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

Ferrari has unveiled the all-electric Luce at the Vela di Calatrava – Città dello Sport in Rome in Italy.

Expanding Ferrari’s in-house electric technology expertise has created new opportunities for performance and efficiency across its wider vehicle programs, the auto maker said. This includes technology transfer between Ferrari road cars, the 499P Hypercar that won the most recent World Endurance Championship, and the Ferrari Hypersail project, which serves as a platform for research and innovation. The Ferrari Luce marks the culmination of Maranello’s multi-energy strategy, announced at the 2022 Capital Markets Day.

John Elkann, president of Ferrari, said, “We are not simply unveiling a new car, we are inaugurating a chapter that turns our vision into reality, strengthening Ferrari’s tradition of anticipating and shaping the future.”

In keeping with tradition, Ferrari has chosen to engineer, develop and manufacture the main components in-house. The project includes more than 60 new patents.

The Ferrari Luce was designed in collaboration with LoveFrom, the design collective led by Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson, bringing an external perspective to Ferrari’s established design approach under Flavio Manzoni. The electric power source, Ferrari-engineered engines and advanced drivetrain enabled the development of a new architecture that combines Ferrari performance with the luxury of spaciousness.

Technologies derived from Ferrari’s unrivalled experience in the world of motor racing made it possible to contain kerb weight at 2,260kg, helping deliver best‑in‑class performance (0–100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, 0–200 km/h in 6.8 seconds, top speed over 310 km/h and maximum total power output of 1,050hp) and a range in excess of 530km.

The car introduces electric all-wheel drive technology, combining torque vectoring, regenerative braking and adjustable power delivery systems. Steering wheel-mounted paddles enable drivers to modify torque output and energy recovery, while Ferrari says the system has been developed to provide a more progressive acceleration response than typical high-torque electric powertrains.

The car is powered by four electric engines, one per wheel, and is equipped with a high‑capacity 122kWh battery, an active suspension system derived from the F80 and an independently steering rear axle. Within this framework of technological innovation, two concepts best encapsulate Ferrari Luce’s ambitious entry into the world of high‑performance electric sports cars: the control of each wheel’s motion in every direction and in any dynamic condition, and the authentic approach to sound.

Each wheel is equipped with one actuator for traction and regeneration, one for the steering angle and one to control vertical movement. The ability to adapt torque distribution in real time to road conditions and desired performance provides exceptional freedom and precision of control. Each of the Ferrari Luce’s wheels is attuned to the driver’s input, enabling the driver to experience a single, fluid movement. Torque vectoring and the elastic balance of the suspension system also assist in changing direction, enhancing the car’s agility and ease of driving.

The Ferrari Luce’s vehicle dynamics have been developed around the characteristics of its electric platform, including a lower center of gravity and revised weight distribution. The vehicle uses an e-Manettino system to adjust power delivery and traction settings, alongside Ferrari’s five-position Manettino drive mode selector, which adapts vehicle responses to different grip conditions.

The model also introduces Ferrari’s new vehicle control unit, which integrates management of the powertrain and vehicle dynamics systems. According to Ferrari, the system processes updates at up to 200 times per second and works in conjunction with the latest version of the company’s Side Slip X control system.

The powertrain comprises four F80-derived permanent magnet synchronous engines with radial flux, delivering a maximum speed of 30,000rpm at the front and 25,500rpm at the rear. The system operates on 800V architecture and combines performance with efficiency, with solutions directly derived from motorsport. The high-voltage battery pack was designed, validated and built in Maranello and comprises 210 cells in series that deliver 122kWh and support fast charging up to 350kW; it has been designed as a structural element of the car. Power electronics feature compact inverters and a DC/DC resonant converter for the active suspension to achieve record-breaking efficiency of more than 98%.

The Ferrari Luce uses an integrated battery, chassis, and body structure designed to improve rigidity, efficiency, and interior packaging. The aluminum-based architecture places the battery beneath the floor and rear seats, removing the need for a central transmission tunnel and increasing cabin space. Ferrari said the structure delivers increased bending and torsional rigidity compared with its previous four-door models.

The vehicle also features double wishbone suspension, rear-wheel steering, carbon ceramic brakes, and a rear subframe mounted to improve ride comfort and handling balance.

The extensive use of recycled secondary-alloy aluminum enables a reduction in CO₂e emissions during production of around 70% of the overall vehicle weight.

Benedetto Vigna, CEO of Ferrari, said, “We are convinced that a company demonstrates its leadership when it has the courage to dare and to take on the challenge of new technologies. Ferrari Luce was born precisely from this challenge, offering our unprecedented vision of electrification.”

Related news, BYD enters UK eLCV market with Dolphin Cargo e-Van

The all-electric Mercedes-AMG 4‑Door Coupe is based on the high-performance AMG.EA architecture and features a new drive concept comprising axial flux motors developed by the British electric-motor specialist Yasa and a high-performance battery that shifts “the benchmark in the high-performance segment”, the auto maker said.

Mercedes‑AMG demonstrated the capability of this drivetrain technology last year with the record drive of the Concept AMG GT XX in Nardò, Italy, where the technology demonstrator sprinted over 40,000km in seven days and 13 hours, breaking a total of 25 long-distance records in the process. (Read more on the concept in the April 2026 issue of APTI).

Mercedes-AMG is offering two powertrains: the Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupe and the Mercedes‑AMG GT 55 4-Door Coupe.

“From my time at AMG, I know how high the bar is set in Affalterbach. With this first model on the new AMG.EA architecture, we don’t just meet it, we move it,” said Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management, Mercedes‑Benz Group.

Three key aspects contribute significantly the performance capability: new battery cells, an innovative direct cooling system for each individual cell and a comparatively high voltage.

Electric power

The sports car uses three electric motors, two on the rear axle and one at the front, that deliver a system output of up to 860kW (1,169hp). These are complemented by a high-performance battery concept. Together, these achieve a 0 to 100 km/h time of just 2.1 seconds, with the vehicle requiring only 6.4 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 200 km/h. It’s top speed is 300 km/h (with optional Driver’s Package).

Thanks to a charging capacity of 600kW, over 460km of range can be recharged in just 10 minutes. A typical charging cycle from 10% to 80 % state of charge (SoC) takes 11 minutes.

In an axial flux motor, the electromagnetic flux runs parallel to the motor’s axis of rotation, unlike conventional electric motors where it runs perpendicular. The design uses a stator positioned between two rotor discs in an H-configuration to improve magnetic efficiency.

The electric motors are integrated into High-Performance Electric Drive Units (HP.EDUs) on each axle. At the rear, two axial flux motors are combined with a compact single-stage planetary gearbox within a shared housing. The system includes oil cooling, an integrated pump control unit and water-cooled silicon-carbide (SiC) inverters, designed to support high-voltage and high-performance operation. The axial flux motors can exceed 13,000rpm.

The front HP.EDU includes an axial flux motor, transmission, silicon-carbide (SiC) inverter and pump control unit. The motor can exceed 15,000rpm and operates as a front-axle booster motor, engaging when additional power or traction is needed.

“This vehicle underscores the broad performance spectrum of our comprehensive development strategy and the consistent transfer of the Concept AMG GT XX technology program into series production,” said Jörg Burzer, member of the board of management and chief technology officer, development and procurement, at Mercedes-Benz Group.

Newl battery cell for high performance 

At the heart of this innovation is a cylindrical, tall and slim battery cell. This format provides advantages for cooling. The small diameter minimizes the distance from the cell core to the surface, enabling rapid and efficient dissipation of heat generated under load, ensuring each round cell is maintained within its optimal temperature range. Laser-welded aluminium cell housing is also a new development, offering outstanding electrical and thermal conductivity.

A full-tab cell design reduces internal resistance by connecting the cell windings across the full surface of the poles, supporting higher charging and discharging performance while maintaining reliability under demanding conditions.

The cell chemistry is based on NCMA (nickel/cobalt/manganese/aluminum) in the cathode and a silicon-containing anode.

Overall, the combination of the tall and slim format, aluminum housing, full-tab technology and NCMA chemistry provides the foundation for maximum performance.

Intelligent direct cooling for the battery cells

The new battery concept uses directly cooled cylindrical cells with a special cell chemistry that ensures uniform temperature distribution and high-performance stability under continuous load. In total, 2,660 cells are used in the Mercedes‑AMG GT 4‑Door Coupé. The individual cylindrical cells are grouped into 18 laser-welded plastic modules.

The high-voltage battery is integrated centrally into the structure of the e-skateboard. Its protective housing (safety box) encloses the cell modules, all switching components and the battery management system (BMS), also an exclusive AMG in-house development.

Under the transmission tunnel lies a highly advanced cooling system whose core is an innovative cooling module. This module serves as the central interface to the vehicle’s cooling system and integrates key components such as the coolant pump module (KMP), the oil-water heat exchanger (ÖWWT) and the necessary connectors for direct oil cooling.

The temperature of the BMS is actively regulated via a special cooling plate, enabling higher currents. For the first time, virtual sensors have also been used: the BMS determines temperatures – such as within a cell – not via physical components but through mathematical models based on the current charging power.

“The first all-electric AMG GT 4‑Door Coupé takes the AMG DNA to a whole new level,” said Bastian Baudy, chief design officer, Mercedes-Benz Group. “A vehicle that embodies high-tech and innovation, brings performance to life and will set new standards with its radical design approach.”

Related news, Jaguar reveals Type 01 electric four-door GT

Ahead of the Monaco E‑Prix on May 16 and 17, 2026, Jaguar’s Type 01 prototype, an electric four-door GT, lapped the circuit, signaling the car maker’s move to an electric era.

Type 01 development has been directly inspired by technology used by the company’s Formula E team – Jaguar TCS Racing – integrating technology proven on track by the World Championship-winning all‑electric team.

The prototype’s responses have been fine‑tuned using lessons learned from Jaguar TCS Racing’s all‑wheel-drive control software and fast‑switching silicon-carbide‑powered inverters.

Regenerative braking, range and fast‑charging capability have also reportedly been enhanced using technology developed on track.

“To achieve our vision for Type 01, we not only harnessed our Formula E know‑how but also embedded the competition mindset of Jaguar TCS Racing in our engineering teams. This helped us develop innovative solutions for our luxury four‑door GT that drives like no other electric car,” said Jaguar managing director Rawdon Glover.

The Type name has been associated with Jaguar since the Le Mans-winning C-Type in 1951. It represents a combination of performance and driver engagement alongside refinement, as seen in models such as the E-Type and F-Type. In Jaguar Type 01, the 0 represents electric propulsion and zero tailpipe emissions, while the 1 signifies its position as the first Jaguar of a new era. The vehicle was designed, developed and built in the UK.

Jaguar’s four‑door GT will be revealed later this year.

In related news, FIA and Formula E debut Gen4 car with major gains in performance, speed and sustainability

Two 13-liter engines compatible with renewable diesel and gas fuel, including future hydrogen applications, have been introduced to the market. Both are based on Volvo Trucks‘ latest in-house-developed engine platform.

The combustion engine remains an important part of the company’s driveline strategy, and Volvo says its new engine range is designed to deliver increased power, improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and noise levels, and enhanced driveability. The engine platform is ready for alternative fuels such as biodiesel/B100, HVO, biogas/bio-LNG and green hydrogen.

The D13 engine will offer 380-560hp of power and 1,800-2,900Nm of torque. It can reportedly deliver up to 4% lower fuel consumption than the D13 eSCR engine it replaces. This is based on simulations of a 500hp Volvo FH 42 T with a GCW of 35 metric tons.

The second 13-liter engine, the G13, offers 420-500hp and 2,400-2,800Nm of torque.

“Not only are these all-new engines our most fuel-efficient powertrains ever, but they will also take our combustion engine into the future,” said Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks. “The flexibility and readiness for all existing diesel and gas fuels – but also future hydrogen applications – mean that we can offer efficient trucks with the possibility of net zero emissions to all our customers globally.”

According to Volvo, the new platform comes with refined engine brake functionality for increased driveability, along with new cylinder and turbo designs and an updated version of the company’s I-Shift transmission. The diesel and gas versions will both reportedly offer significantly higher levels of torque.

Many variants of the diesel version of the new engine are compatible with Volvo Trucks’ I-Roll with engine stop/start functionality, enabling drivers to save fuel by turning off the engine and rolling downhill.

In related news, Renault introduces LPG bi-fuel Clio that delivers up to 1,450km range

The Renault Clio range is expanding with a new Eco-G, 120hp – a liquefied petroleum gas powertrain offering an alternative to the petrol and hybrid options already available in the range. With its petrol and LPG bi-fuel set-up and two separate fuel tanks, the Clio Eco‑G 120 offers a total range of up to 1,450km.

Based on the turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine, the Eco‑G 120 powertrain offers a solution for lower CO₂ emissions. Compared with the LPG powertrain of the Clio 5 (Eco-G 100), the Eco-G 120 has been upgraded to deliver a total output of 120hp (an increase of 20hp) with maximum torque of 200Nm (an increase of 30Nm). It also features an LPG tank capacity increase of 25%, from 40 liters to 50 liters which, combined with the 39‑liters petrol tank, delivers the near 1,500km range.

EDC dual-clutch automatic gearbox

Available with a dual-clutch automatic gearbox, the Eco‑G 120 powertrain consumes 6.5l/100km in LPG mode, with CO₂ emissions from 105g/km. In petrol mode, Clio Eco‑G 120 consumes 5.4l/100km with CO2 emissions of 122g/km.

The dual-clutch automatic gearbox (EDC) uses a two-clutch design for rapid gear changes without loss of torque. This technology delivers a smooth, comfortable drive. At the same time, the steering wheel paddles offer direct manual control, depending on the driver’s requirements.

Related news, Renault announces first European production car with in-wheel motors

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).

The Gen4 Formula E car has run its debut in front of a select audience at Circuit Paul Ricard, signaling the beginning of a new era for electric motorsport.

Brought by Formula E and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the all-new next-generation machine will act as the foundation that will be further developed and then raced by the teams and manufacturers in the 2026/27 season of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

Capable of reaching speeds in excess of 335kph, 0-100kph in approximately 1.8 seconds and 0-200kph in just 4.4 seconds – 1.5 seconds faster than its predecessor – GEN4 will deliver 50% more power in race mode than the current Gen3 Evo race car.

Formula E predicts the Gen4 car will be an average of 10 seconds faster per lap than the Gen3 in qualifying mode. In Attack Mode, Gen4 produces up to 600kW of power, a 71% increase in base output over the Gen3 Evo, delivering performance that pushes the limits of electric racing. Gen4 is the only single-seater race car with permanent all-wheel drive.

The on-track demonstration highlighted Gen4’s performance in real conditions, with overtaking laps against Gen1, Gen2 and Gen3 models showing a clear step forward in capability. Set to debut in the 2026/27 season, Gen4 is expected to deliver lap times at least five seconds faster on street circuits than the Gen3 Evo.

In addition to outright performance, sustainability remains a central pillar of innovation for Gen4, which will be the world’s first racing car that is 100% recyclable, with at least 20% recycled materials across key components. Its tires are made from 65% natural and recycled materials, including 30% certified natural rubber, and the battery contains no rare earth minerals. At a broader level, Formula E remains the first global sport certified to the BSI Net Zero Pathway Standard and the first motorsport series in the world to achieve B Corp Certification.

Jeff Dodds, CEO, Formula E, said, “Gen4 isn’t just a car, it’s a statement of intent. Seeing what it can do on track for the first time is a real milestone for Formula E – we are now delivering performance levels that were thought impossible for electric vehicles just five years ago. The step up in performance is immediately clear, from the speed and power to the way it delivers on track, and there was a genuine buzz among everyone who witnessed it. This is a hugely exciting moment for the championship as we head into the upcoming 2026/27 season, and a clear signal of where we are headed.”

Dodds continued, “This is just the beginning, as its refinement is now in the hands of our manufacturers – Porsche, Jaguar, Stellantis, Nissan, Lola Cars and Mahindra – to push development to even higher limits of performance ahead of its racing debut later this year. Gen4 isn’t just an evolution, it’s a step change in innovation and performance that will redefine motorsport for years to come.”

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president, FIA added, “The new Gen4 Formula E car marks a significant step forward for electric racing, setting a new global benchmark for performance, innovation and sustainability.”

He continued, “collaboration has been central to the development of this car, and it will continue to be at the heart of a new era for the championship defined by greater performance, road relevance and excitement. We are redefining what is possible alongside some of the world’s biggest automotive manufacturers using the laboratory of motorsport.”

Gen4 will also introduce enhanced safety features, including a wider cockpit for increased hand clearance and power steering to help mitigate steering loads during impacts, while intensifying the driver challenge at the highest level of motorsport. It has also been designed with improved adjustability in the driving position, helping to level the playing field and re-engineering the sport for inclusivity at the top level.

Related news, Project Cavendish: Mahle hydrogen-fueled 13-liter engine matches diesel performance

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