Author: Moira Shortle

Toyota Europe’s Head of Light Commercial Vehicle Sales, Emmanuel Beaune, has indicated that an all-electric version of the popular Toyota Hilux pickup is still in the early stages of investigation. While the Hilux remains a top-selling pickup globally, the development of a fully electric variant may take longer than anticipated. Despite unveiling the Hilux Hybrid 48V earlier this month, featuring a small hybrid system connected to a 2.8 L diesel engine, Toyota has yet to commit to a fully electric Hilux. The hybrid version offers marginal improvements, with up to 5% better fuel efficiency. Toyota’s exploration of alternative powertrains also…

Fiat recently unveiled the redesigned 500e in the United States, prompting mixed reactions due to its 149-mile range and $32,500 price tag. However, a trio of 500e concepts, auctioned as part of Art Basel Miami Beach events, surpassed expectations by fetching a combined total of $600,000, well beyond their estimated value of $50,000 to $100,000. The standout performer was the 500e Kartell concept, which commanded an astonishing $275,000. Noteworthy features contributing to its appeal included blue-tinted glass, a six-layer “ecocrome” paint job with a chrome-like finish, and design elements inspired by Kartell’s Kabuki lamp. The latter, retailing for $1,685, influenced…

The European Union (EU) suggested on Wednesday a potential postponement of three years to the enforcement of stringent regulations slated to impose import tariffs on numerous electric vehicles (EVs) traded with Britain, starting next year. EVs constitute a vital segment of trade between Britain and the EU, as both regions are primary markets for each other’s electric vehicle exports. The proposed delay aims to provide stakeholders with additional time to align with the evolving regulations, considering the significance of electric vehicles in reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the European Commission revealed plans to allocate an extra 3 billion euros ($3.24 billion)…

Italian manufacturer Iveco and Chinese firm BYD have emerged as the successful bidders in a substantial electric bus tender conducted by public transport operator ANM in Naples. While Iveco secured a contract for the delivery of 46 electric buses with lengths of nine and ten meters, BYD clinched three contracts, winning a total of 142 electric buses in lengths of eleven, 12, and 18 meters for the Naples fleet. The specific delivery timelines for the vehicles have not been disclosed. The lot secured by Iveco for 46 midibuses is valued at €25.3 million, with ANM setting a unit price of…

American automaker Rivian has introduced an electric vehicle (EV) leasing program, making it available on its online configurator. Starting immediately, customers in 14 initial states can explore leasing options for Rivian’s R1T pickup from the company’s existing inventory. The announcement follows Rivian’s recent communication to its subscriber base, confirming the imminent launch of a U.S. leasing program. While details were initially limited, it was revealed that the leasing initiative would apply to existing R1T models in Rivian’s inventory. The move was coupled with the automaker’s demand lever strategy, offering incentives for pre-configured R1T purchases. Rivian has now disclosed the initial…

German automotive giant Volkswagen has entered into a collaboration with Austrian manufacturer and engineering company Magna Steyr, in a deal reported to be valued at €450 million (US$492 million), aimed at the development of robust vehicles for its recently revived American brand, Scout. This initiative follows Volkswagen’s 2022 announcement of the Scout brand’s return, coupled with the confirmation of a $2 billion investment in a South Carolina factory dedicated to electric vehicle production. See also: Jan Spies Appointed Chief Production Officer for Scout Motors, Overseeing Upcoming Electric Pickup Truck and SUV Production While specific details about the Scout brand’s offerings…

Northvolt, the Swedish battery manufacturer, is set to revolutionize the energy storage sector with its entry into the sodium-ion battery (SIB) business, citing a significant technological breakthrough. Diverging from the trend of Chinese manufacturers swiftly adopting SIBs for electric vehicles (EVs), Northvolt is initially targeting stationary energy storage systems. The company’s collaboration with development partner Altris has resulted in a groundbreaking cell boasting an impressive energy density of 160 Wh/kg. Achieved at Northvolt Labs in Västerås, Sweden, this “best-in-class energy density” relies on a hard carbon anode and a Prussian White-based cathode, a variant of the inorganic colorant Berlin Blue.…

VinFast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has adopted a distinctive strategy by offering substantial payouts to customers experiencing extended service delays on their vehicles. In an innovative move, VinFast is providing cash incentives or service vouchers, ranging from $100 for minor issues to $300 for problems rendering the vehicle inoperable, with additional compensation for service delays exceeding three days, as reported by Automotive News. This unique post-sales service initiative, not directly associated with VinFast’s 10-year, 120,000-mile warranty, aims to distinguish the automaker in the increasingly competitive EV market. VinFast clarified that the payouts are part of its commitment to…

Electric vehicle manufacturer Fisker marked a noteworthy achievement by successfully delivering more than 100 electric cars in a single day, with expectations of further growth in the near future. Fisker attributes this milestone to its revamped distribution strategy, a key factor in expediting sales and deliveries. The company reported the delivery of 107 Fisker Oceans on November 16, emphasizing the success of its enhanced distribution capabilities. These improvements include the establishment of dedicated delivery locations globally, staffed by a growing number of Fisker employees, and the integration of multiple transportation logistics partners to facilitate the swift movement of Fisker Oceans…

Decathlon has unveiled an updated version of its Rockrider E-ST 100 electric mountain bike, featuring a fresh white and blue colorway. The new model, introduced in May alongside the initial white/red and blue options, maintains its core specifications while introducing a visually appealing design update. The predominantly white frame is accentuated with stylish blue details on the frame, battery housing, and tires, providing a distinctive aesthetic to riders. Despite the cosmetic changes, the technical features of the White/Blue 27.5″ Semi-Rigid Electric Mountain Bike E-ST 100 remain consistent with its predecessors. Powered by a 250W rear-hub motor delivering 42 Nm torque,…

At the recent EICMA Show in Italy, electric motorcycle manufacturer Vmoto, hailing from Perth, Australia but with production facilities in Nanjing, China, turned heads with the unveiling of its latest creation, the Vmoto APD Concept. This stunning electric scooter concept is the result of a partnership with the renowned Italian design house Pininfarina, known for its iconic automotive designs. Following a vision study that premiered at last year’s EICMA show, the Vmoto APD Concept offers a glimpse into the future and hints at an upcoming production model that will soon join Vmoto’s lineup. The Vmoto APD Concept is a striking…

The Toyota bZ4X, an all-electric vehicle, has made its debut in the U.K. as an emergency services vehicle, marking a significant milestone since its introduction. Joining the London parks police team, the bZ4X will play a crucial role as a response car for the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, where it will be tasked with patrolling 28 parks, open spaces, and cemeteries. Additionally, the vehicle will be called upon for events like the Notting Hill Carnival. Neil Broad, General Manager of Toyota One Fleet Services, expressed confidence in the bZ4X’s capabilities, stating, “With its high quality, versatility, and strong…