A Century in the Making

Volvo Group traces its roots back to 1927, and with 2027 marking the official centenary, Volvo Trucks is getting a head start with a special commemorative edition of its heavy-duty range. The 100 Year Edition spans the FH, FH16, FH Aero, and FH16 Aero — meaning it's offered across the brand's current diesel, gas, and electric powertrains, not as a standalone new model. Orders open in September 2026.

Design Director Jonathan Disley described the edition as inspired by Volvo's Swedish heritage, while Jan Hjelmgren, Head of Product Management at Volvo Trucks, called it "the result of 100 years' worth of continual improvement in safety, quality, driver comfort, productivity, fuel efficiency and emissions saving."

What's New in the 100 Year Edition

The FH16 Electric: Volvo's Flagship Goes Zero-Emission

The star of the electric side of the anniversary lineup is the Volvo FH Electric platform, which underpins the FH16 Electric. It pairs twin electric motors with an eight-speed powershift transmission, delivering up to 490 kW (666 hp) of continuous power — output that puts it in the same performance class as Volvo's most powerful diesel engines, just without the tailpipe.

• Battery capacity of up to 540 kWh across four to six battery packs
• Range of up to 470 km depending on configuration and duty cycle
• Fast-charging support up to 350 kW, enabling a 20-80% charge in around 65 minutes
• Battery lifespan rated for up to ten years, with an onboard monitoring system for accurate charge-state readouts
• Integrated drive unit combining driveline, power electronics, and transmission in a single package

That combination of heavy-duty torque and genuine long-haul range is what makes the electric FH16 a credible flagship rather than a niche city-delivery vehicle — suited to construction site haulage, city-to-city delivery, and increasingly, longer assignments as charging infrastructure matures.

Part of a Longer Tradition

The 100 Year Edition isn't Volvo's first commemorative special edition — it follows the FH 25 Year Special Edition, the FH Aero Euro NCAP Special Edition, and the Volvo Ocean Race Limited Edition. What sets this one apart is timing: it lands at the exact moment Volvo's truck lineup has gone fully multi-powertrain, letting the company celebrate a century of diesel engineering and its electric future in the same package.

A century after Volvo Group's founding, its flagship truck can now be ordered with a battery instead of a diesel tank — and Volvo is using its 100th-anniversary edition to put that shift front and center, rather than treating electrification as a side note to its heritage.   

    Harley-Davidson's LiveWire continues pushing its smaller, cheaper S4 Honcho line as a way to lower the entry barrier for electric riders.
The custom and enthusiast scene remains overwhelmingly gas-powered, with Harley-Davidson running a six-round Bagger World Cup on MotoGP weekends and Indian Motorcycle relaunching as an independent company under Carolwood LP.

On September 7, Geely unveiled an updated version of the Panda Mini electric car amid declining demand. This version is called the Karting Edition and features a sporty design, including a front spoiler and a large rear wing on the roof. These design elements are purely decorative, as the Panda Mini has a top speed of 100 km/h. However, demand for such vehicles among young Chinese buyers is strong.

The updated Geely Panda Mini Karting Edition, powered by a CATL lithium iron phosphate battery, has hit the Chinese market with a starting price of 43,900 yuan (US$6,540), with a limited-time discount. It's an attractive three-door hatchback, 3.1 meters long, with a range of 210 km and a maximum power output of 40 hp.

The RX is the first SUV under Huawei's HIMA (Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance) to break from the alliance's numerical naming convention, joining the Luxeed S7 sedan, R7 coupe-SUV, and V9 minivan. It's offered in two presale trims — 299,800 yuan and 359,800 yuan (~$53,465) — with the base variant getting an in-cabin LiDAR and the top trim built around an architecture designed for L3 autonomous driving.

A near-twin for the Xiaomi YU7

The RX measures 5,020 mm long, 2,007 mm wide, and 1,585–1,600 mm tall on a 3,000 mm wheelbase — dimensions that closely mirror the Xiaomi YU7. Power comes from either a 277 kW (371 hp) single-motor rear-drive setup or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration combining 160 kW and 277 kW motors, for a combined output of roughly 594 hp on the top variant. CLTC range tops out at 852 km.

Four LiDAR sensors and a redundant driving stack

Built on Huawei's Tuling platform and Chery's "343" architecture, the RX runs Huawei's next-generation Giant Whale battery platform and a rare 4-LiDAR array — most premium Chinese EVs use between one and three. Luxeed also fits a fully redundant architecture for power, communications, and perception, aimed at supporting more advanced assisted-driving features than its siblings.

Chassis tuned for track-day claims

The RX rides on dual-chamber air suspension with six-piston front brake calipers, an all-aluminum double-wishbone front end, and a five-link independent rear. Luxeed says chassis tuning involved former Aston Martin CEO Tobias Moers, and that the RX completed an evasive lane-change maneuver at over 250 km/h on a banked oval proving ground, with Huawei citing a sub-1ms decision-chain latency for its centralized driving-control system.

Luxeed handed over 9,906 vehicles in China during July 2026, and the RX is expected to officially launch this fall following the presale period — with pricing already positioning it above the Xiaomi YU7's entry trim and squarely against the recently launched Voyah Passion S.

Unveiled at the 2026 Chengdu Auto Show, the Ray 7 is a five-seat, all-electric sedan measuring 4,960 mm long, 1,900 mm wide, and 1,455 mm tall, on a 2,920 mm wheelbase. The proportions give it a low, wide-body stance with a fastback profile, semi-hidden door handles, a blacked-out C-pillar, and a full-width front light bar built around the new illuminated logo.

Huawei motor, CATL batteries, 700 km range

Power comes from a Huawei-supplied permanent-magnet synchronous motor producing 180 kW (241 hp), paired with LFP battery cells from CATL and GAC Aion's own Yinpai Battery subsidiary. GAC Aion rates the Ray 7 at up to 700 km of range and wraps the pack in its in-house "Magazine" battery safety technology.

A "Super Chassis" and LiDAR-based ADAS

GAC Aion says the Ray 7 is the world's first production car to use a "Super Chassis" built on a chip-level drive-and-control integration architecture, combined with Huawei's brake-by-wire EMB (Electromechanical Braking) system. Driver assistance is handled by a LiDAR-based system with algorithms GAC Aion says are derived from its Level 4 autonomous driving research, with an optional roof-mounted LiDAR sensor available.

A brand on the rebound

The Ray 7 arrives as GAC Aion works to reverse a rough 2025, when full-year sales fell 22.6% to 290,081 units. So far in 2026 the brand has rebounded sharply, selling 28,807 vehicles in July (up 36.4% year-on-year) and 210,386 units over the first seven months — a 62.1% increase over the same period in 2025.

GAC Aion has not yet announced pricing or a launch date, but the Ray 7 is expected to land in the 200,000–250,000 yuan range (roughly $28,000–$35,000), putting it in direct competition with the Xiaomi SU7, Zeekr 007, and Shangjie Z7.

How to Adopt High Range Electric Trucks Like the SuperPanther eTopas 600: Real Fleet Advantages in 2026

The SuperPanther eTopas 600 now rolls off the line in Austria as a ready series production electric tractor unit. Fleets can put this Chinese developed battery electric truck into daily long haul service across multiple European countries right away in 2026.

Key Highlights from the SuperPanther Launch

• Series production began at Steyr Automotive in Upper Austria on 27 July 2026.
• First units delivered to DHL Gress Temmel and Lontex for use in five countries.
• 621 kWh CATL LFP battery supports around 600 kilometres real world range.
• Dual motor e-axle provides 394 kW continuous and 692 kW peak output.

What Sets the SuperPanther eTopas 600 Apart Among Electric Trucks?

The eTopas 600 arrives as a fully homologated 4x2 battery electric tractor unit. It carries a tare weight of 10.8 tonnes and a gross vehicle weight rating of 42 tonnes. SuperPanther supplies the dual motor e-axle power electronics and thermal management system. European partners contribute key parts from ZF Schaeffler Infineon Michelin Continental and others.

Assembly follows the semi knocked down method. Pre assembled modules ship from China and final build quality checks occur at the Steyr plant. This setup creates a vehicle adapted for European regulations operations and service networks. Dr Michael Ruf head of Europe for SuperPanther stresses the goal of treating Europe as a complete system rather than a simple export market.

The truck already enters regular commercial service. Operators gain a product validated under mixed European conditions with local manufacturing support. This combination of Chinese battery and drive technology with Austrian final assembly gives fleets a practical new option in the heavy duty electric segment.

How Does the Pricing and Operating Cost of the eTopas 600 Compare?

Exact purchase prices remain fleet specific. The combination of local production and European component content aims to reduce total cost of ownership over time. The 621 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery from CATL targets up to 4500 full charge cycles. SuperPanther quotes a service life of up to 1.2 million kilometres or eight years.

High power dual gun charging lowers downtime. Practical tests reached peak power of 646.7 kW and average power near 635 kW. Under real world mixed payload conditions the truck covers around 600 kilometres without fully depleting the pack. These figures support competitive daily utilisation rates for long haul routes.

Maintenance support comes through the Alltrucks network with 24 hour breakdown coverage. SuperPanther also builds technician training remote diagnostics and over the air update capabilities. Fleets benefit from reduced complexity compared with pure import models.

What Performance Specifications Define the SuperPanther eTopas 600?

The dual motor e-axle delivers continuous power of 394 kW. Peak output climbs to 692 kW. The 876 volt electrical architecture works with the large LFP battery pack. CCS2 ports sit on both sides of the vehicle. This layout enables simultaneous charging from two stations when available.

Range under European mixed conditions settles near 600 kilometres. The design prioritises usable capacity rather than theoretical maximums. Weight distribution and thermal management support consistent performance across temperature ranges common in central and northern Europe.

Operators report the truck integrates smoothly into existing depot and motorway charging infrastructure. The combination of high continuous power and substantial energy storage suits typical European long distance schedules.

How Does European Assembly Affect Reliability and Service?

Final assembly commissioning and quality assurance take place at Steyr Automotive. This local process allows adaptation to regional standards and customer requirements. Core electric components arrive as modules while many chassis and support systems come from established European suppliers.

Service partnerships focus on rapid response. The Alltrucks network provides widespread workshop coverage. SuperPanther invests in training programmes spare parts logistics and remote diagnostic tools. Over the air updates keep software current without extended downtime.

This structure addresses common concerns about support for Chinese origin commercial vehicles. Fleets gain both advanced battery technology and accessible European service infrastructure.

Which Fleets Will Benefit Most from the eTopas 600 in 2026?

Logistics companies running fixed or semi fixed long haul routes gain the clearest advantages. Early customers already include major operators such as DHL. Regional hauliers in Austria Germany the Netherlands Poland and the Czech Republic can trial the truck under familiar conditions.

Operators with access to high power depot or public charging stations maximise utilisation. The dual charging capability shortens turnaround times. Companies seeking to expand zero emission capacity without waiting for slower traditional European production ramps find an immediate option.

The 42 tonne rating and 600 kilometre practical range cover a large share of European freight missions. Fleets focused on sustainability targets and total cost control stand to benefit most.

What Impact Does This Launch Have on the European Electric Truck Market?

Chinese manufacturers continue expanding local assembly in Europe. SuperPanther joins other players using contract manufacturers to accelerate market entry. The eTopas 600 adds competition in the heavy duty battery electric tractor segment previously dominated by established brands.

Local production and component content help address regulatory and operational requirements. The model demonstrates that high capacity LFP packs and dual motor e-axles can deliver usable long haul performance today. Broader industry adoption of similar SKD approaches may increase overall electric truck availability.

Early customer deliveries across five countries provide real operational data. This information will influence future fleet decisions and further product development in the region.

What Practical Steps Should Fleet Operators Take to Evaluate the SuperPanther eTopas 600?

Contact SuperPanther European sales or Steyr Automotive partners to arrange demonstration runs. Review current route profiles against the stated 600 kilometre range and charging performance. Assess depot charging capacity to support dual gun sessions.

• Confirm residual value and warranty terms specific to the LFP battery pack.
• Evaluate Alltrucks service coverage in primary operating regions.
• Plan driver and technician familiarisation with the new powertrain and charging procedures.

Schedule deliveries according to current production slots at the Austrian plant. Monitor early fleet reports from DHL and other launch customers for real world energy consumption and uptime figures. Begin integration planning now to capture available 2026 production volume.

BYD has confirmed that its upcoming flagship electric sedan will offer an impressive CLTC range of up to 1,008 km (approximately 626 miles) on a single charge.

Key Highlights:
The vehicle was spotted in public for the first time ahead of its official debut, expected next month (August 2026).
It features BYD’s advanced Blade Battery technology (likely a large ~102 kWh LFP pack) and supports fast/flash charging.
Positioned as a full-size luxury sedan (possibly named Da Han), it aims to set new standards in the long-range EV segment.
This model strengthens BYD’s leadership in high-range electric vehicles, particularly in the competitive Chinese market, where extreme range is a key selling point for consumer confidence. Official pricing and full specifications will be revealed at the debut.

How Fleet Operators Can Benefit from Windrose Electric Trucks Coming to the US in 2026

Windrose electric trucks have entered the US market with the first delivery already complete to a Texas logistics company. These Class 8 electric semis offer long haul capability with lower running costs and zero tailpipe emissions making them attractive for fleets under pressure to decarbonize.

Industry data shows heavy duty trucking accounts for a significant share of transport emissions. Research indicates electric options can cut operating expenses by up to 50 percent through cheaper electricity and reduced maintenance. Windrose aims to capture part of this shift with its R700 model.

• First US delivery completed in early 2026
• Plans call for 100 trucks built by end of Q3 2026
• Pre orders from multiple continents nearly fill initial production
• Pricing around 285000 dollars positions it competitively

What Sets Windrose Electric Semi Trucks Apart for American Roads?

Windrose developed its long haul electric trucks with substantial battery packs designed for real world sleeper cab operations. Early US deployments focus on regional and longer routes in the Southwest where charging infrastructure continues to expand.

According to company statements the trucks deliver strong performance for overnight hauls. Fleet partners report positive early results in states with supportive EV policies like California. This aligns with broader industry moves toward electrification.

Timeline and Expansion Plans for Windrose in the US Market

Windrose made its first US delivery in April 2026 through an American partner. Production ramps up with a target of 100 trucks by September 2026. The company headquartered in Belgium but with Chinese roots leverages global supply chains for competitive builds.

Future growth includes wider nationwide rollout. Data from similar EV truck introductions reveals fleets often start in one region before scaling. Windrose follows this path with initial focus on high volume corridors.

Technical Specs and Real World Performance of Windrose Trucks

The R700 features advanced battery technology aimed at highway efficiency. While exact range figures vary with load and conditions operators expect solid capability for long haul segments when paired with strategic charging.

Experts highlight benefits in total cost of ownership. One trucking analyst noted that electricity costs per mile run far below diesel especially with depot charging. Maintenance savings from electric powertrains add further appeal.

• Heavy duty Class 8 configuration for full trailer loads
• Sleeper cab design for team driving and rest periods
• Integration with existing logistics workflows
• Support for expanding US charging networks

Market Challenges and Opportunities for Electric Heavy Trucks

Charging infrastructure remains a key consideration for long haul operations. Windrose trucks benefit from partnerships that include charging solutions. Government incentives and state grants help offset upfront costs for early adopters.

According to recent industry surveys fleet interest in electric semis grows as reliability data accumulates. Windrose joins other players pushing the segment forward. Predictions for 2026 through 2030 forecast accelerating adoption as battery prices drop and ranges improve.

Comparison with Other Electric Truck Options in the US

Windrose positions its offering with attractive pricing and global experience. Established North American makers focus on different segments but competition drives innovation across the board.

Fleets evaluating options look at factors like payload range uptime and service networks. Early Windrose customers provide valuable feedback as more units hit the road. This real world data helps refine future generations.

Actionable Steps for Fleets Considering Windrose or Similar EV Trucks

Start with a pilot program on suitable routes. Assess depot charging capabilities and driver training needs. Calculate total cost of ownership using current electricity rates and incentive programs.

Engage with manufacturers for detailed demos and data from existing deployments. Partner with charging providers to build reliable networks. Monitor policy developments that could impact ROI.

Implementation often takes six to twelve months from initial evaluation to first trucks in service. Early movers gain experience advantages as the market matures.

Future Outlook for Windrose and Electric Trucking in America

Windrose plans continued expansion with next generation models targeting even longer ranges by 2030. These developments support national goals for cleaner freight transport.

Industry leaders expect electric heavy duty vehicles to capture growing market share over the decade. Windrose contributes through accessible pricing and proven international track record. Fleets that adopt now position themselves well for upcoming regulations and customer demands for sustainable shipping.

The arrival of Windrose electric trucks marks another step in the transformation of American trucking. Operators have more choices than ever to test and integrate zero emission solutions into their operations.

   Voyah, the premium EV brand under Dongfeng Motor, is set to open pre-sales for its highly anticipated Passion S electric coupe SUV on July 24. This sporty newcomer is positioned as a direct rival to the popular Xiaomi YU7, bringing advanced technology and impressive performance to the premium segment. 
  The Passion S stands out with its sleek fastback design, measuring 5,050 mm long, 1,998 mm wide, and 1,656 mm tall, with a 3,000 mm wheelbase. It features a dynamic stance, sporty elements like a rear wing, and up to four LiDAR sensors paired with Huawei’s advanced Qiankun ADS 5 intelligent driving system for superior assisted driving capabilities. 
    Powertrain options include a rear-wheel-drive variant with a 300 kW (402 hp) motor and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version delivering a combined 475 kW (637 hp). Both draw from LFP battery packs on an 800V architecture, promising strong performance and fast charging. 
    This launch marks another step in Voyah’s push into the premium EV market in 2026, blending luxury, technology, and exhilarating driving dynamics. EV enthusiasts should watch for pricing details and full specs as pre-sales begin—expect strong interest in this stylish performer. 
   Perfect for a quick X post or thread starter on motorwatt.com — pair it with images of the red Passion S for max engagement!

GWM has applied for an updated version of the Ora Ballet Cat electric hatchback, nicknamed the "Volkswagen Beetle clone" for its resemblance to the iconic German model. A new version of this vehicle is being prepared for market launch with increased power and a new name.

The Ora Ballet Cat electric vehicle was launched in China in 2022, priced between 193,000 and 223,000 yuan (US$28,480 and US$32,905). It was an electric hatchback with an exterior design inspired by the Volkswagen Beetle. It has similar proportions with pronounced wheel arches, a nearly flat windshield, and a sloping roofline. Marketed as a car for women, the Ballet Cat offered a "lady driving mode" that increases the distance from cars in front, a selfie camera, and a "warm man mode" that turns on the heating and air conditioning with one touch to reduce discomfort during menstruation. However, the Ballet Cat was a resounding failure: according to China EV DataTracker, only 8,523 units have been sold since July 2022.