Even the Japanese don’t want Toyota’s electric cars. The Japanese automaker is facing a crushing failure in its own territory. In August 2025, Toyota delivered only 18 electric vehicles in Japan, representing a staggering 84.9% drop compared to the previous year.

A Japanese market reluctant towards electric vehicles

This revealing statistic highlights Toyota’s difficulties in convincing its compatriots to switch to electric. While the manufacturer traditionally focuses on hybrids, its transition to 100% electric vehicles is encountering unexpected resistance in its domestic market.

Figures that question Toyota’s strategy

The 84.9% drop in deliveries in one year raises questions across the entire automotive industry. Several factors may explain this distrust among Japanese consumers: high prices, limited range, insufficient charging infrastructure, or competition from hybrids.

What future for electric vehicles at Toyota?

Faced with these concerning results, Toyota must review its electric strategy to appeal to the Japanese market. The manufacturer will likely need to adapt its models, pricing, and communication to regain the trust of local drivers.

The Volvo EX30 sees life in black with its special Black Edition. Like its larger siblings, the small electric SUV Volvo EX30 now benefits from its own exclusive black version.

This limited edition stands out with a new deep black paint, distinctive design elements, and specific 20-inch alloy wheels that enhance its premium character.

Features of the Black Edition

Exclusive Exterior Design

The Volvo EX30 Black Edition sports an exclusive black shade that highlights its clean lines. Chrome elements are replaced with black finishes, creating a very contemporary monochrome appearance.

Specific Wheels and Equipment

This special version is equipped with uniquely designed 20-inch alloy wheels, specially created for the Black Edition. The overall setup helps reinforce the vehicle’s sporty and elegant identity.

Interior and Finishes

The interior of the EX30 Black Edition continues the black theme with premium materials and specific finishes that complement the exterior aesthetics.

The Volvo EX30 Black Edition represents a new stylistic variation for the Swedish brand’s compact electric SUV, offering design enthusiasts an exclusive version with a strong character.

While the French market is not in good shape, electric car sales reached a record in September. The Tesla Model Y is back at the top of the rankings, leaving the Renault 5 far behind.

Tesla Model Y dominates the French electric market

The Tesla Model Y has once again established itself as the best-selling electric vehicle in France. This electric SUV is enjoying remarkable success despite a difficult economic context for the automotive industry.

Record electric car sales in September

September was marked by an exceptional performance of electric vehicles in the French market. Registrations reached historic levels, demonstrating the growing enthusiasm of the French for electric mobility.

Renault 5 left behind in the rankings

The Renault 5, although highly anticipated, is positioned far behind the Model Y in sales statistics. The gap between the two models highlights Tesla’s current dominance in the electric car segment in France.

Prospects for the electric car market

This positive dynamic for electric vehicles contrasts with the general gloom of the French automotive market. Experts are observing an acceleration of the energy transition in the transport sector.

2025 Social Leasing: The government program gets off to a flying start. Barely launched, this electric mobility assistance scheme has already recorded 18,000 reservations out of the 50,000 vehicles offered, representing more than one-third of the total quota, in just four hours.

Immediate Success for the 2025 Social Leasing

The 2025 social leasing program is experiencing exceptional enthusiasm from its launch. The numbers speak for themselves: in just four hours, 18,000 electric vehicles were taken up out of the 50,000 made available.

This rush for social leasing demonstrates the strong demand among the French for accessible electric mobility solutions. The speed at which reservations were made highlights the importance of this scheme for eligible households.

A Program Awaited by the French

The 2025 social leasing is part of the government’s ecological transition policy. It allows low-income households to access an electric vehicle for a reduced monthly rent, with insurance and maintenance included.

This immediate success confirms the alignment between supply and demand for affordable clean vehicles. Authorities will likely need to reassess available volumes in light of this popular enthusiasm.

The article first appeared on Automobile Propre.

New Dacia Spring for less than €4,000! This exceptional opportunity is made possible by the Italian government which has just launched a new program of financial incentives to convince drivers to switch to electric.

The Italian program for electric vehicles

Italy has implemented a particularly advantageous subsidy system for the purchase of electric cars. This government scheme significantly reduces the purchase price of the Dacia Spring, making it available at a price that defies all competition in the European car market.

How do these financial aids work?

The mechanism of Italian incentives combines several types of assistance: a conversion bonus for older vehicles, an ecological bonus for the purchase of a new vehicle, and additional regional aid. This stacking of financial benefits explains how the Dacia Spring can reach this exceptional floor price.

The Dacia Spring: an economical electric city car

This electric model from Dacia positions itself as one of the most affordable electric cars on the market. With this price reduction in Italy, it becomes truly accessible to the greatest number of people, thus accelerating the ecological transition in the country.

Main vehicle characteristics

The Dacia Spring offers a range suitable for urban and suburban use, compact dimensions ideal for the city, and reduced maintenance costs. Its attractive price after incentives makes it a particularly interesting electric mobility solution.

Impact on the Italian car market

This incentive policy could well transform the Italian automotive landscape by significantly accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles. The Dacia Spring at less than €4,000 represents a unique opportunity for Italian motorists to switch to electric without breaking the bank.

Ayvens Carmarket, a platform specialized in the resale of used vehicles for professionals, is deploying a new service across Europe that could transform the perception of the electric car market.

A revolutionary service for the used electric market

This new service could give a boost to used electric car sales in Europe. The Ayvens Carmarket platform is introducing a major innovation that addresses the main concerns of potential buyers.

Trust at the heart of the purchasing process

The used electric vehicle market faces specific challenges, particularly regarding the accurate assessment of battery condition. This innovative service provides a transparent and reliable solution to guarantee buyers precise knowledge of battery health status.

Impact on the European market

This initiative comes at a crucial time when demand for used electric vehicles is experiencing significant growth in Europe. Automotive industry professionals will now be able to offer vehicles with clear and detailed certification.

Future prospects for used electric vehicles

The deployment of this service across the entire European territory marks an important step in the maturation of the used electric vehicle market. This increased transparency should help accelerate the adoption of second-hand electric vehicles.

Professional and individual buyers will benefit from better visibility on the real value of vehicles, thus facilitating transactions and strengthening confidence in this rapidly expanding segment.

Audi Q6, BMW iX3, Mercedes GLC, or Tesla Model Y: which of these large electric SUVs stands out against the competition?

The three premium German manufacturers have unveiled their new electric SUVs to compete with the Tesla Model Y. Which model truly stands out in this battle of large electric SUVs?

Technical comparison of premium electric SUVs

Range and performance

Range is a decisive factor for electric SUVs. The Tesla Model Y shows impressive figures, while the German models compete with advanced battery technologies. Each manufacturer optimizes its energy management system to maximize real-world range.

Design and interior space

The Audi Q6 captivates with its bold design and premium finishes. The BMW iX3 maintains the brand’s sporty DNA. The Mercedes GLC offers a luxurious and spacious interior. The Tesla Model Y impresses with its minimalism and generous interior space.

Technology and connectivity

Infotainment systems are a crucial point. Tesla leads with its intuitive interface and regular updates. The Germans respond with their own touchscreens and refined voice assistants.

Advantages and disadvantages of each model

Audi Q6 e-tron

The Audi Q6 combines elegance and cutting-edge technology. Its matrix LED headlights and refined cabin are appealing, but its price positions this model in the high-end segment.

BMW iX3

The BMW iX3 retains the brand’s dynamic qualities. Its sporty driving and meticulous finish are pleasing, although the range could be improved compared to the competition.

Mercedes GLC electric

The Mercedes GLC electric focuses on comfort and luxury. Its spacious interior and high-end equipment are convincing, despite a heavier weight.

Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y remains the benchmark in terms of range and technology. Its supercharger network and performance are impressive, even if the interior finishes are divisive.

Conclusion: which electric SUV to choose?

The final choice depends on each driver’s priorities. Maximum range leans in favor of the Tesla Model Y, while those who value prestige will prefer the German models. The value for money, real-world range, and equipment determine the winner of this close comparison.

When examining the third-quarter 2025 sales figures, I was struck by the increase in Nissan Z sales this year. A few months ago, we suggested it might be time to make a very low offer to see if it would be accepted. Well, quite a few people seem to have followed that advice and drove away happy in a new sports coupe. Nissan Z sales have more than doubled since the beginning of the year, and by looking at dealer inventories, I think I understand why: Nissan dealers are putting money on the table, and there’s significantly more if you’re willing to settle for a 2024 model.

Take this 2024 Nismo, for example. It’s finished in Stealth Gray over Graphite and has a base price of $65,090 before options. There are $7,500 in dealer incentives available. A 2025 Performance model (with the manual transmission, I should note) at the same dealership shows only $2,900 in dealer incentives and $2,500 in direct Nissan rebates. Looking at various dealerships, it appears that incentives are consistently better on the 2024 models. This isn’t a surprise, is it? Old inventory costs dealers money, and they want to get rid of it.

So, what is a model year? On paper, it doesn’t seem so bad. But consider this: most car manufacturers start producing the new model year between July and October of the previous calendar year. In other words, some of these vehicles are probably close to two years old. Although many new cars sit on dealer lots for months before being sold, two years is a long time, especially if it has been stored in a high-traffic area.

If you’re not scared yet, let me try once more: the Z is about to get better. Nissan has confirmed that it will correct one of the Nismo’s biggest flaws: the lack of a manual transmission. Although the automatic isn’t bad, it’s not the type of transmission we want paired with this turbocharged six-cylinder. The manual should have been there from the start, and it soon will be. By opting for a 2024, you’re not only committing to an older car but also to the existing formula. Choose wisely!

The Ford Bronco: This legendary vehicle, holder of the world record for the most powerful car audio system, is experiencing a second life. The 1990s and early 2000s marked the golden age of car audio competitions. Although these events continue in 2025 with even more powerful systems, that period remains a nostalgic moment for car audio enthusiasts.

The 1988 Ford Bronco you see here was one of the heroes of that era. Built by the legend Alma Gates, it exceeded 170 decibels. After years of inactivity and stripped of its Kicker system that earned it its world title, it is now being reborn as a high-performance demonstration vehicle.

A Passionate New Owner

Salvador Venerio is now the guardian of this historic Bronco. Owner of The Perfect Beat 505 in Albuquerque, he has the necessary expertise to restore this vehicle to its exceptional status.

Venerio acquired the vehicle from Nathan Munson of Audio Apex, considered an authority in SPL competitions. Munson had a long-standing friendship with Alma Gates, who passed away in 2013. She was the most iconic figure in this discipline during its peak, frequently appearing in the media for her unusual hobby.

A Conditional Reconstruction

After insisting for years, Venerio finally convinced Munson to sell him the vehicle, with one imperative condition: to rebuild it with Kicker equipment. Venerio contacted the brand for a potential sponsorship, and Kicker is currently reviewing this proposal.

“The vehicle originally had 48 10-inch speakers,” explains Venerio. “I was considering installing 38, but without sponsorship, the cost would become prohibitive. If Kicker does not participate, I will instead opt for four new 18-inch SoloX speakers with an acrylic finish to create a spectacular interior.”

The project already has the support of XS Power, which is providing all the lithium batteries.

An Impressive Legacy

Photographic archives show the impressive array of alternators mounted on the V8 engine. According to a 2001 article in Auto Sound and Security magazine, the entire setup weighed 17,000 pounds. Alma Gates recounted how the internal pressure generated by the bass was so intense that it tore the sheet metal and shattered the rear window.

A Symbolic Rebirth

The important thing is not to regain the original sound level, but to see this iconic vehicle receive the attention it deserves. The reconstruction will take time, but Venerio is seriously committed to modernizing the Team Gates Kicker Bronco. One thing is certain: the sound result will be exceptional.

Rivian is reportedly rethinking its electro-mechanical door opening system due to safety concerns. While Tesla faces similar criticism for its Cybertruck and Model Y models, the electric vehicle manufacturer would adapt its technology for its future R2 vehicle.

The Problematic Evolution of Opening Systems

The early R1 models from Rivian featured fully mechanical door latches. But the early 2025 revision introduced a system with no physical connection between the handle or button operated by occupants and the opening mechanism. This change required the installation of emergency handles on all doors.

For front passengers, these emergency handles remain easily accessible – they are black plastic elements located at the bottom of the armrest, in the same location as the mechanical handles on first-generation vehicles.

The Specific Problem with Rear Doors

The situation becomes more complicated for rear occupants, which reportedly motivated the planned changes for the R2 series. On the second-generation R1S and R1T, the manual emergency release cord is not directly accessible in the rear doors.

It is actually concealed behind a plastic panel that must be removed beforehand, facing the electronic opening button. This design could pose a problem in an emergency situation, where every second counts, especially if a child is on board.

A Response to Criticism

According to anonymous sources, employees and customers reportedly expressed their concerns about this design to Rivian. This feedback is said to have prompted the young manufacturer to reconsider its approach for the R2.

For the smaller SUV, the mechanism of the rear doors and their positioning would be similar to those of the front doors, according to available information.

Rivian’s Official Position

In a statement, Rivian stated that the R2 would meet or exceed all federal automotive safety standards, including passenger evacuation in the event of an accident or emergency. The company also clarified that no injuries had been reported due to rear doors not opening on the new R1 vehicles.

These comparative photos illustrate the design differences in handles between the 1st and 2nd generations of the Rivian R1 series. For the front doors, the location of the mechanical handle has not changed, although the second-generation vehicles also have an opening button. However, to access the manual release for the rear door of a Gen 2, a plastic panel must first be removed.

Future Outlook

At this stage, it is unknown whether Rivian will also modify the system already in place on the R1 models. As global regulators simultaneously show interest in the potential dangers of new door handles, the manufacturer could establish consistency across its entire range by using the R2 approach as a model.