Mahle says it is accelerating the electrification of road transportation with the upcoming launch of its new range-extender system for heavy electric (BEV) trucks and its Mahle Contactless Transmitter (MCT) electric motor developed for use on the electric drive axles of heavy commercial vehicles.

The company will present its technologies at IAA Transportation, which is to be held in Hannover from September 15 to 20.

Range-extender system

Range extender electric trucks combine the sustainability of electric drive systems with the flexibility and range of the internal combustion engine (ICE). “Time and energy are limited, valuable resources, especially in road transport business; only operators who work economically can survive,” said Arnd Franz, chairman of the group management board and CEO of Mahle. “With electrification products, Mahle can help make heavy trucks more efficient and flexible at the same time as reducing operating expenses.”

The key component of the new system is an efficient high-voltage generator with a continuous output of 110kW and a peak output of up to 130kW, driven by a compact ICE. The high-voltage generator supplies reliable power to the electric drive system even on difficult trips with a full load. Its architecture can be adapted easily to the performance requirements of a variety of applications and regional markets.

Featuring a newly developed advanced oil cooling system, the generator has a power density of more than 7kW per kilogram, allowing a high power output with reduced weight and simplified interfaces.

The system is a self-contained unit integrating a generator, ICE, thermal and fluid management systems, fuel tank, AdBlue tank and exhaust aftertreatment. Designed to fit within the battery installation space of a battery-electric truck, it can be integrated into existing BEV platforms while replacing around one-third of the battery capacity. According to Mahle, this reduces rear axle load by approximately 400kg and overall vehicle weight by around 600kg. The company says the configuration enables a driving range of more than 800km, with roughly half provided by the battery and the remainder by the range extender.

Under real-life operating conditions, the truck emits about 80% less CO₂ in range-extender operation than a truck with a conventional drive system. If the ICE, which is biofuel-ready, is operated with renewable fuels such as the advanced HVO100 bio-diesel, the truck has virtually zero CO₂ emissions.

A comprehensive thermal management system with 48kW of high-temperature and 15kW of low-temperature cooling capacity ensures stable operation of the range extender system under heavy-duty operating conditions. For the ICE engine, Mahle has continued the development of components to reduce fuel consumption and operating costs.

“Our range extender is the key to disconnecting the market ramp-up of battery-electric trucks from the inadequate pace of infrastructure development,” said Dr Marco Warth, the vice president of Mahle Corporate Research and Advanced Engineering. “If the charging station is busy, or alternative routes are called for as a result of weather conditions or congestion, and infrastructure reaches its limits, other fleets can be stranded; an e-truck with range extender just carries on. Operational availability is maintained, even under peak conditions.”

MCT electric motor for heavy commercial vehicles

The MCT electric motor was developed for use on the electric drive axles of heavy commercial vehicles. It is not equipped with permanent magnets and therefore does not require any rare earth elements. Compared with a benchmark permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), the MCT electric motor saves up to 3kg of rare earth magnets per vehicle. The elimination of rare earth magnets reduces the environmental footprint of the electric drive system.

In real-life driving conditions, the new motor is 10% lighter and more efficient than permanently excited electric motors with magnets. Compared with the permanently excited variant, it reportedly offers higher efficiency within a significantly larger operating envelope covering a variety of driving situations. The MCT electric motor has a peak output of 370kW and torque of over 900Nm at 3,900rpm. The motor efficiency in the VECTO cycle, an EU simulation tool for determining the fuel efficiency of new vehicles, is about 95%.

In related news, Horse Powertrain debuts D20 Methanol range extender powertrain with axial flux motor

Building on more than a century of innovation, MG has unveiled its latest technology roadmap, outlining how the brand will continue to bring advanced electrification and intelligent driving technologies to a wider audience.

Focusing on powertrain and ADAS development, the roadmap focuses on the next-generation MG Plug-in Hybrid+ technology and the introduction of MG SolidCore Battery technology for Plug-in Hybrid+ models.

New Plug-in Hybrid+ technology 

The Plug-in Hybrid+ system is built around a new generation of dedicated hybrid petrol engines, available in 1.1-liter and 1.5-liter turbocharged variants, achieving maximum thermal efficiencies of more than 42% and 43% respectively.

The engines work in conjunction with a new hybrid transmission incorporating two core technologies: power split and motor decoupling, designed to optimize fuel and electrical energy efficiency.

Power Split technology distributes power between the engine and electric motors, continuously adjusting energy flow according to driving conditions to enable the powertrain to operate efficiently without the constraints of a fixed-ratio transmission. Motor decoupling introduces a disconnect mechanism that isolates the generator during pure electric driving, reducing drag and improving electric drive efficiency.

The Plug-in Hybrid+ system automatically selects the the optimum operating mode across the full speed range, using electric drive at low speeds, power split operation at medium speeds and direct engine drive at higher speeds. This operating strategy is designed to maintain engine thermal efficiency above 40% across approximately 90% of driving conditions, while achieving up to 90% electric drive efficiency regardless of battery charge level.

The powertrain accelerates from 0-62mph in under six seconds, with 50-75mph acceleration taking as little as 3.5 seconds. Torque delivery has also been revised, with hill-start capability improved by up to 72% compared with the previous system.

By eliminating generator idling during pure electric driving, Motor Decoupling technology reduces noise, vibration and harshness by up to 5dB in EV mode compared with conventional plug-in hybrid systems.

Plug-in Hybrid+ models will also benefit from this new technology, beginning in 2027 with the launch of the MG ZS Plug-in Hybrid+.

SolidCore battery for Plug-in Hybrid+ models

MG has confirmed that its SolidCore Battery technology will be introduced across future Plug-in Hybrid+ models.

Built around a semi-solid-state architecture incorporating a 3D spinel structure, the SolidCore Battery delivers higher energy conversion efficiency and faster power response than conventional liquid-electrolyte batteries, MG said, adding that it is optimized for Plug-in Hybrid+ applications, offering more consistent power delivery, improved range stability and more stable performance across varying speeds, driving scenarios and climate conditions.

By maintaining stable battery output across a range of operating conditions, the SolidCore Battery technology supports more consistent vehicle performance regardless of speed, driving scenario or ambient temperature, contributing to the overall efficiency of the Plug-in Hybrid+ system, MG said.

The SolidCore Battery technology reduces the impact of low temperatures and depleted battery charge on vehicle performance, addressing some of the limitations commonly associated with plug-in hybrid vehicles.

The first MG Plug-in Hybrid+ models to feature SolidCore Battery technology will be three new SUVs in the B, C and D segment categories.

Related news, Nissan expands Leaf line-up with 52kWh battery model

Powered by BYD’s Super Hybrid with DM Technology, the Dolphin G DM-i (the designation stands for dual mode intelligence) features compact dimensions, family-car practicality and the ability to travel up to 65 miles on electricity alone.

When it’s required to tackle longer journeys, the Dolphin G DM-i manages its hybrid system to “achieve flexibility beyond the capabilities of conventional ICE-powered superminis”, the auto maker said, achieving weighted fuel consumption (with the battery fully charged) of 201.7mpg and more than 1,000km of range on a full charge and a full tank of petrol.

BYD executive vice president Stella Li commented, “The European B-segment is one of the most important parts of the market, and with Dolphin G DM-i, we want to redefine what customers can expect from a compact car in the electric era.

“By bringing long electric range, intelligent hybrid technology and advanced digital features into an accessible compact vehicle, we are making sustainable mobility smarter, more practical and available to many more people across Europe.

“When we bring so many standout qualities and new features to such an important sector of the market here, you can see why we say, ‘It’s not a car, it’s a BYD!’.”

An EV experience with long-range backup

Unlike traditional plug-in hybrid systems, BYD’s DM architecture is EV-led, meaning the high-torque electric motor drives the wheels in most situations. This gives the car the quiet, responsive driving experience of a pure-electric vehicle, and enables the Xiaoyun 1.5-liter petrol engine to run as efficiently as possible and keep the Blade Battery charged.

The hybrid’s DM-i simplifies a configuration that includes two electric motors (one a drive motor, one a generator motor), a petrol engine and constant management by power control units to deliver the required mix of performance and efficiency.

In EV mode the car operates like a pure-electric vehicle. It uses only the electric drive motor – which can itself be used to recoup energy that would otherwise be lost during braking – to help recharge the battery.

In HEV or Hybrid mode, the intelligence systems take over to flick between five configurations, depending on factors including the state of charge and the driving situation.

First, when there’s a demand for efficient high-speed running, the electric drive motor can drive the wheels using power from not only the battery but also the generator motor, which is itself powered by the petrol engine.

When performance demands are lower and the battery charge is reduced, only part of the generator motor’s power is sent to the drive motor, with the remainder recharging the battery. A clutch between the engine and wheels enables three additional operating modes, all managed automatically by the vehicle’s intelligent control system without driver input.

The third option kicks in under hard acceleration, where the petrol engine combines with the electric drive motor to drive the wheels.

Equally, if the system decides the petrol engine is producing more power than required, it can use some of this to drive the wheels and divert the rest to the electric motor to feed back into the battery.

Finally, when the demand at the driven wheels is equal to the petrol engine’s power, it drives the wheels without the battery discharging or recharging at all.

Specifications and range options

In the Dolphin G DM-i, the permanent magnet synchronous electric motor produces 163ps (120kW) and 210Nm alone, enabling a 0-62mph acceleration sprint in just 8.3 seconds.

Two sizes of Blade Battery are offered in the Dolphin G DM-i. Active versions feature a 7.42kWh capacity for 24.8 miles of WLTP Combined pure-electric range and a combined total range of 633 miles. Boost, Comfort and Sport editions have an 18.3kWh Blade Battery, extending the pure-electric range to 105km and the combined total range to 646 miles, while also lowering CO₂ emissions from 60g/km to just 32g/km.

Active models have a 3.3kW onboard charger that can refill the battery completely from 15% in just under three hours. Boost, Comfort and Sport versions increase this power to 6.6kW and include a 39kW DC charging capability that takes the 18.3kWh battery from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes.

Recent news, Audi unveils 1,001ps Nuvolari hybrid supercar

With 1,001ps and a top speed of more than 217mph (349km/h), the Audi Nuvolari hybrid supercar is the most powerful and fastest production vehicle in the history of the four rings, according to the auto maker.

Accelerating from 0-62mph (100km/h) in 2.6 seconds and reaching 124mph (200km/h) in 6.8 seconds, the Nuvolari features technologies inspired by Formula 1, such as the high-performance hybrid powertrain, quattro predictive ride, active aerodynamics and the new Audi Space Frame (ASF) with carbon exterior.

“With the Audi Nuvolari, we are accelerating technological progress,” said Gernot Döllner, chairman of the board of management of Audi.

Hybrid powertrain with four drive units

Powered by a hybrid high-performance powertrain with a maximum system output of 736kW (1,001ps), the Nuvolari combines a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine delivering 588kW (800hp) with three axial flux electric motors, each producing 110kW. The lithium-ion battery has a gross capacity of 7.3kWh. The combustion engine delivers a maximum torque of 730Nm and reaches up to 10,000rpm.

Two oil-cooled axial flux electric motors at the front axle deliver up to 2,150Nm of torque. As an integral part of the quattro system, they support variable torque distribution. A third electric motor between the V8 mid-engine and the transmission completes the drive concept.

“Our entire team has once again demonstrated its technical expertise, innovative strength and dedication,” said Rouven Mohr, CTO of Audi.

The quattro predictive ride

The quattro drive stands for “traction, control and driving dynamics in all conditions,” the German auto maker said, adding that in the Nuvolari, it had further developed this principle with the next generation of all-wheel drive with the quattro predictive ride.

Detailed sensor data – including steering angle, acceleration, yaw rate (rotation of the vehicle around its vertical axis, which determines steering response in corners) and current grip level – continuously feed into the control system, creating a highly precise vehicle state model.

If the system anticipates a potential loss of grip in a corner, it responds proactively as an integrated system. The drive units distribute torque in both longitudinal and lateral directions. The brakes stabilize the vehicle through targeted interventions and reduce slip. The aerodynamics adjust the downforce according to the situation.

Drivers can also influence the system with four driving modes: E-Hybrid (fully electric), Balanced (comfort, efficiency and performance), Dynamic (agility and precision) and Dynamic+ (driving experience). Vehicle dynamics can be further refined in Track Mode.

Audi Space Frame 

The vehicle architecture is designed for lightweight construction and high torsional rigidity using Audi Space Frame technology with a carbon exterior, which combines low weight with high structural strength.

Almost all exterior components are made from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). All carbon fiber components have been developed using Formula 1 expertise, such as the prepreg autoclave technology, in which pre-impregnated carbon fibers are shaped and then cured under high pressure and temperature.

Active aerodynamics inspired by Formula 1

Each exterior element serves a clearly defined aerodynamic function, from the front splitter to the rear diffuser. Audi’s Formula 1 drivers provided targeted feedback during the development phase to fine-tune aerodynamic performance.

Front air intakes ensure effective brake cooling as well as efficient thermal management of the combustion engine and hybrid components. A vented front end, known as an S-duct, improves aerodynamic efficiency at the front axle, delivering additional downforce, reducing lift at high speeds and improving cooling of the powertrain.

The central element of the active aerodynamic system is the deployable adaptive rear wing. It controls downforce and drag across three configurations: closed, low downforce (LD) and high downforce (HD). A drag reduction system (DRS), familiar from Formula 1, can also be activated manually via a dedicated steering-wheel button to further lower the wing.

Dynamic energy management

The energy management system is also inspired by motorsport. Boost and recuperation strategies are closely linked to torque distribution. As an integrated system, it continuously manages the interaction between power delivery and energy recovery.

Adaptive strategies for coasting and brake recuperation extend energy recovery to nearly all driving phases. At the front axle, electric deceleration takes on a significant portion of braking, while at the rear axle, coasting, partial load and traction control phases are used for recuperation. Purely electric deceleration of up to 0.3g is possible.

Braking system

A motorsport-inspired brake-by-wire system enables variable distribution between recuperation and hydraulic braking. The brake pedal is functionally decoupled from actual braking force at the wheels to ensure a consistent and precise pedal feel.

At the core of the system is the new Audi Ceramic Pro braking system, designed for consistently high deceleration and precise control.

At the front axle, 10-piston fixed calipers work with 420 × 40mm brake discs, while at the rear, four-piston calipers are paired with 410 × 32mm discs. The brake discs, derived directly from Formula 1, are based on a long-fiber carbon structure designed to withstand extreme thermal loads without compromising structural integrity or consistent friction characteristics.

In related news, Lotus highlights motorsport heritage with all-new hybrid-V8 supercar

Lotus Cars has announced Focus 2030, an updated business strategy to strengthen the company’s competitiveness and create a more flexible and sustainable business model to support resilience amid challenging market conditions.

Built on four core pillars – brand reinforcement, a multipowertrain strategy, close partner collaboration and financial discipline – Focus 2030 marks a significant reset for the brand.

Lotus Group CEO Qingfeng Feng said, “Lotus was born from the rebellious spirit of Colin Chapman, and that is not lost today. Focus 2030 will reset both the brand and the business to keep us true to our DNA. We are obsessed with engineering, obsessed with performance and obsessed with building drivers’ cars, and that is what will grow this business.”

Lotus Cars said it will continue to base all vehicle development decisions on its core principles of lightweight design, aerodynamics, engineering performance, and driver engagement, regardless of product type or powertrain. The company said its design and engineering operations will remain rooted in the UK, while research and development activities in China will support faster scalability and market delivery.

As regulatory requirements and consumer demand continue to evolve at different rates across global markets, Lotus Cars said it will adopt a flexible approach across internal combustion engine (ICE), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and battery-electric vehicle (BEV) technologies. In the near term, the company is targeting an electrified portfolio mix of approximately 60% PHEV and 40% BEV, while supporting what it describes as a customer-led transition toward full electrification.

The company has said the first product initiative under its new strategy will be X-Hybrid, which combines Lotus’s ICE and BEV expertise. The system is reportedly designed to offer long range, flexibility, practicality, sustained performance and Lotus’s characteristic driver engagement.

The proprietary X-Hybrid technology was first launched on the Eletre, as Eletre X. Customer deliveries in Europe are expected to begin in Q4 2026, making it the first technology of its kind to come to market, according to Lotus.

Reaffirming its performance-focused DNA, Lotus Cars said its next step in developing proprietary hybrid technology will be the unveiling of its first supercar, Type 135, planned for 2028. The model is expected to feature a V8 hybrid powertrain producing over 1,000ps and will be manufactured in Europe, with further details due to be announced later this year.

Daniel Li, chairman of the board of directors at Lotus Technology, and executive vice chairman of Geely Holding Group, said, “Geely has believed in Lotus from the beginning, and that belief has not wavered. We are committed to giving Lotus the resources it deserves to compete at the highest level. What Lotus brings is irreplaceable, and Focus 2030 is proof that we take that responsibility seriously. We are excited for the next chapter in the brand’s story.”

In related news, TraXon 2 hybrid demonstrates emissions reduction potential for heavy commercial vehicles

As vehicle development becomes increasingly integrated across propulsion, software, testing and design, a new industry event focused on chassis and powertrain engineering will launch this October as part of Vehicle Tech Week North America 2026.

The Advanced Chassis & Powertrain Showcase will debut alongside three established exhibitions within a newly unified event framework designed to reflect how modern vehicles are engineered today.

Taking place October 27-29, 2026, at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, Michigan, Vehicle Tech Week North America will bring together four co-located exhibitions covering the full vehicle development lifecycle:

• Intelligent Vehicle Expo (previously known as Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo)
• Advanced Chassis & Powertrain Showcase (new launch)
• Automotive Design & In-Cabin Expo (previously known as Automotive Interiors Expo)
• Automotive Testing Expo (the world’s largest and most established event for automotive testing, validation and quality engineering)

The event is expected to attract thousands of OEM engineers, Tier 1 suppliers and technology leaders, creating a single destination for cross-functional collaboration and technical insight.

About Vehicle Tech Week North America 2026

Vehicle Tech Week North America is a new multi-event platform designed to reflect the full complexity of modern vehicle development. By bringing together four co-located exhibitions in one unified framework, the event connects the technologies, teams and disciplines shaping the future of mobility.

From propulsion systems and software-defined vehicles to testing, validation and in-cabin experience, the event provides a comprehensive view of the vehicle ecosystem. Hosted in Novi, Michigan, a region with deep roots in automotive engineering, the event is positioned as a central meeting point for innovation across North America.

A new platform for chassis and powertrain innovation

The Advanced Chassis & Powertrain Showcase has been developed in response to the growing complexity of propulsion and platform engineering. OEMs are now managing internal combustion, hybrid and battery-electric programs in parallel, often across shared vehicle architectures, introducing new challenges around efficiency, cost, thermal management and vehicle dynamics.

Rather than focusing on individual components, the showcase will highlight system-level approaches to vehicle performance and integration. Key technology areas include:

• Battery systems and energy storage
• Electric drivetrains and e‑axles
• Power electronics
• Thermal management
• Braking and suspension systems
• Vehicle dynamics and control
• Simulation and validation technologies

“Chassis and powertrain technologies are at the center of some of the industry’s most complex engineering decisions,” said Peter Massey, commercial director at Vehicle Tech Week organizer UKi Media & Events. “This new showcase creates a dedicated platform for engineers and suppliers to explore how those challenges are being solved at a system level, and how those solutions translate into real-world performance.”

Repositioned, market‑leading events in a single framework

Alongside the launch of the new chassis and powertrain showcase, two established events have evolved to reflect their expanding roles within the vehicle ecosystem.

Intelligent Vehicle Expo highlights the growing impact of software, AI and connected systems across all areas of the vehicle, while Automotive Design & In-Cabin Expo reflects the increasing importance of interior architecture, HMI and user experience.

Together with Automotive Testing Expo, the industry’s leading event for validation, testing and quality engineering, Vehicle Tech Week North America creates a unified environment where traditionally separate disciplines converge.

“Vehicle Tech Week North America reflects how vehicles are engineered today,” added Massey. “It brings together advanced technologies, specialist expertise and real-world application into one connected experience, accelerating collaboration across the entire vehicle development process.”

For more information, and to exhibit or register, visit: https://www.vehicletechweek-northamerica.com/.

For speaker enquiries, please contact Marc LeDuc, senior conference content producer NA, UKi Media & Events (marc.leduc@ukimediaevents.com).

Nissan Motor has announced its long‑term vision: Mobility Intelligence for Everyday Life, a plan to integrate mobility intelligence into everyday life through Nissan’s focus on AI-defined vehicles (AIDV), offering a choice of electrification technologies to meet diverse customer and market needs.

Ivan Espinosa, president and CEO, said, “This is the right moment to articulate Nissan‘s long‑term vision as we move beyond the Re:Nissan recovery plan and set a clear path for the future. Our vision defines where Nissan is headed, with customer experience as our guiding priority. By advancing mobility intelligence, we will deliver intuitive, advanced and reliable products and technologies that offer outstanding value and enrich how mobility is experienced.”

At the core of the strategy is Nissan AIDV, combining Nissan AI Drive and Nissan AI Partner technologies. The company says this will integrate AI with vehicle control and safety systems, building on existing advanced driver assistance technology. Nissan aims to deploy AI Drive across 90% of its line-up over the long term.

The first model expected to reflect this approach is the latest Nissan Elgrand, due in summer 2026, which will introduce next-generation ProPilot with end-to-end autonomous technologies by the end of the 2027 financial year.

Christian Meunier, chairman of Nissan Americas, added, “Across the Americas, our focus on execution is making the region a key contributor to Nissan’s turnaround, driven by both revenue growth and disciplined cost reduction. We delivered significant year-over-year increases in US retail share, making Nissan the fastest-growing mainstream brand since August 2025. We’re also seeing solid progress in Canada and continued growth in Mexico, where we have maintained the #1 position for 18 consecutive years – proof that getting the fundamentals right matters. Our balance of strong execution today and smart, impactful investments in the future will strengthen our business and drive sustainable growth.”

Electrification

Alongside autonomy development, Nissan is expanding electrification through its e-Power hybrid system and a wider mix of powertrains, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range extender systems developed through partnerships. A new hybrid system for frame-based vehicles is also planned.

This broader offer includes development of a new hybrid electric vehicle system (HEV) for future frame‑based vehicles, serving customers requiring greater capability and long‑range confidence. Nissan says it will complete the spectrum of customer choice by offering plug‑in hybrid and range‑extender hybrid solutions through partnerships.

Streamlined product portfolio

The company will streamline its model line-up from 56 to 45 models, exiting low-performing models and reallocating reinvestment to growth areas. At the same time, Nissan says it will expand powertrain options for each model, to give customers more choice, increase volume per model and strengthen the company’s business foundation.

Key upcoming models include the Rogue and X-Trail Hybrid e-Power, the Xterra for North America, the Juke EV for Europe, and the Skyline for Japan. Infiniti will also be expanded with new and refreshed models, including an all-new QX65 SUV due in 2027.

Nissan said its industrial strategy will shift toward architecture-led development based on shared platforms and software, aiming to improve development speed, cost efficiency and scalability.

Espinosa concluded, “As we continue on our path to recovery, it is essential that Nissan seizes the opportunities provided by AI technologies, by electrification and the innovation embedded in our latest products to drive market growth and focus relentlessly on serving the customer.”

In related news, Nissan launches electric Juke

ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) has completed a dedicated testing event for the TraXon 2 Hybrid, its next-generation hybrid transmission for heavy commercial vehicles. The system demonstrated its potential to reduce emissions while maintaining operational flexibility, meeting the practical needs of logistics companies.

“TraXon 2 Hybrid delivers a clear advantage for high‑mileage operations by substantially reducing CO2 emissions while maintaining cost efficiency,” said Christian Feldhaus, vice president of transmissions and hybrids at ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions. “Based on our ongoing discussions with vehicle manufacturers, fleet operators and industry bodies, we see hybrid technologies providing a clear and practical pathway toward significant emissions reduction in future heavy‑duty transport.”

Emissions-saving technology

The TraXon 2 Hybrid builds on the all-electric TraXon 2 platform. The hybrid system enables electric-only driving in urban zones while retaining combustion operation for long-distance transportation.

ZF test evaluations confirmed that the system supports substantial CO2 reductions in long-haul and distribution applications when operated with consistent recharging. The PHEV system can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 47% in long-haul transportation and up to 73% in distribution transportation. This supports the European fleet emissions targets for 2030 and provides flexibility for future toll and tax regulations.

The TraXon 2 Hybrid builds on ZF’s e-mobility platform, which includes electric central drives such as CeTrax 2 and AxTrax 2 e-axles, and supports applications where full electrification is not yet practical across all routes. For fleets with limited investment capacity, it also enables a gradual transition to electrification, including operational, dispatch and charging adjustments.

The hybrid platform integrates an in-house-developed electric motor and operates at 600-800V, with 190kW continuous power and higher peak output. Positioned in a P2 layout between the clutch and transmission, the electric motor enables pure electric driving up to 12th gear and supports regenerative braking for improved efficiency. The combustion engine operates according to the vehicle’s driving strategy and provides range for long-haul applications. The system is designed to improve overall efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions while retaining the range and refueling flexibility of a combustion engine. It can be combined with diesel, HVO/e-fuels, CNG/LPG and hydrogen combustion engines.

In related news, Volvo begins on-road testing of hydrogen ICE heavy trucks

MG has launched the SolidCore Battery, a semi-solid-state system designed to improve electric vehicle (EV) range, charging speed, performance and cold-weather reliability.

The battery features solid-state electrolytes within each cell, forming a protective barrier that extends lifespan and ensures compliance with future regulatory standards. According to MG, this architecture performs well in low temperatures, enabling immediate vehicle start-up without preheating and delivering improved acceleration compared with conventional EVs. The SolidCore Battery is expected to appear in MG electric vehicles in Europe by the end of 2026.

Alongside the new battery, MG has also introduced its Hybrid+ technology, which combines advanced software and hardware to optimize fuel consumption, provide faster power delivery and improve integration between mechanical and electric systems. The technology includes a larger 1.83 kWh battery to extend electric-only range, an innovative three-speed hybrid transmission and an eight-mode Logic Engine to enhance power management.

MG said Hybrid+ also improves cabin refinement through noise and vibration suppression while maintaining high thermal efficiency and responsive, smooth power delivery. A fully integrated Hybrid Control Unit with real-time terrain detection enables the system to adapt propulsion strategies to changing conditions. In 2025, MG sold 137,000 hybrid vehicles across Europe, with the MG HS ranking among the top 10 best-selling hybrid models in most countries.

Commenting on the latest technology advances, MG Europe and the UK’s vice present, Kimi Li said, “MG’s new SolidCore Battery and Hybrid+ technology provide tangible benefits for our customers and position our vehicles at the forefront of their class. These advancements reinforce MG’s commitment to making cutting-edge technology and electric mobility more intuitive, accessible and widely available. Our strategy of developing MG vehicles in Europe, for Europe further enhances the desirability, versatility and value that our cars deliver to customers across the European market.”

The announcements coincide with the opening of MG’s European Engineering Centre in Frankfurt, Germany, which will serve as a hub for developing vehicles tailored to local climate conditions, road environments and customer preferences.

Related news, Flexible, modular hybrid drive targets global EV applications

Magna is expanding its hybrid portfolio with the introduction of DHD REX, a dedicated hybrid drive designed for range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs). The system aims to provide an electric-like driving experience with instant torque response, smooth operation and seamless range extension.

The ready-to-integrate solution uses a modular, single-motor architecture that allows auto makers to adapt the drive to meet diverse regulatory, infrastructure and customer requirements across global markets.

“Magna’s approach to electrification is centered on giving our customers flexible pathways forward,” said Magna Powertrain president Diba Ilunga. “DHD REX reflects our commitment to adaptable, customer‑focused solutions that support a wide range of performance and market expectations.”

DHD REX complements Magna’s DHD Duo, the company’s dual e-motor dedicated hybrid drive already in series production. Designed from the ground up for scalability and integration flexibility, the single-motor configuration reduces system cost and complexity while delivering smooth, predictable vehicle behavior across all driving scenarios.

Magna’s DHD REX range-extender hybrid drive reportedly delivers flexible electrified performance, offering a set of technical capabilities designed for diverse global applications. Its architecture and efficiency reduce size, weight and system cost while providing validated performance. The system supports multiple operating modes, including pure electric driving, a generating mode for efficient range extension and an optional parallel hybrid mode for enhanced highway performance. Scalable across B- to E-segment vehicles in AWD layouts – including SUVs – it can be adapted to meet varying regional regulatory requirements. Additionally, the modular and compact design simplifies packaging and facilitates integration across ICE-based and BEV platforms.

Related news, Polestar scales battery recycling and refurbishment initiatives across EV range