BRIEFLY: Hyundai 5 N, California Incentives, Robotaxi Crashes and more | 23 Sep 2025

Briefly | 23 Sep 2025
It's EV News Briefly for Tuesday 23 September 2025, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.

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HYUNDAI ADDS NEW IONIQ 5 N TRIM CALLED ‘ESSENTIAL’ https://evne.ws/3Kk5MMG
CALIFORNIA WON'T REPLACE FEDERAL EV TAX CREDIT https://evne.ws/42CcsvW
THREE TESLA "ROBOTAXI" CRASHES ON JULY 1 https://evne.ws/3Kgyy0H
TESLA UPDATES ORDERING LANGUAGE FOR $7,500 EV CREDIT https://evne.ws/4nCom14
TESLA SUPERCHARGER VIRTUAL QUEUE FEATURE DETECTED https://evne.ws/4pzd4MD
PORSCHE CHANGES PRODUCT PLANS, SLOWING ALL-ELECTRIC ROLLOUT https://evne.ws/3W2044J
LUCID GRAVITY INVENTORY SELLS OUT QUICKLY https://evne.ws/4gHSeHe
JEEP CANCELS GLADIATOR PLUG-IN HYBRID https://evne.ws/425jdq3
KIA EV4 NOW BUILT IN EUROPE https://evne.ws/47RkQeD
HYUNDAI IONIQ 6 CHARGING-PORT DOOR RECALL https://evne.ws/4pBL7DW
VOLVO RUNS THREE-VEHICLE CRASH TEST DEMONSTRATION WITH EX90 https://evne.ws/4pzcXAH
RIVIAN ADVENTURE NETWORK NOW HAS 100 SITES OPEN TO ALL EVS https://evne.ws/422uoQf
BYD’S YANGWANG U9 XTREME NOW WORLD’S FASTEST PRODUCTION VEHICLE https://evne.ws/47QDljj


HYUNDAI ADDS NEW IONIQ 5 N TRIM CALLED ‘ESSENTIAL’
Hyundai introduced the IONIQ 5 N Essential trim, making high-performance electric driving more accessible by offering core N features and vital technologies at a reduced price. This new option also includes advanced driver safety systems and a unique Parking Assist Lite package, providing excellent value for EV enthusiasts.
CALIFORNIA WON'T REPLACE FEDERAL EV TAX CREDIT
California will focus resources on expanding EV charging infrastructure after deciding not to immediately replace the expiring federal EV tax credit, aiming to support long-term statewide electrification. The state may revive its own incentive next year, potentially funded by successful carbon-trading programs, and remains committed to reducing emissions and fostering green innovation.
THREE TESLA "ROBOTAXI" CRASHES ON JULY 1 REPORTED
Tesla’s Austin robotaxi pilot transparently reported three crashes shortly after launch, with all incidents involving either minor injuries or none, demonstrating strong incident management and care for participants. The pilot continues under close regulatory oversight, highlighting Tesla’s commitment to safe autonomous vehicle testing.
TESLA UPDATES ORDERING LANGUAGE FOR $7,500 EV CREDIT
Tesla swiftly updated its order process to align with the IRS’s newly clarified rules, ensuring more customers can still benefit from the $7,500 federal EV tax credit even if delivery takes place after September 30. This proactive approach helps buyers maximize incentives while making EV ownership more affordable.
TESLA SUPERCHARGER VIRTUAL QUEUE FEATURE DETECTED
Tesla is preparing to launch a virtual queuing system for Supercharger stations, allowing owners to secure a spot without waiting on-site—a step that promises to streamline the charging experience. The development, discovered in the latest over-the-air update, could soon become widely available and improves convenience for all Tesla drivers.
PORSCHE CHANGES PRODUCT PLANS, SLOWING ALL-ELECTRIC ROLLOUT
Porsche is adapting to global market conditions by ensuring customers can choose from both advanced hybrids and exciting new combustion models while ramping up investments in future EVs. With several electrified and hybrid options planned, Porsche is positioning itself to deliver innovation and performance for every driver preference.
LUCID GRAVITY INVENTORY SELLS OUT QUICKLY
Lucid’s Gravity SUV inventory sold out online in less than 24 hours, signaling enthusiastic demand for the company’s latest electric model. Production is set to ramp up further following supply chain improvements, with the Gravity poised to become a flagship offering for Lucid this year.
JEEP CANCELS GLADIATOR PLUG-IN HYBRID
Jeep is refocusing its Gladiator lineup in response to evolving customer preferences, ensuring continued investment and production stability for this popular midsize pickup through at least 2028. The model remains strong, with recent sales growth following price adjustments, and Jeep continues to innovate with their electrified SUV range.
KIA EV4 NOW BUILT IN EUROPE
Production of the Kia EV4 has begun at the AutoLand facility in Slovakia, making it Kia’s first European-built electric vehicle. The advanced plant combines state-of-the-art robotics and engineering expertise to deliver vehicles with specially tuned handling for European roads, following rigorous validation tests.
HYUNDAI IONIQ 6 CHARGING-PORT DOOR RECALL
Hyundai is proactively recalling Ioniq 6 fastbacks to address a charging-port door issue, with a straightforward fix already implemented to ensure safety and customer confidence. The company’s rapid response underscores its dedication to ongoing quality and reliability for EV owners.
VOLVO RUNS THREE-VEHICLE CRASH TEST DEMONSTRATION WITH EX90
Volvo performed an unprecedented three-vehicle crash test with the EX90, going beyond regulatory requirements to set new benchmarks for real-world EV safety. Test data showed excellent occupant protection, demonstrating Volvo’s continued leadership in automotive safety during the industry’s electrification shift.
RIVIAN ADVENTURE NETWORK NOW HAS 100 SITES OPEN TO ALL EVS
Rivian’s Adventure Network now welcomes all EVs at 100 of its charging sites, greatly expanding fast-charging access and convenience for drivers of every brand. With a robust rollout of new and upgraded dispensers, Rivian is making reliable, high-speed charging more accessible across North America.
BYD’S YANGWANG U9 XTREME NOW WORLD’S FASTEST PRODUCTION VEHICLE
BYD’s Yangwang U9 Xtreme set a new world speed record for production vehicles, reaching 496.22 km/h (308.4 mph) thanks to cutting-edge electric propulsion technology. This achievement highlights the remarkable performance potential of EVs and demonstrates BYD’s leadership in automotive innovation.