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U.S. President Donald Trump has condemned acts of violence against Tesla dealerships, declaring that such incidents will be treated as domestic terrorism and warning that offenders will face severe consequences. Speaking at the White House on Tuesday alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Trump expressed his firm support for the automaker and its billionaire chief.

“They’re harming a great American company,” Trump said, addressing the recent wave of protests targeting Tesla locations. “Let me tell you, you do it to Tesla, and you do it to any company, we’re going to catch you, and … you’re going to go through hell.” Musk, donning a black “Make America Great Again” baseball cap, stood beside the president as a fleet of Tesla vehicles lined the driveway between the White House and the South Lawn.

The strong remarks follow a series of demonstrations against Musk and Tesla, which have intensified in recent weeks. Activists have staged protests labeled as “Tesla Takedown” to oppose Musk’s role in federal workforce reductions and the cancellation of contracts supporting humanitarian programs worldwide. Musk, now heading the Trump administration’s newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has faced criticism for overseeing these cost-cutting measures.

White House spokesperson Harrison Fields described the recent attacks on Tesla as “ongoing and heinous acts of violence” perpetrated by “radical Leftist activists,” characterising them as “nothing short of domestic terror.”

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Lexus has introduced the latest iteration of its battery electric vehicle (BEV), the new RZ, marking a significant step in the brand’s continued expansion into the luxury EV market. The model will be released gradually across various global markets beginning September 2025.

The unveiling reinforces Lexus’ leadership in vehicle electrification, a position it has held since the introduction of the RX 400h in 2005. By 2024, the brand had achieved a milestone with electrified vehicles, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric models, accounting for more than half of its lineup. Lexus remains committed to increasing the adoption of BEVs, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids while advancing vehicle technology to enhance driving performance, mobility solutions, and sustainability efforts.

The new RZ introduces a fully reengineered BEV system designed to provide higher motor output, an extended driving range, and significantly reduced charging time. The inclusion of Lexus’ next-generation Steer-by-Wire System brings a new dimension to handling, improving steering precision and responsiveness. Enhancements to the platform have refined the Lexus Driving Signature, ensuring a more intuitive and engaging experience behind the wheel. Additionally, the DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system has been further optimised to deliver a performance that faithfully responds to the driver’s intent.

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Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has taken a major step forward in autonomous mobility by successfully conducting Japan’s first test of a self-driving vehicle with no human driver onboard in an urban environment. The trial, which took place in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district, marks a crucial milestone in Nissan’s efforts to introduce autonomous driving (AD) technology as part of a future mobility service in Japan.

Addressing Mobility Challenges with Cutting-Edge Technology

Nissan’s latest autonomous technology aims to tackle key transportation issues, including the growing shortage of drivers caused by Japan’s aging population. By leveraging its advanced research and global expertise, Nissan is positioning itself as a leader in mobility solutions that offer greater freedom and accessibility.

The technology integrates key insights from Nissan’s research in Japan, the Nissan Advanced Technology Center in Silicon Valley, and the U.K.’s evolvAD project. These efforts contribute to the company’s broader goal of ensuring AD systems can adapt to diverse traffic conditions worldwide.

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Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has officially announced a sweeping leadership reshuffle, confirming the departure of CEO Makoto Uchida and appointing Ivan Espinosa as his successor. The leadership change, which will take effect on April 1, follows weeks of speculation regarding Uchida’s resignation amid Nissan’s ongoing financial struggles and increasing pressure from competition in the electric vehicle sector.

Ivan Espinosa/Nikkei Asia

The End of Uchida’s Tenure

Since taking over in 2019, Uchida steered Nissan through a turbulent period following the controversial departure of former CEO Carlos Ghosn. However, his tenure has been marked by persistent challenges, including declining profitability and an inability to secure a long-term strategic partnership. The most notable setback was Nissan’s failed merger talks with Honda, which collapsed due to disagreements over the structure of the partnership. Honda had proposed acquiring Nissan as a subsidiary rather than forming an equal alliance, a condition that Nissan executives strongly opposed.

Makoto Uchida

With Uchida’s exit now confirmed, speculation is mounting over whether Nissan will revisit merger discussions with Honda. Internal sources suggest that while a full acquisition remains unlikely, the company may be open to securing financial backing while retaining its autonomy.

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Audi is preparing to revive its iconic R8 supercar, with the next-generation model set to arrive in 2027 as a high-performance plug-in hybrid. The new R8 is expected to be the most powerful road-going Audi ever, bringing an electrified twist to the brand’s legendary supercar.

According to Autocar, development of the new model is already underway, backed by Audi chairman Gernot Döllner, marking a major step forward in the brand’s supercar strategy. The upcoming R8 will share its underpinnings with the Lamborghini Temerario, the successor to the Huracán, continuing a partnership that dates back to 2006 when Audi first entered the supercar segment with the original R8 and its mechanical twin, the Gallardo.

While the R8 will share key elements with the Temerario, including its drivetrain, electronics, and chassis, Audi will once again set its model apart by prioritising everyday usability alongside extreme performance. Both coupé and cabriolet versions are expected.

At the heart of the new R8 is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, sourced from Lamborghini, delivering 789hp and 730Nm of torque. This already impressive output is further enhanced by a trio of axial-flux electric motors, bringing the total system power to 907hp. A small 3.8kWh lithium-ion battery provides limited all-electric driving capabilities, though its primary function is to support performance. The plug-in hybrid system enables an advanced four-wheel-drive setup, with two electric motors mounted on the front axle and a third positioned between the engine and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, optimising energy recovery and acceleration.

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The BMW Group has become the first automotive manufacturer to launch an entirely new digital nervous system, designed for all drivetrain variants and vehicle segments. This cutting-edge system, significantly more intelligent, powerful, and efficient than its predecessors, will debut in the Neue Klasse models.

At the core of this innovation are four high-performance computers, known as “Superbrains,” which consolidate computing power for key vehicle functions, including infotainment, automated driving, driving dynamics, and essential operations such as vehicle access, climate control, and comfort. Compared to the current generation of BMW vehicles, these Superbrains deliver over 20 times the computing power. Additionally, they are built to support future software updates, incorporating artificial intelligence to enhance the customer experience.

BMW’s Board Member for Development, Frank Weber, emphasized the company’s commitment to technological openness. He stated that beginning with the first model of the Neue Klasse, the advanced technologies will be integrated across BMW’s entire future model lineup, spanning all segments and drivetrains. He explained that the newly developed electronic architecture, comprising powerful Superbrains and interconnected software platforms, allows BMW to separate vehicle and software development processes. This approach ensures that all upcoming BMW models remain digitally up-to-date through over-the-air updates, even beyond their initial release.

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Hyundai’s highly anticipated IONIQ 9 is set to redefine the electric SUV segment with its combination of cutting-edge technology, efficiency, and luxury. The automaker has confirmed that the vehicle will be equipped with a powerful 110.3 kWh battery, providing a range of up to 539km in its highest trim. Designed to perform in extreme conditions, the IONIQ 9 features an advanced heat pump that ensures battery efficiency in colder climates. Certification from Korea’s Ministry of Environment indicates that the SUV can travel nearly 402km even in temperatures as low as -7°C.

Energy efficiency remains a key focus for Hyundai, with several features incorporated to optimise power consumption. The rear-row HVAC system automatically deactivates when no passengers are detected, while an active air flap enhances airflow to improve efficiency. The vehicle’s aerodynamic design includes a 3D-shaped underbody cover, newly developed wheels, and hidden antennas, contributing to a remarkably low drag coefficient of 0.259 Cd. The Long-Range RWD model achieves an energy consumption rate of just 194 Wh/km, making it one of the most efficient large electric SUVs available.

Beyond its performance capabilities, the IONIQ 9 offers a meticulously designed interior to maximise comfort and convenience. Available in six- and seven-seat configurations, certain markets will receive versions featuring swiveling rear seats to enhance passenger interaction. Hyundai is also introducing its Dynamic Body Care system, a sophisticated massage function that uses targeted pressure and vibrations to improve blood circulation and reduce fatigue. The cabin further includes the Universal Island 2.0, a sliding center console that creates a walk-through front-row layout, providing easier access to the rear seating area. With the third row folded down, the SUV offers an expansive 1,322 litres of cargo space.

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Former Formula 1 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve found himself in an unusual predicament at Milan’s Malpensa Airport while en route to Australia for the season opener. The 1997 title winner was trapped inside a toilet cubicle for 30 minutes before resorting to kicking down the door to escape.

Villeneuve shared the bizarre ordeal with his followers on Instagram, posting a picture of himself looking unimpressed inside the grey cubicle. He revealed that he had been stuck for 20 minutes while airport security struggled to free him. With a touch of sarcasm, he described the experience as “very impressive” and noted that the toilet flushed every 30 seconds, making for an unpleasant wait.

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Nissan is on the brink of a leadership overhaul as reports indicate that CEO Makoto Uchida is set to resign within the week. According to sources, Uchida’s departure comes as the company continues to struggle financially and faces mounting pressure from increasing competition, particularly in the electric vehicle sector.

Since taking over in 2019, Uchida has led Nissan through a turbulent period following the high-profile exit of former CEO Carlos Ghosn. However, his inability to secure a merger with Honda, a move that was initially seen as a potential solution to Nissan’s ongoing challenges, has reportedly contributed to his departure. Internal sources suggest that significant personnel changes are expected, including at the top level. Among those being considered as potential successors are Chief Financial Officer Jeremie Papin, Chief Planning Officer Ivan Espinos, and Chief Performance Officer Guillaume Cartier. It remains uncertain whether the next CEO will be appointed on an interim or permanent basis.

Discussions between Nissan and Honda earlier this year over a potential merger fell apart due to disagreements regarding the structure of the partnership. Honda had proposed making Nissan a subsidiary rather than an equal partner, a condition that Nissan executives strongly opposed. With Uchida now on his way out, there is speculation that Nissan may be more open to reconsidering Honda’s investment, though a full subsidiary arrangement remains uncertain. Sources within Nissan suggest that talks are likely to resume with a focus on securing financial support while maintaining some degree of autonomy.

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BYD celebrated a major milestone as its Seal EV was crowned the winner of the 3rd Japan Annual EV Awards, marking the brand’s second consecutive victory following the Dolphin EV’s win last year.

The BYD Seal EV edged out strong competitors, including the Honda N-VAN e: and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, further cementing BYD’s growing reputation in Japan’s competitive EV landscape. This latest accolade adds to the Seal’s growing list of achievements, having also been named one of the “Top Ten Best Models” for 2024–2025 by the Japan Car of the Year Selection Committee.

Debuting in Japan in early 2024, the Seal EV quickly impressed both the public and industry experts. EVsmart, the organizer of the awards, praised the Seal EV for its “extremely beautiful design style and comprehensive performance,” highlighting its balance of elegant aesthetics and powerful driving dynamics. EVsmart further described the Seal as not only a benchmark for pure electric vehicles but also a standout for its high-quality driving experience.

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