EV & Electric Cars News and Reviews

Elon Musk Officially Names Plural Form of Tesla Optimus as ‘Optimi’

2Dec

By S.MartinezNo Comments

Elon Musk Officially Names Plural Form of Tesla Optimus as ‘Optimi’

Imagine a world where the streets are bustling with humanoid robots, and not just one or two but millions! That's right, folks, Elon Musk has officially named the plural form of Tesla’s upcoming humanoid robot, Optimus, as ‘Optimi’. In a recent X post, Musk clarified this detail, ensuring that everyone knows exactly how to refer to these future companions when they become commonplace.Key TakeawaysTesla CEO Elon Musk announced the plural term for Optimus as 'Optimi' on X.The naming decision reflects Tesla's intention to establish a consistent and familiar terminology around their humanoid robot project.Musk envisions Optimi becoming one of the highest volume products, with annual production targets in the hundreds of millions.Elon Musk’s latest post on X not only settles the naming debate b...

Youngest Drivers Least Trusted by Aussies on Roads

2Dec

By M.ChenNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, Guides & Maintenance, News

Youngest Drivers Least Trusted by Aussies on Roads

A new survey reveals that Generation Z (1997-2012) drivers are the least trusted motorists in Australia, with 90% of respondents believing these drivers take the biggest risks. The study also found that distrust towards Gen Z is highest among Australian drivers compared to other countries like the UK and New Zealand.Key TakeawaysGen Z drivers are least trusted by 90% of Australians due to perceived risk-taking on roads.Distrust towards Gen Z is highest in Australia compared to other surveyed countries like the UK (88%) and New Zealand (84%).70% of global respondents believe age doesn't significantly impact driving behaviour, highlighting a generational divide in perceptions.The survey, conducted by Scrap Car Comparison, polled drivers across 18 countries to assess their trust levels toward...

Kia Unveils New Seltos Compact SUV: Petrol-Powered Alternative to EV3

2Dec

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News, SUV & Crossovers

Kia Unveils New Seltos Compact SUV: Petrol-Powered Alternative to EV3

<a href="https://autoglobalnews.com/2025-models-selling-above-msrp-kia-sportage-leads-the-pack/" style="color:#1a73e8;text-decoration:underline;" title="2025 Models Selling Above MSRP: Kia Sportage Leads the Pack">Kia is set to unveil its new compact SUV, the second-generation Seltos, on December 10. Positioned in a segment above the Stonic, this petrol-powered model aims to compete with vehicles like the Volkswagen T-Roc and MINI Countryman.Key TakeawaysThe new Seltos will feature Kia’s signature 'Star Map' daytime running lights.It will be available in multiple trims, including off-road inspired X-Line and sporty GT-Line versions.The SUV is expected to sit on the K3 platform shared with models like the Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro.The Seltos’s exterior design blends rugged herita...

Nissan Australia Eyes Chinese Models to Boost Sales and Market Share

2Dec

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, Guides & Maintenance, News

Nissan Australia Eyes Chinese Models to Boost Sales and Market Share

Nissan Australia is set to introduce a range of new models sourced from China, including the Frontier Pro plug-in hybrid ute, as part of its strategy to revitalize sales. The move comes after Nissan Oceania boss Andrew Humberstone acknowledged that sticking with traditional Japanese-made vehicles has not been effective in recent years.Key TakeawaysNissan Australia plans to import Chinese-built models like the Frontier Pro PHEV ute.The company aims to diversify its product range and source from China to boost sales.Humberstone emphasized that continuing with current strategies won't yield better results.Andrew Humberstone, Nissan Oceania's head, stated at the Navara preview event that the company needs a new approach. He said, “If we do the same thing, we get the same results. We need to do...

Holden Engineer’s Role in Nio Firefly Development Unveiled

2Dec

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Holden Engineer’s Role in Nio Firefly Development Unveiled

The development of the Nio Firefly electric vehicle (EV) has an intriguing Australian connection. Former Holden engineer Michael Barber, who played a crucial role in designing the iconic Holden Commodore, is now contributing his expertise to the Chinese EV brand's latest offering.Key TakeawaysAustralian automotive expert Michael Barber has been revealed as a key figure behind Nio Firefly’s driving dynamics.The Firefly, already popular in China, is set to hit the Australian market by 2026.Nio highlights Barber's involvement through social media, showcasing his insights on achieving exceptional handling at an affordable price point.Michael Barber’s journey from Holden to his current role with Multimatic has seen him work on numerous car models. However, Nio chose to spotlight Barber for the ...

Tesla Model Y Leads China’s Premium EV Sales Through October

1Dec

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Tesla Model Y Leads China’s Premium EV Sales Through October

Tesla’s Model Y has maintained its position as the best-selling premium electric vehicle (EV) in China through October, according to data from Yiche compiled by the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA). The Model Y outperformed competitors despite a crowded market, with 312,331 units sold between January and October.Key TakeawaysTesla's Model Y leads China’s premium EV segment with 312,331 sales from January to October.Xiaomi SU7 is the closest competitor with 234,521 units sold.The Model 3 also secured a strong position in the market with 146,379 retail sales.Yiche’s report highlights that the Tesla Model Y has maintained its dominance despite stiff competition. The SUV's success is particularly notable given the entry of several new competitors into the premium EV segment this year. Xi...

Alpine Unveils Plans for Two Electric Roadsters: A Closer Look

1Dec

By M.ChenNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Alpine Unveils Plans for Two Electric Roadsters: A Closer Look

Alpine, the French automotive marque known for its sports cars, has unveiled plans to introduce two electric roadster models. This move marks a significant shift towards electrification and underscores Alpine's commitment to competing in the burgeoning EV market.Key TakeawaysAlpine will launch two new electric roadsters, expanding its lineup into the EV segment.The models aim to compete with established players like Porsche and Tesla in terms of performance and design.Sales targets and production timelines are expected to be announced at a later date.Alpine's decision to enter the electric roadster market is driven by growing consumer demand for high-performance EVs. The company aims to leverage its heritage in sports car manufacturing while embracing modern technology trends. This strateg...

Jiangxi to Boost EV Battery Capacity with Solid-State Projects

1Dec

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Jiangxi to Boost EV Battery Capacity with Solid-State Projects

Jiangxi Province in China is set to become a hub for solid-state battery production, with two major projects aiming to add 3 GWh of capacity. This surge in manufacturing could significantly impact the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain and accelerate mass production timelines.Key TakeawaysJiangxi will see a total of 3 GWh solid-state battery capacity from two projects.A subsidiary of Pure Lithium New Energy plans to build a 1 GWh plant in Huko County.Sanwei Battery (Shaanxi) is developing a 2 GWh facility with an investment of 17 billion yuan.The first project, led by a subsidiary of Pure Lithium New Energy, will establish a solid-state battery plant in Jiangxi's Huko County. The factory aims to produce 1 GWh annually once completed and is expected to start small-scale testing in 2026 with...

F355 Ferrari Gets Unorthodox V10 Diesel Swap

1Dec

By J.CarterNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News, Supercars

F355 Ferrari Gets Unorthodox V10 Diesel Swap

The automotive world is abuzz with the news of a radical engine swap in one of Italy's most revered sports cars, the Ferrari F355. The Grind Hard crew has taken on an ambitious project by mounting a Cummins V10 twin-turbo diesel into this iconic Italian thoroughbred. This unconventional move raises eyebrows and questions about performance, reliability, and the integrity of the classic design. Key Takeaways The project aims to provide a significant power upgrade over the F355's original 3.5-liter V8 engine. Despite skepticism, there is potential for this diesel swap to offer reliable and consistent performance in drag racing events. The Grind Hard crew faces technical challenges in integrating the massive Cummins engine into the compact Ferrari chassis. For enthusiasts familiar wi...

Tesla Hires Apple Scientist for Optimus Team

1Dec

By S.MartinezNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Tesla Hires Apple Scientist for Optimus Team

Tesla has scored a major coup by hiring Yilun Chen, a former research scientist at Apple. This move is significant as it brings in someone with extensive experience and expertise to the cutting-edge world of humanoid robotics.Key TakeawaysYilun Chen joins Tesla's Optimus team after a four-year stint at Apple.The move was driven by the momentum around Optimus, which uses large language model (LLM) reasoning and physical AI.Tesla's flat structure and rapid prototyping culture impressed Chen during his visit to the Optimus lab.Chen's departure from Apple marks a significant chapter in his career. He spent nearly four years at the tech giant, where he advanced from individual contributor to technical lead, working on various projects that remain unreleased today. His roles included engineering...