Plugged in Australia

Send us Fan MailIn this special Plugged In Australia explainer episode, we break down why electric vehicle range claims can vary so much between markets. We explain NEDC, WLTP, WLTC, EPA and CLTC, how the tests are actually done, why Chinese EVs often show huge range numbers, why American EPA figures are usually more conservative, and what Australian EV buyers should actually trust when comparing range.00:00 — Intro: Why EV range claims are so confusing01:31 — Why EV range figures are so different03:11 — How EV range testing is actually done05:30 — NEDC explained: The old optimistic test06:56 — WLTP and WLTC: What’s the difference?09:09 — EPA explained: The American range test11:06 — CLTC explained: Why Chinese EV range claims look huge13:11 — Same EV, three different range numbers14:24 — Australia’s confusing mix of range standards15:39 — Which range figure should Australians trust?17:24 — Why real-world EV range still varies18:53 — Practical buyer advice for comparing EV range20:24 — Final takeaway: Always check the test cycle21:20 — OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailPlugged In Australia — Episode 52In Episode 52 of Plugged In Australia for Monday 11 May 2026, we cover Nio’s Firefly EV firming for Australia, Leapmotor’s factory strategy and the huge D19 flagship SUV, Toyota’s plan for a fully electric Yaris, NSW support for charging, fleets and EV training, Zeekr’s move into plug-in hybrids, MG IM5 and IM6 software upgrades, updated MG4 pricing, Genesis GV60 price cuts, and BMW’s two-millionth electric vehicle milestone.Timestamps — full episode00:00 — Intro01:01 — Nio Firefly firms for Australia in 202605:07 — Inside Leapmotor’s factory push against Tesla and BYD09:20 — Leapmotor D19: huge EV and range-extender SUV14:42 — Toyota planning fully electric Yaris for 202817:31 — NSW backs charging, fleets and EV training20:43 — Zeekr explains its plug-in hybrid pivot24:20 — MG IM5 and IM6 owners set for software upgrades27:05 — Updated MG4 gets lower prices30:21 — Genesis GV60 gets a major price cut33:14 — BMW builds its two-millionth electric vehicle35:36 — OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailThe shorter version of Plugged In Australia Episode 52 for Monday 11 May 2026. Today’s Quick Charge covers Nio’s Firefly heading towards Australia, Leapmotor’s factory push and D19 flagship SUV, Toyota’s planned electric Yaris, NSW EV support, Zeekr’s plug-in hybrid pivot, MG software and price updates, Genesis GV60 price cuts, and BMW’s two-millionth EV milestone.Timestamps — Quick Charge00:00 — Intro00:41 — Nio Firefly heading towards Australia01:44 — Leapmotor’s factory strategy02:52 — Leapmotor D19 large EV and range-extender SUV03:57 — Toyota planning an electric Yaris04:31 — NSW charging, fleets and EV training05:06 — Zeekr’s plug-in hybrid pivot05:47 — MG IM5 and IM6 software upgrades06:16 — MG4 price cuts and updated specs06:55 — Genesis GV60 price reset07:33 — BMW’s two-millionth EV08:05 — OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailEpisode 51 of Plugged In Australia looks at JAC’s next move beyond utes, including a possible affordable E30X EV and even a premium electric sub-brand for Australia. We also cover the latest reassurance for Xpeng owners during TrueEV’s court battle, the 2027 Omoda 4 heading for Australia with electric and plug-in hybrid potential, Geely’s slower and more deliberate Australian rollout strategy, and the Lexus TZ — a large three-row luxury electric SUV now officially revealed and under assessment for Australia.Timestamps — Full Episode00:00 — Intro01:00 — JAC E30X: Australia’s next cheap EV contender?06:10 — JAC Define: premium EV brand under consideration10:10 — Xpeng owners reassured as TrueEV court battle continues15:29 — Omoda 4: small SUV coming in 2027 with EV and PHEV potential20:17 — Geely’s slow-road Australian strategy25:42 — Lexus TZ revealed: three-row luxury EV under assessment for Australia32:52 — OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailQuick Charge episode 51 covers the main EV news from Plugged In Australia in a shorter format: JAC is evaluating an affordable E30X EV and a premium electric sub-brand, TrueEV has reassured Xpeng owners, Omoda 4 is coming in 2027, Geely is building its Australian lineup slowly, and Lexus has revealed the TZ three-row electric SUV. Timestamps — Quick Charge00:00 — Intro00:34 — JAC E30X affordable EV under evaluation01:54 — JAC Define premium EV brand being considered02:38 — TrueEV reassures Xpeng owners03:37  — Omoda 4 coming to Australia in 202704:45 — Geely’s slow-build Australian strategy06:11 — Lexus TZ three-row electric SUV revealed07:47 — Outro 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

Send us Fan MailEpisode 50 Quick Charge covers the biggest Australian EV and plug-in hybrid stories in a shorter format: Geely’s seven-seat hybrid SUV, Freelander’s electrified off-road return, MG’s long-range IM8 EREV, JAC’s cheaper plug-in hybrid ute, GWM’s latest PHEV and diesel-hybrid strategy, new ANCAP five-star results, Cadillac’s Lyriq price cut, Zeekr’s performance push, BMW’s electric M3, Leapmotor’s physical-key fix and Avatr testing in Melbourne.Timestamps — Quick Charge0:00 Intro0:40 Geely seven-seat hybrid SUV1:42 Freelander returns as an electrified off-roader2:37 MG IM8 range-extender SUV3:26 JAC Hunter PHEV ute4:29 GWM H6GT PHEV and diesel-hybrid plans5:00 New five-star ANCAP results5:38 Cadillac Lyriq price cut6:03 Zeekr FR and BMW electric M36:56 Leapmotor and Avatr updates9:09 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 50 of Plugged In Australia, we cover a huge wave of electrified models and strategy updates aimed directly at Australian buyers. Geely is preparing a seven-seat hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUV for 2027, Freelander is being reborn as a Chery and Land Rover-backed electrified off-road brand, MG’s incoming IM8 range-extender SUV promises massive CLTC range, and JAC is preparing to undercut the BYD Shark 6 with a cheaper plug-in hybrid ute. We also cover GWM’s upgraded Haval H6GT PHEV, its diesel-hybrid and plug-in hybrid 4x4 strategy, new five-star ANCAP results for BYD, MG, Tesla and Skoda, a sharp Cadillac Lyriq drive-away offer, Zeekr’s FR performance reboot, BMW’s electric M3 pricing hints, Leapmotor’s Australian learning curve, and Avatr testing in Melbourne.Time Stamps0:00 Intro01:04 Geely’s seven-seat hybrid SUV coming for Kluger buyers06:24 Freelander returns as an electrified off-road brand10:55 MG IM8 range-extender SUV tailored for Australia14:48 JAC Hunter PHEV could be Australia’s cheapest plug-in hybrid ute19:05 GWM Haval H6GT PHEV gets AWD and a lower price22:37  GWM developing diesel hybrids and plug-in hybrids for 4x4 buyers26:17 BYD, MG, Tesla and Skoda score five-star ANCAP results30:15 Cadillac Lyriq gets a big drive-away offer33:40 Zeekr wants its FR performance brand to take on Porsche36:19  BMW electric M3 pricing hint39:07 Leapmotor learns what Australian buyers expect41:34 Avatr 07 spotted testing in Melbourne45:45 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailA fast Plugged In Australia: Quick Charge version of episode 49, covering April’s record EV market share, BYD’s rise to second overall in Australia, the federal EV tax break changes, Kia EV3 and EV5 momentum, Volkswagen looking to China, Leapmotor’s B05 Australian tuning story, electric trucks for Sydney and Melbourne, and Geely’s growing Australian EV and PHEV push.Time Stamps00:00 Intro  00:43 EV sales hit record share and BYD takes second overall  02:11 Kia EV3 and EV5 build momentum  03:15 EV tax break extended but wound back from 2027  04:23 Volkswagen, Leapmotor and Geely show the global shift  06:0 5 Electric trucks and heavy EV tech  07:08 Outro  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

Send us Fan MailPlugged In Australia episode 49 covers one of the biggest Australian EV market shifts so far in 2026. Battery-electric vehicles hit another record share of the new-car market in April, plug-in hybrids keep growing, BYD climbs to second overall behind Toyota, Kia’s EV3 and EV5 momentum shows why NVES is changing product planning, and the federal Electric Car Discount has been extended but will be wound back from 2027.We also look at Volkswagen turning to China-developed EVs and platforms for future global models, Leapmotor’s B05 electric hatch and B05 Ultra hot hatch getting international suspension tuning before an Australian launch, a new fleet of 30 electric trucks heading into Sydney and Melbourne delivery work, Geely’s expanding Australian plans including seven-seat and box-style plug-in hybrid SUVs, its EOFY finance push and 1000 horsepower off-road architecture, plus BMW’s unusual ladder-frame EV patent and Caterpillar’s drop-in battery-electric power unit for heavy machinery.Timestamps — main episode00:00 Intro  01:11 April EV sales hit record share and BYD jumps to number two  08:14 Kia EV3 and EV5 momentum shows NVES is working  12:15 EV tax break extended, then wound back from 2027  17:25 Volkswagen looks to China for future global EVs  21:04 Leapmotor B05 and B05 Ultra get international tuning  25:33 Electric trucks head into Sydney and Melbourne delivery work  28:35  Geely’s bigger Australian push: PHEVs, seven-seat SUVs and off-road tech  34:17 Tech corner: BMW ladder-frame EV patent and Caterpillar BEPU  38:50 Outro  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

Send us Fan MailA fast 10-minute version of Plugged In Australia episode 48, covering the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N’s Australian launch, Hyundai’s cheaper electric N plans, Lexus’s upcoming three-row EV, Geely EX2 and Chery Q budget EVs, Geely’s PHEV push, Jetour’s Australian launch plans, surging EV interest, April EV sales growth, the ACT’s 34 per cent zero-emission market share, and Hyundai/Kia/Genesis ICCU warranty news.Quick Charge YouTube timestamps00:00 Intro00:34  Hyundai Ioniq 6 N priced for Australia02:09 Hyundai plans a cheaper electric N car03:00 Lexus teases a three-row electric SUV03:56 Geely EX2 budget EV coming to Australia04:50 Geely’s PHEV product push05:32 Chery Q and Jetour prepare for Australia06:41 EV interest and sales surge07:45 Hyundai, Kia and Genesis ICCU warranty update08:35 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailIn episode 48 of Plugged In Australia, Hyundai launches the Ioniq 6 N locally from $115,000 before on-road costs, bringing 478kW, a 3.2-second sprint and a 487km WLTP range — but also raising hard questions about how many buyers can stretch to a six-figure performance EV. Hyundai’s N division is already talking about cheaper electric performance models, potentially using the upcoming Ioniq 3 as a base.We also cover Lexus teasing its upcoming three-row electric SUV, likely the TZ, Geely preparing the EX2 budget EV for Australia, Geely’s heavy plug-in hybrid product push, Chery confirming the Q electric hatch for 2027, Jetour’s Australian ambitions, a major spike in EV interest as fuel-price concerns return, Tesla and Polestar sales doubling in April, the ACT hitting 34 per cent zero-emission new-car sales, and Hyundai, Kia and Genesis extending ICCU warranty coverage to 15 years on selected EVs.YouTube timestamps00:00 Intro01:05 Hyundai Ioniq 6 N lands in Australia from $115,00006:37 Hyundai N is working on a cheaper performance EV08:47 Lexus teases a three-row electric SUV, likely the TZ12:19 Geely EX2 shapes up as a serious budget EV contender16:08 Geely prepares a PHEV-heavy Australian product offensive19:15 Chery Q confirmed for Australia, Jetour wants to move upmarket23:06 EV interest jumps, Tesla and Polestar sales double, ACT leads26:33 Hyundai, Kia and Genesis extend ICCU warranty coverage28:49 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan Mail.Leapmotor says export-market cars will not simply be copied from Chinese-market tuning, with Stellantis engineering input and possible Australia-specific calibration if volumes support it. Jetour confirms a 2027 Australian launch plan with the T1, T2, G700 off-roader and F700 plug-in hybrid ute, including big power and towing claims aimed at buyers considering BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV. Mazda Australia shuts down rumours of a Deepal E07-based electric ute, while GWM axes the Ora hatch and prepares the larger Ora 5 electric SUV from $33,990 drive-away. Polestar and Volvo begin rolling out Google Gemini in cars with Google built-in. Omoda Jaecoo extends the J5 EV’s $36,990 drive-away price to EOFY. Suzuki confirms e Vitara pricing from $46,990 drive-away for the first 100 customers. Volkswagen’s ID.Era 9X previews a huge range-extender flagship SUV, and Hyundai Australia’s EV sales have already passed its full 2025 result on the back of fuel-price pressure and stronger demand for Kona Electric, Elexio, Inster and Ioniq 5. # YouTube Timestamps — Quick Charge 00:00 Intro  00:41 Leapmotor export tuning and B05 Australia  01:41 Jetour T1, T2, G700 and F700 coming to Australia  02:47 Mazda shuts down Deepal E07 electric ute rumour  03:23 GWM Ora 5 replaces Ora hatch  04:07 Jaecoo J5 EV EOFY deal and Suzuki e Vitara pricing  05:46 Google Gemini, Volvo & Polestar06:18 Volkswagen ID.Era 9X 07:01: Hyundai EV sales surge  07:38 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailPlugged In Australia episode 47 covers electric and plug-in hybrid news for Australian buyers. Leapmotor says export-market cars will not simply be copied from Chinese-market tuning, with Stellantis engineering input and possible Australia-specific calibration if volumes support it. Jetour confirms a 2027 Australian launch plan with the T1, T2, G700 off-roader and F700 plug-in hybrid ute, including big power and towing claims aimed at buyers considering BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV. Mazda Australia shuts down rumours of a Deepal E07-based electric ute, while GWM axes the Ora hatch and prepares the larger Ora 5 electric SUV from $33,990 drive-away. Polestar and Volvo begin rolling out Google Gemini in cars with Google built-in. Omoda Jaecoo extends the J5 EV’s $36,990 drive-away price to EOFY. Suzuki confirms e Vitara pricing from $46,990 drive-away for the first 100 customers. Volkswagen’s ID.Era 9X previews a huge range-extender flagship SUV, and Hyundai Australia’s EV sales have already passed its full 2025 result on the back of fuel-price pressure and stronger demand for Kona Electric, Elexio, Inster and Ioniq 5.# YouTube Timestamps — Full Episode 00:00 Intro  01:10 Leapmotor says export-market cars will get Stellantis tuning input  05:54 Jetour confirms T1, T2, G700 and F700 plans for Australia  11:41 Mazda shuts down Deepal E07-based electric ute rumours  16:05 GWM Ora hatch axed, Ora 5 SUV takes over from $33,990 drive-away  21:00 Google Gemini comes to Polestar and Volvo cars with Google built-in  24:39 Jaecoo J5 EV keeps $36,990 drive-away price through EOFY  28:00 Suzuki e Vitara pricing confirmed from $46,990 drive-away  32:47 Volkswagen ID.Era 9X previews giant range-extender SUV thinking  36:33E Hyundai EV sales surge as fuel prices push buyers toward electric  40:31 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Plugged In Australia: Quick Charge, the shorter highlights version of episode 46.In this Quick Charge episode, we cover Tesla’s new Model Y L beginning Australian deliveries with six seats, long claimed range and vehicle-to-load, Leapmotor’s plan to take on BYD, MG, GWM and Chery in Australia, and Chery’s growing sub-brand push with Lepas, iCaur and Freelander.We also look at Volkswagen’s ID.Polo EV reset, Cadillac’s Australian and New Zealand EV dealer expansion, GWM’s view that smaller EVs still make the most sense, and the growing wave of plug-in hybrids and range-extenders heading to Australia.This is the fast version of the full episode — ideal if you want the main EV news without the full deep dive00:00 Welcome to Quick Charge00:43 Tesla Model Y L lands in Australia02:33 Leapmotor targets BYD, MG, GWM and Chery05:08 Chery expands with Lepas, iCaur and Freelander07:17  Volkswagen ID.Polo EV reset08:36 Cadillac expands its EV network09:33 GWM’s small-EV strategy10:13 Australia’s PHEV and EREV wave11:05 Quick Charge wrap-upDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Plugged In Australia, Tesla’s six-seat Model Y L begins Australian deliveries with 681 kilometres of claimed WLTP range, more family space and the first factory vehicle-to-load system on an Australian Tesla. Leapmotor lays out a serious Australian growth plan with one global brand, the B05 electric hatch due this year, a B05 Ultra performance version expected to follow, a D19 flagship SUV under export study, conventional keys finally coming, and a ute still possible but blocked by the lack of a ladder-frame platform. Geely previews its next-generation Galaxy concept, a 745 kilowatt new-energy off-road platform and high-efficiency hybrid tech. Cadillac prepares to expand its EV dealer network across Australia and New Zealand as Lyriq prices fall and Optiq and Vistiq arrive. GWM explains why it still sees smaller EVs as the smarter play while promising more conventional electric models. Chery’s Lepas, iCaur and Freelander brands sharpen their Australian plans with the iCaur V27 and V25 electric and range-extender off-road SUVs locked in. Volkswagen’s ID.Polo points to a more affordable, more normal EV reset with physical buttons and familiar nameplates. We also unpack Australia’s incoming plug-in hybrid and EREV wave. AEVA’s call for a universal vehicle levy instead of an EV-only road tax, and the Zeekr 8X plug-in hybrid SUV with 1030 kilowatts and supercar-level acceleration.YouTube Timestamps 00:00 – Intro01:04 – Tesla Model Y L deliveries begin in Australia with V2L08:16 – Leapmotor’s one-brand strategy, B05 Ultra, D19 SUV, keys and ute problem19:04  – Geely previews Galaxy concept, 745kW off-road platform and high-efficiency hybrid tech25:06 – Cadillac to expand EV dealer network across Australia and New Zealand29:35 – GWM says EVs still make more sense small, but conventional models are coming34:27 – Chery’s Lepas, iCaur and Freelander push sharpens for Australia42:08 – Volkswagen ID.Polo: affordable EV reset, physical buttons and familiar names46:53 – Australia’s incoming PHEV and EREV wave to 202752:06 – AEVA calls for universal vehicle levy instead of EV-only road tax55:42 – Zeekr 8X PHEV review: 1030kW, 1400Nm and Australia-bound59:57 – OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Plugged In Australia, we cover the next-generation BYD Atto 3, which has now been revealed in China with a much larger body, rear-wheel drive, 800-volt architecture, flash charging and possible Atto 5 branding for our region. Kia’s PV5 electric van is already taking orders ahead of its late-May Australian launch, while the smaller Kia EV2 remains under study for Australia but faces a tough business case because of European production, shipping logistics and pricing pressure from Chinese rivals. Porsche reveals the Cayenne Coupe Electric with up to 850 kilowatts and more range than the SUV, Audi upgrades the Q4 e-tron with bidirectional charging and better efficiency, Hyundai lifts Inster pricing despite sharper small-EV competition, Volvo cuts thousands off EX30 and EX40 pricing, Chery-backed Lepas and iCar prepare for Australian launches, Nissan and LDV reveal more plug-in SUVs and utes, Zeekr talks up EREV luxury performance, BYD’s big new SUV and U9 Xtreme supercar show how far the brand is pushing, and Australia backs electric kiln technology to help clean up battery materials.00:00 Cold intro00:43 Intro01:21 BYD’s next Atto 3 revealed — bigger, faster and possibly renamed Atto 507:20 BYD Sealion 08, Great Tang and Yangwang U9 Xtreme11:11 Kia PV5 electric van gets early Australian orders13:25 Kia EV2 still under study for Australia18:07 Kia’s electric ute plans and the right-hand-drive question19:18 Porsche Cayenne Coupe Electric — 850kW, 3500kg towing and Australian pricing22:57 Audi Q4 e-tron facelift adds bidirectional charging25:22  Lepas L4 and Chery’s expanding Australian EV brand strategy27:00 iCar/iCaur confirmed for Australia with EREV off-roaders29:15 Nissan Terrano and Urban PHEV SUVs30:27 LDV T60/Terron 9 PHEVs and the plug-in ute wave31:52 Zeekr 8X and 9X EREV luxury SUVs33:43 Hyundai Inster price rise and Volvo EV price cuts35:37 Fast charging and EV battery health37:18   Australian electric kiln trial for cleaner battery materials38:44 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailIn this edition of Plugged In Australia, we dive deep into fresh EV developments with major implications for Australian drivers. Mercedes-Benz reveals its first electric C-Class with class-leading range claims and advanced tech, while BYD teases a next-generation Atto 3 that could reshape the popular small SUV segment. Construction begins on a new electric bus factory in Nowra, boosting local manufacturing jobs. Lexus confirms the all-new electric ES sedan for Q3 2026 arrival Down Under, and GWM Haval prepares the larger Jolion Max with both EV and hybrid options for late 2026. We unpack every verified spec, dimension, power figure, range estimate, feature, and Australian tie-in across these stories.YouTube Time Stamps00:00 – Cold Intro00:38 – Regular Intro01:26 – Mercedes-Benz Electric C-Class05:23 – BYD Next-Gen 2027 Atto 3 Tease08:38 – NSW Electric Bus Factory Construction10:21 – Lexus ES 2026 Electric Sedan12:50 – GWM Haval Jolion Max15:09 – OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailExhaustive fact-packed edition of Plugged in Australia with every verified technical detail on why large EVs like the Kia EV9 (just 18 units in Q1 2026) and Ford F-150 Lightning EV are failing to sell while small/mid-size models boom.Jaecoo J5 EV order bank now over 3500 units and growing daily with extra production allocated; Denza Z9GT high-performance EV confirmed for Q3 2026 Australian arrival with 850 kW tri-motor, Blade Battery 2.0, 1036 km CLTC range and 1500 kW FLASH charging adding up to 500 km in five minutes;Renault Master E-Tech full-size electric van locked for June 2026 with 87 kWh battery, more than 400 km WLTP, 1164 kg payload and up to 3500 kg GVM; Farizon V7E electric van priced from $49,990 drive-away with 329 km WLTP and 1300 kg payload; Nissan’s Chinese EV roadmap including N7 sedan, NX8 SUV (up to 630 km CLTC) and Frontier Pro PHEV ute; full 2026 EV preview including Hyundai Ioniq 3 small hatch reveal 20 April 2026, Genesis GV60 Advanced RWD at $88,300 before on-roads with 561 km WLTP; NSW launches first interactive EVenturemap and 108 new kerbside chargers with dedicated bays plus Bowen’s 15 million litres petrol saved weekly by current EV fleet; electric trucks complete Australia’s first end-to-end zero-emission Sydney-Canberra freight run with 84% energy-cost cut; BYD Sealion 7 outsells expectations with 4468 units in 2026 so far and no cheaper variant planned; Polestar well positioned at EV tipping point. All stories tied directly to Australian roads, apartment dwellers, regional drivers, fleet economics, buyer savings and infrastructure progress — positive momentum reported with hard truths where required.YouTube Timestamps – Episode 4300:00 - Cold Intro00:35 - Intro01:32 - Segment 1: Large EVs Lag as Small & Mid-Size Models Surge04:33 - Segment 2: Jaecoo J5 EV Order Bank Over 3500 Units06:22 - Segment 3: Toyota bZ4X Update & RAV4 EV Possibility08:05 - Segment 4: Denza Z9GT High-Performance EV Confirmed09:59 - Segment 5: Renault Master E-Tech Full-Size Van11:20 - Segment 6: Farizon V7E Electric Van Pricing12:53 - Segment 7: Nissan’s Chinese EV Roadmap14:21 - Segment 8: Hyundai Ioniq 3 Small Hatch Locked In15:23 - Segment 9: Genesis GV60 Advanced RWD Launch16:24 - Segment 10: NSW EVenturemap & 15 MillDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailOn todays  edition we dive deep into BYD’s record 100,000th vehicle delivery milestone in Australia with full sales breakdowns and model details, Hyundai’s dramatic Ioniq Earth SUV and Venus sedan concepts revealed for China that could shape future global EVs. The NSW Government’s accelerated 2026 EV strategy including $110 million for chargers and training plus new council fleet skills programs, confirmed pricing and full specs for the Kia PV5 Cargo electric van, Hyundai’s electric Staria Load van confirmation for Australian fleets in 2026, the Renault Master E-Tech electric large van arriving June 2026, Polestar Australia’s updated 2027 Polestar 2 with locked-in pricing and specs as a Tesla Model 3 and Mazda 6e rival, plus updates on Nissan’s Australian product offensive, Volkswagen’s EV reset with the ID.3 Neo featuring actual buttons and switches, JAC’s potential T9 electric ute, Andrew Forrest’s pushback on electric truck scepticism, a new study on daily driving’s impact on EV battery health, the GAC Emzoom review, and a major survey showing Aussies are choosing EVs to save cash amid the fuel crisis. All the facts, figures, dimensions, power outputs, ranges, features, quotes and Australian context you need.Timestamps0:00 - Cold Intro0:22 - Intro1:11 - Segment 1: BYD Delivers 100,000th Vehicle in Australia4:32 - Segment 2: Radical Hyundai Ioniq Earth and Venus Concepts Revealed6:55 - Segment 3: Government Action – NSW Accelerates EV Strategy and Council Fleet Skills9:38 - Segment 4: Kia PV5, Hyundai Electric Staria Load and Renault Master E-Tech – Electric Van Battle Heats Up12:05 - Segment 5: Polestar 2 2027 Pricing and Specs Confirmed, Plus PHEV Comments14:37 - Segment 6: Quick Hits – Nissan, Volkswagen, JAC, GAC, Battery Study, Andrew Forrest and More16:58 - OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailWe dive deep into how soaring fuel prices and supply shortages are doubling used EV sales and reshaping buying habits across Australia. Full breakdown of the NSW Government’s $100 million EV strategy targeting regional chargers, kerbside solutions and fleet incentives. Mercedes-Benz locks in the 2026 EQS with a record 925 km WLTP claim and vehicle-to-grid tech. MG previews its luxurious extended-range flagship SUV. We detail driveaway pricing and every spec on the GWM Ora 5, Subaru Trailseeker, Mazda CX-6e, Toyota bZ4X Touring, Zeekr 9X PHEV, 7GT wagon, Denza Z9GT flash-charger, refreshed MG4 and more. Fleet opportunities with Kia, plus a taste of upcoming arrivals including the Cupra Raval EV hot hatch, Geely EX2 low-cost hatch, JAC T9 electric ute, BYD’s full-size F-150 rival plans and Australia’s biggest electric truck depot taking shape. All verified, Australia-focused facts – BEVs, PHEVs and EREVs only.Timestamps:0:00 Cold Intro0:32 Intro1:30 Polestar Calls Out Australia’s EV Wake-Up Call02:43 NSW Government $100 Million EV Strategy04:13  Mercedes-Benz EQS Locked In as Longest-Range EV06:02 MG Luxurious Extended-Range Flagship SUV Preview08:03 Used Electric Car Sales More Than Double in March09:15 Surge in EV Demand Opens Opportunities for Kia Fleets10:58 GWM Ora 5 Small Electric SUV Pricing & Specs12:50 Subaru Trailseeker Electric Off-Road Wagon Specs15:16 Mazda CX-6e Electric SUV Pricing & Specs17:40 Toyota bZ4X Touring Flagship Variant19:17 Zeekr 9X PHEV & 7GT Electric Wagon Confirmed21:35 Denza Z9GT with 5-Minute Flash Charging23:12 2026 MG4 EV Refresh24:28 Cupra Raval EV Hot Hatch Preview26:37 Geely EX2 Low-Cost Electric Hatchback27:55 JAC T9 Electric Ute Trials29:18 BYD Developing Full-Size F-150 Rival30:27 Australia’s Biggest Electric Truck Depot31:51 OutroDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailAustralia’s EV market hits a new high with 15,839 battery-electric vehicles sold in March 2026 amid record petrol prices and fuel security worries from global tensions. We break down the numbers, the consumer shift, and every spec on new arrivals including Forthing’s Taikon 5 with its 1050km range-extender PHEV, BYD’s sub-$40k Seal 6 PHEV sedan and wagon, Kia’s $55,990 PV5 Cargo electric van, Tesla’s 150th Supercharger milestone, plus updates on Zeekr X pricing and power boosts, Mazda CX-6e provisional specs. Toyota’s Hilux EV ute, MG4 refresh, Ford’s affordable EV plans and more. All the verified details, Australian context, and what it means for drivers.Chapters:00:00 Cold Intro00:38 Intro & Apology for Missing Episodes01:52 Segment 1: Record EV Sales Surge to 14.6% Market Share in March 202605:58 Segment 2: Forthing Brand Launches June with Taikon 5 1050km PHEV SUV08:46 Segment 3: BYD Seal 6 PHEV – Australia’s Cheapest Sedan & Wagon12:02 Segment 4: Kia PV5 Cargo Electric Van Priced from $55,99013:46 Segment 5: Tesla Opens 150th Supercharger Site in Pokolbin15:13 Segment 6: Future Models – Zeekr X Price Drop, Mazda CX-6e Specs, Toyota Hilux EV, MG4 Update & Ford Sub-$45k Ute Plans18:59 Outro  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

Send us Fan MailAustralia’s EV market is firing on all cylinders with MG confirming the sharpest-ever MG4 Urban drive-away pricing. Subaru locking in the Uncharted as its smallest electric SUV yet.Renault’s Scenic E-Tech delivering its full Australian first-drive verdict, and high-end performance arriving via the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric. We break down every spec, dimension, power figure, range, pricing tier and Australian detail on the newest battery-electric, plug-in hybrid and extended-range models, plus major charging hub progress in Melbourne, Tesla’s innovative Supercharger rollout, fleet-focused commercial vans from Ford, and the hard data on why EV loans are doubling as fuel prices bite. No hype, just the facts that matter for Australian drivers.YouTube Chapter Timestamps00:00 - Cold Intro & Episode 39 Teaser00:40 - Intro Welcome 01:27 - Segment 1: MG4 Urban Pricing & Availability Update 03:19 - Segment 2: Subaru Uncharted Electric SUV Confirmed for Mid-2026 05:47 - Segment 3: Renault Scenic E-Tech Australian First Drive  08:18 - Segment 4: Skoda Kodiaq Plug-in Hybrid Lands in Australia 10:15 - Segment 5: GWM Ora 5 Small SUV with Electric & Hybrid Options 12:43 - Segment 6: GAC & JAC Electrified Dual-Cab Utes Detailed for Australia14:34 - Segment 7: Market Response to Rising Fuel Prices & EV Loans Doubling 16:50 - Segment 8: Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric First Drive.18:25 - Segment 9: Melbourne Airport BP Pulse Charging Hub + Tesla Foldable Superchargers19:41 - Segment 10: Quick Hits – Cupra Born VZ, Ford Transit City, Cupra Tavascan, Mazda 6e/CX-6e & Nio Firefly21:12 - Outro & ClosingDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailEpsiode 38, In this episode of Plugged In Australia we break down the Albanese government’s active modelling of a national distance-based EV road user charge ahead of the May budget. Run through every price tier, battery size, WLTP range, power output, charging speed, dimension, boot volume, warranty and practical compromise of the ten cheapest full battery-electric vehicles on sale right now.Examine Mazda’s openness to a Chinese-made Deepal E07-style electric ute with full Australian-market implications. Review the first undisguised spy shots and confirmed Neue Klasse specs of the upcoming electric BMW M3, preview the EV-packed 2026 Melbourne Motor Show with test-drive and activation details, detail the safety recall and receivership fallout for Ausevs-converted Ford F-150 Lightnings. Unpack MG’s SolidCore semi-solid-state battery breakthrough plus Hybrid+ upgrades with direct Australian relevance.Reveal the exact NEDC efficiency and 1005 km range figures for the JAC Hunter PHEV ute including local Lang Lang tuning, and examine Victoria’s $9.5 million freight decarbonisation grants and heavy-vehicle trial. All the verified specifications, dimensions, power figures, ranges, pricing tiers, feature lists, quotes, Australian tuning details, rival comparisons and cross-checked facts – positive on the transition but no sugar-coating the hard truths or ownership realities.Timestamps00:00 – Cold Intro01:01 – Intro01:47 – Segment 1: EV Road-User Charges Are Back — Here’s What’s Actually On The Table In 202606:30– Segment 2: Australia’s Ten Cheapest EVs — Real Prices, Real Specs, and Where the Compromises Hide15:32 – Segment 3: Mazda Might Not Build Its Own EV Ute — But A China-Sourced Platform Is Now A Real Conversation18:17 – Segment 4: Electric BMW M3 Spied Undisguised — What’s Confirmed, What’s Rumor, and Why It Matters For Australia20:33 – Segment 5: Melbourne Motor Show 2026 — The EV Signal In The Noise22:47 – Segment 6: Ausevs Ford F-150 Lightning Conversion Recalled for Charging Fault — Ownership Reality Check24:28 – Segment 7: MG Unveils SolidCore Semi-Solid-State Battery and Next-Gen Hybrid+ Tech26:33 – Segment 8: JAC Hunter PHEV Ute Fuel Efficiency and Range Figures Revealed with Australian Tuning28:12 – Segment 9: Victoria Announces Support Programs for Low 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

Send us Fan Mail📌Xpeng Administrators are Daniel Juratowitch and Barry Wight of Cor CordisXpeng’s exclusive Australian distributor TrueEV has been placed into external administration with 197 vehicles frozen across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Fremantle while the company serves Federal Court proceedings against Xpeng entities in China and Australia; full details on the March 3 2026 filing, lender action on stock loans, next hearing dates and what Australian Consumer Law means for existing owners when an importer goes under. Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology confirmed on track for Australian deliveries in 2026 as a 2027 model with 800-volt architecture, single- or dual-motor options up to 500 kW and 500-800 km WLTP range. MG U9 dual-cab EV ute advances toward Australia with full specs and pricing revealed. KGM Torres EVX electric SUV review with 80.6 kWh BYD LFP battery, 152 kW front-drive and 462 km WLTP. Leapmotor B10 receives major OTA update adding one-pedal driving, native Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. BYD Australia pushes for dedicated performance division. New survey reveals massive EV fuel savings as prices climb. Subaru electric SUV revealed globally. Network funds EV charger and battery for remote First Nations community. Tesla Model Y lead times blow out amid surging demand. Jaecoo J5 EV hits 2000 orders and extends drive-away offer. Global EV fleet to shield world from oil shocks. Leapmotor C10 Sports Special Edition with 440 kW. Daimler Truck first MCS-enabled eActros 600 deliveries imminent. Donut Lab solid-state battery passes five extreme tests. BMW i3 Neue Klasse bigger deal than iX3. Europe FTA fails to kill luxury car tax but boosts 120,000 EVs. Every verified specification, dimension, power figure, torque output, range claim, battery detail, pricing tier, feature list, executive quote, Australian compliance note, rival comparison and cross-checked fact from all sources – full BEV, PHEV and EREV focus only.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

Send us Fan MailSodium-ion cells with 170 Wh/kg density, 11-minute full charge at 4C rates, 200 per cent overcharge tolerance without fire or explosion and 92 per cent capacity retention at minus 20 degrees Celsius emerge as a practical near-term breakthrough potentially reaching Australian models like the Hyundai Elexio via Beijing Hyundai joint venture; Mazda CX-6e medium electric SUV confirmed for 2026 with full China-Changan engineering oversight, 4850 mm length, 78 kWh LFP battery, 190 kW rear-drive power and up to 560 km WLTP range; Zeekr 8X PHEV large luxury SUV locked for 2027 Australia arrival featuring 5100 mm length, 3069 mm wheelbase, 55.1 or 70 kWh battery options for 256-328 km CLTC electric range and up to 1416 km combined, 2.0-litre turbo petrol at 205 kW plus electric motors to 660 kW dual or 1030 kW tri-motor outputs with 9-minute 20-80 per cent charging on 900-volt architecture; Zeekr 9X flagship three-row PHEV and 7GT performance electric wagon also in 2027 pipeline; BMW i4 production phases out after 2026 model year as the Neue Klasse i3 sedan arrives early 2027 with headline 900 km WLTP range;full ranked list of Australia’s longest electric-range PHEVs including GWM Haval H6 GT at 180 km NEDC. Every verified specification, dimension, power figure, torque output, range claim, battery detail, pricing tier, feature list, executive quote.Australian compliance and tuning note, rival comparison and cross-checked fact from all sources – full BEV, PHEV and EREV focus only.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

Send us Fan MailChina introduces sweeping new EV safety, efficiency and export regulations banning flush door handles, yoke steering wheels and touchscreen-only critical controls while capping energy use at 15.1 kWh/100 km and requiring two-hour post-crash fire resistance, directly reshaping models from BYD, GWM and MG that now represent one in five new cars sold here; the MG4 Urban budget hatch is confirmed for April arrival as one of Australia’s cheapest EVs with 43 kWh or 54 kWh batteries delivering 323 km or 415 km WLTP range; GWM accelerates solid-state battery investment for future Haval, Tank and Ora models; Byron Shire Council adds five more EVs to its fleet with NSW grant support; Skoda launches Octavia Hybrid and Superb PHEV wagons with full powertrain and pricing details; Renault Australia cites small market size and ADR 34/03 child-seat anchor rules as barriers blocking the Renault 5 E-Tech and other cool European EVs; Janus Electric outlines a five-year pathway to electrify the national heavy freight fleet cutting diesel use by 10 billion litres; Tesla shifts focus to 500 kW V4 Supercharger cabinets for faster nationwide rollout; Rolls-Royce walks back from electric-only by 2030 keeping V12 engines alive due to customer demand; Mazda remains open to a 6e electric wagon if demand materialises; and soaring fuel prices drive a 190 per cent surge in EV searches with Australians eyeing savings exceeding 60 per cent. All verified specs, dimensions, power figures, ranges, pricing tiers, feature lists, quotes, Australian tuning details, rival comparisons and cross-checked facts from every outlet – full BEV, PHEV and EREV focus only.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

Send us Fan MailAn Exhaustive fact-packed edition of Plugged in Australia with every verified technical detail on the 2027 BMW i3 900km WLTP flagship (Australia’s potential longest-range EV), confirmed Touring wagon and chrome-free Neue Klasse illuminated aesthetics. Renault’s 800V RGEV platform delivering 750km pure BEV or 1400km EREV with 2-tonne towing.Audi A2 e-tron sub-$60k MEB entry model, VW ID.Cross 4153mm compact SUV with 430km range options, Sierra Hawthorn’s southern-hemisphere-record 251 Level-1 charger strata project with $300k cost and demand-management software.Essential Energy’s 300-pole rural streetlight trial plus 1000 more identified, Melbourne Motor Show 2026 expansion to 40,000sqm with 120+ exhibitors, Polestar 5 112kWh Grand Tourer Australian pricing from $171,100 and 678km WLTP, CSIRO quantum battery prototype completing full cycle with faster scaling, Bosscap collapse impacting 100 jobs. Chinese marques at 24% market share plus BYD credits analysis, global EV oil savings of 1.7 million barrels per day, Porsche vertical integration for Cayenne Electric, Australian road-user tax modelling, Brookvale electric bus infrastructure, up-to-$30,000 2026 EV price slashes, Leapmotor A05 cheap hatch reveal, and Chery’s 600Wh/kg solid-state batteries for 1500km range in extreme cold. All stories tied directly to Australian roads, apartment dwellers, regional drivers, interstate capability, fleet economics and buyer savings — positive progress reported with hard truths where required.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

Send us Fan MailNissan confirms its 320kW/800Nm Frontier Pro plug-in hybrid dual-cab ute – direct rival to the BYD Shark 6 PHEV with 33kWh battery, 135km CLTC electric range, 3500kg towing and 700mm wading depth – for Australian announcement next month and 2027 deliveries alongside the 2026 Navara with Premcar Australian-tuned suspension. Skoda Enyaq RS 2026 dual-motor SUV and Coupe priced from $75,490 before on-roads with 250kW/545Nm, 84kWh battery, 523-534km WLTP range and 185kW DC charging.Dreame Nebula NEXT 01 hypercar and SUV concept with quad motors delivering 1399kW and 23,000Nm, 1.8-second 0-100km/h and in-house solid-state batteries over 450Wh/kg heading to Australia and New Zealand as first RHD markets in early 2027.MG4 Urban BEV launches April with 43kWh (110kW, 323km WLTP) or 54kWh (118kW, 415km) options, 150kW DC charging and full ADAS suite undercutting the BYD Dolphin. Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV gains cheaper front-wheel-drive base grade option under review with 1.5-litre turbo petrol plus dual motors; 2026 MG4X electric SUV freshened with new front light bar and illuminated badge on 4500mm body and 125-150kW motors BYD weighs Australian launch of smaller Baby Shark PHEV ute based on Sealion 6 platform; Australians report over 60% fuel savings with 93% home charging capability in latest EV Ownership Survey.Chinese brands dominate February sales as value trumps origin concerns; NVIDIA DRIVE Hyperion adopted by BYD, Geely and Nissan for Level 4 autonomy in models already on Australian roads. All verified specs, power figures, ranges, pricing tiers, quotes, Australian tuning details, rival comparisons and cross-checked facts from every outlet – full BEV, PHEV and EREV focus only.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

Send us Fan MailZeekr's luxury electric people mover gets a 680kW power bomb with 900V architecture for faster charging while the brand sells strongly in Australia.Hyundai Australia insists the new Elexio isn't just a Kia EV5 twin with local tuning and 546km WLTP range undercutting the Model Y.Farizon V7e electric van launches with 1300kg payload and 376km WLTP range for Aussie tradies. The 2027 BYD Atto 3 gains 240kW rear-drive power, 800V architecture and bigger dimensions to take on the EV5 and Geely EX5. Queensland opens new EV training facilities at Acacia Ridge and Townsville with $3 million funding to skill up 400 students a year. Audi rules out its Chinese EREVs for Australia for now but watches market demand, Nissan delays the new Leaf SUV indefinitely as buyers flock to e-Power hybrids. Mazda scores approval for its second EV the 6e sedan with 190kW, 560km range and sub-$50k pricing arriving June 2026, and Tesla plans its largest Australian Supercharger site with over 25 bays in Mackay Queensland. All the verified specs, power figures, ranges, pricing, quotes, Australian compliance details, rival comparisons and facts from every source – full BEV and EREV focus only.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

Send us Fan MailThis episode of Plugged in Australia dives into the latest on electric vehicles shaping the market, from BMW's Neue Klasse iX3 and Volkswagen's refreshed ID.3 Neo to Mazda's potential hybrid and EV push in the CX-30. We also cover Hyundai's Ioniq 6 stock clearance ahead of updates, a rundown of affordable EVs hitting Australian roads in 2026, and new postcode data revealing outer suburbs as key hotspots for EV discounts. Sticking to facts with a nod to real-world impacts for Aussie drivers.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

Send us Fan MailAustralia's electric vehicle market is accelerating as petrol prices push towards three dollars a litre in regional areas and global oil supply fears from the Iran crisis drive one in four drivers to consider switching. This fact-driven episode delivers every verified specification, pricing tier, range figure, power output, dimension, feature list, executive quote, warranty detail, ANCAP rating, and rival comparison on the five affordable EVs matching popular ICE models, solid-state battery advances from BYD, Chery and Mercedes-Benz targeting 1000km-plus ranges by 2027-2030The new GAC Aion UT compact hatch with drive-away deals from $30,990 challenging BYD Dolphin and Corolla pricing, the leaked 2026 Rivian R2 4WD details with potential right-hand-drive Australian entry, the stretched Tesla Model Y L six-seater now on sale from $74,900 before on-roads boasting 681km WLTP range and V2L capability. Ford CEO Jim Farley's hard truths on why battery-electric utes still need major breakthroughs, Hyundai's plans to source more models including EVs from China for the local market, Honda's cancellation of three key EV programs with up to $22.2 billion in losses. The federal Community Batteries program facing auditor-noted delays and cost blowouts, and BYD's reported motorsport ambitions eyeing Formula 1 or endurance racing. All stories tied directly to Australian buyers, infrastructure realities, warranties, and market positioning – no hype, just the full specs and context you need.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

Send us Fan MailMitsubishi Outlander PHEV updated with larger battery, 221 kW power and local suspension tune from $58,990 plus on-roads. Hyundai Xcient Fuel Cell trucks in WA fleets; MG S9 7-seat PHEV and MG4 X with world-first semi-solid-state battery; Chery names world-first diesel PHEV ute via public competition; Jetour PHEV off-roaders confirmed; Polestar 3 now 800-volt with 350 kW charging; battery recycling to hit $6.9 billion a year by 2050; federal charging network overhaul after only 45 of 117 stations built; Power Network activates first pole-mounted chargers with EMSP competition; first Tesla Model Y L six-seaters arrive with 681 km range. GWM confirms up to 10 new models including multiple PHEVs and diesel upgrades; and oil shocks plus temporary higher-sulphur fuel allowance accelerate EV/PHEV savings and adoption. All specs, pricing and Australian angles, no fluff.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

Send us Fan MailFebruary BEV sales surge 95.9% to 11,134 units claiming a record 11.8% share. GWM offers free $3,500 AWD on Haval H6 hybrids, GAC Aion UT budget hatch arrives Q2 from $31,990, Zeekr 7X Black Special Edition launches, Ineos smaller electrified SUV project revived, Australian specialists convert diesel buses to electric, Porsche may merge Taycan/Panamera lines, industry launches “Keep the EV Tax Discount” campaign, Chery QQ3 ultra-affordable hatch eyes Australia, Deepal E07 deliveries paused over child-seat compliance, Polestar stands by FCAI exit, Hyundai reaffirms 21-22% fleet commitment. NSW Health rolls out 38 new chargers at hospitals for 2030 mandate, and Jaguar platform confirmed to underpin Land Rover Defender Sport off-road EV arriving 2027. All specs, pricing and Australian angles, no fluff.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

Send us Fan MailBMW drops its first Neue Klasse EV with 805 km WLTP range and pricing that undercuts rivals Porsche adds a Cayenne S Electric variant, Lotus confirms a PHEV Eletre X for the UK, Mercedes unveils a luxury eight-seat electric van. Tesla Semi factory ramps up, Donut Lab’s solid-state battery survives extreme heat tests, GWM locks in Tank 300 PHEV details while the Ora 5 goes hybrid, and we cover rising fuel costs, the “Keep the EV Tax Discount” campaign, Victoria’s electricity supply inquiry, NVES progress, and Perth’s electric-hybrid bus leap. All the specs and Australian angles, no fluff.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

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Plugged In Australia we cover the new MG4 EV Urban entering the budget segment next month with aggressive pricing and a free home charger promotion. Bowen dismissing speculation of clean-energy and EV roll-backs; the first NVES compliance results showing most brands clearing the initial hurdle. Nio’s Firefly hatch launching in Thailand ahead of Australia. VW Group hitting four million BEVs delivered worldwide; Victoria’s second-largest big battery supporting EV charging reliability; a new record for home battery rebates. Tesla planning the world’s biggest 400-stall Supercharger. Latest DC fast-charger performance rankings; school idling fumes creating health risks for children; and BYD’s Seal 07 promising 1,500 kW flash charging at under $35k. All facts, all Aussie-focused, straight talk.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

Send us Fan MailOn this  episode of Plugged In Australia we cover the Tesla Model Y L six-seat extended SUV now officially confirmed for 2026 arrival with extra length, range and family-focused captain’s chairs. China becoming Australia’s top single-month vehicle source for the first time in decades; the mid-2026 Polestar 3 refresh delivering 800-volt architecture, 350 kW charging, more power and lower prices; rising fuel prices driven by Middle East conflict making the EV ownership case even stronger for households and fleets.Australia Post’s 2030 sustainability framework with bigger electric vehicle and truck targets; BYD’s clear Jan-Feb 2026 sales lead over Tesla locally; a detailed mid-size EV battery and charging comparison including the new Kia EV5 GT-Line real-world review. Temporary pause on Deepal E07 Multitruck deliveries for compliance work. The 2027 Cupra Born facelift with physical buttons and sharper styling; Leapmotor considering a ute following BYD Shark 6 momentum; the Geely EX2 (China’s 2025 best-seller) heading here late 2026; the EV industry’s Labor tax-break campaign fighting any FBT wind-back; Renault CEO pushing range-extender EVs as the future; Denza’s Z9 GT claiming over 1,000 km CLTC range with 9-minute flash charging; full 2026 Denza D9 pure-EV pricing and specs now in showrooms.The Volkswagen Golf Mk9 electric hatch teased as an ID.3 successor with proper buttons; a closer look at the luxurious interior of the Volkswagen ID.7 GTX. BYD’s new Blade 2.0 battery and Flash Charging network promising 5-minute top-ups; the new BYD Great Tang flagship BEV SUV with nearly 600 miles range and 1.5 MW charging; and Geely’s Galaxy Battleship PHEV boxy Defender-style large SUV targeting LandCruiser territory. All fresh 2026 information, fully fact-checked, Aussie-focused, straight facts with practical context for Australian drivers.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

Send us Fan MailOn this extended episode of Plugged In Australia we break down the Jaecoo J5 EV smashing 1,000 orders at its aggressive launch price, fresh ANCAP five-star ratings for the Denza B8 PHEV and Hyundai Elexio EV achieved without new crash tests, and the latest Generational battery study showing real-world longevity far better than most assumed. AEVA launches an EV-friendly apartment register in Canberra and makes the case for autonomous tech slashing our road toll. Pricing lands for the Denza D9 electric people mover and Cadillac’s Optiq and Vistiq SUVs, Geely’s EX5 gets a useful range boost, BYD teases the Seal 07 with 705 km CLTC range, the new Cupra Born is previewed ahead of its world debut, BMW deepens its CATL battery partnership, Polestar confirms its compact Polestar 7 for Australia, and Polestar calls out ute tax breaks costing taxpayers more than EV incentives. All facts, all Aussie-focused, straight talk.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

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Plugged In Australia.  Today we dive deep into the small affordable EVs that could shake up our market – Chery’s QQ3 hatch and Leapmotor’s A10 crossover both showing real local promise. We examine the fresh data linking the federal EV discount directly to the first drop in transport emissions since the pandemic. A luxury EREV packing a built-in toilet has filed multiple Australian trademarks and could be on its way. A major independent study proves EV batteries are outlasting expectations by a wide margin. BYD’s Atto 3 is set for a big power and range upgrade with Australian approval already secured. Korean researchers solve a long-standing lithium-metal barrier that could mean 12-minute charging in future models. We look at the EVs that shrug off freezing conditions (important for anyone in Tassie, the Victorian Alps or even a frosty Canberra morning). A think-piece argues the Instant Asset Write-Off is a smarter lever than FBT for small business EV uptake. IM Motors’ digital chassis tech gets a full breakdown – it’s already in MG showrooms here. We review the MG HS Super Hybrid’s real-world efficiency numbers, and Chery Australia reaffirms its commitment to pure BEVs even while rolling out PHEVs. All facts, all Aussie-focused, no filler.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

Send us Fan MailEpisode 22 for February 25th, 2026 delivers a deep, honest, information-packed look at the latest developments shaping Australia’s EV, PHEV and electrified-ute market. We cover Chery’s world-first diesel plug-in hybrid dual-cab ute (KP31) heading to Australia in late 2026 with 3500kg towing and 1000kg payload targets aimed squarely at tradies and families, the Drive Car of the Year 2026 category wins where Tesla Model Y takes Best EV Under $60k, Polestar 4 wins Best EV Under $90k and BYD Dolphin claims Best Urban Car Under $30k, a major European study showing PHEVs use three times more fuel than advertised in real-world driving, Donut Lab’s independent VTT test results confirming 0-80% in 4.5 minutes on its production-ready solid-state battery. Tesla’s Model Y L six-seater gaining Australian approval plus the start of Grok AI assistant rollout here, Hyundai confirming the base Elexio variant at $58,990 plus on-roads and why the brand believes buyers will happily pay more for its new rival to the BYD Sealion 7 and Geely EX5, Geely EX5 with larger battery approved for sale, Lexus planning an electric IS sedan revival for 2027, Lamborghini shelving full-EV supercar plans to focus on long-term hybrids, Ford teasing a radical ~$40k mid-size electric ute for 2027 designed to smash the BYD Shark 6 and Toyota HiLux EV on range and efficiency, and Hyundai unsure about bringing Tucson and Santa Fe PHEVs to Australia due to price premium. All tied directly to what it means for Australian buyers, running costs, NVES compliance, family practicality and the real pace of the transition.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

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

Send us Fan MailIn this special bonus episode of Plugged in Australia, we take a deep, news-style dive into the rapid rise of electric heavy vehicles transforming road transport. Perfect for listeners new to the space or trucking pros, we cover the basics of what heavy vehicles actually are, why electrification is a game-changer, the latest 2025-2026 deployments and record-breaking trials, Volvo’s local manufacturing push, Mercedes eActros fleets, and Aussie innovator Janus Electric’s battery-swap conversions. Packed with real-world performance data, executive quotes, emissions wins, infrastructure realities, and the path to net-zero freight – all from developments since July 2025 only. Tune in for education, inspiration, and the heavy-duty future on our roads. #PluggedInAustralia #ElectricTrucksDisclaimer: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

Send us Fan MailEpisode 20 for February 19, 2026 takes a deep, honest look at the real state of Australia’s EV and low-emission vehicle market right now. We break down the very first official NVES results showing exactly which 19 brands missed their CO₂ targets (including Mazda, Subaru, Nissan and Hyundai). Polestar’s biggest-ever product offensive with a practical new 4 wagon plus new Polestar 2, 5 and 7, Denza’s aggressive 2026 plans for up to five new models and 20–25 dealers while already holding 1,000 orders, Zeekr 7X deliveries slowed by shipping and battery issues, Volkswagen’s new Tiguan and Tayron plug-in hybrid pricing for Q2, Volgren’s growing electric bus production in South Australia, the current federal and state EV rebates and incentives that buyers and fleets can still use, and a clear. No-spin explanation of why green hydrogen as an alternative EV technology is effectively dead and buried in Australia – and why that actually accelerates the battery-electric path we are all on.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

Send us Fan MailEpisode 19 for February 18, 2026 delivers the deepest dive yet into Australia’s EV market momentum. We break down Nio’s record-breaking battery-swap scale and what it means for the 2026 Firefly launch here, Mazda’s aggressively priced 6e sedan going head-to-head with Model 3 and Seal on range, price and features, Leapmotor’s B10 five-star safety win plus confirmed cheaper variants and the smaller B03X in evaluation, the first right-hand-drive BMW iX3 Neue Klasse preview landing for local familiarisation. Toyota’s multi-powertrain next-gen Yaris including full EV, the Gumtree survey showing hybrids now considered by over 50% of buyers, Tesla’s CarPlay rollout delayed by iOS 26 adoption, why fleets delaying for “better batteries” risk higher long-term costs per AFMA insights, car makers quietly lobbying to keep the NVES dumping loophole open, Skoda’s new in-car gaming, video and native Spotify upgrades for its EVs, BYD’s execution speed giving it an edge in a crowded market, the Holden-era mindset that dismissed Chinese cars and how EVs flipped it. Horizon Minerals’ $175m raise to repurpose the Black Swan nickel plant in WA’s critical-minerals heartland, and the latest Endgame Analytics implications for decarbonising transport.All tied directly to what it means for Australian drivers, fleets and the 2025–2030 NVES targets.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

Send us Fan MailDaily Episode 18 dives deep into the latest Australian and Australia-relevant EV developments. We cover the potential arrival of BYD’s rugged Fangchengbao Ti7 under the Denza brand, the significant 2026 MG4 interior overhaul and its implications for local buyers, Kia’s clear stance against price-war tactics with Chinese brands plus a spotted EV5 facelift, the latest OTA enhancements for the Geely EX5, the real-world mining trial of the JAC T9 electric ute in the Pilbara, and the critical progress in filling Australia’s heavy-vehicle EV charging infrastructure gap.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

Send us Fan MailG'day Australia! Episode 17 brings the heat with high-performance family EVs like the blistering Kia EV9 GT, affordable small SUVs from Suzuki, design fixes for the Hyundai Santa Fe, and groundbreaking battery-electric locomotives hauling iron ore in the Pilbara. We'll tackle ANCAP's safety push on door handles, why truck fleets are opting for smarter smaller batteries, Tesla's FSD subscription shift, and a blockbuster forecast: EV sales potentially jumping six-fold by 2030. As always, EV-positive vibes – celebrating practical, powerful progress tailored to Aussie needs – with straight talk on safety, policy, and real-world challenges.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

Send us Fan MailG'day Australia! Episode 16 dives deep into BYD's dominant momentum in early 2026 – from why plug-in hybrids aren't going anywhere, to their big fleet sales ambitions, groundbreaking solid-state battery plans, and the real story on EV affordability perceptions. Plus, a cracking heavy-duty win: electric trucks now delivering your favourite beers across Perth with serious emission cuts. As always, we're EV-positive – celebrating practical progress in our unique market – but keeping it real on challenges like income gaps and infrastructure needs. Packed with data, quotes, and Aussie context for tradies, families, fleets, and everyone in between.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

Send us Fan MailG'day Australia! Episode 15 is a massive deep dive into the electric vehicle landscape as we hit early 2026. We're talking affordable plug-in hybrid utes shaking up the tradie market, massively upgraded family EVs from BYD, heavy-duty electrification at our ports, solar-powered refrigeration tech landing on our shores, and the world's first sodium-ion battery EV that's a potential game-changer – even if it's not coming here yet. We'll cover Queensland's unique charging rules, why some big overseas EVs are skipping Australia, the push for better PHEV incentives, and an honest look at policy critiques from industry experts. This is EV-positive with no sugarcoating: celebrating real progress while calling out the hurdles we need to clear for a smoother transition. Buckle up – this one's packed with facts, context, and Australian relevance.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

Send us Fan MailPlugged In Australia Episode 14 – Recorded February 11th 2026 from Western Sydney. Host Jamie delivers extensive coverage of Chery's strategy avoiding price wars with Atto 1 competitor and emphasis on premium features/warranty/service for long-term value, new GWM plus-sized luxury PHEV SUV full reveal with three-row seating, powertrain specs, range, charging, interior luxury, and Australian family/regional potential. Volkswagen Group 5 million electric drive units milestone with production plant details and implications for local supply, Kia Australia CEO on axing EV incentives having no effect on demand plus comprehensive 'bit of everything' 2026 EV strategy with lineup launches, business case insights for small models, and market adaptation, BYD's first EV major power boost and new AWD version approved with full specs update. BYD Aussie boss detailed comments on value battle with Tesla including battery safety/tech/local tuning advantages, Ferrari electric car interior returning to physical buttons with Australian designer influence and usability benefits in glare/heat, Kia's electric hot hatch spotted testing with performance hints and dynamic details. BYD Fang Cheng Bao Titanium 7 tough electric SUV and Great Tang largest SUV reveals with off-road capability/luxury specs and positioning, GWM Cannon PHEV uncovered as Shark 6 rival with power/towing/off-road details and Australian launch consideration, and EV tax FBT debate heating up with lobby warnings on sales momentum risk plus expert policy analysis on incentives impact. Full specs, updates from past episodes, balanced market context, and real implications for Down Under drivers.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

Send us Fan MailPlugged In Australia Episode 13 Host Jamie delivers an in-depth look at Toyota's confirmed Highlander EV as its first three-row electric SUV with full specs, range, powertrain, charging, seating, and Australian potential, Toyota replacing CEO amid defence against Chinese brand rise plus exposed EV patents for game-changing tech, BYD outselling Tesla 10-to-1 in January with detailed model breakdowns and market shift update from past episodes, Tesla Semi final specs with two trims, battery sizes, range, power, charging, and heavy-haul implications, accelerating electric car depreciation data with Australian examples and factors, China's 212 off-road 4WDs confirmed for Australia with Jeep-like ute/SUV details and capability, ex-Holden plant stopping GWM Ora production impact, and Volkswagen simplifying ID.Buzz pricing. Extensive specs, updates from previous episodes, balanced market context, and real implications for Down Under drivers.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

Send us Fan MailPlugged In Australia Episode 12 –  February 9th 2026 from Sydney. Host Jamie delivers an in-depth look at Xpeng's new GX large three-row electric SUV with up to 700km range, 500kW triple-motor power, air suspension, and premium features, ongoing uncertainty around the electric Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman project (updating from Episode 7) with delays, cost issues, and potential full cancellation, detailed insights on the 2027 Toyota Corolla's redesigned TNGA-C platform, standard hybrid powertrains, potential PHEV with 60-80km range, styling, interior, and safety upgrades plus Australian pricing expectations, Ford-Geely partnership for European production and technology sharing with potential global implications including Australia, BYD Seal 6 PHEV wagon spied in Melbourne as a practical family alternative with over 1000km total range and 200km electric-only, Leapmotor C10 mid-size SUV with discounted drive-away pricing under $50,000 and up to $4,000 factory bonus plus full specs, WA's electric bus rollout scaling to 130 vehicles by 2029 with depot upgrades and emissions savings, Mercedes-AMG confirming three all-electric performance SUVs on AMG.EA platform with axial flux motors and over 700kW, Toyota HiLux hybrid delays to 2027 with mild-hybrid diesel details and future full hybrid/PHEV plans, Kia PV5 modular electric van approval with configurable bodies, up to 90kWh battery for 400km range, and commercial potential, GAC Aion UT compact hatch approval with 500km range and affordable pricing, Tesla's vehicle-to-grid rollout starting with Cybertruck, and Jaguar selling its last new petrol car in Australia marking full EV transition. Extensive specs, updates from past episodes, Australian market context, and balanced implications.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