Author: M.Chen

2026 New Car Calendar: Toyota RAV4, BYD Sealion Lead the Way
2Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
EV & Electric Cars, News, SUV & Crossovers

2026 New Car Calendar: Toyota RAV4, BYD Sealion Lead the Way

The Australian car market is set to heat up in 2026 with a wave of new models and brands entering showrooms. From established names like Toyota and Mazda to newcomers such as Denza and Lepas, there's something for every driver.Key TakeawaysNew-gen RAV4 and CX-5 dominate the family SUV segment.Nissan Navara and Volkswagen Amarok Walkinshaw lead ute innovation.Battery-electric vehicles see significant growth with XPeng G6 update, Mazda 6e, and Mitsubishi's first EV since 2013.The Toyota RAV4 is getting a major overhaul for its new generation. It will compete head-on against the refreshed Mazda CX-5 in what promises to be an exciting battle for market leadership.Ute enthusiasts won't miss out on fresh options either, with Nissan's Navara and Volkswagen's Amarok Walkinshaw set to steal the sho...
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Chevrolet Kadett GS Redefined Brazilian Sports Cars in the ’80s
1Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
EV & Electric Cars, News

Chevrolet Kadett GS Redefined Brazilian Sports Cars in the ’80s

The Chevrolet Kadett GS, introduced in Brazil in 1989 as General Motors' first new car model in five years, set a new standard for sports cars with its impressive performance and innovative design.Key TakeawaysThe Kadett GS achieved top speeds of 171.1 km/h on ethanol fuel.It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 11.26 seconds, outperforming many competitors.The aerodynamic design with a drag coefficient (Cx) of 0.30 made it stand out among its peers.In the late '80s, Brazil's economy was stagnant and imports were banned, leading domestic automakers to innovate within their existing models. The Kadett GS came at this pivotal moment with a powerful engine inherited from the Monza S/R.The 2.0-liter ethanol-powered motor in the Kadett GS delivered impressive performance figures: it reached s...
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World’s Largest Engine: Wärtsilä RT-flex96C Packs 110,430 HP
1Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
News

World’s Largest Engine: Wärtsilä RT-flex96C Packs 110,430 HP

The Wärtsilä RT-flex96C is the world’s largest engine with an impressive output of 110,430 horsepower. This colossal diesel motor powers some of the biggest container ships on Earth.Key TakeawaysThe Wärtsilä RT-flex96C has a power output of 110,430 hp and weighs in at 2,300 tons.This massive engine produces 775,376 kgfm torque, making it over two thousand times more powerful than the world's most powerful truck motor.The RT-flex96C measures a staggering 13.5 meters high, equivalent to four floors of a building.With its Common-Rail technology and heat recovery systems, the Wärtsilä RT-flex96C achieves surprising efficiency despite its enormous size. It's designed for ocean-going vessels that carry over 14,000 containers each.The engine’s volumetric capacity stands at a staggering 25,480 lit...
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MX-5 Miata Gets a Power Boost with Jaguar V6 Engine
1Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
EV & Electric Cars, News

MX-5 Miata Gets a Power Boost with Jaguar V6 Engine

The MX-5 Miata, already beloved by enthusiasts for its lightweight design and agile handling, has received an unexpected upgrade. Mazda's iconic roadster now comes equipped with the Jag XF Sportbrake’s V6 engine, offering significantly more power while maintaining a surprisingly light curb weight.Key TakeawaysThe MX-5 Miata gains 295 horsepower from its new Jaguar V6 engine.Curb weight remains under 1,400 kg despite the added power.Pricing starts at $48,000 for this limited edition model.With a power-to-weight ratio of around 2.5 hp/kg, the MX-5 Miata stands out in its class when compared to competitors like the Porsche Boxster and Toyota Supra. This puts it ahead by nearly 10% over similar models.The Jaguar V6 engine provides an impressive torque output of 380 Nm from just 1,200 rpm, givi...
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Zoox Vehicles Draw Attention in Unexpected Neighborhoods
1Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
News

Zoox Vehicles Draw Attention in Unexpected Neighborhoods

Driving through a quiet neighborhood on the outskirts of Detroit recently, Jalopnik contributor Erin Marquis noticed something unusual: two Zoox vehicles parked in her neighbor's driveway. This observation sparked curiosity about why these robotic taxis would be found here instead of bustling city centers.Key TakeawaysZoox cars are typically seen in urban areas, not residential neighborhoods.The presence of two Zoox vehicles suggests an unusual use or ownership pattern.This sighting raises questions about the future integration and accessibility of autonomous technology.According to Erin's observations, most streets around Detroit feature standard cars from major manufacturers like Ford and GM. However, she has spotted some oddities in her area over time, including a '60s Rolls-Royce and a...
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China Unveils First National Standard for Solid-State Batteries
1Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
News

China Unveils First National Standard for Solid-State Batteries

China has taken a step toward industrializing solid-state battery technology with the release of its first national standard, published by the National Automotive Standardization Technical Committee on December 30. The new standard aims to establish terminology and classifications for these advanced batteries.Key TakeawaysThe draft includes a strict classification system based on ion transfer methods and electrolyte type.To qualify as solid-state, the weight loss rate must not exceed 0.5% under specific testing conditions.A more stringent verification criterion than previous industry guidelines is introduced to ensure quality control.The new standard defines three types of batteries based on ion transfer methods: liquid electrolyte, hybrid solid-liquid, and pure solid-state. This classific...
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China Adjusts Vehicle Subsidies for 2026: Budget Cars See Smaller Support
1Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
News

China Adjusts Vehicle Subsidies for 2026: Budget Cars See Smaller Support

Starting in January, China's vehicle subsidy program will undergo significant changes under the new policy announced by the National Development and Reform Commission. The shift from fixed subsidies to a percentage-based model with caps aims at supporting various price ranges differently.Key TakeawaysNew energy vehicles (NEVs) get 12% subsidy when scrapped, up to ¥20,000; gasoline cars see a cap of ¥15,000 at 10%The trade-in option offers NEV buyers an 8% subsidy with the same maximum limitsOlder vehicles registered before specific dates qualify for subsidies under both scrappage and trade-in policiesNew energy vehicle (NEV) owners who scrap their old rides will receive a higher percentage of support, but budget-friendly models won't benefit as much compared to high-end cars. This adjustme...
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Shanghai Extends Free EV License Plates for Another Year
1Jan By M.ChenNo Comments
EV & Electric Cars, News

Shanghai Extends Free EV License Plates for Another Year

Shanghai will continue offering free license plates to electric vehicle (EV) owners in the city through December 31, 2026. The policy aims to boost adoption of new energy vehicles and supports companies like Tesla and Nio.Key TakeawaysThe free license plate offer extends for another year in Shanghai.<New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) made up 60.75% of all vehicle registrations from January to November.PHEV owners won't qualify for the program starting next year, focusing on battery electric vehicles and extended-range EVs exclusively.Shanghai's decision underscores its commitment to fostering a green automotive industry by encouraging more people to buy BEVs. The city has been leading in NEV adoption with strong support from local authorities.In 2025, the number of registered vehicles rose by ...
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Ford Recalls Transit Custom and Tourneo for Battery Vent Issue in Australia
30Dec By M.ChenNo Comments
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Ford Recalls Transit Custom and Tourneo for Battery Vent Issue in Australia

Ford has issued a recall affecting nearly 7,509 of its Transit Custom and Tourneo models manufactured from 2021 to 2025 due to concerns over the operation of their battery vents. The defect could allow toxic gases into the cabin under certain conditions.Key TakeawaysFord recalling nearly 7,509 Transit Custom and Tourneo models for a potential battery vent issue.The fault may cause harmful gases to leak inside the vehicle's cabin under specific driving conditions.A full list of affected VINs is available on Ford’s official website for customers to check their vehicles.According to the recall notice, this defect could pose a health risk to occupants as it might cause toxic gases from the 12-volt battery vent to leak into the cabin. Symptoms include a hissing sound, an acidic smell similar to...
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Fiat Unveils Final Bodywork for New Hatch in Brazil
30Dec By M.ChenNo Comments
News

Fiat Unveils Final Bodywork for New Hatch in Brazil

Fiat has started using the final bodywork on its new hatchback model undergoing testing in Brazil. The Brazilian version of the European Grande Panda will be manufactured at Fiat's plant in Betim, Minas Gerais and will share a platform with the Citroën C3.Key TakeawaysFiat’s new hatchback, set to replace the Argo, is expected for launch in 2026.The model will feature a compact body style and use both naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines with mild hybrid technology.Design details are closely guarded; however, it's likely that elements of its European sibling, the Grande Panda, have influenced the Brazilian version.Fiat is set to introduce one of 2026’s most anticipated models in Brazil. The new hatchback will take over from the current Argo and form part of a brand-new family inspir...
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