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Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida Set to Resign – Nissan-Honda Merger Back on Track?

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 Seal EV Wins Big in Japan, Securing Back-to-Back Titles for the Brand

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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BYD Considers Third European Factory Amid Rising Tariffs and Growing EV Demand

BYD is considering the construction of a third production facility in Europe as part of its strategy to strengthen its presence in the region. This move comes as the European Union’s recently imposed tariffs on Chinese-made EVs push major Chinese automakers to localise their operations in order to remain competitive.

Already a leader among Chinese brands in Europe, BYD outsold rival SAIC Motor’s MG brand by 44% in January. However, with increasing regulatory hurdles and mounting pressure from tariffs, BYD is accelerating its efforts to establish local manufacturing. The company is currently developing two plants: one in Hungary, which is scheduled to begin production later this year, and another in Turkey, which is now in the planning stages. Together, these facilities are expected to deliver a combined annual output of 500,000 vehicles, enabling BYD to significantly reduce its reliance on imports while securing a stronger position in one of the world’s most lucrative EV markets.

Speaking to reporters in Frankfurt, BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li confirmed that the company is evaluating the feasibility of a third European factory. A decision is expected within the next 18 to 24 months. BYD is also exploring the possibility of launching local EV battery production in Europe, though no specifics on location or timeline have been disclosed. (more…)

Volkswagen Unveils ID. EVERY1 as Affordable Entry-Level EV for Europe

Volkswagen is continuing its long-standing tradition of providing affordable mobility with the introduction of the ID. EVERY1 concept car, a compact and accessible all-electric model designed to serve as the brand’s new entry point into electric mobility. Building on the legacy of the iconic Beetle and, more recently, the Volkswagen Up, Volkswagen aims to make sustainable driving available to a broad audience as it moves deeper into the era of electrification.

Positioned as a key element of Volkswagen’s strategy for the future, the ID. EVERY1 is tailored specifically for Europe, developed as part of the brand’s “Urban Car Family,” which is set to debut from 2026. Volkswagen is working to establish a broad and diverse portfolio across the high-volume segment, offering customers options ranging from efficient combustion-engine models and advanced hybrids to fully electric vehicles.

According to Volkswagen Passenger Cars CEO Thomas Schäfer, the ID. EVERY1 completes the company’s efforts to provide the widest model range in its category. Schäfer emphasised that the brand’s ambition is to ensure every customer finds the right car with the appropriate drive system, including affordable, all-electric solutions. He added that Volkswagen is determined to expand its global leadership in automotive technology by 2030, while remaining a brand that is accessible to everyone, in line with its historical identity.

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Volvo Unveils ES90: A Flagship EV Blending Luxury, Tech, and Performance

Volvo has officially introduced the ES90, a new all-electric model that defies traditional vehicle categories. Neither sedan nor SUV, the ES90 stands in a class of its own, though its sleek, elevated design and generous ground clearance suggest strong crossover influences. Regardless of what you call it, Volvo sees the ES90 as a flagship model, sharing top-tier status alongside the EX90 SUV.

At first glance, the ES90 exudes familiar Volvo styling. The front is defined by signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights, while vertical driving lamps and a minimalist grille complete the look. Around back, C-shaped taillights stretch into the sharply sloped rear glass of its hatchback design, which provides easy access to 733 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded (or 495 liters with them upright), plus an additional 48-litre frunk.

Built on the same SPA2 platform as the EX90, the ES90 is slightly longer in wheelbase (310 cm) but shorter overall at 5 meters. With 20.3 cm of ground clearance and a total width of 212 cm, it strikes a balanced profile between sportiness and practicality. Inside, the focus is on spaciousness, offering 10.7 cm of knee clearance and 96 cm of rear headroom for passengers.

The ES90’s interior reflects Volvo’s commitment to minimalism and technology. The centerpiece is a 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen that controls nearly every function, from the four-zone climate system to the premium 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system. A slim 9.0-inch digital driver display is mounted ahead of the steering wheel, supported by a head-up display for vital driving information. Beyond a few physical controls on the steering wheel and doors, the cabin is fully digital, with seamless Google integration built-in.

While the ES90 impresses with performance, Volvo emphasizes its computing power just as much. Using dual Nvidia Drive AGX Orin processors, the ES90 can handle over 500 trillion operations per second, supporting advanced safety systems, AI features, and over-the-air updates.

“This allows us to further raise the bar on safety and overall performance through data, software, and AI,” explained Volvo Chief Engineer and Technology Officer Anders Bell.

With its 800-volt architecture, the ES90 is designed for fast charging, supporting rates up to 350 kW. This enables it to recover 300 km of range in just 10 minutes, with a 10-80% charge in as little as 20 minutes. Depending on the version, the ES90 can deliver up to 700 km of range (WLTP), aided by its sleek 0.25 drag coefficient, the best in Volvo’s history.

The ES90 will launch in three configurations: the Single Motor variant, featuring rear-wheel drive, a 329hp output, a 92.0 kWh battery, and up to 644km of range; the Twin Motor variant, offering all-wheel drive, 442hp, a 106.0 kWh battery, and a range of up to 700km; and the Twin Motor Performance variant, which boasts all-wheel drive, 670hp, a 106.0 kWh battery, a 0-97 km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds, a top speed of 180 km/h, and a range of up to 700km.

The Volvo ES90 is currently available to order in select European markets. Availability in other markets is expected in the near future, though no official timeline or pricing has been announced.

Toyota Commits to Manual Transmissions and Combustion Engines

Toyota remains committed to preserving the manual transmission experience, ensuring that enthusiasts who prefer the tactile engagement of self-shifting gears can continue to find it in the brand’s lineup. Currently, models such as the GR86, GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR Corolla all feature six-speed manual transmissions paired exclusively with petrol power. For now, Toyota has no plans to abandon this formula, with a strong focus on catering to driving purists.

According to reports, Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, reaffirmed the brand’s dedication to delivering enthusiast-oriented vehicles. Hanley expressed confidence in the ongoing demand for cars that prioritise driving engagement, especially those powered by internal combustion engines with manual gearboxes.

“There is still room to satisfy dyed-in-the-wool performance car lovers,” Hanley said, emphasising that combustion engines and manual transmissions “will be around for a long, long time.”

Hanley made it clear that Toyota’s performance-oriented GR sub-brand will continue to lead the charge in this space. With an existing portfolio already offering several manual-equipped models, GR remains the natural home for future petrol-powered performance cars. Hanley hinted at exciting developments within the GR lineup, referencing the Yaris M Concept, which features a mid-engine configuration. This concept has fuelled speculation that Toyota could soon revive the legendary MR2, signalling perhaps the most promising indication of its return in recent years.

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Audi Unveils New A6 Avant with Advanced Technology, Enhanced Efficiency, and Timeless Design

Audi has officially introduced the latest generation of the A6 Avant, marking a new era of sophistication, innovation, and performance for the iconic estate. With a renewed focus on sleek aesthetics, advanced technology, and improved efficiency, the new A6 Avant combines timeless styling with exceptional aerodynamic performance, achieving a drag coefficient of just 0.25—the most efficient ever recorded for a combustion-engine Avant in Audi’s history.

The design of the new A6 Avant has been carefully refined to balance elegance with athleticism. The exterior features a clean, functional design language, complemented by extensive aerodynamic enhancements. At the front, large air curtains and controllable cool-air intakes optimise airflow, while a sporty roof spoiler and aerodynamic panels positioned alongside the rear window further reduce drag. The rear of the vehicle is dominated by a bold diffuser, flanked by distinctive quattro blisters that emphasise the Avant’s muscular stance. Together with an elongated hood and long wheelbase, these design elements create a harmonious blend of dynamic proportions and refined styling.

Powering the new A6 Avant is Audi’s advanced MHEV Plus mild hybrid technology, which improves both performance and efficiency. Customers can choose between a 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder engine producing 204PS and a 3.0-litre TFSI six-cylinder engine delivering 367PS. Central to the MHEV Plus system is a 48-volt battery, a belt alternator starter (BAS), and a powertrain generator (PTG) equipped with integrated power electronics. This system allows the A6 Avant to operate in fully electric mode during low-speed city driving and parking situations, while also providing up to 230Nm of additional torque and recovering energy during deceleration. These features contribute to a smoother driving experience and reduced carbon emissions.

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Hyundai Files “N Sport” Trademark, Hinting at BMW-Inspired Performance Line

Once viewed as an underdog in the automotive world, Hyundai has undergone an extraordinary transformation over the past two decades—and it shows no signs of slowing down. Now, it appears the Korean automaker is preparing to expand its performance offerings even further, taking a page directly from BMW’s playbook. A recent discovery revealed that Hyundai has filed a trademark for the name “N Sport” at the United States Patent and Trademark Office, suggesting a new model line is on the horizon—positioned between everyday variants and high-performance N models like the Ioniq 5 N.

For those unfamiliar, Hyundai currently offers N-Line packages across several models, mirroring what brands like Mercedes-Benz (AMG Line), Audi (S-Line), and BMW (M Sport) already provide. These trims typically focus on sportier styling cues, borrowing design elements from full-fledged performance cars without making major mechanical changes. Think aggressive bumpers, unique wheels, and subtle interior tweaks.

Occasionally, these packages go a bit further with minor upgrades to the suspension or steering, but the core formula remains: offer a sporty appearance and badge appeal without sacrificing daily drivability or drastically increasing costs.

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Bugatti Tourbillon Ushers in a New Era of Aerodynamic Mastery

In June 2024, Bugatti unveiled the Tourbillon, its next-generation hyper sports car, during a highly anticipated World Premiere in Molsheim. True to Bugatti’s tradition of pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation, the Tourbillon stands as a technological masterpiece—nowhere more evident than in its groundbreaking aerodynamic design. In the latest episode of A New Era, Bugatti’s world-class engineers and aerodynamic experts reveal the meticulous process behind creating one of the most aerodynamically advanced road cars ever conceived.

For Bugatti’s engineering team, led by Chief Vehicle Engineer Paul Burnham, the challenge was clear: surpass the already exceptional aerodynamic efficiency of the Chiron, a car that once held the title of the world’s fastest. “The Chiron was already a low-drag car,” Burnham explains, “but with the Tourbillon, we knew we had to go even further.”

Bugatti’s pursuit of aerodynamic perfection began early in development with months of advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, allowing engineers to analyze airflow and drag virtually. But to move from theory to reality, Bugatti’s experts gathered at a cutting-edge wind tunnel facility in Italy nearly 15 months before the Tourbillon’s official reveal.

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The Maserati MC20 Coupe Set a 318km/h New Autonomous World Speed Record

The Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC), in collaboration with Politecnico di Milano—Italy’s largest scientific-technological university—has partnered with Maserati and the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida to embark on a groundbreaking high-tech initiative during the renowned competition’s stop in Cape Canaveral, Florida. This project is part of MOST, Italy’s National Center for Sustainable Mobility, which focuses on advancing research, innovation, and infrastructure for scalable, eco-friendly transportation solutions.

Returning to the Space Florida Launch and Landing Facility (LLF) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, the Indy Autonomous Challenge aimed to push the limits of autonomous technology. The LLF, famed for NASA’s Space Shuttle landings, boasts one of the world’s longest runways at 15,000 feet, now serving as a vital hub for aerospace and autonomous innovation.

The PoliMOVE-MSU team, part of the AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Driving Autonomous) division of Politecnico di Milano, developed the cutting-edge AI driver software that powered the autonomous Maserati MC20 Coupé. Guided entirely by artificial intelligence and without a human behind the wheel, the MC20 achieved a record-breaking 318km/h, surpassing the previous world record of 310km/h, also set by the same team in 2022 with an IAC AV-21 racecar.

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