New Karma Revero plug-in hybrid saloon tests in Europe

The current Revero uses solar panels located on its roof that can power the car’s electrified powertrain. Solar panels have been seen on earlier development cars, so expect improvements to their efficiency with the 2019 model if they do continue into production. “The energy collected from the solar panels is supplied directly to the car’s high-voltage battery, which in turn… Continue reading New Karma Revero plug-in hybrid saloon tests in Europe

Volvo primed to replace V40 with SUV-coupe

The Volvo V40 will be indirectly replaced by an SUV-coupé in the next three years, in reaction to falling sales and the need to accommodate electrification. Lex Kerssemakers, Volvo‘s European boss, confirmed to Autocar that the V40 will not be replaced directly but said that it would be superseded by a higher-riding model. He is confident that Volvo… Continue reading Volvo primed to replace V40 with SUV-coupe

Lotus models to be built in new China factory

Future Lotus models are set to be produced in China, as owner Geely is developing a $1.3 billion (£1.01 billion) factory with a capacity of 150,000 vehicles a year. According to a Reuters report, the facility in Wuhan would provide an opportunity for the Norfolk-based sports car manufacturer to build SUVs as part of its… Continue reading Lotus models to be built in new China factory

Chinese property developer buys 51% of reborn Saab maker

China’s third-largest property developer, Evergrande Group, has paid $930 million to become a controlling shareholder of EV maker National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS).  The move comes as part of Evergrande founder Hui Ka-yan’s ambitions to diversify the company’s business portfolio and tap into a burgeoning electric vehicle market.  NEVS acquired the main assets of Swedish… Continue reading Chinese property developer buys 51% of reborn Saab maker

Lynk & Co 04 hatchback tests ahead of 2020 European launch

First prototypes of a new Lynk & Co hatchback, expected to be dubbed 04, have been photographed testing ahead of an expected European market debut in 2020.  Original expectations for the brand, part of Volvo’s Chinese parent Geely, were for it to focus on building SUVs and saloons – market priorities for China and the US.… Continue reading Lynk & Co 04 hatchback tests ahead of 2020 European launch

Chinese firm GAC displays Entranze concept with American design focus

Ambitious Chinese firm GAC Motor has has unveiled an electric concept car called the Entranze, which it says is designed for the American market, at the Detroit motor show. GAC doesn’t currently sell cars outside of China, but has ambitious growth plans including an entry into the US market. The firm also has a design… Continue reading Chinese firm GAC displays Entranze concept with American design focus

Peugeot and Citroen bosses outline mixed performance in 2018

Jackson said the improvements stress the continuing importance of Europe to Citroën’s overall business, and believes the policy of launching a range of new SUV models, most recent of which is the C5 Aircross, is “proof that we are on the right road”. Citroën plans to launch a special collection of centenary models this year and will show… Continue reading Peugeot and Citroen bosses outline mixed performance in 2018

New Mercedes GLB SUV to feature all-electric EQ B version

The upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV will feature a pure-electric EQ B version alongside petrol, diesel and petrol-electric hybrid powertrains.  The EQ B, sitting underneath the recently revealed EQ C, promises a range of up to 310 miles and will feature an aerodynamically optimised GLB-based body, according to factory insiders.  The new Mercedes-Benz SUV, which goes under… Continue reading New Mercedes GLB SUV to feature all-electric EQ B version

Cadillac unveils new XT6 large SUV in Detroit

Cadillac has launched the new XT6, a large SUV that could prove a key model for troubled parent company GM, at an event ahead of the Detroit motor show. The new eight-seater sits below the Escalade in the GM brand’s expanded SUV line-up, and takes styling cues from the recently launched XT4 small SUV –… Continue reading Cadillac unveils new XT6 large SUV in Detroit

Ford Fiesta-based SUV set to replace Ecosport in 2020

The new Ford Fiesta-based small SUV, which will replace the Ecosport in the firm’s range, has been spied testing for the first time. The new compact crossover has been photographed sporting heavily disguised Fiesta-based bodywork but with a clear SUV-style raised ride height. The as-yet-unnamed model, which could continue the Ecosport nameplate or take on a new identity… Continue reading Ford Fiesta-based SUV set to replace Ecosport in 2020