JAC Hunter PHEV Tested at Lang Lang, BYD/Denza 1MW Megawatt Charging Confirmed for Australia, BMW Electric M Gets Real Emotion & Customer Choice, Mercedes 30 New Models

Send us Fan MailEpisode 21 for February 23, 2026 takes a deep, honest dive into the latest developments shaping Australia’s EV and PHEV market. We cover the JAC Hunter PHEV completing initial real-world testing at the former Holden Lang Lang proving ground ahead of its mid-2026 launch as a strong rival to the BYD Shark 6, BYD and Denza preparing to bring game-changing 1MW megawatt charging technology to Australia within 12-18 months that can add hundreds of kilometres in minutes. BMW’s plans for emotional electric M cars with simulated gearshifts and sampled engine sounds while still letting customers choose between EV and combustion M models, Mercedes-Benz’s massive 30-new-model onslaught including multiple EVs and PHEVs heading our way, the global auto industry writing off around $70 billion on EV strategy resets, GWM’s free servicing offer to new PHEV buyers. China’s new mandate for physical buttons in all cars and the direct safety and usability benefits for Australian buyers of Chinese-built EVs, BYD Australia’s local boss explaining why advanced battery technology is the real key to winning more Aussie buyers, the new wave of affordable sedans and hatches reviving the small-car segment with strong EV and PHEV options, and the powerful lessons from Norway – the first country to effectively phase out new petrol and diesel sales – where EVs now make up 96 per cent of the market without wrecking the economy.Disclaimer:All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.Sourcing & TransparencyAt Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):https://www.carsales.com.au/https://www.carexpert.com.au/https://thedriven.io/https://www.carsguide.com.auhttps://autotalk.com.auhttps://www.carsguide.com.auhttps://evcentral.com.auhttps://www.drive.com.au