Tag: EVs

Volkswagen Brings Back Physical Buttons in New EVs
EV & Electric Cars, News

Volkswagen Brings Back Physical Buttons in New EVs

Volkswagen is giving its electric vehicles a fresh look with the return of physical buttons. The new cockpit design, revealed alongside an updated ID. Polo model, includes tangible controls for cruise control and music playback on the steering wheel, along with switches for temperature and fan speed.Key TakeawaysVolkswagen's upcoming EVs will feature physical buttons instead of digital screens.The new cockpit design includes tangible controls like cruise control on the steering wheel.Certain touch screen functions, such as climate control for heated seats and rear defrost, remain untouched.And while some might think this move is a step backward in technology, it's actually designed to improve usability. The idea behind physical buttons isn't just about nostalgia; they're meant to make driv...
Shanghai Extends Free EV License Plates for Another Year
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 ...
Singapore COE Prices to Climb in 2026 Amid EV Boom and PHC Demand
EV & Electric Cars, News

Singapore COE Prices to Climb in 2026 Amid EV Boom and PHC Demand

The Singapore Certificate of Entitlement (COE) prices are set for another rise in 2026, driven by a strong demand surge from electric vehicles (EVs) and private-hire car fleets.Key TakeawaysSingapore COEs will see an increase of up to 20% in supply but won't meet the high demand, keeping prices elevated.The market for new EVs is expanding with affordable Chinese brands like BYD and Aion leading competition.Changes to VES and EEAI from January 2026 will reduce subsidies for EVs by SG$10,000, spurring a rush of early purchases.The robust demand is partly fueled by the rise in wealthy households with monthly incomes over S$20,000. This demographic shift has resulted in an 8% increase since 2024 and continues to drive car sales despite high prices.With new EV models entering the market at lowe...
Subaru Uncharted Debuts at Under $37K, Challenges Solterra in EV Market
EV & Electric Cars, News

Subaru Uncharted Debuts at Under $37K, Challenges Solterra in EV Market

The new 2026 Subaru Uncharted is making waves with its competitive pricing and impressive specs. Starting at just under $37,000 for the front-wheel-drive version, it offers a range of over 300 miles on a single charge.Key TakeawaysThe Subaru Uncharted starts at $36,445 for the FWD Premium trim with an estimated range of over 300 miles.All-wheel-drive Sport and GT trims cost more but offer higher performance with ranges between 270 to 285 miles.The Solterra remains a strong competitor, though it's priced slightly higher than the Uncharted in similar configurations.Subaru has expanded its electric vehicle lineup from one model—the Solterra—to three. The smallest of these is the new Uncharted, which shares many features with the Solterra but comes at a lower price point for some trims.The fro...
USPS Finally Electrifies Its Fleet After Decades of Debate
EV & Electric Cars, News

USPS Finally Electrifies Its Fleet After Decades of Debate

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is finally rolling out electric vehicles to replace its aging fleet, after years of political wrangling and delays. The move comes as a relief for environmental advocates who have long pushed for the switch.Key TakeawaysThe USPS will deploy custom-built Next Generation Delivery Vehicles (NGDVs) in electric versions alongside traditional gas models.In addition to NGDV, thousands of off-the-shelf EVs are being purchased for immediate use.This transition follows a decade-long debate and several setbacks including political turmoil and legal challenges.Postal delivery vehicles are the perfect candidates for electrification due to their short daily routes. They return every night to central depots, making charging convenient and efficient. But it's taken ...
2026 Subaru Solterra: Updated EV with Extended Range and Lower Prices
EV & Electric Cars, News

2026 Subaru Solterra: Updated EV with Extended Range and Lower Prices

The 2026 Subaru Solterra, an electric vehicle (EV) that has been updated for the upcoming model year, promises to offer a more compelling package with extended range and reduced pricing compared to its predecessor. This update positions the Solterra as a stronger competitor in the EV market.Key TakeawaysThe 2026 Subaru Solterra boasts an increased driving range of up to 450 kilometers, compared to its current model's range of around 410 kilometers.Pricing for the updated Solterra has been reduced by approximately 5%, making it more accessible to a broader consumer base.The new version includes enhanced safety features and improved battery technology, contributing to better overall performance and efficiency.Compared to its closest competitors in the EV segment, such as the Nissan Leaf and ...
Euro NCAP’s 2026 Overhaul: Safer Cars, Fewer Beeps
EV & Electric Cars, News

Euro NCAP’s 2026 Overhaul: Safer Cars, Fewer Beeps

The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) is set to shake up its safety testing for 2026 with a focus on making cars safer and less annoying. The new protocols will not only improve crash protection but also address the issue of EV door handles locking after crashes, which has led to tragic delays in rescue operations.Key TakeawaysNew 2026 Euro NCAP protocols will test for annoying ADAS beeps and improve crash scoring.EV door handles must remain functional after crashes to aid rescuers.Cars will earn extra points for advanced driver-monitoring systems that detect distracted or impaired drivers.The overhaul includes a new approach to evaluating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which have been criticized for their intrusive beeping and sudden lane corrections. The new t...
BMW Considers Petrol Range-Extenders for EVs
EV & Electric Cars, News

BMW Considers Petrol Range-Extenders for EVs

Imagine driving down the highway in your sleek electric BMW, feeling that buzz of modern technology underfoot. Now, picture having a little extra juice to keep you going when the battery runs low—a petrol range-extender. This isn't just a dream; it's what BMW is reportedly considering for its EV lineup.Key TakeawaysBWM exploring petrol range-extenders to extend electric vehicle ranges.New-gen Subaru Outback bigger and bolder, debuts Wilderness sub-brand in Australia.Outback offers rugged features for adventurous drivers.The idea of a petrol-powered engine coming to the world of EVs might seem counterintuitive at first. But BMW's proposal aims to solve one of the biggest challenges facing electric cars: range anxiety. By adding a small internal combustion engine that can recharge the batter...