Latest news with #Plug-inHybridElectricVehicle
Gulf Insider
29-07-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Insider
Chinese Manufacturer is Aiming to Take Ferrari and Mclaren
A Chinese manufacturer, Great Wall Motors (GWM), best known for its electric hatchbacks, is creating its own PHEV supercar with a custom hybrid powertrain that aims to take on Ferrari and McLaren. As the new age of manufacturing has well and truly dawned, the fastest cars on the planet are combining the signature engines of old with zippy new motors. Marrying the thrust of electricity with the roar of combustion engines, these best-of-both-world supercars are the future. Now, one Chinese manufacturer is making the massive step from standard road cars to PHEV, AKA Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, supercar making, and it's wildly optimistic. Already, Chinese manufacturers have crafted some undeniably great supercars. Specifically, the YangWang U9 is one of the best in the business, capable of dancing and bunnyhopping, setting blistering records, and looking good in the process. Now, other manufacturers are looking to replicate BYD's success on this front. Specifically, hatchback and SUV maker GWM has been building its own PHEV supercar for five years, and has even crafted a custom 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine to join the electric motors in the powertrain. GWM The unnamed car has yet to be unveiled in full, however. In fact, we know little more than the fact that it will have a carbon fiber cabin, as GWM pulled in the help of some European counterparts, given 'no company in China can do a good job' with the popular material. Aside from that, and the engine, which is expected to pump out 600hp alone, the Chinese racer is shrouded with mystery. However, the company thinks it can challenge the best of the best in the hybrid division, including the Ferrari SF90 and McLaren Atura. The PHEV supercar era is well and truly stacked, as of 2025. McLaren has come out swinging with the Atura, and will be combining successes on all fronts with the W1. Lamborghini also came out swinging with the Revuelto's dual-motor and V12 combo, earning over 1,000hp. And, the Corvette ZR1X is showing that America can hold its own here too. GWM has tipped its hat at the Ferrari, though, as Chairman Wei Jianjun was recently snapped driving a Rosso red SF90. Having been asked about it, Chief Technology Officer, Wu Huixiao, simply said: 'What we do is definitely better than theirs.' Still, Ferrari ripped up the script on hybrids with the seriously impressive 296 Speciale coming in 2026. Ferrari These hybrid electric-combustion racers are certainly a step towards a faster future, but don't expect a full EV lineup of supercars just yet. Click here to read more Also read: 'We'll Do It Ourselves!' Dutch Vigilantes Stop Cars At German Border In Protest Over Illegal Migration Source
Business Recorder
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Business Recorder
BYD's Shark 6 pickup to launch in Pakistan next week
BYD Pakistan is set to launch its Shark 6 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) on July 25 as the country's first PHEV in the pickup truck segment. While the company has not disclosed the price of the vehicle yet, one can look to the double cabin/pickup segment including conventional fuel-driven models such as the Toyota Hilux Revo, ISUZU D-Max, and JAC T9 Hunter for comparison. Prices of such fuel-driven vehicles range from Rs10 to Rs20 million. BYD's product could cost more in comparison with conventional internal combustion engines (ICEs) running on gasoline or diesel. Pakistan's EV sector is 'like a newborn baby', needs time to evolve, say experts estimates the expected price to fall between Rs19 million to 20 million. Experts say when it comes to various parameters and features, the PHEV is likely to be far better than fuel-driven vehicles. Auto analyst Usman Ansari told Business Recorder not a lot of user feedback is available for BYD as it is not a very old brand. However, he said the double cabin/pickup segment generally include off-road vehicles (ORVs) that are useful to drive on uneven surfaces, rural areas, mountains and hills. They are less suited for cities. 'Local people love them because of its huge size and because they are some kind of status symbol here.' BYD makes safety pledge for cars with proprietary assisted driving in China In the past, there has been a misconception that Pakistanis do not buy Chinese-made vehicles, but cars made by Haval, BYD and Changan have been gaining popularity thanks to their performance, attractive features, low price and comfort. Two BYD cars are currently available in the market in Pakistan - the Atto 3, which has an ex-factory price of Rs9 million, and the Seal, which costs between Rs15 million to Rs17 million. BYD officially launched the Shark 6 in its global debut on May 14, 2024, during an event held in Mexico, where the vehicle costs between $50,000 - $60,000. That marked BYD's first-ever pickup to be introduced on the world stage outside China. Since then, the Shark 6 PHEV has rolled out to various markets globally, including Australia, as well as Brazil, Philippines and South Africa. BYD partners with Mega Motor Company to deliver NEVs According to BYD's website, the Shark 6 comes equipped with a Hybrid Special 1.5 litre turbo high-power engine that, in conjunction with the BYD Blade battery, has 321kw of power and 650Nm of torque maximum output. It comes with features like Hill Hold Control, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill Descent Control and Auto-Hold.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Three...Two...One: Toyota Debuts Amazing All-New RAV4
All-new, redesigned 6th generation RAV4 will be available in Core, Sport, and Rugged styles across seven grades, including a new-look Woodland and first-ever GR SPORT America's best-selling compact SUV will now be 100% electrified, in a choice of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains First-ever RAV4 GR SPORT, developed in partnership with Toyota GAZOO Racing, with GR-tuned handling, aggressive exterior style, exhilarating PHEV powertrain with AWD, and more RAV4 Woodland grade available in HEV or PHEV with AWD standard, higher ride height, all-terrain tires, split grille, and more Debut of 6th generation PHEV powertrain with up-to 320 hp output and 20% more all-electric drive range of 50 miles (manufacturer estimated, 42 miles previously) RAV4 HEV models move to 5th generation hybrid system and boost output to 236 hp on AWD models and 226 hp on FWD models - with FWD coming to RAV4 Hybrid for the first time Launch of Toyota's Arene software development platform, which enables Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 and a new generation of the Toyota Audio Multimedia System PLANO, Texas, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Toyota Motor North America announces the all-new, 2026 RAV4. For its sixth generation, America's best-selling compact SUV will be available in three new designs that include Core, Rugged, and Sport styles - among which include a new-look Woodland grade and the U.S. market's first-ever RAV4 GR SPORT model. The 2026 RAV4 also joins Toyota's ever-growing list of exclusively electrified models, as it will be available in a choice of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains. RAV4 also launches new technologies for Toyota, including the Arene software development platform, a new version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, and updates to the Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite. "At Toyota, customer choice is paramount," said David Christ, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "With three distinct styles, two highly efficient electrified powertrains, and available Front- or All-Wheel Drive, the all-new RAV4 offers something for everyone and is ready to take on all of life's adventures." The 2026 RAV4 Core design combines a sleek, paint-matched grille, with Toyota's signature hammerhead front end for a modern take on RAV4. Wide overfenders with black cladding and an ascending belt line with chiseled body panels complement its SUV proportions. Wheel combinations vary, with 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels available, depending on the grade. Core models include the well-equipped LE, XLE, and Limited grades. The Rugged design is exclusive to the outdoor-inspired Woodland model, which now becomes a standalone grade to the RAV4 lineup. For the Rugged design, the peak of the hammerhead front end is slightly raised and its black, split upper and lower grille with integrated Rigid Industries LED lighting give it an adventurous look. The model also stands about a half inch higher due to standard All-Terrain tires, has standard raised roof rails with crossbars, and a 1¼ -inch rear activity mount for travel-ready versatility. The Woodland grade will have standard AWD and be available in a HEV or PHEV powertrain. At the forefront of the Sport designs is the RAV4 GR SPORT. Designed with input from the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineering division, it takes inspiration from motorsports for a model that is an expression of driving enjoyment. It prioritizes handling, with a GR-tuned suspension and power steering, enhanced body rigidity, and summer tires on unique 20-inch wheels with increased offset. It will be exclusively available with a PHEV powertrain and has a GR Functional MATRIX grille, along with front and rear wing-type spoilers for aggressive style. The XSE and SE grades round out the Sport designs. They will be available in HEV or PHEV powertrains and a choice of FWD or AWD depending on grade and have up-to 20-inch wheels, blue interior stitching, and available two-tone paint. The new RAV4 comes in PHEV and HEV models, with the PHEV models featuring a newly developed Plug-in Hybrid System that combines a high-capacity drive battery and high-output charger compatible with Toyota's latest sixth-generation hybrid. The HEV system increases output over the prior generation, climbing to 236 combined system net hp on AWD models (219 combined system net hp previously). RAV4 hybrid will also be available in FWD for the first time, and will have 226 combined system net horsepower, a 23 hp improvement over the prior generation's 203 hp FWD gas model. The latest PHEV system also adds output, with up-to an impressive 320 combined system net horsepower, up 18 hp over the outgoing system. Variety is also the name of the game for PHEV models, moving from two to four grades in model year 2026, with the Woodland and GR SPORT models joining the previously available SE and XSE. All PHEV models will have standard AWD. The PHEV model also increases its all-electric driving range to a manufacturer's estimated 50-mile range rating. The PHEV XSE and Woodland grades will have DC fast charging, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes*. New 2026 RAV4 models are expected to start arriving at Toyota dealerships across the U.S. later this year, and pricing will be announced closer to on-sale date. Two Great Powertrains with Available Front- or All-Wheel Drive The 2026 RAV4 HEV debuts Toyota's fifth-generation Hybrid system on an SUV model. Powered by a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with the fifth-generation hybrid system, it has improvements to the transaxle, power control unit, battery, and other components, all of which contribute to its enhanced motor output. A new Plug-in Hybrid system will also debut on RAV4. It will have a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors and high-capacity traction battery. For the new system, Toyota has adopted silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle to achieve miniaturization and high efficiency. This change, in combination with the larger battery, has led to the increase in range. DC fast charging is also available, with the XSE and Woodland grades being capable of high-speed charging through an equipped CCS charging port. The SE and GR SPORT PHEV models will be equipped with a J1772 charging port. Charging at home or with standard public chargers can also be quicker with up to an 11-kW AC onboard charger available. An increase in towing capacity on specific AWD grades adds to RAV4's overall utility. The HEV XLE, Woodland, SE, XSE, Limited and PHEV SE, XSE, and Woodland grades with AWD, will be capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds. All FWD models and the LE AWD model will have a 1,750-pound towing capacity. A New Generation Inside and Out When RAV4 was first launched in the U.S. for the 1996 model year, it was a sign of what was to come for the SUV segment. Built on a unibody platform that was shared with the Corolla sedan, it tapped into a unique need for many drivers and offered easy handling with functional utility. Since then, the RAV4 has evolved through five generations and changed to fit life's adventures for customers around the world. The all-new sixth-generation 2026 RAV4 keeps the model's agile and functional spirit rolling. Built on the Toyota New Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform, the newest RAV4 will receive structural rigidity increases due to reinforcement of the frame joints and the suspension mounting points, both benefiting handling and ride comfort. It also adopts a high-damping adhesive that reduces micro-vibrations and road noise. The exterior design highlights RAV4's SUV proportions, with large tires, an elevated ride, and highly usable rear cargo area. Whether it's a Core, Rugged, or Sport model, each adapt the Toyota hammerhead front-end for a strong, modern take on RAV4. From the side, its fender flares give it a wide stance and chiseled door panels ascend to a stout rear. Stylish new LED signature taillights give the functional rear hatch a tech-forward feel, while also adding a sense of width. Additional details like front and rear spoilers, different trim colors, and wheel treatments individualize RAV4's style across the grades. The 2026 RAV4's interior prioritizes functionality, aiming for a harmonious blend of comfort and user-friendly technology. The center stack groups various functions together, like the touchscreen display, drive mode selection, and storage for a smartly organized space while the center console combines the shifter, cup holder with a removable divider, and arm rest/storage bin with a two-way closure. On select grades, the cockpit adds Toyota's new shift-by-wire system, with a minimalist toggle switch that has intuitive operation and brings a futuristic feel to the new RAV4. Choice Across the Grades The 2026 RAV4 puts choice at the center of its model lineup. For instance, FWD is available on hybrid LE, XLE, and SE grades for the first time, and the previously available AWD system is offered on all grades. The following combinations will be available: 2026 RAV4 MODELS BY GRADE AND AVAILABLE POWERTRAIN/DRIVETRAIN Core Design Rugged Design Sport Design LE • HEV Powertrain o FWD (New) o AWD Woodland • HEV Powertrain o AWD • PHEV Powertrain (New) o AWD SE • HEV Powertrain o FWD (New) o AWD • PHEV Powertrain o AWD XLE • HEV Powertrain o FWD (New) o AWD XSE • HEV Powertrain o AWD • PHEV Powertrain o AWD Limited • HEV Powertrain o AWD GR SPORT (New) • PHEV Powertrain o AWD A new, slim 10.5-inch or available 12.9-inch touchscreen gives the cockpit a clean, modern feel. Digital HVAC controls are a new feature integrated into the bottom of the touchscreen display and have a permanent home along the bottom of the screen. Across all grades, a new, standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster will give drivers customizable options and integrated multimedia information. A Head-Up Display will be available on the Limited (HEV) and XSE (PHEV) grades. A six-speaker audio system will be standard, and a nine speaker JBL® Premium Audio system will be available, depending on the grade. Seating surfaces will range from fabric to SofTex® with available seating colors like black, light gray, or to the new Mineral color on the Woodland. The Woodland interior also adds other touches for a vibrant, outdoor inspired cabin, like uniquely patterned perforated soft-touch door and dash panels, red orange accents and standard, Woodland-branded all-weather floor and cargo mats. On the XSE and GR SPORT grades, perforated BRIN•NAUB® microsuede and SofTex-trimmed seating with colorful accents add a dynamic feel. The RAV4 GR SPORT model adds GR logos to the front headrests and steering wheel, while paddle shifters and aluminum sport pedals give it a sporty appeal. Exterior color options also bring standout style. The Woodland grade will have an all-new available Urban Rock exterior paint color, which is exclusive to the grade, while Meteor Shower, Everest, and Storm Cloud colors join the RAV4 color palette. Favorites like Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Blueprint will continue for the new generation. Available two-tone paint options are also carried forward, like the new combination of Meteor Shower with Black roof on the XSE or the GR SPORT's exclusive pairing of Supersonic Red with a Black roof. New Tech The new RAV4 will be equipped with Arene, an all-new software development platform created by Woven by Toyota. The introduction of Arene is Toyota's first step toward fully software-defined vehicles. The platform will be the foundation for our most advanced safety, security and connectivity technologies and will create new opportunities to enhance features for our customers on a global scale. The 2026 RAV4 will also launch the newest version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which is enabled by Arene. Paired with the touchscreen display, the system will have standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and simultaneous dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity. The new system changes-up the user experience with a new home button that is always displayed regardless of whether it's being operated in the native system, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The native Voice Assistant is also improved with quicker response times. Native map and navigation functionality will also be integrated into the digital gauge cluster. The Toyota RAV4 will also be the first Toyota model to receive the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0) system, also powered by the Arene software development platform. The new version of Toyota's standard active safety suite will have updates to its hardware and detection capabilities. Additional details will be available closer to the on-sale date. SpecificationsCORE RUGGED SPORT Grades LE, XLE, Limited Woodland SE, XSE, GR SPORT Drivetrain LE, XLE: FWD/AWD -or- Limited: AWD AWD SE: FWD/AWD -or- XSE, GR SPORT: AWD Engine Lineup 2.5L, 4-Cyl. Hybrid 2.5L, 4-Cyl. Hybrid -or- 2.5L, 4-Cyl. Plug-in Hybrid SE, XSE: 2.5L, -or- SE, XSE, GR Sport: 2.5L,4-Cyl. Plug-in Hybrid Horsepower HEV FWD: 226 HEV AWD: 236 HEV AWD: 236 PHEV AWD: Up to 320 HEV FWD: 226 HEV AWD: 236 PHEV AWD: Up to 320 Overall Length 180.9-in. 181.8-in SE, XSE: 180.9 GR Sport: 181.8-in. Width 73.0-in. 74.0-in. 74.0-in Height 67.0-in. 67.8-in SE, XSE: 67.0-in. GR SPORT: 66.4-in Wheelbase 105.9-in. 105.9-in 105.9-in. Limited Warranty Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years, unlimited mileage of Roadside Assistance. About Toyota Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships. Toyota directly employs nearly 48,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 35 million cars and trucks at our 11 manufacturing plants. In spring 2025, Toyota's plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 32 electrified options. Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed to creating innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved communities near the company's U.S. operating sites. For more information about Toyota, visit MEDIA CONTACT Paul Note to Editors: Photos and b-roll can be found on For customer inquiries, please call: 800-331-4331 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Toyota Motor North America Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Recorder
05-05-2025
- Automotive
- Business Recorder
MG upgrades its Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
KARACHI: MG Pakistan has announced a significant upgrade to its Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HS PHEV) by introducing a 7KW fast charger as standard equipment, replacing the previously included portable charger. This enhancement aims to address customer feedback and improve the ownership experience of the company's hybrid SUV. The upgrade comes after the successful launch of the MG HS PHEV in Pakistan last October, with local production beginning in January 2025. Since then, over 500 units have been delivered to customers who have praised the vehicle's design, performance, and environmental benefits. However, some owners expressed concerns about the extended charging time of up to 8.5 hours required with the standard portable charger. The newly introduced 7KW fast charger will reduce charging time by approximately half, offering greater convenience for daily commuters. 'We are committed to transforming the Pakistan Automotive landscape by offering the latest technology and services,' said Syed Asif Ahmed, General Manager of Marketing Division at MG Pakistan. 'By upgrading to a faster charging solution, we're not just addressing customer concerns — we're enhancing the overall ownership experience and reinforcing our leadership in the new energy vehicle segment.' The new fast charger, valued at PKR 235,000, will be provided at no additional cost to customers, replacing the previously included portable charger. The portable version will remain available for purchase as an accessory item. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Yahoo
25-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Iowan sues makers of Jeep Wrangler 4xe due to risk of battery fire or explosion
DES MOINES, Iowa — An Iowan is suing Jeep's parent company as a result of a potential safety risk. JB Conlin purchased a Jeep Wrangler 4xe Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) in 2022. This vehicle has a hybrid engine and a rechargeable EV battery pack. Last month, he filed a lawsuit against Stellantis, the makers of the vehicle. He told WHO 13 News that his goal with the lawsuit is to raise awareness among other consumers about the potential safety risks associated with the vehicle's EV battery. The lawsuit comes after Conlin watched a YouTube video posted by a Michigan firefighter that exposed the potential dangers of the vehicle. In the video, the firefighter showed footage of what he said was a Jeep 4xe exploding in Belgium. He also showed other videos of the vehicle on fire. Tractors line Highway 14 to honor longtime Jasper County farmer The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued five recalls since this vehicle was launched. Three of them were related to EV battery failure, loss of power, fire, or explosion. A recall issued in October advises consumers to park the car outside and away from structures or other vehicles because of the risk of fire when the car is on or off. The battery is located inside the vehicle, as opposed to having the battery under the hood like in other vehicles. The battery is located under the backseat, which is a typical location where children sit, 'I've got nieces and nephews that would ride in it and my family… if I'm driving it, they were freaking out,' said Conlin. Conlin now keeps his car parked outside of his garage at a distance from his home. 'So, I basically have a $60,000 lawn ornament. And so, I'm not driving it much at all right now because of the safety concerns and I don't feel comfortable selling it to somebody now, so I and other consumers are kind of stuck,' he said. In Iowa, new motor vehicle owners are protected under the Iowa Lemon Law. According to the Attorney General's website, for a vehicle to qualify as a 'lemon,' one or more of the following must be true: The vehicle has been in the shop three or more times for the same problem and the problem still exists; The vehicle has been in the shop one time due to a defect likely to cause serious bodily injury or death and the problem still exists; The vehicle has been out of service for any number of problems for 20 or more days, and a problem still exists. The days do not need to be consecutive. If the Attorney General's office deems the vehicle a 'lemon' after the manufacturer has had a reasonable opportunity to repair the car, then the manufacturer has to either buy the vehicle back from the customer at the price they paid or give the customer a similar vehicle. Conlin said Stellantis has failed to do that and failed to fix the problem. A spokesperson for Stellantis declined to comment as a result of pending litigation. The Iowa Department of Transportation told WHO 13 News that there were 482 Jeep Wrangler PHEV 4xe vehicles registered in Iowa as of December 31, 2024. Iowan sues makers of Jeep Wrangler 4xe due to risk of battery fire or explosion Tractors line Highway 14 to honor longtime Jasper County farmer Iowa Barber Coalition urging lawmakers to approve bill to allow training on the job Iowa Senate amends, approves Governor Reynolds' school cellphone restriction bill Skylar Vann and Oklahoma easily dispatch Iowa from women's NCAA Tournament, 96-62 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
