BONUS: The Best EVs Revealed at Brussels Motor Show 2026
About this episode
The Brussels Motor Show 2026 showcased a variety of exciting electric vehicles, highlighting both affordable and premium options. Key reveals included the Kia EV2, a compact crossover with impressive range and features, and the Renault Twingo, designed for urban mobility. Notable mentions were the Volkswagen ID Polo and BYD ZATO, both targeting the budget-friendly segment. The episode dives into the specs, pricing, and unique features of these vehicles, emphasizing the shift towards practical, production-ready EVs that cater to diverse consumer needs.
Brussels has replaced Geneva as Europe's premier EV launchpad, with the show floor reflecting not aspirational concepts but production-ready metal arriving throughout 2026.
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B-segment crossover
"That was the world premiere of this B-segment crossover. Production begins in February."
A B-segment crossover is a small SUV that combines the features of a car and an SUV. It's designed to be easy to drive in the city while offering more space and comfort than a regular car.
A B-segment crossover is a small SUV that typically offers a higher driving position and more cargo space than a traditional hatchback or sedan. These vehicles are popular for their compact size, making them suitable for urban environments while still providing versatility.
EGMP
"Charging on a 400 volt version of EGMP means about 30 minutes for both battery packs, realistically 10 to 80."
EGMP is a special platform used for building electric cars. It helps manufacturers design vehicles that can use electric power more efficiently and have more space for batteries.
EGMP stands for Electric Global Modular Platform, which is a dedicated electric vehicle platform developed by Hyundai Motor Group. It allows for flexible vehicle designs and optimizes space for battery placement and electric components.
kilowatt
"...small battery, 108 kilowatt motor, long range version, 100 kilowatts. I know not why."
A kilowatt is a way to measure how much power something uses or produces. For electric cars, it helps describe how strong the motor is or how much energy the battery can store.
A kilowatt is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. In the context of electric vehicles, it often refers to the power output of the electric motor or the capacity of the battery.
Keer EV2
"...what this Keer EV2 did, and check out a bonus edition of the show on your feed, which I talk only about the Keer EV2..."
The Keer EV2 is a compact electric car that comes with nice features but is priced reasonably, making it a good choice for many buyers.
The Keer EV2 is an electric vehicle that offers premium features at an affordable price point, making it an attractive option in the compact car segment.
Hyundai Kona
"Had it on the Kona, it was excellent. Digital key, pet mode, good."
The Hyundai Kona is a small SUV that is great for city driving and has lots of tech features. It's known for being stylish and efficient.
The Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its stylish design and advanced technology features. It offers a range of engines and is popular for its practicality and efficiency.
Renault Twingo
"Alright, let's talk about the Renault Twingo public debut of an A-segment car."
The Renault Twingo is a small car that's perfect for driving in the city. It's easy to park and great for short trips.
The Renault Twingo is a city car known for its compact size and maneuverability. It is designed for urban environments and offers a practical solution for city dwellers.
Nissan Micra
"So, you've seen the little Nissan Micra. Now meet Renault Twingo."
The Nissan Micra is a small car that's easy to drive and park, often used in cities because it saves on fuel and space.
The Nissan Micra is a subcompact car known for its small size and efficiency, making it popular in urban environments.
AC charging
"6.6 kilowatt AC charging. An optional charge pack to go to 11."
AC charging is how you charge an electric car using regular electricity from your home or charging stations. It's the most common way to charge.
AC charging refers to the process of charging an electric vehicle using alternating current, which is commonly available in homes and public charging stations.
bidirectional AC
"And then that becomes bidirectional AC. Okay, and 50 kilowatt DC."
Bidirectional AC means an electric car can not only charge up from the power grid but can also send power back to it, which can help during power shortages.
Bidirectional AC charging allows an electric vehicle to both receive power from the grid and send power back, enabling features like vehicle-to-grid technology.
DC charging
"Okay, and 50 kilowatt DC. This is very much aimed at keeping the cost down."
DC charging is a faster way to charge an electric car compared to regular charging. It's great for when you need a quick boost of power.
DC charging refers to direct current charging, which allows for faster charging of electric vehicles compared to AC charging, making it ideal for quick stops.
Volkswagen ID Polo
"Now, at a public debut of the Volkswagen ID Polo, that is a 38 or 56 kilowatt hour pack coming middle of this year."
The Volkswagen ID Polo is a new electric car from Volkswagen. It has different battery sizes to choose from, which affects how far you can drive on a single charge.
The Volkswagen ID Polo is an electric vehicle that is part of Volkswagen's ID family, which focuses on sustainable mobility. It features various battery options, including a 38 or 56 kilowatt-hour pack, aimed at providing efficient urban driving.
Volkswagen Id
"... motoring on that. Now, at a public debut of the Volkswagen ID Polo, that is a 38 or 56 kilowatt hour pack comi..."
WLTP
"Both on WLTP say that they're going to do either 280 miles WLTP on the big pack."
WLTP is a testing method used to measure how far cars can go on a full charge or tank of fuel. It helps people understand how efficient a car is in real-life driving situations.
WLTP stands for Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure, a standardized method for measuring the fuel consumption and emissions of vehicles. It provides more realistic data compared to previous testing methods, reflecting real-world driving conditions.
Volkswagen ID. Polo
"...These smaller city cars, ID Polo coming in rear wheel drive, could be fun to drive this thing with 435 litres of boot space..."
The Volkswagen ID. Polo is an electric car based on the Polo model. It's made for city driving and has a lot of space in the trunk for carrying things.
The Volkswagen ID. Polo is an electric version of the popular Polo hatchback, designed for urban driving with a focus on efficiency and practicality. It features a rear-wheel-drive layout and offers ample boot space for everyday use.
MEB platform
"MEB plus platform on this pricing around 22,000. ID Polo's most significant innovation is the philosophical one. We got it wrong with the software and the touch screens on MEB platform."
The MEB platform is a special design that Volkswagen uses for making electric cars. It helps them build different types of electric vehicles more easily.
The MEB platform is Volkswagen's modular electric vehicle architecture designed for a range of electric models. It allows for flexibility in design and production, making it easier to create various electric vehicles on the same platform.
BYD ZATO
"...Anyway, let's move on. BYD ZATO turned up for the European launch. That's under the Yuan up in China."
The BYD ZATO is a new electric car from a Chinese company called BYD. They are starting to sell it in Europe, and it's part of the growing trend of electric vehicles.
The BYD ZATO is an electric vehicle from the Chinese automaker BYD, known for its focus on battery technology and electric mobility. It represents BYD's expansion into the European market.
LFP pack
"Again, LFP pack on this loads of safety features, big screens, smartphone integration because you'll be plugging your phone into this."
An LFP pack is a type of battery used in electric cars. It's safe and lasts a long time, making it a good choice for storing energy.
An LFP pack refers to a lithium iron phosphate battery pack, known for its safety, thermal stability, and longevity. It's commonly used in electric vehicles for energy storage.
smartphone integration
"smartphone integration because you'll be plugging your phone into this at about 25,000 starting price."
Smartphone integration means you can connect your phone to the car, so you can use apps, listen to music, or make calls through the car's system.
Smartphone integration allows drivers to connect their mobile devices to the car's infotainment system, enabling features like navigation, music streaming, and hands-free calls.
BYD ATTO 2
"Affordable European EV segment for the ATTO 2 from BYD. The LFP pack is a pragmatic choice."
The BYD ATTO 2 is a budget-friendly electric car from a Chinese company called BYD. It's designed to be a practical choice for people looking for an affordable EV.
The BYD ATTO 2 is an affordable electric vehicle (EV) that aims to provide a cost-effective option in the European market. It features a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, which is known for its safety and longevity.
Renault 5
"It'll undercut the Kia EV2 and Renault 5, but obviously you're taking a punt on a Chinese name."
The Renault 5 is a small car from Renault that has been updated to be electric. It's designed to be fun and practical for city driving.
The Renault 5 is a compact car that has been reimagined as an electric vehicle. It aims to combine retro styling with modern electric technology, appealing to buyers looking for a unique EV option.
Kia EV6
"It'll undercut the Kia EV2 and Renault 5, but obviously you're taking a punt on a Chinese name."
The Kia EV6 is a new electric SUV from Kia that is designed to be stylish and efficient. It's one of the competitors in the electric car market.
The Kia EV6 is an electric crossover SUV that offers a blend of performance, range, and technology. It competes in the growing EV market, aiming to attract buyers looking for modern electric vehicles.
Leap Motor
"Leap motor were there with their B03X. That's the A10, otherwise known as, it's again a B segment crossover."
Leap Motor is a company from China that makes electric cars. They are trying to create cool and smart vehicles that run on electricity instead of gasoline.
Leap Motor is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer known for producing innovative electric cars. They focus on developing smart and efficient vehicles for the growing EV market.
DC fast charging
"range maybe 500 kilometers WLTP, 100 kilowatt DC fast charging on this little front wheel drive compact crossover B segment Chinese car."
DC fast charging is a way to quickly charge electric cars. It uses a special type of electricity that makes the charging process much faster than regular charging methods.
DC fast charging refers to a method of charging electric vehicles (EVs) using direct current (DC) electricity, allowing for much quicker charging times compared to standard AC charging. This is particularly useful for long-distance travel.
Leap Motor C10
"It sits between the ultra budget cars like the Renault Twingo or Leap Motor's own T03 and Leap Motor's own large SUV, which is the C10."
The Leap Motor C10 is a bigger electric SUV made by the same company as the T03. It's designed for people who need more space in their car.
The Leap Motor C10 is a larger electric SUV from Leap Motor, aimed at providing more space and features compared to their smaller models. It reflects the growing demand for electric SUVs in the automotive market.
Leap Motor T03
"It sits between the ultra budget cars like the Renault Twingo or Leap Motor's own T03 and Leap Motor's own large SUV, which is the C10."
The Leap Motor T03 is a small electric car made by a Chinese company. It's designed to be affordable and easy to use in cities.
The Leap Motor T03 is a compact electric vehicle produced by the Chinese automaker Leap Motor. It is designed for urban mobility and is part of a growing trend of affordable electric cars in China.
Chevrolet C10
"...T03 and Leap Motor's own large SUV, which is the C10. Now there were some mid-range and premium EVs t..."
XPeng P7 Plus
"So the X-Pong P7 Plus got its European premiere. Two big batteries on this, 62 or 75 kilowatt hours."
The X-Peng P7 Plus is a type of electric car that has a sleek design and is made by a company called X-Peng. It's known for being high-tech and efficient.
The X-Peng P7 Plus is an electric fastback sedan from the Chinese automaker X-Peng, known for its advanced technology and features.
800-volt system
"800-volt system and 5C charge rate. That means if you can find a charger quick enough, 10 to 80 happens in 12 minutes."
An 800-volt system helps electric cars charge faster and use less energy. It's like having a stronger power source that makes everything work better.
An 800-volt system in electric vehicles allows for faster charging and improved efficiency compared to traditional 400-volt systems. This higher voltage reduces the current needed for charging, which can lead to lighter wiring and components.
Dodge Charger
"...and 5C charge rate. That means if you can find a charger quick enough, 10 to 80 happens in 12 minutes. So..."
0 to 60 time
"which will bring the time down to 4.4 seconds, 0 to 60. Quite a large vehicle over 5 meters long, exactly 3 meter wheelbase."
0 to 60 time shows how fast a car can go from stopped to 60 miles per hour. It's a way to see how quick a car is.
0 to 60 time measures how quickly a vehicle can accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to gauge a car's acceleration capabilities.
Hyundai Ioniq
"...meters long, exactly 3 meter wheelbase. Like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. That has an exactly 3 meter wheelbase. This o..."
Bmw Ix3
"...'s not as efficient as what we're seeing now with BMW iX3 and Volvo EX60, what they can do with big batter..."
Renault Zoe
"...tt of charging. Five minutes ago, I was buying a Renault Zoe. Okay, 10 years ago."
horsepower
"There's almost 700 horsepower in the all-wheel drive version. A bit smaller, slightly smaller vehicle than the X-Pung P7 Plus."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and stronger the car can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can do over time, with higher numbers generally signifying better performance.
Bmw I5
"...lay. There is still an argument that if you have BMW i5 touring money, or Mercedes AMG, EQE, even the SU..."
Mercedes-Benz EQE
"... you have BMW i5 touring money, or Mercedes AMG, EQE, even the SUV, you know, money, then you might g..."
Opel Astra
"...d Opels are. Talking of which, the Opel Vauxhall Astra Electric got updated and enhanced. So the usable..."
Mercedes-Benz CLA
"Now, in the premium segment, the Mercedes-Benz CLA won European Car of the Year."
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a small luxury car that looks good and has a lot of modern technology. It's popular for being fun to drive and comfortable inside.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a compact luxury sedan known for its stylish design and advanced technology features. It has been well-received in the market, particularly for its performance and comfort.
Mercedes-Benz Mercedesbenz Cla
"And so that's pretty decent. Now, in the premium segment, the Mercedes-Benz CLA won European Car of the Year. See a separate bonus show all about why I think it won."
Bmw X3
"...e. No, it doesn't quite hit the 500 miles of the BMW X3 or the new Volvo EX60. But still, 466 miles woul..."
Mercedes-Benz Mercedesbenz Glb
"But whether that was for different markets, I'll dig into that. We also saw the seven seat Mercedes-Benz GLB. Production is now underway."
Tesla Model
"... vehicles before, maybe you spent some time in a Tesla Model Y or a Model X for a few years and you're gettin..."
Tesla Model X
"...maybe you spent some time in a Tesla Model Y or a Model X for a few years and you're getting out of that a..."
Audi A6
"...e life of me whether we've seen that before. The Audi A6 and the Q6, I just think those are such underrate..."
Jeep Recon
"...ing. We did see the Jeep Wagoneer S and the Jeep Recon. Those vehicles should come with 100 kilowatt-ho..."
Jeep Wagoneer
"...now, this one looks amazing. We did see the Jeep Wagoneer S and the Jeep Recon. Those vehicles should come..."
Cadillac Optiq
"...e premium vehicles. Also premium is the Cadillac OPTIQ. So that turned up at the show."
Lucid Gravity
"...with big European potential, a bit like the Lucid Gravity, I think, on that. What else haven't we talked a..."
Kia EV3
"...me neon interior bits as well. On the 3, the Kia EV3, 0-60 in like seven seconds. So as I say, they'r..."
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