EV & Electric Cars News and Reviews

29Nov

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News, SUV & Crossovers

Kia Unveils EV5 WKNDR at Guangzhou Motor Show: A Rugged Electric SUV

Kia has unveiled the 2026 EV5 WKNDR at the Guangzhou motor show, showcasing a rugged off-road version of its popular mid-size electric SUV. The EV5 WKNDR features enhanced exterior and interior designs tailored for adventure seekers.Key TakeawaysThe 2026 Kia EV5 WKNDR is designed to be more rugged with off-road capabilities.New features include impact-resistant bumpers, roof rack, and wider arches for larger wheels.Interior highlights a sustainable cabin design with a slim digital instrument cluster and widescreen infotainment system.The EV5 WKNDR is equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels shod in all-terrain tires and a high-lift suspension kit, boosting ground clearance for off-road adventures. Its exterior also features more impact-resistant front and rear bumpers to protect against rugged t...

Alpine A290 GTS: Performance Over Price?

28Nov

By M.ChenNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Alpine A290 GTS: Performance Over Price?

The Alpine A290 GTS, the performance version of the Renault 5 electric model, offers a premium driving experience with its retro charm and enhanced specifications. However, at a price point that is significantly higher than standard variants, it raises questions about value for money.Key TakeawaysThe Alpine A290 GTS carries a 160-kW electric motor and costs €45,000 compared to the base model's price of around €35,000.The car offers an impressive range of 362 km (WLTP) with a 52 kWh battery pack.Despite its high cost, the A290 GTS is positioned as a premium brand product within Renault Group's lineup.The Alpine A290 GTS distinguishes itself through its unique styling and performance enhancements. With a range of 362 km (WLTP), it falls short compared to some competitors like the Tesla Model...

Volvo Introduces Enhanced Dynamic Steering System for Trucks

28Nov

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Volvo Introduces Enhanced Dynamic Steering System for Trucks

Volvo Trucks has unveiled the next generation of its Dynamic Steering system, which includes a new feature designed to automatically mitigate the impact of a punctured front tire. The system helps drivers maintain vehicle stability and reduces lateral forces caused by sudden air loss.Key TakeawaysNew generation of Dynamic Steering detects punctures in front tires instantly.The feature mitigates impact, helping drivers keep the truck on course.Reduces driver fatigue by 75% at low speeds and improves overall safety.The latest iteration of Volvo's Dynamic Steering system can detect a tire puncture in front tires and respond within milliseconds to help maintain vehicle stability. This feature is particularly crucial as sudden air loss can cause the truck to veer off course, posing significant ...

Tesla Launches FSD v14 Trial for North American Owners

28Nov

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Tesla Launches FSD v14 Trial for North American Owners

Tesla is giving its North American owners a holiday treat this year, offering a 30-day trial of Full Self-Driving (FSD) software version 14.2 to those with HW4-equipped vehicles. This move follows the successful rollout of FSD v14.2 and aims to allow more users to experience the latest features in Tesla's autonomous driving suite.Key TakeawaysTesla owners with HW4-equipped vehicles can now try out FSD v14 for 30 days, starting this holiday season.The trial includes new features such as Speed Profiles and Arrival Options, enhancing the driving experience.New and existing Tesla Model S, 3, X, Y, and Cybertruck owners are eligible if their vehicles meet the hardware requirements.Owners who have not previously purchased FSD can now take advantage of this trial period. The software update will ...

Toyota’s Smart-Charging Initiative Puts Europe on the EV Fast Track

28Nov

By S.MartinezNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Toyota’s Smart-Charging Initiative Puts Europe on the EV Fast Track

Imagine waking up to find your Toyota electric vehicle (EV) fully charged and ready for a day of adventure, all thanks to smart-charging technology that optimizes when your car plugs in. That’s exactly what Toyota is rolling out across Europe with new partnerships designed to make EV ownership smoother and more sustainable.Key TakeawaysToyota partners with British Gas and The Mobility House Energy for smart-charging solutions in the UK and Germany, respectively.The initiative will shift charging to off-peak hours, reducing costs and strain on electricity grids.Participants can earn incentives through grid-balancing programs by prioritizing renewable energy use.In 2026, Toyota’s smart-charging system will debut in the UK with British Gas, allowing users to control when their EV charges. Thi...

Kia EV3 Earth: A Compact EV with Big Potential

28Nov

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News, Reviews

Kia EV3 Earth: A Compact EV with Big Potential

After a week-long road trip from Sydney to Melbourne, I had the pleasure of testing Kia’s latest entry in the electric vehicle market—the EV3 Earth Long Range. This compact SUV is designed for those who need a reliable and efficient ride without breaking the bank.Key TakeawaysThe EV3 Earth offers impressive range with up to 604 km on a single charge (Standard Range variant has 436 km).It comes with a spacious boot and comfortable seating for daily commutes.Priced from $58,600 plus on-road costs, it competes well against other small SUVs in terms of range but not cost.The EV3 Earth is Kia’s smallest electric vehicle, sitting below the recently released EV2 and upcoming EV1 hatchback. Despite its compact size, the car offers a surprising amount of space inside thanks to clever design element...

Why Honda’s New Prelude Falls Short as a Hybrid

28Nov

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Why Honda’s New Prelude Falls Short as a Hybrid

Honda is reviving the iconic Prelude as a hybrid coupe, but it might not be the right choice for many car enthusiasts. Priced at $43,000 and aimed at those nostalgic for '90s imports, this performance-oriented vehicle struggles to justify its hefty price tag.Key TakeawaysThe Prelude is a hybrid coupe priced at $43,000, targeting the niche market of car enthusiasts who grew up with '90s imports.The car offers only 200 horsepower and lacks the appeal to serious performance drivers due to its CVT transmission and lack of manual options.With a smaller buyer pool willing to spend over $40,000 on a new car, the Prelude's practicality is questionable compared to less expensive alternatives like the Civic Hybrid.The Prelude aims to capitalize on nostalgia by bringing back a classic nameplate. Howe...

Black Friday Green Deals: Electric Vehicles and More at Unbeatable Prices

28Nov

By S.MartinezNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Black Friday Green Deals: Electric Vehicles and More at Unbeatable Prices

Hey car enthusiasts, holiday shopping season is here again! This year's Black Friday Green Deals are packed with eco-friendly tech that will make your wallet and the planet happy. From electric vehicles to power stations, tools, and smart devices, there’s something for everyone looking to upgrade their green lifestyle.Key TakeawaysLectric e-bikes offer up to $893 off with bundles starting from just $999.Tesla's Universal Wall Connector is now available for $600, a $50 discount.Aventon’s new e-bike models are discounted by up to $400.Rad Power and Lectric have expanded their Black Friday deals this year, offering some of the lowest prices on electric bikes we've ever seen. Rad Power's lineup starts at a wallet-friendly $999, while Lectric is giving away up to $518 in free gear with its XPre...

28Nov

By AGN EditorNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Jaecoo J7 PHEV Undercuts BYD Sealion, Targets Chery and Geely in Australia

The 2026 Jaecoo J7 SHS Track has arrived in Australia priced at $43,990 drive-away, making it one of the most affordable plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market. This new variant undercuts its closest rival, the BYD Sealion 6 ($42,990 before on-road costs), by $1,000.Key TakeawaysThe Jaecoo J7 SHS Track starts at $43,990 drive-away in Australia.It undercuts the BYD Sealion 6 by $1,000 and targets Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid and Geely Starray EM-i.The new variant offers a smaller infotainment system compared to higher-end models but retains wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.Equipped with the same powertrain as other J7 SHS variants, the Track version features a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine producing 105kW/215Nm paired with an electric motor of 150kW/310Nm and a one-speed Dedicated H...

Lotus Shifts to Hyper Hybrid: Eletre PHEV Packs 912 HP

28Nov

By E.WilsonNo Comments

EV & Electric Cars, News

Lotus Shifts to Hyper Hybrid: Eletre PHEV Packs 912 HP

British automaker Lotus is making a bold move in the luxury electric vehicle market by shifting from full-electric vehicles to high-performance plug-in hybrids. The company's new strategy centers around its upcoming Eletre PHEV, set for release in 2026 with an impressive 912 horsepower.Key TakeawaysLotus transitions from full-electric to high-performance plug-in hybrids (Hyper Hybrids).The Eletre PHEV will feature a 900V architecture, delivering rapid charging capabilities.This shift aims to address market slowdown in premium electric segments and consumer preferences for hybrid technology.Lotus is rethinking its approach after significant financial losses of $357 million and a 40% drop in sales. The company's new strategy, announced by CEO Feng Qingfeng, focuses on high-performance plug-i...