BRIEFLY: Hyundai 5 N, California Incentives, Robotaxi Crashes and more | 23 Sep 2025
Share
Subscribe
➤ HYUNDAI ADDS NEW IONIQ 5 N TRIM CALLED ‘ESSENTIAL’
➤ CALIFORNIA WON'T REPLACE FEDERAL EV TAX CREDIT
➤ THREE TESLA "ROBOTAXI" CRASHES ON JULY 1
➤ TESLA UPDATES ORDERING LANGUAGE FOR $7,500 EV CREDIT
➤ TESLA SUPERCHARGER VIRTUAL QUEUE FEATURE DETECTED
➤ PORSCHE CHANGES PRODUCT PLANS, SLOWING ALL-ELECTRIC ROLLOUT
➤ LUCID GRAVITY INVENTORY SELLS OUT QUICKLY
➤ JEEP CANCELS GLADIATOR PLUG-IN HYBRID
➤ KIA EV4 NOW BUILT IN EUROPE
➤ HYUNDAI IONIQ 6 CHARGING-PORT DOOR RECALL
➤ VOLVO RUNS THREE-VEHICLE CRASH TEST DEMONSTRATION WITH EX90
➤ RIVIAN ADVENTURE NETWORK NOW HAS 100 SITES OPEN TO ALL EVS
➤ BYD’S YANGWANG U9 XTREME NOW WORLD’S FASTEST PRODUCTION VEHICLE
Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDaily
HYUNDAI ADDS NEW IONIQ 5 N TRIM CALLED ‘ESSENTIAL’
Hyundai introduced the IONIQ 5 N Essential trim, making high-performance electric driving more accessible by offering core N features and vital technologies at a reduced price. This new option also includes advanced driver safety systems and a unique Parking Assist Lite package, providing excellent value for EV enthusiasts.
California will focus resources on expanding EV charging infrastructure after deciding not to immediately replace the expiring federal EV tax credit, aiming to support long-term statewide electrification. The state may revive its own incentive next year, potentially funded by successful carbon-trading programs, and remains committed to reducing emissions and fostering green innovation.
Tesla’s Austin robotaxi pilot transparently reported three crashes shortly after launch, with all incidents involving either minor injuries or none, demonstrating strong incident management and care for participants. The pilot continues under close regulatory oversight, highlighting Tesla’s commitment to safe autonomous vehicle testing.
Tesla swiftly updated its order process to align with the IRS’s newly clarified rules, ensuring more customers can still benefit from the $7,500 federal EV tax credit even if delivery takes place after September 30. This proactive approach helps buyers maximize incentives while making EV ownership more affordable.
Tesla is preparing to launch a virtual queuing system for Supercharger stations, allowing owners to secure a spot without waiting on-site—a step that promises to streamline the charging experience. The development, discovered in the latest over-the-air update, could soon become widely available and improves convenience for all Tesla drivers.
Porsche is adapting to global market conditions by ensuring customers can choose from both advanced hybrids and exciting new combustion models while ramping up investments in future EVs. With several electrified and hybrid options planned, Porsche is positioning itself to deliver innovation and performance for every driver preference.
Lucid’s Gravity SUV inventory sold out online in less than 24 hours, signaling enthusiastic demand for the company’s latest electric model. Production is set to ramp up further following supply chain improvements, with the Gravity poised to become a flagship offering for Lucid this year.
Jeep is refocusing its Gladiator lineup in response to evolving customer preferences, ensuring continued investment and production stability for this popular midsize pickup through at least 2028. The model remains strong, with recent sales growth following price adjustments, and Jeep continues to innovate with their electrified SUV range.
Production of the Kia EV4 has begun at the AutoLand facility in Slovakia, making it Kia’s first European-built electric vehicle. The advanced plant combines state-of-the-art robotics and engineering expertise to deliver vehicles with specially tuned handling for European roads, following rigorous validation tests.
Hyundai is proactively recalling Ioniq 6 fastbacks to address a charging-port door issue, with a straightforward fix already implemented to ensure safety and customer confidence. The company’s rapid response underscores its dedication to ongoing quality and reliability for EV owners.
Volvo performed an unprecedented three-vehicle crash test with the EX90, going beyond regulatory requirements to set new benchmarks for real-world EV safety. Test data showed excellent occupant protection, demonstrating Volvo’s continued leadership in automotive safety during the industry’s electrification shift.
Rivian’s Adventure Network now welcomes all EVs at 100 of its charging sites, greatly expanding fast-charging access and convenience for drivers of every brand. With a robust rollout of new and upgraded dispensers, Rivian is making reliable, high-speed charging more accessible across North America.
BYD’s Yangwang U9 Xtreme set a new world speed record for production vehicles, reaching 496.22 km/h (308.4 mph) thanks to cutting-edge electric propulsion technology. This achievement highlights the remarkable performance potential of EVs and demonstrates BYD’s leadership in automotive innovation.