Author: Floyd Hawkins

Fiat is breathing new life into its iconic Fiat 500 by reviving the name Topolino, but this time as an all-electric mini car. Expected to be the smallest electric vehicle in the Fiat lineup, the Topolino is set to incorporate technology from two older models within the Stellantis group. In recently released press photos, the Fiat Topolino showcases a retro design that draws inspiration from the Citroën Ami, Opel Rocks-e, and the Fiat 500e. While the exact specifications are yet to be announced, it is anticipated that the Topolino will share similar technology with the Ami and Rocks-e. Both of…

In a captivating YouTube video, Steve, an experienced Tesla owner, provides an in-depth assessment of his ownership experience with the Lucid Air Grand Touring. Having acquired the luxurious electric sedan in late 2022, Steve has now spent six months with this remarkable vehicle. Through his review, he sheds light on the car’s remarkable features, while also addressing a few concerns he encountered along the way. Steve’s Lucid Air Grand Touring boasts an impressive 819-horsepower and rolls on sleek 20-inch wheels. This extraordinary luxury barge achieves the seemingly impossible feat of accelerating from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just…

In a significant development for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Freewire, a unique charging network, has announced its support for the integration of Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug on its own chargers. This comes shortly after the partnership announcement between American automotive giants Tesla and Ford, where Ford committed to incorporating NACS charging plugs in their future EVs. The NACS plug, although considered by many as a superior design compared to the current Combined Charging System (CCS) standard, had primarily been exclusive to Tesla vehicles. While Tesla recently opened up its Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs, it still…

In a fascinating turn of events, the long-forgotten tale of three brand-new Tesla Roadsters has resurfaced, captivating automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Back in 2010, these sleek electric vehicles were shipped to China, but fate had different plans, as they remained trapped within their containers, untouched and hidden from the world. However, the time has come for these automotive treasures to find a new home, and the latest bid has skyrocketed to a staggering $2 million, revealing the enduring allure of these automotive time capsules. Gruber Motors, a company dedicated to aiding the sellers in their quest to find a buyer, disclosed…

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus and Hino Motors, two prominent Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturers, have announced their plans to merge and collaborate on various aspects of commercial vehicle development, procurement, production, and electrification. The respective parent companies, Daimler Truck and Toyota, also intend to make equal investments in the listed holding company of Fuso and Hino. Over the next 18 months, the details regarding the collaboration, such as the name, location, shareholding, and corporate structure of the new holding company, will be determined. The final agreement between Daimler Truck and Toyota is expected to be signed in the first quarter…

In an unexpected move, Ford has taken a significant step towards revolutionizing the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience by partnering with Tesla. This groundbreaking collaboration has the potential to inspire other car manufacturers to follow suit, as Ford aims to leverage Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network across the United States, setting a new standard for EV charging infrastructure. Loren McDonald, CEO of consulting firm EVAdoption, expressed his astonishment at Ford’s decision, stating, “We’re all shocked that Ford has announced this.” He also highlighted the broader implications, suggesting that Ford’s partnership with Tesla could pave the way for other brands to join…

In a recent development, Mercedes-Benz has announced a recall of 7,558 vehicles in the United States, including various 2022-2023 models of the Mercedes EQS and S-Class. The recall is prompted by a flaw in the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) software, which has the potential to cause the speedometer to display 0 mph regardless of the vehicle’s actual speed. This software issue poses a safety concern, necessitating the recall. The affected vehicles comprise the 2022 Mercedes EQS 450 and EQS 580, as well as the 2023 Mercedes S 580e, and the 2023 Mercedes-Maybach S580 and S680. The problem initially came to…

The entry-level Kia EV6 Light, equipped with a 58-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery (Standard Range), has made a comeback in the United States. After missing out on the 2023 model year lineup, the South Korean automaker has confirmed that the Light trim is once again available, albeit on a limited scale in the Western Region. The states where the Kia EV6 Light will be offered include Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. This reintroduction provides an opportunity for consumers in these regions to experience the rear-wheel drive Kia EV6 Light, which was previously available in the 2022…

According to a recent survey conducted by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, an overwhelming 70% of van drivers believe that electric vehicles (EVs) are well-suited for their business operations. This groundbreaking research highlights a significant shift in perception, with only 13% of van drivers expressing skepticism about the ability of zero-emission powertrains to meet their daily business needs. The study, which surveyed 1,000 UK van drivers, also revealed a remarkable 40% increase in the consideration of EVs since the onset of the pandemic. In 2019, half of the van drivers (50%) recognized the suitability of electric vehicles for their businesses, while the…

Econ Engineering, a provider of winter maintenance vehicle solutions, has recently unveiled an impressive addition to their lineup – a highly adaptable electric gritter truck. This groundbreaking vehicle offers year-round operation, thanks to its range of demountable body options, allowing for seamless switching between different fleet roles while maintaining zero-tailpipe emissions. At the heart of the truck’s versatility lies Econ’s revolutionary Electric Quick Change Body (E-QCB) system. In addition to the standard gritter body, this innovative system enables the truck to be equipped with a tipper body for efficient highway maintenance or a cage tipper for refuse collection and recycling…

Electreon, a startup dedicated to developing technology for charging electric vehicles while they are in motion, has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new world record for the longest electric journey completed without requiring a recharge. During a closed test loop, Electreon successfully drove a modified Toyota RAV4 PHEV for over 100 hours, utilizing their groundbreaking wireless charging technology. The vehicle traveled an impressive distance of 1,207.05 miles (1,924.56 km) solely on electric power. Despite the duration of the journey, the vehicle did come to a stop several times, with 55 different drivers taking part in the record attempt.…

Atlas, an emerging electric vehicle (EV) startup headquartered in London, UK, has made a significant announcement regarding its ambitious endeavor to create Africa’s very first EV. The company plans to design, engineer, and manufacture this groundbreaking vehicle in Africa, with production set to commence in 2026 and a global market debut slated for 2027. Atlas aims to leverage existing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components to minimize research and development (R&D) costs effectively. Describing its upcoming model as an “affordable, superior-engineered all-electric vehicle inspired by Moroccan design and identity,” Atlas has given a glimpse of its silhouette through a single teaser…