Wheeling

Nissan has detailed the third generation of its e-POWER powertrain, the series-hybrid system in which a petrol engine generates electricity to drive the wheels via an electric motor. The company published an overview of the new technology on its global innovation page, drawing attention from tech readers. Discussion centres on what efficiency, refinement and cost improvements the next iteration could bring to Nissan's electrified lineup.

Li Auto has launched the i9, a new electric model offering a claimed range of 705 km on a single charge and a 400 kW all-wheel-drive powertrain. The debut positions Li Auto's growing EV lineup against premium electric sedans and SUVs from rivals in China and beyond, drawing attention for its combination of long range and high output.

Max Verstappen has opened up about his close battle with George Russell, describing the sprint to the finish line that saw the two drivers go wheel to wheel in Formula 1. The Red Bull driver walked through how the duel unfolded and how he managed to hold position in a finish decided by fine margins.

Readers in Mexico are searching for daily updates for Wednesday, September 30, with horoscope columns from Nana Calistar and other outlets topping the mix. Lottery results including Sinuano Día, Chispazo and Tris are also in demand, alongside a report of a recent earthquake in Mexico and a list of the most expensive Hot Wheels in the world.

The French government has announced it will extend across the whole country the automatic suspension of a driving licence for using a phone behind the wheel. Officials say the measure targets ordinary drivers, not just repeat offenders, and is part of a wider road-safety push. Comment is focused on how the rule will apply to 'monsieur et madame Tout-le-Monde' — everyday motorists caught once — and on its deterrent effect.

Nissan is pinning hopes for its recovery on a distinctive hybrid powertrain that differs fundamentally from Toyota's approach. The company's e-POWER system drives the wheels with an electric motor while a petrol engine acts solely as a generator, setting it apart from conventional hybrid setups. Industry observers are watching whether the technology can help the struggling automaker regain ground against its Japanese rival.

A new bipedal delivery robot has been unveiled in Tech Town, marking a step beyond the wheeled robots commonly used for last-mile deliveries. By walking on two legs, the machine could handle stairs, curbs and uneven pavements that block current models. Details on its maker, capabilities and rollout plans have not yet been announced.

Donald Trump was seen driving the Beast, the US president's heavily armoured limousine, during a visit to Oklahoma. The unusual sight of the president behind the wheel of the presidential state car drew wide attention and comment, with reactions ranging from amusement to concern about security protocols surrounding the vehicle.

Gordon Johncock, the two-time Indianapolis 500 winner, has died at the age of 90. The American racing driver was one of the sport's most respected figures, best known for his victories in the Indy 500 and his long career in open-wheel racing. Fans and the motorsport community are paying tribute to his legacy.

Police in Vilseck, Bavaria, stopped a novice driver during a traffic check after noticing a smell of cannabis. The case, reported by local outlet Radio Ramasuri, is drawing attention in the region as discussions around traffic controls and drug checks behind the wheel continue, especially concerning young and newly licensed drivers in rural Bavaria.

Home cooks are turning to a simple appetizer recipe for brie wrapped in puff pastry and baked until melted. The dish, popular for holiday gatherings and dinner parties, requires few ingredients and little preparation time. Food sites report steady interest in the method, which involves wrapping a whole wheel of brie in pastry and baking until golden.

A Northeastern University project examines how modern connected cars, functioning like smartphones on wheels, collect data on drivers and passengers. The work looks at which companies and systems have access to in-car microphones, sensors and telemetry, raising questions about consent and surveillance. Commenters online are debating how much privacy drivers actually give up in newer vehicles.

Aerial footage captured at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire shows a wheeled robot operating close to a line of white vans at the airbase. The images have drawn attention because robots of this kind are typically used for bomb disposal and hazardous inspection work, prompting questions about what activity was under way at the site and why the device was deployed there.

Food-delivery robots have been introduced at Cal Poly, the California Polytechnic State University campus in San Luis Obispo, bringing automated meal service to students. The rollout means students can now order food and have it delivered by wheeled robots across campus. Details about the robot provider, pricing, and service area have not yet been reported.

Denza, the premium brand under Chinese automaker BYD, is bringing its off-road-oriented plug-in hybrid Bao 5 to Sweden. The model, which delivers 544 horsepower and all-wheel drive, will make its first public appearance at the eCar Expo. The launch marks another step in Chinese manufacturers expanding into the Swedish and European markets.

The Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive has been revealed as the cheapest electric sedan available in Australia. The designation highlights Tesla's push into the country's growing EV market, where price remains a key barrier for buyers weighing electric models against petrol alternatives. Interest centres on what the entry-level version offers at its lower price point.

Autonomous racing software is now fast enough to compete with professional-level drivers, prompting debate about how far the technology can go. Engineers say AI cars are improving rapidly but still lack human adaptability and racecraft. Fans and commentators are asking whether machines could eventually take the wheel in top-tier motorsport altogether.

Amazon has cut the price of the Mammotion Luba Mini 2 AWD robot lawn mower to $1,699, a $300 discount. The all-wheel-drive model is aimed at homeowners wanting automated, wire-free lawn care on uneven terrain. Shoppers tracking robotics deals are flagging it as a solid discount for the premium mower category.

A wheeled semi-humanoid robot has reportedly learned to perform household chores after just 30 minutes of training. The development highlights rapid progress in robotics, where machines can quickly adapt to everyday domestic tasks like cleaning and tidying. Observers see it as a sign that home robots capable of practical chores may be moving closer to real-world deployment.

NASCAR star Brad Keselowski will not drive for RFK Racing, the team he co-owns, beyond the 2026 season, according to sources cited by The Athletic. Reports say he is also likely to give up his ownership stake in the organization following a disagreement, though full details of the dispute have not been made public. The news raises questions about the future direction of the team and who will replace the 2012 Cup Series champion behind the wheel.

Mattel, the American toy company behind Barbie and Hot Wheels, has named a new chief executive officer. The company confirmed the leadership change, though details about the incoming CEO and the timing of the transition remain limited in initial reports. The move draws attention to the strategic direction of one of the world's largest toy makers.