The smart way to stay ahead in the automotive world
The smart way to stay ahead in the automotive world
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The AutoExec Network is the smartest way to stay up to date with the rapidly evolving automotive world. Become a member today and you’ll not only unlock those powerful search filters above to fine-tune – and delve deep into – this aggregated newsfeed, you’ll unlock the insights, exclusive interviews and in-depth analyses in our AutoExec+ premium content section. Join today! |
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2027 “EV1” to be Kia’s most affordable EV, and could mean the axe for the tiny Picanto
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: Kia will launch the affordable EV1 electric hatchback in 2027, replacing the petrol Picanto. Priced around €25,000 (A$41,500), it’ll compete with BYD Dolphin and MG4, offering 300-500km range. Kia plans 14 new EVs by 2030, targeting one million annual EV sales.
Brands mentioned: Kia, BYD, MG, GWM, Renault, Hyundai |
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800km range hero? Upgraded BMW i7 to gain Rimac batteries, boosting luxo limo’s range and charging speed
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: BMW has partnered with Croatian hypercar-maker Rimac to develop advanced Gen6 cylindrical batteries for the facelifted i7 luxury sedan. The new battery delivers 20% more energy density, boosting range from 625km to an expected 750-800km, with significantly faster charging. Rimac will manufacture the batteries at its Zagreb factory before shipping to BMW’s German plant.
Brands mentioned: BMW, Rimac, Genesis, Bugatti |
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LandBruiser: Meet the rugged, family-friendly GWM Haval HX PHEV that’s gunning for the Toyota LandCruiser and Land Rover Defender
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: GWM has unveiled its flagship Haval HX plug-in hybrid SUV, designed to rival the Toyota LandCruiser Prado and Land Rover Defender 130. Built on a monocoque chassis with Hi4 PHEV technology, the 4950mm SUV offers up to 200km of EV range and advanced autonomous features. It’s under consideration for Australian release, potentially priced around $70,000.
Brands mentioned: GWM, Haval, Toyota, Land Rover, Hyundai, Kia, Denza |
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Highly charged: Geely challenges BYD fast-charging supremacy with battery taking 4 minutes for a 10-70 per cent top-up
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: Geely has unveiled its 900V Energee Golden Brick Battery, claiming the world’s fastest charging mass-production battery. The battery charges 10-70 per cent in 4 minutes 22 seconds with Zeekr’s V4 megawatt charger, outpacing BYD’s Blade 2.0 battery. BYD is expanding its 1MW charger network across the region and Australia.
Brands mentioned: Geely, BYD, Lynk & Co, Zeekr, Denza |
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2026 MG4 EV Urban: New price leader for Chinese brand sizes up BYD, Geely, GWM and GAC
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: MG’s new 2026 MG4 EV Urban is Australia’s cheapest entry-level electric car at $31,990 drive-away. The front-wheel-drive hatchback offers 316km range, practical interior space, and solid safety features, positioning itself against rivals like BYD Atto 1 and GWM Ora.
Brands mentioned: MG, BYD, Geely, GWM, GAC, Leapmotor |
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Review: 2026 Kia EV6 GT AWD Dual Motor – Korea takes on Germany, and wins
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: Kia’s 2026 EV6 GT AWD dual motor delivers supercar performance with 478kW and 770Nm, rivalling German electric vehicles. Priced at $99,600, it features an 84kWh battery, improved suspension tuning, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The retuned chassis provides exceptional ride and handling dynamics, though interior perceived value lags premium competitors.
Brands mentioned: Kia, Porsche, BMW, Hyundai, MG, GWM, BYD |
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Game on, Tesla Model Y! Mazda CX-6e pricing confirmed as sleek electric SUV opens from $53,990
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: Mazda has announced Australian pricing for its new CX-6e electric SUV, starting from $53,990. The China-built model offers two rear-wheel-drive grades with 190kW motors, 78kWh batteries, and up to 484km range. It targets Tesla Model Y buyers with competitive pricing and a pre-order campaign offering free upgrades.
Brands mentioned: Mazda, Tesla, BYD, Apple, Android |
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Mercedes-Benz EQS set for second overhaul with steer-by-wire and ultra-fast charging
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: Mercedes-Benz is preparing a major overhaul of its flagship EQS electric limousine, introducing steer-by-wire technology, 800-volt electrical architecture for faster charging, redesigned headlamps, and more energy-dense batteries. The updates aim to keep the EQS competitive against cheaper, more advanced rivals.
Brands mentioned: Mercedes-Benz, CLA, S-Class, Mercedes-AMG |
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Lucid locks in right-hand drive Cosmos SUV as BMW iX3 rival firms for Australia
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: Lucid will launch its first right-hand-drive model, the mid-size Cosmos SUV, in 2026 as a BMW iX3 rival. Built in Saudi Arabia, the five-seat electric SUV will be priced under US$50,000 and could eventually reach Australia, pending market success.
Brands mentioned: Lucid, BMW, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Tesla |
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New Chinese brand incoming! Forthing to launch in Australia in June with Toyota RAV4 Hybrid-baiting Taikon 5 medium SUV
AUSTRALASIA –
Summary: Chinese brand Forthing launches in Australia in June 2026 via Ateco Group distribution. The Taikon 5 mid-size SUV arrives in battery-electric and plug-in hybrid variants, competing directly with established models like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The EV offers 425km range, whilst the range-extender provides 1050km total range.
Brands mentioned: Forthing, Toyota, Dongfeng Motor Group, Renault, LDV, Maserati |