EV buyers

Nikkei Asia reports that the race among automakers to dominate Southeast Asia's electric vehicle market could leave ordinary drivers behind, as the rapid push for new EV models raises prices beyond what many consumers in the region can afford. The article highlights the tension between automakers' expansion plans and affordability for local buyers.

Tesla has established itself as the leading electric vehicle brand in Israel, while Chinese automakers are finding it difficult to gain a foothold in the market. The report points to consumer trust as the key hurdle for Chinese EV brands, which have struggled to convince Israeli buyers despite their growing global presence and competitive pricing.

The Trump administration is moving to roll back federal fuel economy standards, a shift that could make gasoline-powered vehicles cheaper and more widely available alongside electric models. Supporters frame it as expanding buyer choice and easing costs on automakers, while critics argue it will slow the transition to electric vehicles and increase emissions. The debate is drawing attention from car buyers, manufacturers and environmental groups alike.

New reporting from InsideEVs says extremely fast electric vehicle chargers are on their way to the United States, but most cars on the road cannot yet handle the power levels they deliver. The article highlights a growing gap between charging infrastructure and vehicle capability, raising questions about whether the rollout of next-generation chargers makes sense while current EVs remain limited in how quickly they can recharge.

Volkswagen's most affordable electric models are reportedly overtaking orders for its petrol and diesel cars in Germany, a shift the company is said to be slowing as it balances the transition. The development is being covered by finance and climate-focused outlets, with commentators framing it as a sign that cheap EVs are reaching mass-market buyers faster than the automaker planned.

Chinese electric vehicles are gaining ground in Pakistan, reshaping the country's car market according to The Express Tribune. The trend points to growing Chinese influence in Pakistan's auto sector, as affordable electric models attract local buyers amid rising fuel costs and a broader shift toward Chinese brands in the region.

Electric vehicles offering around 300 miles of range have become the standard expectation for new models, according to a new analysis from InsideEVs. The publication asks whether 400 miles will be the next benchmark as battery technology improves and automakers compete on range figures. The piece is prompting debate among EV enthusiasts about whether consumers actually need that much range or whether charging infrastructure matters more.

Costa Rica's government has proposed eliminating the tax breaks that have made electric vehicles significantly cheaper in the country. The incentives have been credited with boosting EV adoption in a nation that markets itself as a green leader, and the plan is expected to spark debate among environmentalists, car importers, and buyers over whether it will slow the shift to cleaner transport.

A Guardian report says three-quarters of the UK's most popular plug-in hybrid cars cannot use the country's rapid electric-vehicle chargers, highlighting a compatibility gap as charging networks expand and petrol prices push drivers toward electrified vehicles. The finding raises questions about how practical plug-in hybrids are for quick top-ups, and adds to debate over whether buyers should opt for fully electric cars instead.

Volkswagen has confirmed that the successor to its electric ID.4 SUV will carry the name ID. Tiguan, tying the electric model to one of VW's best-known nameplates. The move signals the company's strategy of phasing out alphanumeric EV naming in favor of familiar model names as it expands its electric lineup.

New rebates for electric vehicles are being introduced, offering buyers fresh financial incentives to make the switch from petrol cars. The rebates come as governments and manufacturers push to accelerate EV adoption and cut transport emissions. Details on eligibility, amounts and which models qualify are expected to be closely watched by drivers considering an electric purchase.

Volkswagen has announced details of the ID. UNYX 09, an electric SUV reported to offer a range of up to 755 kilometres, 370 kW of power, along with pricing information. The figures place the model among Volkswagen's longest-range electric vehicles, and the announcement is drawing attention from electric vehicle watchers comparing its specs and price against rivals.

Kia's electric vehicle sales increased last month, a result described as surprising in automotive coverage. The gain comes despite broader reports of slowing EV demand in several major markets, with many automakers scaling back electric plans. Kia's EV lineup, including models like the EV6 and EV9, appears to have continued finding buyers. Industry watchers are now looking at whether the brand can keep the momentum going in the coming months.

BYD has confirmed that the pricing for Australia's cheapest electric vehicle is not permanent, signalling that current low prices are promotional and could increase in the future. Buyers are weighing whether to act now before the window closes, and the announcement has sparked discussion about EV affordability and discounting in the Australian market.

Volkswagen is preparing the 2027 ID.Tiguan, an electric SUV expected to succeed the ID.4 in the United States. The new model would fold the ID.4 into a Tiguan-branded electric lineup, aligning VW's American EV range with its established nameplates. Details on timing and specifications remain limited, but the vehicle is positioned as the next step in the brand's electric transition.

Toyota's next-generation Corolla, expected around 2028, could be offered with a full range of powertrains including gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions. Reports suggest the automaker plans to keep its best-selling compact competitive across markets by letting buyers choose their preferred technology rather than forcing a single drivetrain. The news is drawing attention from auto enthusiasts and industry watchers tracking how mainstream manufacturers balance EV transitions with continued demand for traditional engines.

A large-scale study drawing on 500,000 electric vehicle battery health checks compared 20 EV models to see which hold their charge best over time. InsideEVs reports that one car stood out from the pack in terms of battery degradation, offering buyers a rare data-driven comparison of long-term battery durability across brands.

Koreans in their 20s are increasingly choosing electric vehicles over gasoline cars, according to Korea JoongAng Daily. The trend reflects a generational shift in the world's major carmaking nation, where younger buyers are reportedly more drawn to EVs for running costs and environmental reasons, leaving older drivers sticking with combustion models.

InsideEVs argues that the real challenge for electric vehicles is not politics but age: older drivers remain far more reluctant to buy EVs than younger buyers, limiting the technology's growth potential. The piece suggests the industry's fortunes depend on shifting demographics rather than winning over skeptical policymakers or political camps.

BYD has revealed the price and specifications of the Atto 2 DM-i, a plug-in hybrid small SUV priced from $24,990. The DM-i system pairs a petrol engine with electric drive for low fuel consumption and extended range, positioning the Atto 2 as an affordable option for buyers not ready to go fully electric. Attention is on how the pricing compares with rival hybrid compact SUVs.