Superlight has raised an oversubscribed US$21m series A round, co-led by Engine Ventures and 2150, that brings the company’s total capital raised to US$33m. Superlight plans to use the proceeds to complete its UK manufacturing facility, support initial sales in the UK and EU, and develop homologated vehicles for customer testing and entry into the US market.

Demand for middle-mile logistics, the movement of goods between regional distribution centers and local sorting facilities, is growing rapidly with the global market projected to reach US$137.97bn by 2026. Rising consumer expectations for overnight delivery are pushing distribution networks closer to urban areas, increasing the need for efficient freight transportation. As a result, maximizing cargo capacity, cost efficiency and delivery performance has become increasingly important.

Despite this growth, innovation in the middle-mile segment has lagged behind other areas of commercial transportation – and Superlight is addressing this by developing an electric commercial vehicle specifically designed for middle-mile logistics. Its OV-1 vehicle features a modular, customizable platform built on a clean-sheet architecture, with a fully digital powertrain and aerospace-inspired engineering principles.

According to the company, the vehicle delivers 50% more cargo capacity while using 50% less energy than comparable 7.5-metric ton trucks. Superlight also states that the OV-1 can reduce energy costs per pallet-kilometer by 73% and requires only one-tenth of the capital investment typically associated with conventional truck manufacturing.

“By harnessing the inherent advantages of electric propulsion and software-centric manufacturing, we’re flipping the economics of commercial EVs, unlocking massive cost savings that also happen to provide significant environmental benefits,” said Noamaan Siddiqi, co-founder and CEO of Superlight.

“Our purpose-built EV platform enables transformative performance and safety advantages that can’t be duplicated by retrofitting electric into legacy trucks. And unlike many manufacturers, Superlight owns the entire chain of designing, building and delivering its EVs, which allows us to provide unique vehicle features to continually optimize for innovation and efficiency.”

Superlight has accumilated 500,000km of powertrain mileage, including with commercial pilots of OV-1 in the UK by major e-commerce and ground handling providers.

Superlight’s production system is designed to be digital-first and AI-native, built around two core capabilities. The first, SuperVisor, is a digital twin of the company’s factory that uses real-time production data to monitor shop-floor operations, support continuous improvement, and identify potential quality issues before they occur.

The second, Autonomous Logistics & Integrated Service, is a predictive maintenance and fleet management platform that uses data from sensors installed on OV-1 vehicles to optimize vehicle performance, improve maintenance planning and support more efficient driver operations.

“Superlight is on a mission to modernize commercial trucks, a crucial component of modern society that has experienced surprisingly little innovation in nearly a century,” said Israel Ruiz, president and general partner at Engine Ventures.

“By replacing legacy manufacturing and driving mechanics with a new architecture, the company has an opportunity to deliver massive performance, safety, efficiency and cost improvements to brands, fleet owners and transportation companies, while at the same time wiping out particulate matter emissions.”

In related news, Honda Super-N compact EV delivers 70kW in boost mode and 199-mile “city range”

The debut of the new Grecale, GranTurismo and GranCabrio is the result of a strategic update aimed at strengthening the Maerati’s position in the luxury segment, where design, elegance, performance, craftsmanship and a human-centric approach to technology all contribute to the same idea, the auto maker said.

Santo Ficili, Alfa Romeo CEO and Maserati COO, explained, “For over 112 years, we have interpreted contemporary luxury in a distinctive way and aim to grow further in this segment, expanding our product offering and investing in the technologies that best express its character: from the development of iconic powertrains such as the V6 Nettuno to the evolution of the performance of the Folgore range, with a technological strategy aligned with the expectations of our customers.”

The GranTurismo and GranCabrio

The latest GranTurismo coupe and GranCabrio convertible feature a new calibration of the engine and transmission, making the car more responsive and rewarding, while the acoustic character has been refined with an iconic and engaging exhaust sound.

Described as “heirs to the captivating Maserati GranTurismo of the past”, which was launched in 2007 and renewed in 2022 and 2023 respectively, the GranTurismo and GranCabrio are now presented with refinements spanning design and driving dynamics.

Both models are available in three versions. Two ICE options are the entry-level 483hp version, which interprets “the luxury of travel” and the 582hp Trofeo, which is said to heighten sporting character.

The GranTurismo and GranCabrio Trofeo represent the most powerful expression of the range. At their heart is the V6 Nettuno, with motorsport-derived pre-chamber combustion technology, now raised to 582hp (40hp more than the previous generation). Both models feature a 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine that shares with the MCPURA the patented Formula 1-derived MTC technology, with cylinder deactivation for efficiency and a front differential aligned with the engine to lower the center of gravity.

The combustion-engine models offer three drive modes: GT, Sport and Country on the 482hp version, with Corsa mode reserved for the Trofeo. Country mode, also available on the EV Folgore, raises the ride height by 20mm. Sport mode enhances exhaust sound and suspension response, and is also available on the Trofeo.

The Folgore, with 751hp and torque vectoring, brings the family into the electric era. The BEV’s 800V system uses three motors, one at the front and two decoupled motors at the rear, for more than 1,200 hp installed and 760 hp continuously delivered to the wheels. The two rear motors enable surgically precise torque vectoring, while the 92.5kWh battery adopts a T-bone geometry that keeps the height at just 1,353mm, the lowest among electric cars. AWD Disconnect is standard, transferring drive to the rear axle in 500 milliseconds through the physical disengagement of the front half-shafts. A new energy management algorithm brings the GranTurismo Folgore range to more than 540km.

The Grecale

Maserati’s luxury D-SUV, the Grecale, combines spaciousness, sporty performance and everyday practicality. Its cabin features premium materials and high levels of comfort, while selectable drive modes adapt the driving experience to different conditions and preferences. At the top of the range, a V6 twin-turbo engine delivers class-leading specific output, which is also complemented by a distinctive exhaust note and Formula 1-inspired technology.

Related news, Honda Super-N compact EV delivers 70kW in boost mode and 199-mile “city range”

Honda has announced further details and pricing info for its new Super-N compact EV, which has opened for orders in the UK. The small electric car, which has been fine-tuned on British roads, has been designed to offer responsive handling, compact practicality and an accessible entry into electric driving that embodies Honda’s ‘joy of driving’ philosophy, the auto maker said.

Engineered on the lightweight platform of the hugely popular N Series Kei car range sold in Japan, the Super-N takes its inspiration from the legendary 1980’s City Turbo II.

The Super-N features a Boost mode that temporarily increases the output of its electric motor from 47kW to 70kW, reducing the 0-62mph acceleration time from 14.5 seconds to 10.0 seconds. Honda says the lightweight design is intended to improve agility and responsiveness, with the aim of providing an engaging driving experience in both urban and open-road environments.

Powered by a thin and lightweight 29.6kW lithium-ion battery, the Super-N weighs just 1,097kg and delivers a combined range of 128 miles (WLTP). However, in urban driving environments, where the compact and nimble Super-N is likely to spend much of its time, the battery provides a city range of 199 miles (WLTP). It can be recharged to 80% using a 50kW DC supply in just 30 minutes.

Michael Doyle, head of automobile UK at Honda Europe, said, “Priced at just £18,995 (US$25127), the Super-N delivers Honda’s ‘Joy of Driving’ philosophy to more customers than ever before. Not only is this one of the most affordable small EVs available, it’s also one of the most fun.

“It’s been designed to embody the Japanese philosophies of Yukai and Tsukai, which translate as delight and exhilaration respectively, and as a result it delivers a sense of excitement the moment you see it. Ultimately, it’s a car that’s been developed by a group of passionate engineers that believe in Honda’s abilities to turn dreams into reality.”

Based on Honda’s ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ design philosophy, the Super-N is designed to maximize interior space while minimizing its exterior footprint. It is 3,599mm long and 1,573mm wide and offers seating for four adults and interior space comparable with some larger vehicles,  Honda said.

Related news, Turkey to become export hub for Renault Boreal SUV

Genesis has showcased the Magma GT3 Concept, which it describes as a “first glimpse at one potential future project” for Genesis Magma Racing.

The concept was unveiled by Genesis Magma Racing team principal Cyril Abiteboul and Genesis chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke at the Le Mans 24 Hours earlier this month, where GMR made its debut.

Abiteboul said, “The Genesis Magma GT3 Concept is one potential future direction for Genesis Magma Racing, alongside our FIA WEC Hypercar entry, as we grow to support the entire Genesis brand.

“Since the very start, we have stated that Genesis Magma Racing is a long-term project, and here we have one possible direction we can take. Like Hypercar, GT3 is another of the recent success stories in motorsport.

“Having Genesis and Genesis Magma Racing represented there would closely link the road-going and racing sides of the brand and add further to our profile in world motorsport.”

The Genesis Magma GT3 Concept has been developed in alignment with GT3 technical regulations. Conceived as an independent study, it explores how race-driven architecture, aerodynamics and engineering principles could inform future Genesis performance vehicles, rather than being derived from an existing road-going model.

More than one potential

At the press conference at the Circuit de la Sarthe, Genesis also presented an updated Magma GT Concept – first revealed in November alongside the GV60 Magma – with a redesigned interior. The GT Concept illustrated “a parallel exploration of how race-inspired thinking could translate into a refined road-going grand tourer” the auto maker said, adding that ” the two concepts highlight one potential pathway for connecting Genesis’ motorsport ambitions with its evolving performance portfolio, without confirming specific production or racing plans.”

“The Magma GT Concept and Magma GT3 Concept represent two distinct yet connected expressions of Genesis performance,” Donckerwolke said. “The Magma GT Concept embodies our vision of luxury and athleticism on the road, while the Magma GT3 Concept translates that philosophy into the race environment, where every element is driven by performance, efficiency and purpose. Together, they demonstrate how Genesis is exploring the full spectrum of high performance – from refined grand touring to uncompromising motorsport.”

Continued expansion 

After announcing last year its expansion into new markets in Italy, France, the Netherlands and Spain, the manufacturer is now preparing for further entry into Poland, Bulgaria, Austria, Portugal and Denmark as part of its European growth strategy.

Genesis also noted how its presence at the Le Mans 24 Hours has also expanded – one year after the first European presentation of the GMR-001 Hypercar design as a show car, it had returned to the Le Mans 24 Hours as a fully operational Hypercar team.

The company also showcased two evolved X Gran Convertible Concept models – originally introduced at the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show – during the Drivers’ Parade in Le Mans city center on June 13. Building on the earlier concept, these latest iterations represent “refined and more visually striking evolution” that further align the model with the the Magma portfolio.

Related news, Honda Super-N compact EV delivers 70kW in boost mode and 199-mile “city range”

Renault has added a second production hub for its Boreal SUV in Bursa, Turkey, alongside its existing plant in Curitiba, Brazil, as it expands global production of the model. From Turkey, the model will be exported to a group of markets across Eastern Europe, the Middle East and North and Sub-Saharan Africa.

“Boreal embodies Renault’s ambition to accelerate growth beyond Europe by delivering more value to our customers and strengthening our position in the strategic C-SUV segment,” said Fabrice Cambolive, Renault brand CEO.

Unveiled in 2025 as a new international C‑segment SUV, Renault Boreal marked a first milestone with its launch in Brazil. It has since been deployed across several Latin American markets from the Curitiba production hub.

“Boreal is also a strong illustration of Renault’s brand markers in action: Electrified by Passion with the introduction of our new E-Tech full hybrid technology; Designed to be Loved through its expressive design, elegant proportions and distinctive lighting signature that create an immediate emotional connection; People-First Technology with a seamless connected experience powered by Google, advanced driver assistance systems and intuitive onboard technologies; and Crafted Space through a spacious, versatile and comfortable interior designed around the needs of modern families,” added Cambolive.

“We are very proud to introduce Boreal to the Turkish market. Being manufactured at our Oyak Renault facility in Bursa will both support domestic demand and strengthen Turkey’s position in the global automotive ecosystem by contributing to our export targets,” said Lionel Jaillet, the CEO of Renault Group Turkey.

The Boreal will be the first model to feature the new 160hp full hybrid E-Tech powertrain, complemented by the 1.3 turbo TCe EDC 145hp gasoline engine.

Efficient engine options and EDC automatic gearbox

Renault Boreal has been developed with a range of powertrain options, including the full-hybrid E-Tech 160hp, turbo TCe EDC 145hp and hybrid E-Tech 4×4 150hp versions.

In Turkey, the model will be launched with the full hybrid E-Tech 160hp and turbo TCe EDC 145hp engine options. The range will be expanded in the fourth quarter of 2026 with the addition of the hybrid E-Tech 4×4 150hp version.

The 1.3 Turbo TCe EDC 145hp gasoline engine, paired with a 6-speed wet dual-clutch (EDC) transmission, delivers a balanced mix of performance and driving comfort. This version has combined CO2 emissions of 149g/km and combined fuel consumption of 6.6 l/100km, according to WLTP standards.

The full hybrid E-Tech 160hp version runs on the HR18-coded hybrid engine manufactured by Oyak Horse in Bursa, Turkey, and exported worldwide.

The system enables up to 80% electric driving in urban use and allows electric acceleration up to 110km/h. The model, equipped with a multimode automatic gearbox, stands out with combined CO2 emissions of 108g/km and combined fuel consumption of 4.8 l/100km, according to WLTP standards.

In related news, BMW showcases the latest M Concept Neue Klasse

Advanced Conversion has selected Peak Nano’s NanoPlex LDF film for its new HP Drive Test Kit DC-link capacitors, designed for 800V+ silicon carbide (SiC) power electronics. The film has been designed to reduce thermal limitations and derating, helping improve the performance of SiC inverter systems.

The collaboration has produced one of the first fully domestic DC-link capacitor solutions for high-voltage electric mobility. The selection of NanoPlex LDF supports its use in inverters for next-generation electric vehicle platforms, including Formula E and performance automotive, electric buses and heavy trucks, off-highway and industrial vehicles, and electrified aviation.

The 800V+ transition has outpaced the DC-Link

The shift to 800V+ architectures and SiC switching promised a step change in EV performance and charging speed, and it has changed what every component in the inverter must deliver.

SiC devices switch faster, run hotter and operate at higher voltages than conventional DC-link films were built to serve. With traditional films, designers are forced to add film and capacitance, oversize the assembly, and invest in additional cooling infrastructure to meet reliability targets. Overbuilding undermines the efficiency gains SiC was meant to unlock; NanoPlex LDF eliminates that need.

“When we built a DC link that could keep pace with 800V+ SiC, we needed a film partner who could provide both the thermal margin and a supply we could count on … and Peak Nano delivered on both,” said Edward Sawyer, CEO of Advanced Power Conversion Solutions.

“As traditional film supply has tightened, NanoPlex LDF gives us a high-performance, domestically sourced alternative that our customers can qualify with confidence. For where high-voltage e-mobility and grid-connected applications are heading, it’s the right material from the right partner.”

Built on Advanced Conversion’s patented Power Ring DC-link integration platform, which delivers ultra-low loop inductance and superior thermal coupling in a geometry that integrates directly with motor housings, these customized solutions meet 800V+ SiC requirements without the workarounds constraining legacy designs.

Engineered using an advanced nanolayer polymer architecture, NanoPlex LDF maintains charge stability at elevated temperatures, holding 95% of room-temperature breakdown strength at 135°C and enabling 25% higher current handling than traditional film at the same voltage and temperature, without derating. That 50° thermal margin lets capacitors sit directly adjacent to hot SiC modules without a thermal buffer.

“The market moved to 800V and Silicon Carbide faster than DC-link components could follow. That gap has forced real trade-offs in size, weight and cooling,” said Jim Welsh, CEO of Peak Nano. “We engineered NanoPlex LDF to close that gap so the capacitor is no longer the limiting factor. Having Advanced Conversion design it into a next-generation 800V+ platform is a strong signal that the technology is ready for the applications that need it most.”

Related news, ROHM develops SiC MOSFET top-side cooling package

The Xpeng X9 has recorded the largest positive deviation from WLTP range and the fastest charging time among all vehicles tested in the summer edition of El Prix 2026, the world’s largest independent electric vehicle test organized by the Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF) and Motor magazine.

The seven-seater, launching in the UK later this year, achieved the highest result among all 24 vehicles tested, delivering a leading 11.4% positive deviation versus its official WLTP range. In real-world conditions, it covered a total of 646km and continued operating for more than 11 hours after the start of the test. NAF noted that the Xpeng X9 “clearly stood out” in this year’s range evaluation.

The X9 also delivered the fastest charging performance, going from 10% to 80% in 12 minutes and 55 seconds. At the El Prix Winter 2026 held in February, the model topped the field at -10°C with a 12-minute charge. While Europe’s current 400kW charging infrastructure has yet to fully unlock the X9’s maximum capability, the vehicle continues to achieve top-tier charging times across different environments.

The result makes the Xpeng X9 the standout performer of El Prix and further demonstrates the real-world benefits of Xpeng’s latest-generation EV technology.

“Recording the largest WLTP range deviation and the fastest charging time is strong validation of the technology behind the Xpeng X9,” said Alex Tang, general manager of international business at Xpeng. “Customers should not have to choose between long range and fast charging. The X9 delivers both, helping drivers spend more time on the road and less time waiting at a charger.”

Held twice a year, El Prix is widely regarded as the world’s largest independent comparison of electric vehicle range and charging performance.

The Xpeng X9 is one of the new Xpeng models launching in Europe during 2026.

In related news, BYD enters Europe’s B-segment with Dolphin G DM-I

Speaking at the world premiere of the new M Concept Neue Klasse at the 24 Hours of Le Mans last week, Oliver Heilmer, head of design for BMW Compact Class, Neue Klasse and BMW M said, “The new BMW M design language forms the expressive spearhead of the Neue Klasse – determined and purposeful. At BMW M, form consistently follows function. Every detail serves performance. This project is truly special to me because it carries the BMW M character into a new era.”

Form, function and motorsport references

Numerous M-specific design measures have been implemented to optimize aerodynamics – including the reinterpreted M aero exterior mirrors in the colors of BMW M. A distinctive air outlet shapes the V-shaped hood and supports the cooling of the electric drivetrain.

The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse is characterized by a forward-facing shark nose and a light signature with a depth effect, with the headlights and kidney grille integrated into a single unit.

New M yellow lights, inspired by GT racing cars and the BMW M Hybrid V8, are intended to become a signature feature of future BMW M models. Three-dimensional track lights add another lighting accent to the outer sections of the front apron.

The trimaran-style front bumper provides structural support for the front splitter. At the rear, the track lights and trimaran design continue above the floating diffuser. A ducktail spoiler is designed to improve aerodynamics and increase rear-axle downforce.

Natural-fiber elements are used in the exterior and interior of the vehicle.

High performance and BMW M driving experience

The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse represents the next chapter in the M-typical blend of dynamics, agility and precision.

“Even in the new all-electric era, we continue the M-typical tradition of transferring both technological innovations and defining design features directly from motorsport into series production,” said Franciscus van Meel, chairman of the board of management at BMW M.

BMW M eDrive is based on the Neue Klasse’s Gen6 technology and was developed specifically for all-electric BMW M automobiles. The drivetrain concept combines four electric motors with the central control software BMW M Dynamic Performance Control in the Heart of Joy high-performance computer. Thanks to the integrated, wheel-specific control of the drivetrain and braking systems, BMW M eDrive opens up new potential for driving dynamics and driving safety. It enables high recuperation performance, optimal traction right up to the limit, and particularly direct response.

The 800V technology and the high-voltage battery with an energy content of more than 100kWh create the conditions for long-range capability. A BMW M-specific optimized version of sixth-generation cylindrical cells provides particularly high output when delivering energy to the electric motors and during charging. The housing of the high-voltage battery is structurally integrated with the front and rear axles to improve the driving dynamics.

In related news, Ferrari unveils all-electric Luce

Force Technology is manufacturing valve springs for global engine designer and manufacturer Cosworth to use in the next generation of hypercars.

The company employs 50 specialist staff and sells its precision valve springs to customers worldwide. Managing director Steve Williams explained, “Every valve spring we produce is fully bespoke to the customer’s application. Development programs can take many months – and in some cases several years – as we work closely with customer design engineers to optimize spring performance using advanced engineering tools such as finite element analysis (FEA).

“Once a design is established, the springs progress through a rigorous multistage sampling and validation program. This ensures both manufacturing quality and in-engine performance, with extensive durability and functional testing carried out before production approval.

“In a modern high-speed engine, the valve spring plays a critical role in controlling the movement of the valvetrain under extreme forces and dynamic vibration. At very high engine speeds, maintaining precise valve control is essential to ensure efficient combustion, maximum performance and long-term reliability. Our challenge is to engineer valve springs capable of controlling and damping these forces in some of the world’s most demanding operating conditions.”

Williams noted that Force Technology sources only premium-grade spring wire for its spring valves, because microscopic material defects can have a significant impact on fatigue life and may result in catastrophic engine failure. Manufacturing a high-performance spring valve potentially involves more than 20 production stages.

Every completed spring batch passes through a comprehensive final inspection and quality validation process. When required, springs can also be tested on Force Technology’s in-house engine spin test rig. According to Williams, if material is available and in stock, typical manufacturing lead times range from four to eight weeks.

Force Technology is based in Lancashire in the UK. Prof. Miranda Barker OBE, a spokesperson for Lancashire Business Board, said, “Force Technology’s prestigious contract with Cosworth and its other high-value customers in the UK and worldwide reflects the AEM sector’s resilience, innovation and global competitiveness, playing a critical role in driving productivity, exports and sustainable growth.”

In related news, BorgWarner wins turbocharger contracts with two European OEMs

ROHM has unveiled the TSC3PAK (14.00 x 18.58 x 3.50mm) cooling package for SiC MOSFETs, which adopts a top-side heat dissipation structure that places the heat dissipation surface on the top of the package, enabling automated mounting while achieving heat dissipation performance comparable to that of conventional through-hole packages (TO-247-4L). This contributes to greater efficiency and reliability in power conversion circuits for onboard chargers (OBCs) and electric compressors used in xEVs (electric vehicles).

In xEVs, the adoption of SiC devices is expanding beyond main inverters to include power conversion circuits such as OBCs and electric compressors to improve charging speed and extend cruising range.

Through-hole type devices involve manual mounting processes, and their form factor makes it difficult to achieve a lower package profile. Surface-mount SiC devices compatible with automated mounting have begun gaining adoption. To address these issues, the new TSC3PAK delivers heat dissipation performance comparable to through-hole technology, such as TO-247 in a surface-mount package.

The latest package incorporates ROHM’s proprietary groove structure to secure a long creepage distance of 6.66mm, enabling it to accommodate an AC peak voltage of 1,200V in a Pollution Degree 2 environment while maintaining compatibility with products widely adopted in the market.

Products using the new package incorporate ROHM’s 4th Gen SiC MOSFETs, achieving low ON resistance and high-speed switching characteristics. As a result, switching losses during power conversion are significantly reduced, contributing to greater application efficiency and lower power consumption.

Related news, Texas Instruments develops high-cell-count EIS-enabled intelligent battery monitor