BRIEFLY: Volvo EX60, Renault Twingo, GM Sales and more | 08 Jan 2026
About this episode
Key highlights include the upcoming reveal of Volvo's EX60, boasting impressive range and fast charging capabilities. Renault details its compact Twingo e-tec, aimed at urban drivers with a budget-friendly price. General Motors faces a significant drop in EV sales, while Mercedes introduces a new guided driving feature. The Australian EV market sees remarkable growth despite Tesla's slump. Lucid shifts focus away from mid-sized sedans, and British EV charging infrastructure continues to expand. Notable updates from Volkswagen and the Sony-Honda partnership round out the episode.
It's EV News Briefly for Thursday 08 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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VOLVO EX60 WILL TRAVEL 505 MILES ON A SINGLE CHARGE https://evne.ws/4sv9J2L
EX-VOLVO DESIGNER INGENLATH RETURNS AFTER LEADING POLESTAR https://evne.ws/49r3q7L
TWINGO E-TECH: RENAULT’S NEW 20K CITY EV https://evne.ws/3L58mHp
GM EV SALES DROPPED IN Q4 FOLLOWING SUBSIDY REMOVAL https://evne.ws/3LCenLI
MERCEDES FUSES ASSISTED DRIVING WITH NAVIGATION https://evne.ws/4aR8GnC
BATTERY-ELECTRIC VEHICLE SALES IN AUSTRALIA https://evne.ws/49ebj1z
LUCID TURNS THE PAGE ON SEDANS https://evne.ws/4qJaSCa
UK PUBLIC EV CHARGING NETWORK GREW FASTER AND FASTER https://evne.ws/49wHEzr
BRITAIN ADDS £18M TO SUBSIDIES FOR ELECTRIC TRUCKS https://evne.ws/49c1Szx
CHANGAN BEGINS THAI-MADE EV EXPORTS TO EUROPE https://evne.ws/49eS33Shttps://evne.ws/49c1Szx
VW VAN TWINS GAIN RANGE AND 4WD OPTION https://evne.ws/4pvxx3M
SONY HONDA’S SECOND AFEELA EV IS AN SUV https://evne.ws/4qPhwqJ
Volvo EX60
"Volvo's EX60 is going to be revealed in a couple of weeks time, but they've given us some early numbers, range 505 miles on European WLTP, 400 or so on the EPA..."
The Volvo EX60 is a new electric car that will be revealed soon. It's designed to be efficient and can travel a long distance on a single charge.
The Volvo EX60 is an upcoming electric vehicle from Volvo, expected to offer impressive range and fast charging capabilities. It represents Volvo's commitment to expanding their electric vehicle lineup.
WLTP
"...range 505 miles on European WLTP, 400 or so on the EPA, DC fast charging at 400 kilowatts..."
WLTP is a testing method used to measure how far a car can go on a single charge or tank of gas. It helps people understand how efficient a vehicle is.
WLTP stands for Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure, which is a standardized method for measuring the fuel consumption and emissions of vehicles. It provides more realistic figures compared to previous testing methods.
EPA
"...400 or so on the EPA, DC fast charging at 400 kilowatts..."
The EPA is a U.S. agency that measures how much energy cars use and how much pollution they create. Their ratings help buyers choose more efficient vehicles.
The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, is a U.S. government agency that sets standards for vehicle emissions and fuel economy. Their ratings help consumers understand how efficient a vehicle is in terms of energy use.
DC fast charging
"...at 400 kilowatts, adding 210 miles in just 10 minutes. That is BMW iX3 territory..."
DC fast charging is a way to quickly charge electric cars. It can fill up the battery much faster than regular charging methods, making it convenient for long trips.
DC fast charging is a method of charging electric vehicles that allows for much quicker charging times compared to standard AC charging. It can significantly reduce the time it takes to recharge an EV's battery.
Bmw Ix3
"...ts, adding 210 miles in just 10 minutes. That is BMW iX3 territory, and we'll get to find out more in a co..."
Renault Twingo
"Renault have unveiled more details of the Twingo e-tech electric, Twingo very small car by the way."
The Renault Twingo e-tech electric is a tiny car that's powered by electricity, making it great for driving around cities.
The Renault Twingo e-tech electric is a small electric vehicle designed for urban use, featuring a compact size and efficient electric powertrain.
A-segment vehicle
"but definitely that A-segment vehicle, very small AMPR small platform, less than 20,000 euros..."
A-segment vehicles are tiny cars that are easy to drive in cities and are usually very affordable.
A-segment vehicles are the smallest category of cars, typically designed for city driving and offering minimal space and features.
Nissan Micra
"...ay. So smaller than, I think smaller than Nissan Micra, but definitely that A-segment vehicle, very sma..."
The Nissan Micra is a small car that's easy to drive and park, making it great for city life. It's also affordable and uses less fuel, so it's a good option if you're looking for something budget-friendly.
The Nissan Micra is a compact hatchback known for its affordability, efficiency, and ease of maneuverability in urban settings. It has been a popular choice in many markets for those seeking a small, practical car.
vehicle to load
"3.7 kilowatt vehicle to load, vehicle to grid capable, and orders are open now."
Vehicle to load means you can use the electricity from your car to power things like tools or appliances.
Vehicle to load (V2L) allows an electric vehicle to supply power to external devices, essentially turning the car into a power source.
General Motors Ev
"are open now. General Motors EV sales slumped at the end of the year as the tax c..."
The General Motors EV1 was an early electric car made in the 1990s. It was important because it showed that cars could run on electricity, but it was only available for a short time and not sold to the public.
The General Motors EV1 was one of the first mass-produced electric vehicles in the 1990s, representing a significant step towards electric mobility. Although it was short-lived and only available for lease, it sparked discussions about the future of electric cars.
MB Drive Assist Pro
"Mercedes is betting on guided driving, unveiling their new $4,000 option, MB Drive Assist Pro, it's arriving in their EVs in America with NVIDIA technology."
MB Drive Assist Pro is a feature in Mercedes cars that helps drivers by making driving easier and safer. It can help with things like keeping the car in its lane and adjusting speed automatically.
MB Drive Assist Pro is a driver assistance system offered by Mercedes-Benz that enhances vehicle safety and convenience through features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. It represents the brand's commitment to advancing autonomous driving technology.
Mercedes
"Mercedes is betting on guided driving, unveiling their new $4,000 option, MB Drive Assist Pro, it's arriving in their EVs in America with NVIDIA technology."
Mercedes is a luxury car brand from Germany that makes high-end cars and SUVs. They are known for their advanced technology and comfort in their vehicles.
Mercedes-Benz is a German automotive brand known for luxury vehicles, buses, coaches, and trucks. It is a division of Daimler AG and is recognized for its high-quality engineering and innovative technology, particularly in the realm of electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving features.
EVs
"...it's arriving in their EVs in America with NVIDIA technology, of course in China they're adding it to their CLA electric..."
EVs are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and are becoming more common as charging stations are built.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel fuel. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower emissions and the growing availability of charging infrastructure.
NVIDIA technology
"...it's arriving in their EVs in America with NVIDIA technology, of course in China they're adding it to their CLA electric, but with momenta chips."
NVIDIA technology is used in cars to help with things like self-driving features and entertainment systems. They make powerful computer chips that help cars process a lot of information quickly.
NVIDIA technology refers to the advanced computing and graphics processing capabilities developed by NVIDIA Corporation, which are increasingly being utilized in automotive applications, particularly for autonomous driving and in-car entertainment systems. Their GPUs are essential for processing the vast amounts of data required for these technologies.
Bev
"...even with that slump, Aussie sales hitting over 100,000, that is up from, was it 17,000, 18,000, Bev sold around lockdown time in 2021..."
BEV means Battery Electric Vehicle, which is a car that runs only on electricity from batteries. They don't use gas at all and are better for the environment.
BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicle, which is a type of electric vehicle that is powered entirely by batteries and does not use any gasoline or diesel fuel. These vehicles are known for their zero tailpipe emissions and are a key part of the transition to sustainable transportation.
Tesla Model 3
"...they won't be in the sedan segment, so the Tesla Model 3 and BMW 3 Series will have a little less competit..."
Bmw 3
"...the Tesla Model 3 and BMW 3 Series will have a little less competition to worry about."
The BMW 3 Series is a popular luxury car that is known for being fun to drive and having a high-quality interior. It's often compared to other cars in its class, like the Tesla Model 3.
The BMW 3 Series is a line of compact executive cars known for their sporty handling and performance. It has been a staple in BMW's lineup and competes in the luxury sedan market.
Tesla Model
"...aying they won't be in the sedan segment, so the Tesla Model 3 and BMW 3 Series will have a little less compet..."
ultra-rapid charging
"...particularly in terms of the top of the power range, the number of ultra-rapids, which sounds impressive..."
Ultra-rapid charging means charging an electric car very quickly, so you can get back on the road faster. It's much faster than regular charging stations.
Ultra-rapid charging refers to charging stations that provide power at a rate of 150 kilowatts or more, allowing electric vehicles to charge significantly faster than standard chargers. This is crucial for reducing downtime during long trips.
plug-in truck grant
"...British government is adding £18 million to their plug-in truck grant, which can give fleets £120,000 off a new electric vehicle."
A plug-in truck grant is money given by the government to help businesses buy electric trucks. It makes it cheaper to switch to electric vehicles.
A plug-in truck grant is a financial incentive provided by the government to encourage the purchase of electric trucks. This grant can significantly reduce the cost of acquiring a new electric vehicle for fleets.
Volkswagen
"Volkswagen adding a bit more battery to its e-transporter and e-carrival..."
Volkswagen is a car company from Germany that makes many popular cars. They are now making electric vehicles, which run on batteries instead of gasoline.
Volkswagen is a German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and the Golf. They are also expanding into electric vehicles with models like the e-Transporter.
e-Transporter
"Volkswagen adding a bit more battery to its e-transporter and e-carrival..."
The e-Transporter is an electric van made by Volkswagen. It’s designed for businesses and doesn’t use gasoline, which helps reduce pollution.
The e-Transporter is Volkswagen's electric version of their popular Transporter van, designed for commercial use. It features a battery-powered drivetrain, making it more environmentally friendly.
125 kilowatt charging
"...plus 125 kilowatt charging."
125 kilowatt charging means that the electric car can charge its battery quickly. The higher the number, the faster it can get energy from the charging station.
125 kilowatt charging refers to the power level at which an electric vehicle can be charged. Higher kilowatt ratings allow for faster charging times, enabling drivers to recharge their vehicles more quickly.
Sony Honda
"And Sony, Honda haven't even got their first vehicle in customers' hands yet..."
Sony Honda is a partnership between two companies: Sony, which makes electronics, and Honda, which makes cars. They are creating new electric cars that use technology from both companies.
Sony Honda is a collaboration between Sony, a technology company, and Honda, a well-known automotive manufacturer. They are working together to develop electric vehicles that integrate advanced technology.
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