Industry news

A smaller version of an iconic 4WD is no longer set to be EV-only, as new plans reveal hybrid drivetrain options have become a larger part of JLR’s future.The Land Rover Defender is going to spawn a smaller version of the nameplate, possibly called the Defender Sport if reports including those from Autocar in the UK are accurate.All signs pointed to an EV powertrain for the smaller Defender, based on Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) plans to roll out its new Electrified Modular Architecture (EMA) as an EV-exclusive platform, but now the company has shifted strategy to include hybrids.Likely good news to many traditionalists in the JLR customer base, the brand confirmed the new Defender model would indeed go hybrid rather than EV-only.“A new model from the Defender family has been confirmed as the second vehicle to be launched on the EMA platform, which will now include the option of HEV as well as BEV in the future,” JLR said in a statement.According to JLR’s Managing Director for Defender and Discovery, Mark Cameron, plans are already looking well into the future for ‘Defender’, which now stands as a sub-brand rather than a single model under JLR’s ‘House of Brands’ strategy alongside Range Rover, Jaguar and Discovery."We've got a portfolio of one model with several variants,” he told Autocar on his plans for Defender, “but I'm working seven to 10 years ahead to build out this whole brand portfolio."We've got to make sure everything we do as Defender has the DNA of the brand: epic built-to-last, go-anywhere capability."While development is well on its way, details short of the inclusion of hybrid drivetrains in the so-called Defender Sport are scarce.Cameron has said while the new model likely won’t have the same capabilities as a Defender due to the platform’s electrification limitations, the model will still be “class-leading in the attributes that make it a Defender”.Importantly, JLR also has a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Stellantis to work on hybrid technology, which could even result in the new model from Defender sharing some DNA with its historic rival.The new Defender model will be the second to launch on the new EMA platform after the Range Rover brand is to launch a new “full hybrid-electric vehicle.”“The HEV will be a unique new addition to JLR’s propulsion portfolio, offering more choice alongside mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV), plug‑in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and full battery electric vehicle (BEV) options.“JLR will reveal more on its first electric model built on its EMA platform at Halewood, Merseyside, later this year.”

It might feel like V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) functionality for electric vehicles has been ‘coming soon’ to Australia since the dawn of time but the technology looks like it’s finally close to local introduction with Hyundai using its Ioniq 9 pure-electric SUV for a groundbreaking standards-compliant demonstration.V2G is a bi-directional charging system that allows an EV to supply stored energy to a home during blackout emergencies or monetise its export to the electrical grid during peak periods.The company said it has completed Australia’s first V2G discharge, doing so in compliance with the relevant ISO (International Organization for Standardisation) 15118-20 protocol, using a StarCharge Halo 7.4kW bi-directional DC charger.This comes as the federally-funded Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is pushing EV (electric vehicle) infrastructure development, including large-scale V2G trials. Hyundai said, “This Milestone supports HMCA's commitment to manufacturer-approved, standards-compliant V2G deployment” adding the StarCharge Halo received Clean Energy Council (CEC) listing in March 2026 and is AS/NZS 4777.2 compliant.Like other EV models already on sale in Australia, the Hyundai Ioniq 9’s 800-volt electric architecture allows fast, high-power DC charging and bi-directional energy flows. Australia adopted national V2G and V2H (Vehicle-to-Home) standards in 2024 and ARENA forecasts up to 2.6 million Australian homes could adopt V2G by 2040.But testing, alignment and approval of regulations and hardware (including vehicles) as well as establishing grid standards and gaining network approvals has proved to be a lengthy process. Hyundai said it is “helping establish a standards-based pathway for scalable, manufacturer-supported V2G and V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) deployment across homes, buildings, energy networks and virtual power plants.”Hyundai Motor Company Australia CEO Don Romano added, “This (V2G discharge) is the result of sustained technical work by Hyundai's R&D teams in Korea and Australia. “Getting this right is essential because V2G will only scale in Australia if consumers, energy providers and governments can trust the technology."Electric cars can do far more than just drive. They can power homes and support the grid. “This first V2G discharge using ISO 15118-20 with the IONIQ 9 demonstrates that we are delivering real innovation, not just talking about it," he said.Hyundai models under evaluation or development for V2G in Australia include the Ioniq 9, Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 as well as future Ioniq platforms. Mitsubishi has also been working on V2G capability for some time for its Outlander plug-in hybrid, which has taken part in earlier trials for the technology in South Australia.

The Leapmotor C10 Long-Range electric family SUV has just been given a serious overhaul in Australia as it looks to hunt down the Geely EX5 in Australia. The 'Design' grade will continue to be priced from $49,888 (before on-road costs), sitting at the top of the standard C10 range. The C10 has undergone some big changes in Australia, including the addition of the special edition performance variant targeting Tesla Model Y.It comes after the C10 was updated in China to receive a redesigned exterior and cabin, including elements like a panoramic head-up display and 17.3-inch central touchscreen.These updates are not included as part of the model year improvements for the Design grade in Australia.A spokesperson for Leapmotor Australia confirmed this more significant update was only for the Chinese market, for the time being.The main change for the updated Australian C10 is the addition of a bigger 82kWh battery, boosting driving range to 510km, according to WLTP standards. This is a step up on the rest of the standard C10 range, with its 70kWh battery offering 425km. This is the same battery as what is found in the special edition AWD variant of the C10, starting from $53,888. It is also now able to charge at 180kW via DC fast charging, with a 30 to 80 per cent juice-up taking roughly 22 minutes, courtesy of an 800-volt platform. Its electric motor set-up has also received a tweak, with power increased to 220kW from 160kW, while torque is now at 360Nm from 320Nm. The sprint from 0 to 100km/h now only takes 6.2 seconds. The car now also rides on Yokohama sport tires to improve handling and grip, with two entry key cards coming as standard instead of one as was previously the case. Interior options now include a ‘Camel’ brown interior as well as a black colour.The C10’s main competitos is Geely’s EX5 (starting from $41,990), which has experienced a strong sales run in 2026 and was the third best-selling EV for May in Australia. The EX5 is cheaper than this updated C10, but the latter has a better driving range than Geely’s example as well as better performance. The C10 will also tackle the BYD Sealion 7 (starting from $54,990) and rivals from more traditional brands like the Kia EV5 (starting from $56,770). It continues to be available in range-extender hybrid and fully-electric set-ups.

Renault has unveiled a surprise new model, a military tactical vehicle developed in collaboration with French defence firm Thales.Underneath, the ‘4 Troop’ is actually a 2026 Renault Rafale plug-in hybrid SUV that uses its vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability to power a drone operation system.The unlikely military tool is fitted with equipment for data processing and operation of both unmanned aerial and ground vehicles, though imagery would suggest the drones are primarily the kind you’d see photographers and videographers use.“It provides land forces with a fully functional mobile command centre that can be configured to match the exact requirements of land forces missions and provide effective mission capabilities thanks to Thales's Combat Digital Platform,” Renault says.The announcement for the 4 Troop reads more like a sales pitch at potential investors or buyers and operators than a detailed specification run-down, though that is often the case with any automotive partnership with a defence or security firm.Renault spruiks the all-wheel drive system and hybrid drivetrain as a combination suited for differing terrains and efficient operation, with the option for a combustion engine if needed.The auto giant (which is part-owned by the French government) also published images of soldiers with a Master van using what appears to be similar drone operation hardware.The reveal comes alongside an announcement from Renault and Thales that the automaker will begin building as many as 1000 combat drones (not the kind you’d see photographers and videographers use).The rather more confronting announcement from Renault on this deal uses phrases like “mission-configurable warhead” and “requirements of the wartime economy”.While it’s not unusual for auto brands to assist in building military equipment (Mitsubishi famously built planes in WWII, and Ferdinand Porsche designed tanks, for example), the joint statements from Renault and Thales are certainly at odds with the French carmaker’s usual recent announcements about reviving classic models as EVs and developing new in-car tech.

Nissan’s new mighty 4WD is a step closer to Australia.The Japanese brand revealed production of the current Nissan Y62 Patrol will cease in August, with the Aussie-tuned Premcar versions wrapping up soon after.This draws to a close the Patrol’s V8 era, with the Y62’s 5.6-litre eight-cylinder petrol unit to be replaced by a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol making 317kW and 700Nm, or 19kW and 140Nm more than before.“The Patrol has been a constant presence in Australian motoring, and the Y62 has played a defining role in that legacy. Its 5.6-litre V8 is part of what has made this generation so beloved by enthusiasts, families and adventurers alike,” said Nissan Oceania Managing Director Steve Milette. “As we look ahead to the all-new to Australia Y63 later this year, the run-out of the Y62 represents a genuine ‘last chance’ moment for Australians who want to add a new V8 Patrol to their garage.”The move to a twin-turbo unit follows the Toyota LandCruiser, which ditched its V8 diesel for a twin-turbo V6 unit when it switched from 200 to 300 Series several years ago.The last V8 Nissan Patrol is likely to draw similar levels of demand to the final LandCruiser 200 Series models, where buyers were quickly on-selling for huge profits.The Y63 Patrol is built on a new platform and is bigger in almost every way. It is now 5205mm long (+35mm), 2030mm wide (+35mm), though the 1955m height remains unchanged.It’s also bigger in the third row, thanks to the rear section and boot being 30 per cent wider than in the Y62.It’s got some hi-tech suspension too, with the new Intelligent Dynamic Suspension system complete with air suspension that can give you another 7cm of lift. This also helps improve approach and departure angles when tackling properly tough terrain.The Y63 Patrol has already been on sale in left-hand-drive markets such as the US and Middle East for some time, but Australia is claimed to be one of the first right-hand-drive countries to get the new model when it arrives late this year.The Y63 Patrol will face a new breed of enemies when it lands.The scope of the large 4WD market has grown beyond the LandCruiser 300 Series to include the Denza B8 plug-in hybrid and incoming models such as the GWM Tank 700 plug-in hybrid and Geely Battleship 700.

Forthing has revealed pricing and specs for its Taikon 5 SUV ahead of its Australian launch.The new-to-Australia brand from China and imported by Ateco, which also distributes LDV,  is offering both fully electric and range-extender hybrid versions of the new small SUV, with prices starting from $36,990.Unlike LDV, which is produced by MG-owner SAIC, Forthing is part of the Dongfeng Motor Group - a large manufacturer that has partnerships with Nissan and Peugeot in China.Both powertrain options are available across two trim levels, the base Luxury and top-spec Exclusive.The new SUV will go into battle against some tough competition, including the fully electric BYD Atto 2, which starts from $31,990, the popular Jaecoo J5, which starts from $36,990 for the fully electric version, or the Leapmotor B10 that is $37,888 for the entry-level version in either hybrid or electric form.The Taikon 5 is priced to compete with these main rivals across its two-variant, two-powertrain line-up.See the drive-away price-tags for the range in the table below.Forthing takes an interesting approach with the fully electric version using a front-wheel drive layout and the range-extender hybrid a rear-wheel drive set-up.Hybrid versions are equipped with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 75kW/130Nm, which is not connected to the wheels and instead acts as a generator for its rear-mounted 120kW/240Nm electric motor.It is equipped with a 31kWh battery pack, allowing a 170km electric range according to the WLTP testing cycle, with a claimed/combined range of 937km with both a full charge and tank of fuel.The hybrid version can also charge on a fast DC pylon at a rate of 40kW for a charge time of 30 minutes, while the engine only requires entry-level 91RON unleaded for its 43-litre tank. In addition, both versions of the car are equipped with a vehicle-to-load discharging system at up to 3.5kW.The fully electric version is equipped with a front-mounted 150kW/340Nm electric motor and 64kWh LFP battery pack in both trim levels, which offers a WLTP driving range of up to 427km.It can charge at a rate of 80kW on a DC fast charger, allowing a 10 - 80 per cent charge time in 30 minutes.Efficiency figures for both powertrain options are yet to be revealed.The Taikon 5 Luxury in both powertrains features 19-inch alloy wheelsLED headlightsA 14.6-inch multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android AutoAn 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster10-way power adjust for the driver’s seat4-way power adjust passenger seatVentilation and message functions for the driver’s seatSynthetic leather interior trimA reversing cameraRear parking sensorsHeated side mirrorsFour-speaker audio systemThe Taikon 5 Exclusive grade in both powertrains addsPower tailgateFront parking sensorsRear window tintingPower folding side mirrorsWireless phone chargingLeather-trimmed steering wheel360-degree parking cameraPanoramic opening sunroofSix-speaker audio systemThe only option in the Taikon 5 range currently is metallic paints which carry a cost of $600.Notably, the Range-Extender hybrid versions and the Luxury EV are equipped with a tyre repair kit, while the top-spec Exclusive EV comes with a space-saver spare wheel.The Forthing Taikon 5 includes the following safety kit as standardAuto emergency brakingLane keep assist with lane departure warningBlind spot monitoringFront and rear cross traffic alertDoor exit warningAdaptive cruise controlTraffic sign recognitionSix airbagsTyre pressure monitoringAteco is offering the Taikon 5 with seven years or 200,000km of warranty coverage. It requires servicing every 12 months/15,000km for range extender hybrids, or 12 months/20,000km for full electric variants. Pricing is yet to be revealed.The Taikon 5 measures 4600mm long, 1680mm tall, and 1860mm wide. It features a wheelbase of 2715mm.Hybrid versions ride slightly higher than EV versions, at 1700mm tall, and the electric version weighs 100kg more than the hybrid, at 1920kg vs 1820kg respectively.The Forthing Taikon 5 is expected to hit dealerships before the end of June 2026.

Mercedes-Benz is bringing two new V8-powered rides to Australia. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S and GLS 63 S SUVs have both been detailed overseas ahead of their local launch. There are no confirmed launch timings for the cars, but Mercedes-Benz Australia has been contacted for comment to get a better idea of when we can expect them. These large luxury SUVs will be rivals to the V8-powered BMW X6 and X7 as well as the Audi SQ7 and SQ8. Both of Mercedes’ updated models use a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, producing 450kW and 850Nm, which are the same figures as the current model. The GLE 63 S can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds, while the GLS 63 S takes 4.2 seconds, with both going on to a top speed of 280km/h. The pair are equipped with Mercedes’ all-wheel drive system and have a 48-volt mild hybrid set-up, providing a small boost of power. There is a newly-developed performance exhaust system fitted to the cars, allowing for different settings of noise from the V8 engine. The car has been given a new exterior look that shows off larger air intakes and a rethought headlight design.Wheels are offered in sizes up to 22 inches on the GLE 63 S and 23 inches on the GLS 63 S. There is a range of Nappa leather seat colours, with carbon and aluminium elements elsewhere in the cabin. The car’s suspension can be raised by as much as 20mm, depending on road conditions and speeds.There is no official news on price yet, but the GLE 63 S currently starts in Australia from $266,900 (before on-road costs), so expect a slight price increase on that number. The GLS 63 S starts in Australia from $299,900, meaning this new model could break the $300,000 barrier. 

BMW has announced some details for its upcoming iX5 large electric SUV.A highlight of this car is it will come with a lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 144kWh in the USA and 141kWh in Europe in 60 xDrive trim.This makes it the largest battery ever offered in a BMW to date.It’s unclear the battery capacity that will eventually make its way to Australia, but either one will take the crown of the biggest battery of any EV offered locally. This record is currently held by the new BMW iX3.This massive battery pack in the new iX5 60 xDrive operates on an 800V electrical architecture and features cylindrical cells.BMW hasn't detailed what the claimed range of this big-battery iX5 will be yet, but it's likely to surpass the iX3 50 xDrive which offers 805km of WLTP-claimed range.It may be the first EV from the German carmaker to offer more than 1000km.The BMW iX5 60 xDrive will be powered by a dual-motor all-wheel drive set-up with a total system output of 425kW.The German carmaker is currently undergoing its final calibration drives of the new-generation X5 around its production base in Spartanburg, USA.In addition to the electric versions, the new, fifth-generation X5 will be offered with mild-hybrid petrol and diesel, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), as well as hydrogen fuel-cell (FCEV) powertrains.The latter will mark BMW first-ever hydrogen-fuelled production model ever when it debuts in 2028.Other details BMW has confirmed about the new-gen X5 is it will offer alloy wheels measuring up to 23-inches in diameter, plus standard mixed-size tyres which are claimed to “enhance comfort, stability and dynamism”.Adaptive dampers are standard, while adaptive air suspension, rear axle-steering and active roll stabilisation will be available as an option package on the iX5 and PHEV models.BMW also claims the new BMW will also offer an almost 50:50 weight distribution.On the safety front, the new X5 will offer SAE Level 2 driver assistance technology which will be able to operate on motorways and in urban areas. It’s unclear if this will only be available in certain markets and whether Australia will be included.Other standard safety equipment includes lane change warning, blind-spot monitoring with active steering intervention when there’s a risk of a lateral collision, as well as front and rear cross-traffic alert.

Chevrolet has released a substantially upgraded 2027 version of its Silverado 1500 full-size pick-up with the headline change being adoption of the latest, sixth-generation ‘LS6’ version of GM’s small block V8 in 5.7- and 6.6-litre form.GM hasn’t released specs for the 5.7L and 6.6L V8s but dealer and industry reports point to outputs of around 300kW/580Nm and 350kW/680Nm, respectively. Scheduled to hit US showrooms before the end of the year, the new Silverado will continue to offer four powertrain options in North America - the two petrol V8s as well as an “enhanced” version of the 2.7-litre ‘TurboMax’ four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and the ‘Duramax’ 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder.The Silverado 1500 is currently sold in Australia in two trim levels - LTZ Premium and ZR2, powered by the now out-moded 6.2-litre ‘EcoTec3’ naturally aspirated petrol V8.In the States the 2027 Silverado will boast seven trims - ZR2, Trail Boss, Custom Trail Boss, Work Truck, Custom, Silverado (formerly LT) and High Country.Introducing the Silverado LS6 engines, GM Executive Chief Engineer Mark Dickens said, “We pushed these engines through an extensive testing and validation process to make sure they deliver the durability, capability and dependability Silverado customers expect.”The LS6 engine debuted in the Corvette earlier this year in 6.7-litre (400kW/705Nm) form and the Silverado powerplants will be produced at GM’s Flint Engine Operations centre in Michigan as well as its Tonawanda Propulsion plant in New York State and the St. Catharines Propulsion facility just over the border in Ontario, Canada.As well as the new under-bonnet hardware the updated Silverado features a revised exterior with a new nose treatment incorporating LED headlights, tweaked LED tail-lights, chunkier wheel arch fenders and rocker panels as well as a standard dual exhaust (on Custom grade and above).Inside, the revised dash is highlighted by a new “edge-to-edge display” comprising a 16.3-inch central media display and a 12.2-inch digital instrument screen.A head-up display and 11.5-inch front passenger screen are standard on the ZR2 and High Country.The Z71 package will now be standard on 4WD models in the US, including skid plates, hill descent control and off-road suspension.When contacted for comment on potential local launch timing for the new Silverado a GM Australia & New Zealand spokesperson told CarsGuide, “Whilst we are excited by the news of the next generation Silverado, currently we have no announcements to make on future models for the ANZ region.”

The return of an Audi wagon favourite is on the cards for Australia.The Audi A6 Allroad could return to the brand’s Aussie showrooms for the first time since 2024.The A6 Allroad remains a strong prospect for Australia, but the local branch was unable to confirm its arrival just yet."This model is currently under evaluation for the Australian market," a spokesperson for Audi Australia said."This model is highly appealing, and we would welcome it for Australia."It comes after the car appeared in Australian sales approval documents earlier this year, hinting a confirmation is not too far away.There is potential for A6 Allroad to launch as soon as the end of this year.It will again be available with a V6 diesel engine, but Audi has also introduced a plug-in hybrid set-up to the range for the first time. The A6 Allroad doesn't have any direct rivals in Australia.It will have to compete with the much cheaper BYD Seal 6 Touring PHEV wagon, starting from $34,990 (before on-road costs).Pricing details have not been revealed yet, but it is expected to sit above the sedan variant currently on sale, starting from $123,600 (before on-road costs). The A6 Allroad's 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel has more power than its predecessor, boasting 220kW and 580Nm , while the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol PHEV set-up boosts power to 270kW and 500Nm. The diesel variant is marginally faster from 0-100km/h than the PHEV at 5.4 seconds. Audi said the PHEV has an all-electric driving range of 95km from its 26kWh battery. It offers fuel consumption of as little as 2.6L/100km, when the battery is fully charged. The car does not have DC charging capabilities, but AC charging at 11kW takes around 2.5 hours. All A6 Allroad models come with all-wheel drive as standard. On the inside, there is an 11.9-inch digital driver display and 14.5-inch central touchscreen, along with four-zone automatic air conditioning. There is also a panoramic sunroof available with a dimmable setting as opposed to a conventional shade.