Electric road vehicles and material developments in their technology, production or market.
Rivian cuts 2026 spending forecast and narrows loss guidance
Rivian cut its 2026 capital-spending forecast by $250 million at the midpoint and narrowed its projected adjusted loss. It maintained its 65,000–70,000 delivery target while ramping up R2 production at its Normal, Illinois plant.
Ferrari CEO defends controversial Luce electric-car launch
Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna defended the controversial launch of the Luce, the company’s first fully electric car, saying he would change nothing. Ferrari’s order books are full through 2027, while reported Luce capacity sold out within two months.
Xiaomi opens Chinese presales for Skynomad N70 and N90 crossovers
Xiaomi has opened Chinese presales for its Skynomad N70 and N90 range-extended crossovers, priced from 259,900 yuan. The models offer up to 505km of CLTC electric range, LiDAR-based assisted driving and 5G connectivity, with the N90 launching in September 2026.
Freelander 8 extended-range electric SUV enters production in China
Chery Jaguar Land Rover has started mass production of the Freelander 8 extended-range electric SUV at its Changshu plant in China. The six-seat model uses a 1.5-litre generator, a 60.3kWh battery and Huawei assisted driving with 896-line LiDAR.
Xiaomi Skynomad N90 Max reaches Chinese dealers ahead of launch
Xiaomi’s Skynomad N90 Max extended-range electric SUV has reached dealers across China ahead of launch. The seven-seat model combines a 76kWh battery with a 1.5-litre range extender, dual-motor all-wheel drive and up to 505km of CLTC electric range.
Changan opens pre-sales for refreshed Deepal S05 with LiDAR
Changan has opened pre-sales in China for the refreshed electric Deepal S05, priced from 119,900 yuan. The update adds LiDAR, 26 sensors and SDA Pilot assisted-driving functions, alongside revised styling, a new cockpit and 520km or 620km ranges.
Ferrari Luce orders in China reportedly extend into 2027
Reported Chinese demand for Ferrari’s first battery-electric model, the Luce, has pushed new orders into 2027 after its reported 2026 allocation sold out. Ferrari has not confirmed regional order figures.
Electric cars are becoming cheaper to own as lower-cost models arrive
Analysis of ownership-cost data and forthcoming models argues that electric cars are already cheaper to run and maintain than petrol vehicles, with purchase-price parity approaching as battery costs fall and more affordable US models arrive.
Energy Networks Australia urges open-access kerbside charging reform
Energy Networks Australia is urging Australia’s energy-market regulator to allow electricity distributors to install and maintain open-access kerbside EV chargers, arguing this would accelerate deployment, improve competition and widen access for renters and apartment residents.
Chery confirms 350kW diesel plug-in hybrid Stockman ute for Australia
Chery has confirmed a 350kW, 800Nm diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain for its Stockman dual-cab ute, which is due to launch in Australia in late 2026. The four-wheel-drive model will offer up to 100km of electric-only driving and 3,500kg braked towing.
Chinese-made vehicles forecast to reach 58% of Australia’s market by 2035
The Australian Automotive Dealer Association forecasts Chinese-made vehicles will reach 58% of Australia’s new-car market by 2035. Chinese vehicles already held a 35.5% share in June, while battery-electric registrations rose 119.8% year on year in the first half of 2026.
SAIC opens China presales for MG 07 electric liftback
SAIC has opened presales in China for the MG 07 electric liftback, priced from 125,900 yuan. Higher trims offer CATL batteries, 800V 5C charging, up to 845 km CLTC range and roof-mounted LiDAR supporting assisted-driving functions.
Updated Smart #1 cuts charging time to 12 minutes with 800V system
Geely and Mercedes-Benz will launch an updated Smart #1 in China on 6 August, adding an 800V system that cuts 10–80% charging to 12 minutes. The electric crossover also gains a 245kW integrated e-drive and LiDAR-based assisted driving.
GM adds ChargePoint access to Energy Pass charging service
GM has added ChargePoint to its Energy Pass service, giving EV drivers access to ChargePoint DC fast and Level 2 stations through GM’s vehicle apps. The companies also report hundreds of new charging locations across the US, including sites supporting NACS and CCS1.
Commission opens €1.5bn funding call for European EV battery plants
The European Commission has opened a €1.5bn interest-free loan competition for first commercial-scale EV battery-cell plants in the EEA. Projects can receive up to €500m, with applications closing on 30 September 2026.
South African team to test electric minibus taxis in 2023
GoMetro, MiX by Powerfleet, HSW, ACDC Dynamics and Stellenbosch University are forming a project team to test electric minibus taxis in South Africa. Trials near Stellenbosch and a national roadshow will assess operational suitability and support wider taxi-sector electrification.
Updated BYD Seal 06 reaches Chinese dealerships ahead of launch
Updated BYD Seal 06 vehicles have reached Chinese dealerships ahead of launch. Regulatory filings and dealer reports indicate EV and DM-i powertrains, outputs up to 240 kW, Blade Battery options and indicative pricing of 105,000–145,000 yuan, while LiDAR-equipped versions may cost more.
China’s EV lead is reshaping Australia’s imported car market
June data shows China’s domestic EV growth is driving exports, while Thailand’s electrification could reshape Australian imports. Australia’s battery-electric sales reached 23.3% of new-car sales, highlighting the influence of supplier-country policy and production choices.
Jetour Zongheng F700 reaches Chinese dealers ahead of 6 August launch
Chery’s Jetour Zongheng F700 plug-in hybrid pickup has reached Chinese dealerships ahead of its 6 August launch. The 904 hp model combines an 800V architecture, CATL battery technology and a claimed 1,300 km range; South African sales are planned for 2027.
FAW and Lishen test EV battery charging to 70% in under four minutes
FAW’s Hongqi and Lishen Battery have tested an ultra-fast-charging EV battery that reaches 70% charge from 10% in 3 minutes 41 seconds. The 12C cell uses an advanced anode, low-resistance materials and liquid cooling to control heat during high-power charging.
Xiaomi discloses Kunlun range-extender specifications for Skynomad SUVs
Xiaomi Auto has disclosed specifications for the Kunlun range extender powering its upcoming Skynomad SUVs in China. The 1.5-litre turbocharged system produces 112 kW, supports several petrol octane ratings and achieves 5.7 L/100 km depleted WLTC consumption. An N90 Max prototype has completed more than 60,000 km of testing.
Tesla Model Y L becomes available for immediate delivery in Australia
Tesla’s six-seat Model Y L is available for immediate delivery in several Australian states after cancelled orders appeared in inventory. Built in Shanghai, the EV offers up to 681 km of range, three-row seating and vehicle-to-load capability.
Volvo EX60 electric SUV approved for Australian sales
Volvo’s EX60 electric SUV has received Australian sales approval in rear- and all-wheel-drive forms. The models offer 800V charging architecture, batteries up to 95kWh, WLTP ranges of 610–660km and towing capacities up to 2,400kg.
BYD launches Racco electric K-Car in Japan with up to 320 km range
BYD has launched the Racco, its first electric K-Car developed specifically for Japan. The compact hatchback offers 210 km or 320 km of WLTC range, starts at ¥2.145 million and qualifies for Japan’s national EV subsidy.
GWM plans nine-model Australian expansion by end of 2026
GWM plans to introduce nine models in Australia by the end of 2026, spanning petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery-electric powertrains. The expansion includes new electrified utes, SUVs and the WEY premium sub-brand, targeting fleet and novated-lease buyers.
ACT modelling finds current EV policies fall short of 2045 net-zero goal
Modelling of the ACT light-vehicle fleet finds current policies could deliver a 70% battery-EV fleet by 2045, but leave transport emissions around half their present level. Stronger EV targets and incentives to improve used-vehicle efficiency are recommended.
Stellantis Pro One reports 7% first-half commercial-vehicle sales growth
Stellantis Pro One reported 7% first-half 2026 sales growth and maintained strong commercial-vehicle positions globally. It led Europe’s battery-electric van market, increased shares in South America and North America, and launched the Ram Dakota in Brazil.
BYD reveals 2027 Seal 06 with roof-mounted LiDAR sensor
BYD has released images of the 2027 Seal 06, showing a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor and revised EV and DM-i powertrains. Reported EV outputs reach 240 kW, but launch timing, pricing and final specifications remain unconfirmed.
Toyota Australia targets fleet needs with multi-powertrain strategy
Toyota Australia is pursuing a multi-powertrain fleet strategy, matching hybrids, PHEVs, BEVs, diesel and hydrogen vehicles to different operating needs. Its HiLux BEV has secured more than 300 orders, including from major industrial and infrastructure fleets.
Toyota’s electric HiLux adopts De Dion rear suspension for eAxle packaging
Toyota’s electric HiLux uses a De Dion rigid-leaf rear suspension to package its rear eAxle while retaining payload, durability and rough-terrain capability. The layout reduces unsprung mass but remains less independent and more complex than a live axle.
BMW iX3 long-wheelbase EV targets 919km range in China
BMW’s new iX3 long-wheelbase EV has a 919km CLTC range and 13.6kWh/100km consumption. Built on an 800V architecture, it uses cylindrical batteries and CTP technology, with China pre-sales expected at the Chengdu Auto Show before fourth-quarter deliveries.
BYD teases 1,008 km electric flagship sedan with five-minute flash charging
BYD has teased the Da Han, a flagship electric sedan expected to offer up to 1,008 km of CLTC range. Its 102 kWh LFP Blade Battery will support Flash Charging, replenishing 10–70% in five minutes, ahead of an expected Chengdu Auto Show unveiling.
Volkswagen cuts 2026 revenue outlook after quarterly profit slump
Volkswagen reported a weaker-than-expected second-quarter operating profit and cut its 2026 revenue outlook to between -3% and 0% year on year. The carmaker cited the end of US production of its ID.4 electric SUV, adverse vehicle mix and rising costs.
Lynk & Co launches 07 GT plug-in hybrid wagon with 523 hp
Lynk & Co has launched the 07 GT plug-in hybrid wagon with up to 523 hp, a 28.3kWh battery and up to 200km of electric range. Higher trims add Nvidia-powered G-Pilot H7 assisted driving with LiDAR, door-to-door navigation and urban NOA.
Toyota, Hyundai and Honda dominate America’s growing hybrid market
US hybrid sales rose almost 20% year on year to a 15.4% market share in the first half of 2026. Toyota, Hyundai Motor Group and Honda accounted for 86% of sales, while Honda prepares a hybrid system for larger vehicles.
Ford and Geely to build electric vehicles at Spanish plant
Ford and Geely will form a joint venture to build electric vehicles at Ford’s Valencia plant in Spain. Subject to regulatory approval, operations are due to start in the first half of 2027, with production beginning in 2028.
Xpeng shows right-hand-drive L03 ahead of Australian launch
Xpeng has shown a right-hand-drive version of its L03 electric fastback ahead of its planned Australian launch. European versions offer two battery sizes, rear- or all-wheel drive and 220kW charging; UK sales are due in early 2027.
Smartcar links six Volkswagen Group EV brands to charging services
Smartcar has launched a live integration with Volkswagen Group Info Services AG covering six brands across more than 20 European markets. Its API provides charging data and remote start/stop controls for smart-charging, demand-response and energy-rewards services.
Mercedes-Benz opens Australian orders for electric GLC SUV
Mercedes-Benz has opened Australian orders for the electric GLC 400 4Matic SUV, priced from A$112,200. It offers a 94.4kWh battery, 630km WLTP range, 800V charging at up to 330kW, MB.OS software and MBUX Superscreen technology.
GAC launches Aion UT and Aion V electric cars in Australia
GAC has launched the electric Aion UT hatchback and Aion V SUV in Australia, expanding to 30 dealerships. The models target the affordable EV market, with the UT priced at about AU$32,000 and offering a claimed 430km range.
BYD reveals Qin Max EV sedan with five-minute Flash Charging
BYD has revealed the Qin Max mid-size sedan, offered as a plug-in hybrid or battery-electric model. Its Blade Battery and Flash Charging system can charge from 10% to 70% in five minutes, while EV versions offer up to 630km of claimed range.
Geely opens pre-sales for Galaxy TT Ultra electric sedan
Geely has opened pre-sales in China for the Galaxy TT Ultra, a pure-electric sedan featuring an 800V platform, 16-in-1 electric drive, 6C charging, LiDAR and Nvidia-powered assisted driving. The 999-unit launch is priced at 209,800 yuan.
Volkswagen reports ID. Polo success as ID. Cross launches amid job-cut fears
Volkswagen reports 25,000 pre-sales for its electric ID. Polo and launches the ID. Cross SUV, with prices, battery options and charging details. The updates come as the company considers closing German factories and cutting up to 100,000 jobs.
XPeng opens Australian orders for electric X9 people mover
XPeng has opened Australian orders for its seven-seat all-electric X9 people mover, priced from A$89,900. The model offers up to 580km WLTP range, 542kW DC charging and XPILOT driver-assistance features, with deliveries due shortly.
Australia Post to expand electric delivery fleet with A$40.5m grant
Australia Post will use a A$40.5 million federal grant to expand its electric delivery fleet, including vans, rigid trucks and prime movers. The investment will also fund depot chargepoints and electrical upgrades, with the rollout expected to cut diesel use by about one million litres annually.
XPeng to expand Australian EV range and pursue AI mobility plans
XPeng will expand its Australian range from one to five EVs, grow its regional retail network and establish local service support. The company also outlined plans for autonomous vehicles, robotaxis, flying cars and AI-powered humanoid robots.
