BRIEFLY: Hyundai 5 N, California Incentives, Robotaxi Crashes and more | 23 Sep 2025
EV News Daily - Technology and Business of EVs
BRIEFLY: Hyundai 5 N, California Incentives, Robotaxi Crashes and more | 23 Sep 2025
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Hyundai is adding a new essential trim, a essentially cheaper trim to the five.
That's the performance bit.
That's actually re-engineered.
Now, they're keeping all of the engineering of the arctic five,
but they're reducing some of the luxury features, parking assist light, for instance.
I wonder if that reduces the weight as well and makes it even better in terms of performance.
The powertrain, all staying the same.
And it's about 55,000 US equivalent starting in Korea.
California say they won't replace the federal tax credit on October the 1st.
They decided to spend the money.
Any public money will go into increasing the public infrastructure there in terms of the charging network.
Tesla's robot taxi pilot in Austin has reported three crashes already shortly after launching.
Now, this is coming from July data because it's now coming out.
All of the incidents involved either minor injuries or none.
None of them were serious, but at a point when they were covering only in the low thousands of miles,
that's not a great start, a bumpy start for that rollout,
considering they have safety drivers in the vehicles as well.
Tesla has updated the language on their website.
This is great news because the IRS clarified that you only have to have an order,
put some money down on an EV, and then when it arrives, you don't have to get all the paperwork done
and have it all in your driveway by September 30th in seven days time.
And so this is great.
And Tesla are even saying we can deliver cars in 2026 and still get the federal tax credit.
If you get a signed order, put some money down in the next seven days and you get seven and a half grand off.
There must be a deadline.
This is tax filing, so you can't just go on indefinitely, can you?
Now, Tesla's supercharger virtual queue system seems to be rolling out.
This is great news, allowing customers to secure a spot waiting at a site.
It's not rolling out as in in real life, but but all the kind of icons and code have been found in an over the air update.
It seems ready to roll out.
We know they've been testing it for ages as well.
So hopefully ready for prime time before holiday season this year to make queuing just a little bit easier.
A virtual queue could even if it's half hour queue, could even leave the car quickly and go get a coffee.
You can leave your spot and rejoin it by the look of it from this code to Porsche is changing their global timeline to go all EV,
keeping some combustion into the mix and some new hybrids in the mix as well.
As they say, different parts of the world are going EV at different speeds.
China, of course, is going.
We think there'd be 60% EV in September when we wrap up the numbers in a week's time.
But equally, the German premium names in China also having to fight against the startups there.
So happening at different speeds around the world.
Porsche said they have to spend a bit more money to keep a bit of product combustion in their mix for a little bit longer.
Lucid's gravity went into the inventory for 24 hours.
Now people thought, wow, inventory vehicles already.
No one's buying a Lucid.
Lucid said, no, this is just build slots that we had where people hadn't configured that exact spec,
but we had the parts available so we didn't want to waste a build slot.
And so if anybody wants a pre-configured car, fill your boots.
People did.
All sold out in 24 hours.
Jeep is cancelling the Gladiator plug-in hybrid that was going to be alongside other 4xE vehicles.
But that particular one will not go plug-in hybrid.
Kia's EV4 is now being built in Slovakia at the Autoland facility.
It's the first European-built electric car for Kia.
Loads of robotics where they can actually make either combustion stuff or EV in the same facility.
Also tuning it for European roads, they say in Germany,
Hyundai's Arnex 6 is getting a recourse if you own one as a problem with the charge port door.
It can, well, come off by the sounds of it, which is less good.
Kia say, get on to your, or your dealer, we're onto you and they will resolve that.
And the BYD Yang Wang U9 has an extreme version.
It just hit 308 miles an hour on the test track, the fastest production car in the world, and it's an EV.
About this episode
Hyundai introduces a new essential trim for the 5 N, focusing on performance while cutting some luxury features. California opts to enhance public charging infrastructure instead of replacing the federal tax credit. Tesla's robotaxi pilot faces early crashes, raising safety concerns. Updates on tax credits clarify that orders placed before the deadline can still qualify. Porsche adjusts its EV timeline, and Lucid's Gravity sells out quickly despite initial inventory concerns. Other highlights include Kia's EV4 production in Slovakia and the BYD Yang Wang U9 setting a record as the fastest production EV.
Original notes
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.
Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDaily
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.
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.
Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDaily
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.
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4:16