BRIEFLY: DC Charging, XPeng UK, Scout Motors & more | 31 Jan 2026
About this episode
Outstanding growth in America's DC fast charging network is highlighted, with over 18,000 new ports added in 2025 alone. XPeng is set to launch its X9 Electric MPV in the UK this summer, while Scout Motors reveals that 85% of reservations for its debut models prefer a hybrid generator system. The episode also discusses the implications of faster charging on user experience and the competitive landscape as established brands respond to the influx of cheaper Chinese vehicles. Notable insights include Volkswagen's shift in strategy and Kia's new electric pickup.
It's EV News Briefly for Saturday 31 January 2026, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.
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US FAST-CHARGING SURGES AHEAD OF FEDERAL SUPPORT https://bit.ly/3ZGKbCA
XPENG TO LAUNCH X9 MPV IN BRITAIN THIS SUMMER https://bit.ly/4c0r0uQ
SCOUT FANS PICK PETROL GENERATORS OVER PURE EVS https://bit.ly/4qLk0ql
TEN-MINUTE CHARGES TEST AMERICA’S EV PATIENCE https://lat.ms/3ZHuB9P
VW TURNS CHINA INTO EXPORT LAUNCHPAD https://bit.ly/49YpQyQ
KIA’S $20,800 ELECTRIC PICKUP GOES AFTER WORKHORSES https://bit.ly/3Zafg1s
SKODA CHIEF WARNS CHINA EV PRICE WAR WILL CLAIM VICTIMS https://bit.ly/3Z5BP7r
HUAWEI OVERTAKES GERMANS IN CHINA’S PREMIUM CAR MARKET https://bit.ly/4rq2bwZ
TESLA ROBOTAXIS CRASH THREE TIMES MORE THAN HUMANS https://bit.ly/4rp6mcl
BRITAIN MOVES TO OUTLAW HOT-ROD E-BIKE KITS https://bit.ly/4k427jS
Chevy Colorado
"Chevy Colorado will eat up some of the toughest terrains with five available drive modes."
The Chevy Colorado is a smaller truck that can handle tough roads and has different settings to drive on different types of surfaces.
The Chevy Colorado is a midsize pickup truck known for its versatility and off-road capabilities. It offers multiple drive modes to handle various terrains effectively.
Chevrolet Silverado
"And Silverado and Silverado HD have the muscle to take you out for some serious."
The Silverado is a big truck that can pull heavy things and has different engine choices to suit your needs.
The Silverado is a full-size pickup truck from Chevrolet, known for its strong performance, multiple engine options, and impressive towing capacity. It's designed for both work and recreational use.
Chevrolet Silverado EV
"While Silverado EV is the perfect combo of performance and capability."
The Silverado EV is an electric truck that is designed to be powerful and useful, just like regular trucks but without using gas.
The Silverado EV is an electric version of the popular Silverado truck, combining performance with electric vehicle capabilities. It offers a sustainable option for those needing a pickup truck.
electric range
"Battery power alone is said to do something like 150 miles of electric only range. But many people who have put down, and 150,000 people have put down refundable deposits for a Scout..."
Electric range is how far a car can go on just electricity before it needs to be charged again. Here, it's said to be about 150 miles.
Electric range refers to the distance a vehicle can travel using only electric power before needing to be recharged. In this context, it is mentioned that the vehicle can achieve around 150 miles on battery power alone.
plug-in hybrid
"...85% of them not only want a plug, but a filler cap as well."
A plug-in hybrid is a car that can run on electricity and also uses gas. You can charge it at home and it gives you more options for driving.
A plug-in hybrid is a type of vehicle that can be charged from an external power source and also has a gasoline engine. This allows for both electric-only driving and traditional fuel use, appealing to drivers who want flexibility.
charging time
"10 minute charging is going to be the key for Americans who feel that their patients would be tested by buying an EV. 30 minute wait, so what hold people back according to some new data from the US?"
Charging time is how long it takes to fill up the battery of an electric car. Here, they mention that a quick 10-minute charge is important for people thinking about buying an electric vehicle.
Charging time refers to the duration it takes to recharge an electric vehicle's battery. In this case, a 10-minute charging time is highlighted as a significant factor for potential EV buyers.
Volkswagen
"Volkswagen has begun shipping China made cars to the Middle East and Southeast Asia with Africa and South America on the list."
Volkswagen is a well-known car company from Germany that makes many different types of vehicles.
Volkswagen is a major German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Kia
"Kia's electric pickup is going after workhorses."
Kia is a car company from South Korea that makes many different kinds of cars, including electric ones.
Kia is a South Korean automotive manufacturer that produces a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric models.
Kia PV5
"The PV5 is their new van, already a skateboard platform."
The Kia PV5 is a new electric van that has a flat base design, which helps it be more flexible for different uses.
The Kia PV5 is an electric van that utilizes a skateboard platform, designed for versatility and efficiency in urban environments.
Škoda
"Škoda's chief is taking a very interesting line in terms of the Chinese invasion of cheaper cars, which do frankly pose a problem in the bit of the market that Škoda, the value-oriented bit, has always dominated."
Škoda is a car brand from the Czech Republic that makes affordable and practical cars. They are known for being good value for money.
Škoda is a Czech automobile manufacturer known for producing value-oriented vehicles. It has a reputation for offering practical and affordable cars, often competing in the budget segment of the market.
value-oriented market
"...which do frankly pose a problem in the bit of the market that Škoda, the value-oriented bit, has always dominated. He doesn't doubt their engineering."
The value-oriented market is where cars are made to be affordable and practical, focusing on giving buyers good features for a lower price.
The value-oriented market refers to a segment of the automotive industry that focuses on providing affordable vehicles that offer good features and reliability without premium pricing. This market is often targeted by budget brands.
service following sales
"He asks buyers, are you sure they'll be around in years to come with service following sales? Will it still be there?"
Service following sales means the help and support you get for your car after you buy it, like repairs and maintenance. It's important to know if you can get that support in the future.
Service following sales refers to the ongoing support and maintenance provided to customers after they purchase a vehicle. This includes warranty services, repairs, and parts availability, which are crucial for customer satisfaction and trust in a brand.
Chinese brands
"Sure, they can export vehicles at a cheap price, but you're going to have that vehicle a long time. Can you trust the Chinese brand won't go bust?"
Chinese brands are car companies from China that often sell cars at lower prices. Some people worry about whether these brands will still be around to help you with your car in the future.
Chinese brands refer to automobile manufacturers based in China, many of which have emerged in recent years offering competitive pricing. These brands often focus on value and affordability, but concerns about long-term reliability and service can arise.
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