DAILY: Mercedes CLA Wins Top Award, Tesla Model 3 Standard In UK and EVs Bounce Back In Germany | 09 Jan 2026
About this episode
Mercedes-Benz CLA clinches the European Car of the Year award for 2026, showcasing its impressive electric range and advanced features. Tesla introduces a more affordable Model 3 standard in the UK, cutting costs while maintaining essential features. Meanwhile, Germany sees a resurgence in EV registrations, with a projected increase in market share. Discussions also highlight Ford's plans for a budget-friendly EV platform and the challenges facing American consumers regarding EV adoption, focusing on convenience over cost. Insights from recent studies reveal consumer concerns about range and charging times.
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MERCEDES CLA WINS 2026 EUROPEAN CAR OF THE YEAR https://evne.ws/4qfRwEX
TESLA CUTS COST WITH CHEAPER MODEL 3 https://evne.ws/49wDSpG
TESLA'S CHEAPER CANADIAN MODEL Y https://evne.ws/4qdIrMG
TESLA’S STILL-IN-CHARGE OF USA https://evne.ws/4q63G32
UK ELECTRIC CAR SALES TO HIT 29% IN 2026 https://evne.ws/4jw4Out
ELECTRIC CAR SALES RECOVER IN GERMANY https://evne.ws/4sv9Wmz
FORD AIMS FOR THE WORLD’S CHEAPEST EV MOTORS https://evne.ws/4jwC7xu
GEELY’S NEW HYBRID SUV TAKES AIM AT KOREANS https://evne.ws/4aPts6V
GM TAKES $6 BILLION HIT ON EV BETS https://evne.ws/4sGupoL
AMERICANS WANT THE RIGHT-SIZED EV https://evne.ws/4pxKme8
DELOITTE STUDY SAYS AMERICANS STILL WANT MORE EV RANGE https://evne.ws/451kksm
Mercedes-Benz CLA
"Today, Mercedes-Benz CLA wins a top award,"
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a small luxury car that looks good and has many high-tech features. It's a favorite among people who want a stylish and comfortable ride.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a compact luxury sedan known for its stylish design and advanced technology features. It has been well-received for its performance and comfort, making it a popular choice in the luxury compact segment.
Tesla Model
"Today, Mercedes-Benz CLA wins a top award, Tesla Model 3 standard, arriving in the UK, and EV's bounce ..."
Tesla Model 3
"Tesla Model 3 standard, arriving in the UK,"
The Tesla Model 3 is an electric car that is very popular because it can go far on a single charge and has cool technology like self-driving features. Many people like it for being eco-friendly.
The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric sedan that has gained popularity for its range, performance, and advanced technology, including Autopilot features. It is one of the best-selling electric vehicles worldwide.
EV
"Plus, stay tuned. Later in the show, I'll tell you what Americans say stops them buying an EV in 2026."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that runs entirely on electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to traditional vehicles.
NEO
"Today, we're talking about NEO's big, big new flagship."
NEO is a car company from China that makes electric cars. They focus on using smart technology and being environmentally friendly.
NEO is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer known for producing innovative electric cars and focusing on smart technology and sustainability. The company aims to compete in the premium electric vehicle market.
Kia EV2
"Meet the Kia EV2. Kia EV2 obviously is the smallest vehicle that we've got from them."
The Kia EV2 is a new electric car from Kia. It's designed to be small and efficient, making it a good choice for people who want an electric vehicle that is easy to drive and park.
The Kia EV2 is an electric vehicle that represents Kia's commitment to expanding its electric lineup. As the smallest vehicle from Kia, it aims to provide an efficient and compact option for consumers looking for electric mobility.
Škoda L-Rock
"which was a Škoda L-Rock."
The Škoda L-Rock is a car model from Škoda, a brand known for making practical and affordable vehicles.
The Škoda L-Rock is a concept car that showcases Škoda's design and engineering capabilities, often aimed at the electric vehicle market.
Kia EV4
"And the Kia EV4 coming on 208 points."
The Kia EV4 is an electric car from Kia, which is a brand that makes a variety of vehicles, including electric ones.
The Kia EV4 is an electric vehicle that represents Kia's commitment to sustainability and innovation in the automotive industry.
Citroën EC5 Aircross
"Citroën EC5 Aircross one point behind."
The Citroën EC5 Aircross is a type of SUV made by Citroën, known for being comfortable and having modern features.
The Citroën EC5 Aircross is a compact SUV that emphasizes comfort and technology, often featuring advanced safety and connectivity options.
Renault 5
"which was the Renault 5 and its Alpine A290 sibling."
The Renault 5 is a small car made by Renault, a brand known for making practical and affordable vehicles.
The Renault 5 is a classic hatchback that was popular in the 1970s and 1980s, known for its compact size and versatility.
Alpine A290
"...'s winner, which was the Renault 5 and its Alpine A290 sibling. This year's short list made a point wit..."
The Alpine A290 is a small, sporty car that focuses on being fun to drive. It's designed to be lightweight and quick, appealing to those who enjoy a more exciting driving experience.
The Alpine A290 is a sporty hatchback that emphasizes performance and driving enjoyment, showcasing the brand's commitment to lightweight design and agility. It is often discussed for its unique styling and the revival of the Alpine brand's racing heritage.
BEV
"and most were actually full bevs as well in a competition"
A BEV is a car that runs only on electricity and doesn't use any fuel like gas. It's powered by batteries.
BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that runs entirely on electric power and does not use any gasoline or diesel.
WLTP
"Mercedes-Benz say a WLTP range of 484 miles, or 779 kilometers, from an 85 kilowatt-hour pack."
WLTP is a testing method used to measure how far a car can go on a full charge or tank of gas. It helps give a better idea of a car's efficiency and emissions than older tests.
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 data compared to previous testing methods.
kilowatt-hour
"from an 85 kilowatt-hour pack. DC charging at 320 kilowatts."
A kilowatt-hour is a way to measure how much energy a battery can hold. It's like saying how much gas a car's tank can carry, but for electric cars.
A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a unit of energy that measures how much power a battery can store or use over time. It's commonly used to describe the capacity of electric vehicle batteries.
DC charging
"DC charging at 320 kilowatts. The car's long been out here."
DC charging is a way to charge electric cars quickly. It uses direct current to send power to the car's battery much faster than regular charging methods.
DC charging refers to direct current charging, which allows for faster charging of electric vehicles compared to standard AC charging. It is particularly useful for quickly replenishing battery power during long trips.
Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Plus
"It's coming out in other markets like the US this year. The company also says the CLA can add 200 miles."
The CLA 250 Plus is a small luxury car made by Mercedes-Benz. It's designed to be stylish and comfortable, making it a popular choice for people who want a nice car without going for a larger model.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 Plus is a compact luxury sedan that offers a blend of style, performance, and advanced technology. It features a turbocharged engine and is known for its sleek design and comfortable interior.
auto-steer
"The essentials stay largely intact. Auto-steer remains standard. That's just Tesla's lane-keep assist."
Auto-steer helps keep the car in its lane while driving. It's like having a helper that gently steers the car for you, making it easier to drive straight on the road.
Auto-steer is a feature that assists the driver in maintaining the vehicle's lane position by automatically steering the car. It's part of Tesla's advanced driver-assistance systems, which enhance safety and convenience during driving.
18-inch alloys
"And the car is on 18-inch alloys."
18-inch alloys are the car's wheels, which are made from a special metal mix. They are lighter and look nicer than regular wheels, and their size can affect how the car drives.
18-inch alloys refer to the size and material of the wheels on the car. Alloy wheels are made from a mixture of metals, which makes them lighter and often more stylish than standard steel wheels. The size impacts the vehicle's handling and ride quality.
top speed
"...slowed it down. Top speed drops from 125 miles an hour to 110."
Top speed is the fastest a car can go when everything is perfect. It's a key number for people who care about how fast a car can drive.
Top speed refers to the maximum speed a vehicle can achieve under optimal conditions. It is an important performance metric for many car enthusiasts and can influence a vehicle's appeal.
tariffs
"And that matters, because it avoids tariffs. Now, hitting US-built cars entering Canada, it also leaves the car around 4,000 US dollars cheaper"
Tariffs are extra fees that countries charge on products coming from other countries. If a car avoids tariffs, it means it can be sold for less money because there are no extra taxes added to its price.
Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, which can increase the cost of products brought into a country. In this context, avoiding tariffs means the Model Y can be sold at a lower price in Canada.
Autopilot
"...and autopilot, both of which are emitted from the US Model Y standard."
Autopilot is a feature in Tesla cars that helps with driving. It can keep the car in its lane and adjust speed automatically, making driving easier.
Autopilot is Tesla's advanced driver-assistance system that provides features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. It is designed to enhance safety and convenience during driving.
Tesla Us Model
"...nd autopilot, both of which are emitted from the US Model Y standard. So, the cheaper Canadian Model Y"
The Tesla Model S is an electric car that looks like a luxury sedan. It's special because it can go really far on a single charge and has cool features like self-driving capabilities.
The Tesla Model S is a fully electric luxury sedan that has set benchmarks for performance, range, and technology in the electric vehicle market. It is significant for its long range on a single charge and advanced features like autopilot, making it a leader in the shift towards sustainable transportation.
Ford Mustang
"Ford Mustang Mach-E, 52,000. Honda Enix, 547,000 last year."
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an electric SUV that carries the Mustang name. It’s designed to be sporty and fun to drive, while also being environmentally friendly.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric SUV that combines the Mustang's performance heritage with modern electric vehicle technology. Its sales figures indicate its growing popularity in the EV market.
Chevrolet Equinox
"...Enix, 547,000 last year. For General Motors, the Equinox EV is both a mass-market crossover and proof tha..."
The Chevrolet Equinox is a type of car called a crossover SUV, which means it combines features of cars and trucks. It's popular because it has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo, making it a good choice for families.
The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology features. As a mass-market vehicle, the Equinox represents General Motors' commitment to producing practical and affordable family vehicles, particularly in the growing SUV segment.
EV motors
"Ford says it's building the world's cheapest EV motors..."
EV motors are special engines that run on electricity instead of gas, making them important for electric cars.
EV motors are electric motors specifically designed for electric vehicles, providing the necessary power to drive the vehicle without using gasoline or diesel.
midsize pickup
"set for the midsize pickup in 2027."
A midsize pickup is a type of truck that is not too big and not too small, making it easier to drive while still being useful for carrying things.
A midsize pickup refers to a truck that is larger than compact pickups but smaller than full-size pickups, offering a balance of utility and maneuverability.
Lotus
"Geely is familiar to you because they own Volvo and Polestar and Lotus and more."
Lotus is a car brand from the UK that makes lightweight sports cars. They are now owned by Geely, which helps them grow.
Lotus is a British automotive company known for its lightweight sports cars and engineering expertise. It has been part of Geely's portfolio, enhancing its reach in the performance car market.
MG HS
"...aimed well and truly at, let me think, Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4, MGHS, see a lot of those around."
The MG HS is a newer SUV that people are starting to see more often. It's designed to be stylish and is usually priced lower than some other SUVs.
The MG HS is a compact SUV that offers a blend of modern technology and affordability. It has gained popularity for its stylish design and competitive pricing.
Kia Sportage
"aimed well and truly at, let me think, Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4, MGHS, see a lot of those around."
Toyota RAV4
"...aimed well and truly at, let me think, Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4, MGHS, see a lot of those around."
The Toyota RAV4 is another SUV, which means it's built to carry more people and cargo. It's well-liked for being dependable and having a lot of space inside.
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It has been a best-seller in its class for many years.
Chery Tiggo 7
"...Even Chinese newcomers like the Cherry Tigo 7."
The Chery Tiggo 7 is another SUV, but it's made by a Chinese company. It's designed to be a good option for people who want a nice car without spending too much money.
The Chery Tiggo 7 is a mid-sized SUV from the Chinese manufacturer Chery. It features modern styling and a range of tech features, appealing to consumers looking for value.
Chevrolet Silverados
"... EVs and towards full-size pickups and SUVs like Silverados and Escalades. The company is also slimming its ..."
Cadillac Escalades
"...s full-size pickups and SUVs like Silverados and Escalades. The company is also slimming its battery ambiti..."
The Cadillac Escalade is a big, fancy SUV that offers a lot of space and luxury features. It's known for being very comfortable and powerful, making it a popular choice for those who want a high-end vehicle.
The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, high-end features, and powerful performance. It has become a symbol of luxury and status, often discussed for its role in the luxury SUV market and its impressive technology and comfort.
Bmw Ix3
"to electric vehicles. And you know that the BMW iX3 does 500 miles, WLTP, that the new Volvo EX60 co..."
The BMW iX3 is an electric SUV that is similar to the regular X3 but runs on electricity instead of gas. It can travel a long distance on a single charge, making it a great option for eco-friendly driving.
The BMW iX3 (G08) is an all-electric version of the popular X3 SUV, representing BMW's commitment to electrification and sustainability. It offers impressive range and performance, making it a significant player in the growing electric SUV market.
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