Author: E.Wilson

Ford’s New Ranger-Sized EV Ute Faces US Test Before Global Rollout
News

Ford’s New Ranger-Sized EV Ute Faces US Test Before Global Rollout

When Ford announced plans for a new electric utility vehicle (ute) in the size of its popular Ranger model, car enthusiasts around the world were excited. But before this Aussie favorite can hit our shores, it needs to pass muster with American drivers first.Key TakeawaysThe new Ford EV ute will debut in North America and must prove its worth there before going global.Aussies are eager for an electric option that matches the practicality of their beloved Ranger pickup trucks.Ford's decision to test the waters in a different market first could mean Australian drivers won't see it until later than they hoped.For many Aussies, the Ford Ranger is more than just an everyday vehicle—it’s part of family life. Parents use them for school runs and weekend adventures, while tradies rely on their rel...
Samsung SDI Shifts Focus to Energy Storage in US
EV & Electric Cars, News

Samsung SDI Shifts Focus to Energy Storage in US

Samsung SDI is making a big move by switching its focus from electric vehicle batteries to energy storage systems (ESS) for the U.S. market, thanks to a new contract worth over $1.35 billion.Key TakeawaysSamsung SDI will produce prismatic lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries in Indiana starting 2027 for ESS units, not EVs anymore.The company's SBB 2.0 container system promises high performance and safety at a competitive price point.As the only non-Chinese manufacturer of prismatic LFP cells currently operating in the U.S., Samsung SDI aims to capture more market share.Samsung SDI's new strategy isn't just about following trends; it’s also responding to customer needs. The company sees an opportunity to help utilities and data centers stabilize power supplies, especially as renewable ene...
Leapmotor Secures $530M from State-Owned FAW for EV Expansion
Industry & Business, News

Leapmotor Secures $530M from State-Owned FAW for EV Expansion

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker Leapmotor has secured a significant investment of $530 million from China's state-owned automaker, FAW Group. The deal sees FAW acquiring a five percent stake in the startup.Key Takeaways$530M raised through share issuance to FAW Equity Investment for R&D and expansionFunds will be used to increase working capital, expand sales networks, and enhance brand awarenessThe first joint model between Leapmotor and FAW's Hongqi brand is in development with a planned release next yearLeapmotor announced the deal on December 28th when it issued 74.8 million shares to FAW Equity Investment at RMB 50.03 ($6.97) per share, raising a total of $530M.The investment will help Leapmotor boost its research and development efforts while also expanding its sales networks...
Nio Delivers Its 40,000th ES8 Just 11 Days After the 30,000th Milestone
EV & Electric Cars, News, SUV & Crossovers

Nio Delivers Its 40,000th ES8 Just 11 Days After the 30,000th Milestone

Nio has hit a significant milestone in its third-generation ES8 production by delivering its 40,000th unit just eleven days after hitting the 30,000 mark. The company's rapid growth shows no signs of slowing down.Key TakeawaysNio delivered its 40,000th third-gen ES8 in just eleven days after the 30,000 milestone was reached.The company met its annual target for this model within a hundred days of launch.Orders for the entire year's production capacity were sold out within two days of launching.Nio founder William Li announced on social media that the 40,000th ES8 was delivered to an owner in Zhongshan. The model has been a hit since its launch at Nio Day 2025 back in September.With deliveries starting just one day after launching, it's clear how much demand there is for this large electric...
BYD Denies Flying Car Rumors, Other Chinese Automakers Move Forward
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

BYD Denies Flying Car Rumors, Other Chinese Automakers Move Forward

<a href="https://autoglobalnews.com/geely-galaxy-starshine-6-phev-challenges-byd-in-compact-ev-segment/" style="color:#1a73e8;text-decoration:underline;" title="Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 PHEV Challenges BYD in Compact EV S">BYD has denied rumors that it will launch a flying car after an AI-generated video went viral over the weekend. The company's general manager of brand and public relations, Li Yunfei, confirmed on Weibo that BYD does not have plans to develop or release such vehicles.Key TakeawaysBYD denies rumors about launching flying cars despite AI-generated videos circulating online.Xpeng's Aridge subsidiary is moving forward with mass production of its modular flying car by 2026.The Chinese market could see over 100,000 eVTOLs in households and as air taxis by 2030 accor...
Nikola’s Workforce Down to One: The End of an Era?
News, SUV & Crossovers

Nikola’s Workforce Down to One: The End of an Era?

Nikola, the once-promising electric and hydrogen truck startup, has seen its workforce shrink dramatically. From a peak of over eight hundred employees just two years ago, Nikola is now down to one remaining employee – liquidating trustee Thomas Pitta.Key TakeawaysNikola's November losses pushed total bankruptcy losses past $556 millionThe company has sold off most of its assets, raising about $38.8 million in the processAwards against controversial founder Trevor Milton may not materialize as Nikola continues to bleed cashSince filing for bankruptcy back in February 2025, Nikola's financial situation has only worsened. They reported zero revenue and sales last month and lost about $1.6 million.The company is now deeply insolvent with a negative net worth of around $172 million. With asset...
Mazda CX-70 Turbo Premium Plus: Luxury and Sportiness in One Package
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Mazda CX-70 Turbo Premium Plus: Luxury and Sportiness in One Package

The Mazda CX-70 Turbo Premium Plus for the year 2026 is a sleek SUV that combines luxury with sporty flair, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize style over space. Offering premium features like Nappa leather seats and advanced technology, this midsize crossover aims to please drivers seeking both comfort and performance.Key TakeawaysMazda CX-70 Turbo Premium Plus offers a luxurious interior with comfortable seating for five passengers in two rows.The SUV comes equipped with advanced technology, including dual 12.3-inch screens and Bose audio system.Priced competitively, the Mazda CX-70 provides value without compromising on quality or performance.With its turbocharged engine producing 280 horsepower and a smooth hybrid setup, the CX-70 Turbo Premium Plus is designed for ...
2026 Toyota HiLux: An Update or a New Model?
EV & Electric Cars, News, Reviews

2026 Toyota HiLux: An Update or a New Model?

The new 2026 Toyota HiLux is out, and it's got everyone wondering if it’s truly an all-new model or just another improved version. With its bold exterior updates and revamped interior, the ninth-gen HiLux aims to keep Aussies excited about their favorite workhorse.Key TakeawaysThe 2026 Toyota HiLux gets a fresh look with new front sheet metal and an improved cabin.Under the hood, it's mostly business as usual for this workhorse, but there are some tech upgrades to keep things modern.Aussie car buyers will be happy to see that familiar reliability and durability remain strong selling points of the HiLux.The 2026 Toyota HiLux is a bit of an enigma. Is it really new, or just another iteration? The answer lies somewhere in between. While there are noticeable changes on the outside with its bol...
Why the Used Tesla Model Y Is Still a Top Pick in EVs
EV & Electric Cars, Guides & Maintenance, News

Why the Used Tesla Model Y Is Still a Top Pick in EVs

When it comes to electric vehicles, few names are as iconic or polarizing as Tesla. The company's latest offering, the Model Y, has been on UK roads since late 2021 and continues to impress buyers looking for value, efficiency, and practicality in a mid-sized SUV.Key TakeawaysThe Tesla Model Y stands out from the pack of new EVs on the market today.Affordable used models are now available, offering great value for money and reliability.Owners love how easy it is to maintain a Tesla thanks to its Supercharger network and user-friendly technology.The Model Y's arrival in Britain was met with both excitement and skepticism. But after four years on the market, it’s clear this SUV has earned its place as one of the best electric vehicles around. With plenty of used models now hitting dealership...
Porsche and Volkswagen Dealerships Face Challenges in China
Industry & Business, News

Porsche and Volkswagen Dealerships Face Challenges in China

Empty showrooms, delayed deposits, and operational suspensions are hitting Porsche and Volkswagen dealerships across central and southwestern parts of China. The Beijing Shijingshan Porsche Center is expected to close soon due to these issues.Key TakeawaysPorsche deliveries in China fell 26% year-over-year, dropping from a peak of 95,000 vehicles in 2021 to just under 32,200 units by Q3 2025.The affected dealerships are owned and operated by Dong'an Holdings, which has put all employees on leave while addressing customer deposits.Porsche China issued a public apology for the situation and is cooperating with police to protect consumer rights.Local media reports show that some Porsche centers in Zhengzhou and Guiyang are now empty. Vehicles were removed overnight, leaving behind bare showro...