BRIEFLY: Sony/Honda, MG, EV Vans & more | 25 Mar 2026
About this episode
Sony Honda Mobility has cancelled its Afeela EV plans after Honda’s EV strategy reset left the joint venture with no viable path to market, with California reservation holders set for full refunds. MG is pushing semi-solid EV battery tech, opening a Frankfurt engineering center and claiming gains in safety and cold-weather performance. Renault and Volvo are spotlighting electric van conversions with big cargo-capacity upgrades. Australia’s fuel “panic buying” is blamed for shortages at hundreds of stations. The UK’s new Astra facelift adds PHEV and EV updates, while charger and luxury EV news includes SK Signet’s 400 kW fast charger and Rolls-Royce/Ferrari tech tie-ins.
It's EV News Briefly for Wednesday 25 March 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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AFEELA EV PROGRAMME SCRAPPED
Sony Honda Mobility has scrapped its Afeela EV programme after Honda's broader EV strategy reassessment — which included a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) — left the joint venture with no viable route to market. The Afeela 1, priced from $89,900 with deliveries planned for late 2026, has been cancelled alongside a second model targeting 2028, with California reservation holders receiving full refunds.
MG TEASES SOLIDCORE BATTERY
MG Motor has opened a third European engineering centre in Frankfurt and unveiled SolidCore, a semi-solid-state battery cell using a manganese-based cathode, semi-solid electrolyte shield, and graphite anode — claiming improvements in safety, range, durability and cold-weather performance without providing specific figures. MG claims to be the first automaker to mass-produce a semi-solid-state battery, though the distinction from a similar cell already in China-market MG4s since December 2025 remains unclear; SolidCore is expected in European EVs by end of 2026.
EV CAR/VAN CONVERSIONS FROM RENAULT AND VOLVO
Renault has revealed an electric Twingo van conversion developed for EDF, doubling load capacity from 360 to 797 litres via a removable rear seat, mesh bulkhead, and cargo cage — though the concept remains unlikely to reach UK sale. Volvo UK is already in market with the EX30 Cargo, a fleet-only compact van offering 1,000 litres of capacity, 390kg payload, and a top dual-motor variant producing 423bhp with a 0–62mph time of 3.6 seconds.
AUSTRALIAN FUEL SHORTAGES SPREAD WITHOUT SUPPLY LOSS
Panic buying — not supply disruption — has left over 500 petrol stations across Australia short of at least one fuel grade, with New South Wales worst affected at 289 sites, including 164 diesel-dry locations pushing diesel prices above $3 per litre. Authorities have not declared a national fuel emergency or introduced rationing, with Victoria's Energy Minister confirming the strain is entirely driven by consumer behaviour rather than any import disruption.
VAUXHALL ASTRA FACELIFT STARTS AT £29,995
The facelifted Vauxhall Astra starts at £29,995 across mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full EV variants in both hatchback and Sports Tourer estate, with the PHEV's battery growing from 12.4kWh to 17.2kWh for 52 miles of official electric range and a BiK rate of 10% — undercutting the Golf eHybrid by £6,490. The Astra Electric uses a 154bhp motor with 55.4kWh usable battery, 281 miles of quoted range, and 100kW DC charging covering 20–80% in around 30 minutes.
UK PLEDGES £1 BILLION FOR FLEET ELECTRIFICATION
The UK government has committed £1 billion to commercial fleet electrification, with the Zero Emissions Truck and Van scheme covering up to 40% of purchase costs — reaching £81,000 for the heaviest electric trucks and £5,000 for vans, though reduced from a previous maximum of £120,000 for trucks over 26 tonnes. A separate £170 million uplift to the Depot Charging Scheme allows businesses to reclaim up to 70% of depot charging installation costs, capped at £1 million per application.
SK SIGNET STARTS TEXAS BUILD OF 400-KW CHARGER
SK Signet has begun production of a 400-kW all-in-one DC fast charger at its Texas facility, using silicon carbide electronics to achieve 96.5% conversion efficiency while reducing its physical footprint by up to 54% versus its predecessor. A modular design offers 320–400kW output tiers, supports one to four CCS1/NACS ports delivering a stable 150–250kW per vehicle simultaneously, and features a 32-inch outdoor touchscreen with Plug & Charge, credit card, and RFID payment support.
ROLLS-ROYCE OPENS ELECTRIC COACHBUILD PROGRAMME
Rolls-Royce has launched the Coachbuild Collection, a new electric coachbuilding programme for ultra-high-net-worth clients, with every vehicle fully road-legal and homologated — unlike predecessors Sweptail, Boatail, and Droptail. The first model will be fully electric, with powertrain, design, and interior details expected later in 2026, supported by a Private Office Network across Dubai, Seoul, Shanghai, New York, and Goodwood.
FERRARI TUNES LUCE FOR FEEL, NOT FIGURES
Ferrari says its first fully electric car, the Luce, will prioritise driver feel over headline performance figures, with CEO Benedetto Vigna consulting NASA and medical centres to identify the point at which EV acceleration becomes neurologically disturbing. Ferrari identified five distinct generators of driving thrills and is focusing on issues such as battery placement to address the mismatch between visual and vestibular cues in cornering caused by heavy EV battery packs.
XPENG AUSTRALIA DISTRIBUTOR ENTERS ADMINISTRATION
XPeng's sole Australian distributor, Sydney-based TrueEV, has entered external administration after a lender stepped in over unmet financing arrangements, with insolvency specialists now managing and selling close to 200 G6 vehicles across Melbourne, Brisbane, Wollongong, and Fremantle. A simultaneous legal dispute between TrueEV and XPeng has escalated to court action, leaving the brand's planned 2026 Australian expansion — including the X9 and G9 models — in serious doubt with no clarity offered to existing customers.
Sony Honda Mobility
"It's EV news briefly for Wednesday, 25th of March, everything EV in less than five minutes. If you haven't got time for the full podcast, let's get you fully up to speed. Sony Honda Mobility has scrapped its Affila EV."
Sony Honda Mobility is a company formed by Sony and Honda to build EVs together. Here, they’re saying they’re canceling one of their planned electric cars.
Sony Honda Mobility is the joint venture that planned and developed EVs with Honda and Sony. In this segment, it’s described as scrapping its planned EV model, which signals a major shift in the JV’s EV roadmap.
route to market
"it left the joint venture with no viable route to market. The Affila one was meant to be priced from $90,000, deliveries coming this year."
“Route to market” means the plan for how they’ll actually sell the car to customers. The episode says they couldn’t make that plan work.
“Route to market” refers to how a company plans to sell and deliver products to customers—things like pricing, production scale, distribution, and regulatory approvals. The segment says the JV had no viable route to market for the Affila.
reservation holders receiving full refunds
"That's been cancelled alongside a second model targeting 2028, with California reservation holders receiving full refunds."
Customer reservations are deposits or sign-ups made before a vehicle is launched. Full refunds indicate the company is reversing commitments after canceling the models, which reduces customer risk but also signals a serious program change.
MG Motor
"MG Motor has opened a third European engineering centre in Frankfurt and unveiled Solid Core, a semi-solid state battery using manganese based cathodes,"
MG Motor is a car company that’s working on EVs. In this segment, they’re opening more engineering work in Europe and talking about a new battery idea.
MG Motor is a major EV and ICE manufacturer (commonly associated with the SAIC group) that’s investing in engineering capacity in Europe. Here, MG Motor is expanding with a third European engineering center and unveiling a battery technology.
semi-solid state battery
"Solid Core, a semi-solid state battery using manganese based cathodes, semi-solid electrolyte shielding and graphite anodes,"
A semi-solid battery is a battery where the “middle” part (the electrolyte) is more like a gel than a fully liquid. The goal is to make the battery safer and more reliable.
A semi-solid state battery uses a gel-like (semi-solid) electrolyte rather than a fully liquid or fully solid electrolyte. This can help improve safety and stability while aiming to retain some manufacturing and performance benefits compared with fully solid-state designs.
manganese based cathodes
"Solid Core, a semi-solid state battery using manganese based cathodes, semi-solid electrolyte shielding and graphite anodes,"
The cathode is one of the key materials inside a lithium battery. Using manganese in that material can be part of a strategy to improve cost and safety, though real-world results depend on the whole battery.
Cathodes are the positive electrode material in a lithium battery. Using manganese-based cathodes is often associated with cost and safety advantages, while the exact performance depends on the full cell design and chemistry.
semi-solid electrolyte shielding
"Solid Core, a semi-solid state battery using manganese based cathodes, semi-solid electrolyte shielding and graphite anodes, claiming improvements in safety, range, durability and cold weather performance."
Electrolyte shielding refers to design features intended to protect the electrolyte and improve stability during charge/discharge. In battery tech announcements, it’s commonly used to describe barriers or engineered interfaces that reduce degradation and improve safety.
cold weather performance
"claiming improvements in safety, range, durability and cold weather performance."
Cold weather performance means how the EV battery behaves in winter. The goal is less range loss and better operation when temperatures drop.
Cold weather performance refers to how well an EV battery and powertrain work in low temperatures—especially battery capacity, charging speed, and how much range is lost. Battery electrolyte design is a major factor because it affects ion movement when it’s cold.
graphite anodes
"semi-solid electrolyte shielding and graphite anodes, claiming improvements in safety, range, durability and cold weather performance."
The anode is the negative side of the battery. Graphite is a common material used there, and it’s often chosen because it’s proven and reliable.
Anodes are the negative electrode in lithium-ion batteries, and graphite is a common anode material. Using graphite can be a practical choice because it’s well-understood and widely used, but performance still depends on the electrolyte and overall cell architecture.
MG
"[223.0s] MG will unveil the first semi-solid state battery [225.6s] in a mass market car in Europe by the end of the year."
MG is a car brand. They’re talking about a new kind of battery that could show up in regular EVs in Europe.
MG is a Chinese automaker brand that’s increasingly active in Europe. In this segment, it’s tied to an EV battery technology push, aiming to bring semi-solid state batteries to a mass-market car.
EV car van conversions
"[229.7s] Renault and Volvo are getting in on the act [232.5s] of EV car van conversions."
An EV van conversion is when a vehicle is changed to become an electric work van. The goal is usually more cargo space and lower operating costs for deliveries.
EV van conversions are projects where an existing vehicle platform is modified to serve as a cargo/utility van using electric power. This can include battery and drivetrain swaps, plus interior changes to maximize load space for specific fleet customers.
Renault Twingo
"... van conversions. Renault's revealed an electric twingo van conversion developed for EDF, this is the en..."
The Renault Twingo is a small car meant for driving around town. In this case, Renault is turning it into an electric van version for work use, and it was developed with EDF. That means it’s designed to carry things while still being powered by electricity.
The Renault Twingo is a small city car, and in this podcast context it’s being discussed as the base for an electric van conversion. Renault has revealed an electric Twingo van conversion developed for EDF, which is significant because it shows how existing compact EV platforms can be adapted for delivery and service use. It’s likely mentioned because it highlights practical, fleet-focused EV applications rather than just passenger-car styling.
EDF
"[238.3s] developed for EDF, this is the energy company, [241.3s] doubling load capacity to 797 litres"
EDF is an energy company. Here, they’re the organization that the electric van conversion is being developed for.
EDF is a major energy company, and in this context it’s the customer driving the specific electric van conversion. That matters because fleet and utility customers often influence which EV configurations get built and deployed.
removable rear seat
"[241.3s] doubling load capacity to 797 litres [244.6s] via a removable rear seat."
This means the back seat can be taken out. Removing it makes more room for cargo, which is useful for deliveries and work.
A removable rear seat is a practical packaging feature used to increase cargo volume in small vans or EVs. By removing the seat, the vehicle can switch between passenger use and higher-capacity delivery/utility use.
Volvo EX30 cargo
"[246.6s] Meanwhile, Volvo UK is already in the market [249.7s] with an EX30 cargo, a fleet only compact van"
Volvo’s EX30 is an electric vehicle, and this segment talks about a cargo version for fleets. It’s basically an EV set up to carry stuff for work.
The Volvo EX30 is Volvo’s compact electric SUV, and here it’s being referenced in a cargo/fleet configuration (“EX30 cargo”). This highlights a trend of using small EV platforms as work vehicles for fleets.
fleet only compact van
"[249.7s] with an EX30 cargo, a fleet only compact van [254.5s] with a thousand litres of capacity,"
“Fleet only” means it’s meant for businesses that run vehicles for work. “Compact van” means it’s a small cargo-focused EV for deliveries.
“Fleet only” means the vehicle is offered primarily to commercial customers (companies) rather than retail buyers. “Compact van” describes the intended body/utility role—small, maneuverable, and optimized for deliveries and local routes.
dual motor variant
"[256.8s] 390 kilograms of payload and that top dual motor variant [260.9s] will do 3.6 seconds 0-60 in the Volvo EX30."
A dual-motor EV has two electric motors instead of one. That usually helps it accelerate faster and can improve grip on slippery roads.
A dual-motor EV uses two electric motors (typically one per axle) to improve traction and performance. In many EVs, the dual-motor setup can also enable stronger acceleration and more flexible torque distribution.
0-60 time
"[260.9s] will do 3.6 seconds 0-60 in the Volvo EX30. [265.6s] That's gonna be the quickest work van you'll ever drive."
“0-60 time” tells you how fast a car goes from standing still to 60 mph. Lower numbers usually mean quicker acceleration.
“0-60 time” is a common performance metric measuring how quickly a vehicle accelerates from 0 mph to 60 mph. It’s often used to compare acceleration feel between EV trims, especially when discussing motor configurations like single- vs dual-motor.
Panic buying fuel
"[269.6s] Panic buying fuel, not a disruption to supply, [274.0s] is what Australian politicians say"
This is when people rush to buy gas because they think there won’t be any later. It can cause empty pumps even if the fuel supply is still available.
“Panic buying fuel” refers to consumers rapidly purchasing gasoline due to fear of shortages. In supply-chain terms, it can temporarily create shortages at specific stations even if overall supply isn’t actually disrupted.
Vauxhall Astra
"The new facelifted Vauxhall Astra, at least here in the UK we call it a Vauxhall, not Opel, in continental Europe, starts at 29995."
The Vauxhall Astra is a popular family car in the UK. They’re talking about an updated version and what it costs, plus which versions can run on electricity.
The Vauxhall Astra is a mainstream compact hatchback/small family car sold in the UK. In this segment, the host is discussing a facelifted (updated) version and its pricing and powertrain options.
facelifted
"The new facelifted Vauxhall Astra, at least here in the UK we call it a Vauxhall, not Opel, in continental Europe, starts at 29995."
A facelift is when a car gets updated partway through its life. Usually it’s changes to the look and sometimes the tech, not a brand-new model.
A facelift is a mid-cycle refresh of a car—typically involving styling updates, revised lighting/grilles, and sometimes updated infotainment or powertrain tuning. It’s not a full redesign, but it can meaningfully change how the car looks and feels.
Opel
"The new facelifted Vauxhall Astra, at least here in the UK we call it a Vauxhall, not Opel, in continental Europe, starts at 29995."
Opel is another European car brand. The host is saying the same basic car is sold as Vauxhall in the UK and Opel in parts of Europe.
Opel is the German automaker brand that sells many of the same models as Vauxhall in different markets. Here, it’s used to explain regional branding differences for the Astra.
plug-in hybrid
"There's plug-in hybrid and fully v-variance. There's also a sports-tourist state which I think looks really nice."
A plug-in hybrid is part electric and part gas. You can charge it like an EV, and it also has a backup engine for longer trips.
A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) combines a conventional engine with an electric motor and a battery that can be charged from an external power source. The key advantage is that you can drive some trips on electricity alone, then use the engine when the battery is depleted.
kilowatt hours
"The plug-in hybrid grows from 12 to 17 kilowatt hours, 52 miles of electric range and it beats something like the Golf E hybrid by six and a half thousand pounds."
Kilowatt-hours (kWh) tell you how big the battery is. Bigger battery usually means you can drive farther on electricity.
Kilowatt-hours (kWh) measure battery capacity—the amount of energy stored in the vehicle’s battery. Higher kWh generally allows for more electric driving range, though real-world range also depends on efficiency and vehicle weight.
electric range
"The plug-in hybrid grows from 12 to 17 kilowatt hours, 52 miles of electric range and it beats something like the Golf E hybrid by six and a half thousand pounds."
Electric range is how far a vehicle can travel using only battery power. It’s typically quoted under standardized testing cycles, so it can differ from what you’ll see in everyday driving.
commercial fleet electrification
"The UK government has committed one billion pounds to commercial fleet electrification with the zero emissions truck and van scheme, covering up to 40% of purchase costs, that's 81,000 pounds for the heaviest electric trucks out there, but for most people, it'd be 5,000 pounds off a new work van."
Commercial fleet electrification means companies are switching their work vehicles to electric. It can work well because businesses can plan routes and charging more easily.
Commercial fleet electrification is the shift of businesses’ vehicles—like delivery vans and trucks—from internal combustion to electric powertrains. Fleets often adopt EVs because predictable routes and centralized charging can make operations easier to manage.
purchase costs
"The UK government has committed one billion pounds to commercial fleet electrification with the zero emissions truck and van scheme, covering up to 40% of purchase costs, that's 81,000 pounds for the heaviest electric trucks out there, but for most people, it'd be 5,000 pounds off a new work van."
Purchase costs are the money you pay upfront to buy the vehicle. If a program covers part of that, the EV is cheaper to buy at the start.
“Purchase costs” refers to the upfront price paid to buy a vehicle. Incentives that cover part of purchase costs can significantly change the total cost of ownership by lowering the initial barrier to adoption.
DC fast charger
"SK Signit has begun production, a then new all-in-one DC fast charger."
A DC fast charger is a public EV charger that can charge your car much faster. It sends power directly to the battery system so you don’t have to wait as long.
A DC fast charger delivers direct current to the vehicle at high power, allowing much quicker charging than standard AC charging. It’s typically used for highway and public charging networks where time matters.
96.5% conversion efficiency
"using silicon carbide electronics, a 96.5% conversion efficiency."
Conversion efficiency is how much of the electrical energy entering the charger becomes usable energy delivered to the EV. A 96.5% figure implies low losses (less wasted heat), which can reduce operating costs and improve charger performance.
Coach Build Collection
"Rolls Royce is launching their new Coach Build Collection. It's a new electric coach building program"
“Coach building” means making a car feel custom, not like an off-the-shelf model. This program is about creating a one-of-a-kind look and spec.
A coach-building program refers to a bespoke body/vehicle customization approach, historically done by specialist coachbuilders. In modern terms, it usually means tailored design and finishing beyond standard production options.
NASA
"Ferrari say they turned to NASA for advice on how to tune their new electric Ferrari, the Luce,"
NASA is being mentioned as a knowledge source. The idea is that aerospace experts can help make the car’s acceleration feel more comfortable for people inside.
NASA is referenced as a source of advice for tuning an electric Ferrari (the Luce). The context suggests applying aerospace knowledge to ride dynamics and human comfort under acceleration and lateral forces.
G-forces
"that don't want people getting that sick feeling that huge G-forces can give you."
G-forces are how hard the car is accelerating or turning compared to gravity. If they’re too intense or too sudden, some people can feel nauseous.
G-forces measure acceleration forces experienced by occupants relative to gravity. High or abrupt G-forces can contribute to motion sickness, so tuning for smoother dynamics can improve comfort—especially in performance EVs with strong torque.
unmet financing arrangements
"after a lender stepped in over unmet financing arrangements, leaving owners, buyers and even the Chinese industry with many questions"
This means the company didn’t meet its funding promises. When that happens, it can stop deliveries and create problems for customers.
Unmet financing arrangements refers to promised funding or payment obligations that were not met. In an automotive context, this can halt production, distribution, or dealer/distributor operations and leave buyers waiting.
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