base and supportive government policies, according to Kurt Kelty, General Motors’ vice president of batteries. Speaking at The Battery Show in Detroit, Kelty highlighted that while China remains the global leader in EV battery production, largely due to 15 years of government subsidies and control of key materials, the U.S. is now positioned to challenge that dominance. “It’s a simple and pragmatic reality that the development of any new technology benefits from proximity to customers,” Kelty said. “We now…

Tesla recently held its highly anticipated Robotaxi event, where the company introduced not only its upcoming driverless Robotaxi but also unveiled an innovative autonomous van, referred to as the Robovan. This versatile vehicle is designed to accommodate either 20 passengers for mass transit or serve as a cargo hauler, expanding Tesla’s vision of automated transport solutions. The event, dubbed the “We, Robot” showcase, primarily aimed to spotlight the new 2-seat Robotaxi, alongside updates on Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus. Attendees witnessed Robotaxis shuttling passengers around the Warner Bros. backlot, while Optimus robots engaged the crowd by serving drinks and distributing goodie…