
Rivian R2 Enters Final Validation Before Production
Rivian's R2 electric SUV has entered final validation testing after extensive extreme-environment durability runs, with production approaching and reservations open.

Rivian's R2 electric SUV has entered final validation testing after extensive extreme-environment durability runs, with production approaching and reservations open.

BYD's ATTO 3 EVO gains 800V architecture, 220kW DC charging, available all-wheel drive, and up to 317 miles of WLTP range on its updated e-Platform 3.0.

The all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona helped the Charger lineup earn 2026 MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Best of the Year and Best Sport Coupe awards, recognizing its multi-energy performance and innovation.

Volkswagen Group has produced five million electric drive units globally, with its APP550 system reaching one million units and a new in-house pulse inverter targeting future EV models.

McMurtry Automotive opens a new factory for Spéirling PURE production and launches McMurtry Technology to commercialize its electric fan car innovations for other manufacturers.

Škoda's all-electric Epiq city SUV debuts on the MEB+ platform with up to 267 miles of range, three powertrain variants, and pricing competitive with combustion models.

Renault's Twingo E-Tech electric debuts in the UK, targeting sub-£20,000 pricing with 163 miles of range from an LFP battery and a 60kW motor.

Polestar 5 made its first public track appearance at Austria's FAT Ice Race, showcasing 650 kW of electric performance on a frozen circuit alongside a Gran Turismo livery partnership.

The Drive named the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid its Best Hybrid of 2026, citing its 231-hp turbocharged powertrain, 36 mpg efficiency, and 86% year-over-year sales growth.

Audi's 2027 A6 Sportback e-tron and Q6 e-tron gain a redesigned MMI interface, improved regenerative braking, a 4K dashcam, and new drive select modes for Q2 2026 delivery.

A Warranty Solutions Group study of 1,000 real-world repair claims names the Nissan LEAF the UK's most reliable used EV with a 1.52% claim rate.

Stellantis recorded €22.2 billion in H2 2025 charges as it resets its business strategy, pulling back on BEV plans while expanding hybrid and ICE powertrain options.

Polestar expands European charging access with Plug & Charge at 28,000+ stations, Tesla Supercharger integration, and over 1 million charging points through a single app.

Karma Automotive and Factorial announced the first U.S. solid-state battery production program for passenger vehicles, integrating FEST technology into the all-electric Kaveya super-coupe.

XPENG and Voltron launched Indonesia's first 480 kW ultra-fast charging station, supporting the G6 Pro's 5C battery technology with 10%-80% charging in under 12 minutes.

The 2026 Kia EV9 earns Kelley Blue Book's Best 3-Row Electric Vehicle award for the third consecutive year, recognized for its range, value, design and technology.

Subaru begins battery electric vehicle production at its upgraded Gunma Yajima Plant, with the jointly developed E-Outback as the first BEV built on its new mixed-model line.

Chery International confirms LEPAS as its fourth UK automotive brand, with the new energy vehicle marque launching its first model in Q3 2026 following rapid market share growth.

BMW Group Plant Munich begins pre-series production of the new BMW i3, validating modernized manufacturing systems ahead of series production scheduled for second half 2026.

The Honda Civic Hybrid earned The Drive's 2026 "Best Value" award for the third time, recognized for its 200-horsepower output, 50-mpg city rating, and competitive positioning.