The all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona has failed to light up the sales charts, and the situation is so dire that it appears Stellantis is discouraging the few potential buyers the EV has by hiking the Daytona’s price by five figures. But while Hellcat V8 power will return to the Charger, appeasing the masses, Stellantis isn’t abandoning EV technology and is, in fact, pursuing advances in the field, announcing that a Charger Daytona development vehicle has been fitted with Factorial’s advanced solid-state battery technology. Why does this matter when EV muscle cars are clearly not popular yet?
Stellantis Wants to Be Ready for the EV Revolution
Stellantis
While Lamborghini has indefinitely canceled the launch of its first EV, the automaker continues to develop the technology for the day when the market is less averse to silent motoring, and the same applies here with Stellantis. The Charger is heading across the Atlantic to Europe, where EVs are more readily embraced, and if it’s successful, buyers will eventually want more power and range, which is where Factorial’s tech shows its value. Stellantis is trying out the Factorial Electrolyte System Technology (FEST) solid-state battery and road-testing the prototype Charger Daytona to “verify performance, safety, and reliability.” Stellantis and Factorial have already demonstrated the FEST cells, with an energy density of 375 Wh/kg, the ability to recharge from 15-90 percent in only 18 minutes, and reliable usability in temperatures ranging from -22°F to 113°F.
Related: Stellantis Plans 7 Cheaper Models To Fight America’s $50,000 Car Problem
Notably, Stellantis was able to use Factorial’s solid-state cells in the Charger Daytona’s existing battery pack using a Stellantis-designed and patented new mechanical architecture, suggesting that implementing solid-state batteries in existing EV platforms will be relatively straightforward. Now Stellantis will test the conversion on the road, with the aim of someday soon providing cheaper, lighter, more reliable, and more powerful EVs that can travel further between charges. It’s also worth mentioning that Factorial is the same company Mercedes-Benz is working with, so the company is at the cutting edge of EVs.
Solid-State Battery Tech Is Moving Fast
Stellantis
It’s not just Stellantis making progress with solid-state battery technology. Volkswagen, in collaboration with Gotion, has also begun real-world testing of Gemstone solid-state battery tech. Meanwhile, Donut Lab has created what it claims are the world’s first production-ready solid-state batteries, and they can charge in as little as five minutes, putting EVs on par with combustion cars. Nissan is hoping to launch mass production of solid-state batteries by 2028, and of course, China has developed batteries that can do 800 miles on a single charge. For most of us, and for the moment, these developments are inconsequential, but at the rate EVs are progressing, it’ll be just a couple of years before the performance, cost, and reliability of solid-state-powered EVs will be impossible to ignore.
The Chevy Bolt is back for 2027, for a limited time only. I just spent a week driving it around the Bay Area to see if this reborn affordable EV is worth your time.
Overall, I liked the Bolt a lot. It’s a great size for cities. The price is tough to beat, at under $30,000 for a base model. And, crucially, the revived Bolt smooths out many of the roughest edges of the commendable but outdated version that was discontinued in 2023.
The little crossover now claims 262 miles of EPA range from a 65-kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate battery. That’s a boost of 15 miles. It also features 150-kilowatt fast charging, plus the ability to recharge from 10%-80% in 26 minutes. The old Bolt was never a road tripper. The new one makes that much more possible.
But I did also come away with a few small gripes after using a 2027 Bolt RS as my daily driver. Here’s what I liked most about one of America’s cheapest EVs—and a couple of shortcomings to bear in mind.
[Full Disclosure: Chevrolet provided a fully charged Bolt for me to review]
22
Source: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
PRO: Punchy Power When You Need It
The Bolt uses a single, front-mounted motor that provides 214 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. That’s plenty enough for this little “crossover” to quickly hustle to highway speeds, make tight merges, or pass slow-moving traffic. A claimed 0-60-mph time of 6.8 seconds means this is no Porsche Taycan. But that’s also a solid two seconds quicker than a gas-powered Chevy Trax.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
It’s one of the best features of EVs. Even the lower-cost, lower-powered ones benefit from the instant torque that’s inherent to electric motors. If you’re used to just about any comparable gas car, the Bolt is going to feel fast.
While the steering wheel-mounted paddle that boosted regenerative braking in the old model is gone, I don’t miss it. The Bolt offers up two intensities of one-pedal driving, and lets you turn off the feature altogether if that’s more your speed.
CON: Bit of A Bumpy Ride
But the Bolt isn’t exactly plush on the road. Any car company needs to make trade-offs when creating a budget car, and this is one example. Over rough roads, the Bolt is a bit bouncy for my taste. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker and didn’t take too much away from the overall experience, but it was noticeable. It doesn’t help either that the seats are a bit firm, and don’t help cushion blows from the road all that well.
On smooth highways, though, I have no complaints and the Bolt is a nice place to spend time.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
PRO: Small On The Outside, Surprisingly Large On The Inside
At 169.6 inches long, the Bolt is a great size for cities. It’s almost two feet shorter than an Equinox EV, and I enjoyed how easy it was to street park.
Importantly, the Bolt still feels nice and spacious inside. I’m a bit over six feet tall, and I wasn’t wanting for space in the front seat. The back was pretty roomy too in terms of both knee and headroom. When I tested the Bolt’s main competitor, the Nissan Leaf, I remember being struck by how cramped the back seat was; it’s not designed for large adults. Not so in the Bolt.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
(The numbers back that up; the Bolt has several inches more rear-seat legroom than its rival, 39.1 inches to 31.8 inches. If you’re a rideshare driver, it’s definitely the better option.
PRO: Tons of Interior Storage
Never can quite find a spot for all your junk? The Bolt has a place for that. Its interior is positively brimming with little cubby holes for your sunglasses, wallet, and what have you. There are three stash spots built into the passenger-side dashboard, plus a few more in the center console.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
It’s a nice touch for someone like me, who always finds their cupholders overflowing with parking receipts and other crap. One other nice touch: The cupholders are adjustable. You can move a couple of included inserts to different positions depending on how big your cup is that day—or even create a snug spot for your iPhone.
PRO: Google Built-in Infotainment
General Motors’ new EVs notoriously lack Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. I know that’s a bummer for some. But at least the company makes up for it with an attractive, easy-to-use infotainment system. The best part of it is Google Built-in, which brings familiar apps like Google Maps to the Bolt’s center screen. If you’re not going to let me use my phone to navigate, at least give me a navigation system that doesn’t suck. The Bolt, like other new GM products, does exactly that.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
You can even bring a full Google Maps view up right in the digital gauge cluster for easier viewing.
CON: A Budget-Feeling Interior
Despite the thoughtful touches and storage options, the Bolt’s interior does come off a bit budget. Of course, this is meant to be a budget EV, so that shouldn’t be too surprising.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
The front seats of my tester were wrapped in faux leather, which was nice. But nearly everything up front is made of hard plastic. Ditto for the back seats, where even the elbow rest lacks padding and back-of-seat pockets are nowhere to be found.
Verdict
The Bolt isn’t perfect; no car is. But in an EV world dominated by $50,000 options, Chevy’s little crossover is an undeniably charming addition to America’s car market. It’s just shame that it’s not sticking around for longer. GM will only make the Bolt for about the next year, before its plant space is retooled to make gas vehicles. So if you like what you see—shortcomings and all—you’d better act fast.
Contact the author: Tim.Levin@InsideEVs.com
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Usually, no. You should not start or drive a flood-damaged car until it has been inspected. Floodwater can damage the engine, brakes, electronics, airbags, seatbelts, and other safety systems, even if the car looks normal once it dries.
If the vehicle is an EV, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid, do not charge it or park it indoors until a professional checks it. Floodwater, especially brackish or saltwater, can damage high-voltage battery systems and create a fire risk.
Can I Drive a Flooded Car?
A flooded car is not safe to drive until you know how much damage it has. Even shallow water can contaminate fluids, corrode brakes, damage wiring, and cause electrical problems that appear later.
Do not drive the car if:
The water reached the floorboards, seats, dashboard, engine bay, or battery pack.
The engine stalled in water.
Warning lights are on.
The brakes feel soft, noisy, or weak.
The car smells musty or has standing water inside.
The vehicle is an EV, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid that was exposed to floodwater.
Flooded Car Evaluation Steps
Flood exposure can cause hidden damage, so a certified mechanic or repair shop should usually inspect the vehicle before any restart attempt.
Check the engine oil first
Pull the dipstick and inspect the oil. A milky or cloudy appearance can indicate water contamination inside the engine.
Remove the spark plugs
Take the plugs out before trying to spin the engine. This gives trapped water a path out of the cylinders.
Replace oil and the oil filter
Drain the old oil and install a fresh filter so you are not circulating contaminated lubricant through the engine.
Drain the fuel tank if needed
If water may have entered the tank, empty it before moving any farther. Do not risk sending water into the fuel system.
Crank the engine with the plugs out
Turn the engine over briefly with the spark plugs removed so any water inside the cylinders can be forced out.
Confirm the tank is clear before cranking
Make sure the fuel supply is free of water first. Otherwise, the engine can pull contaminated fuel deeper into the system.
Lubricate the cylinders if water comes out
If the cranking step expels water, spray a light aerosolized oil into the cylinders before repeating the process.
Reinstall the spark plugs and try to start
Once the cylinders appear clear, put the plugs back in and attempt to start the engine.
Let it idle briefly, then shut it down
If the engine starts, allow it to run for a few minutes. Then turn it off and prepare for another inspection.
Inspect the oil again
Check the dipstick a second time. If the oil still looks cloudy, replace both the oil and filter again.
Important Note
Floodwater can damage electronics long after the engine clears
If fuse boxes, control units, or electronic modules were submerged or soaked, they may still require replacement even after the mechanical restart steps are complete.
Why Flooded Cars Can Be Dangerous
Flood damage is often hidden. A car may start and drive after the water recedes, but that does not mean it is safe.
Floodwater can:
Damage the brakes.
Contaminate engine, transmission, brake, or differential fluids.
Corrode wiring and electrical connectors.
Affect airbags, seatbelts, and other safety systems.
Cause mold inside carpets, seats, and HVAC vents.
Leave behind salt, sewage, mud, or chemicals.
Trigger electrical problems days or weeks later.
Salt water is especially harmful because it accelerates corrosion. A vehicle that seems fine immediately after a saltwater flood may develop serious braking, electrical, or sensor problems later.
Never Drive Through Floodwater
If the road is flooded, turn around. Do not try to cross it.
Floodwater can hide washed-out pavement, deep holes, debris, open manholes, and stalled vehicles. It can also enter the engine air intake and stall the car. Four-wheel drive, large tires, and high ground clearance do not make a vehicle safe in moving water.
Can a Flooded Car Be Repaired?
Repair is possible in some cases, but long-term reliability and economics determine whether it is truly worth doing.
When Repair May Be Possible
A repair path may exist, but it should pass both safety and value checks:
Water exposure stayed mostly at carpet level and below key systems.
No evidence of engine water ingestion or internal mechanical damage.
No damage found to the high-voltage battery or related hardware.
No major electronics or restraint/safety-system failures detected.
Professional drying, cleaning, fluid service, and diagnostics are completed.
Repair can still be a poor value, and latent corrosion or electrical faults may appear months later.
! A vehicle is more likely to be totaled if:
Water reached the dashboard.
The engine ingested water.
Major electronics were submerged.
The airbags, seatbelts, or restraint systems were affected.
The car sat in salt water.
Repair costs approach or exceed the vehicle’s value.
Flooded EV, Hybrid, and Plug-In Hybrid Safety
EVs, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids need extra caution after flooding.
Do not charge, drive, or store a flood-exposed EV indoors until it has been inspected. If the vehicle can be moved safely, park it outside and away from buildings, other vehicles, and combustible materials. Some automakers and emergency officials advise keeping submerged EVs at least 50 feet from structures or combustibles until they are inspected, especially after saltwater exposure.
Follow the owner’s manual, manufacturer instructions, and local emergency guidance.
What Insurance Covers Flood Damage?
Comprehensive coverage is a part of an auto insurance policy that typically covers flood damage. It also covers many other events outside your control, such as theft, vandalism, falling objects, and severe weather.
Collision and liability coverage generally do not pay for flood damage to your own vehicle.
You usually need comprehensive coverage before the storm is in the forecast. Insurers may place binding restrictions on new coverage when a major storm is approaching.
Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication. Chris Teague contributed to the report.
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I have a big family full of dog people, and literally, years of experience testing cars specifically for dog-friendliness. Not everybody buys their car based on how well it fits animals, but if you do own both a pet and a car, you’re going to want to outfit it with some pet-forward accessories. And one of the most essential is a back-seat cover. 3W Liners recently sent us its modular entry to the market—here’s our Rundown on it.
3W Liners Rundown
Class
Casual
Enthusiast
Prosumer
Professional
Disclosure: 3W Liners provided this unit for testing. We kept full editorial control over what we said about it. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Where to Buy
MSRP is $89.99, but 3W Liners does discount promo pricing all the time. As I’m typing this, it’s discounted to about $65. Check current pricing on:
Key Specs
Available in grey or black
Full bench-width coverage
Mesh window on front side
Detachable front-side panel
Detachable door-side panels
Storage pocket
Machine Washable
3W Liners
Best Uses
This cover protects the second-row bench seat of large to medium-sized vehicles. It’s good for people who want both comprehensive surface coverage but also the flexibility to remove it in parts as animal behavior changes or when you need to put people on the back bench instead of pets.
That removable front section, which comes off with a zipper, also means this is a rare hammock-style dog seat cover that could also work in the third row of seats in a large SUV or minivan. Ingress and egress would be a little less graceful, but you could somewhat easily access the bench from the front with this rather than just the sides.
It stays in place in transit well, even if you don’t bother with the door-side straps (I often didn’t during testing). Some seat covers have more intense anchoring systems than this one, but we didn’t have any real cover-slippage during our test rides.
What it’s not for: Impact protection—you still need to tether your dog with a seatbelt system to keep them safe in an accident. Also note that this is not the “hard-bottom” style seat cover, it’s just soft material.
High Points
Modular flexibility—you can zip the front half on or off, making it easy to switch between dog- or person-hauling mode without actually removing the main part of the cover.
The little storage pocket fits a leash, a collapsible water bowl, and poop bags if you don’t have another spot for those standard dog accessories.
Side panels flop down when you open the door, protecting your seat-bolster area from claw marks.
No logos or emblems make for a classy design.
Door protectors attach with straps, not adhesive, which I really like—less marring of your interior.
Velcro access ports for seat belts (yes, ideally, your dog should have a seatbelt).
Weak Spots
Material and general build quality are fine, but not exceptionally impressive. It’s not ugly, it’s just not up to the standard of highline vehicle interiors.
Plastic retention clips are the minimum viable version—they work, but I wouldn’t count on them tolerating aggressive tugging.
The pocket is great because the seat protector inhibits access to the seatback pockets. But be warned—the pocket doesn’t seal shut, so if you plan to pack treats in there, expect your pet to help themselves. Andrew P. Collins
Verdict
The 3W Liners dog cover has good functionality with acceptable execution. The materials and straps aren’t quite artful enough to really look at home in a BMW or Mercedes-Benz, but I suspect few owners will notice or care. Ultimately, for the functionality you get, it’s a good buy at the $90 list price and a great deal at sale pricing.
Check Pricing on 3W Liner’s official site if you want to give it a try. Word to the wise: If it’s not actively on sale on 3W Liners’ site, wait until the next holiday, and I bet you’ll see a 20-30% discount.
Alternatives
There are so many dog seat covers on the market—I barely know where to begin. Having tested many of them, I think you’d be hard-pressed to get a better bang-for-your-buck than this when it’s on sale.
The absolute cheapest dog-seat cover I’m comfortable recommending is the $40 Dickies Repreve. Surface coverage is adequate on medium-sized to smaller vehicles, material quality is surprisingly robust, but you don’t get any fancy features, front seatback protection, or side door protection. If your dog’s pretty well-behaved and your car’s not too big, that’s a solid pick.
Any other products we should look into? Send me a note at andrew.collins@thedrive.com.
In contrast to the upper two dual-motor models, Comfort comes with a single, rear-mounted motor producing 308bhp. It derives its power from an 82.5kWh battery pack, and BYD quotes a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds. That ‘Blade’ battery is capable of up to 150kW charging speeds, which should get the battery from 10-80 per cent in around 32 minutes. Range is quoted at 300 miles.
But hold on a second. Aren’t high-end Chinese cars meant to be breaking the internet with their incredible charge speeds, performance and technology? A Volkswagen ID.5 isn’t just £10k cheaper, but it’ll also do an extra 45 miles on a charge and match the BYD for performance and top-up speeds. The flagship Ultimate model ups the range and charging to 329 miles and 230kW, but at £59,000 it’s hot on the heels of BMW’s new iX3 with its 500 miles and 400kW peak.
You sit high in the BYD’s driver’s seat, and the relatively low dashboard only accentuates this. The sloping roofline and tiny rear window don’t give it a particularly airy feeling – but the panoramic roof helps.
Connectivity has its highs and lows. The screen is relatively fast to react and has no problem maintaining a solid wireless connection for Apple CarPlay. But simple tasks are buried in multiple menus. You can also rotate the screen in a typical BYD way, but I find this utterly pointless.
We’ll go into more detail about how the Sealion drives and the sort of efficiency we’re getting over the course of the next few months, but at the moment it’s doing around 2.9 miles per kWh. This is less than what BYD quotes and is the result of largely urban driving so far, but that’s not such a bad number considering the recent cold weather.
The BYD will have to prove it’s worth the ambitious price tag by driving, cosseting and reassuring us to the levels we expect of its legacy-branded rivals that offer very similar, if not even better value. Only time will tell.
Rating:
3 stars
Model tested:
BYD Sealion 7 Comfort
On fleet since:
December 2025
Price new:
£47,000
Powertrain:
82.5kWh battery/1x e-motor,
Power/torque:
308bhp/380Nm
CO2/BiK:
0g/km/3%
Options:
Premium paint (£1,100)
Insurance*:
Group; 46 Quote: £1,424
Mileage:
2,590 miles
Efficiency:
3.02mi/kWh
Any problems?
None so far
*Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a 42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points.
Did you know you can sell your car through Auto Express? We’ll help you get a great price and find a great deal on a new car, too.
STELLANTIS has unveiled plans to launch a new generation of affordable electric city cars priced from around €15,000 ($A25,000), as European manufacturers attempt to regain ground lost to increasingly competitive Chinese rivals.
The ambitious E-Car project will see production commence at Stellantis’ Pomigliano d’Arco plant in Italy from 2028, with the first vehicles aimed squarely at the continent’s shrinking entry-level car segment.
Announced by chief executive Antonio Filosa, the initiative forms a critical part of the group’s long-term electrification strategy and aligns with new European Commission proposals designed to encourage the production of small, locally built electric vehicles.
The E-Car program is expected to underpin multiple Stellantis brands and revive Europe’s tradition of affordable urban mobility, a market segment that has contracted sharply in recent years as rising costs, regulatory pressures, and shifting consumer preferences push buyers towards larger vehicles.
“The E-Car is a concept that finds its natural match in the small car success that runs deep in our European Stellantis DNA,” said Mr Filosa.
“Our customers are calling for a revival of small, stylish vehicles, proudly produced in Europe, which are also affordable and environmentally friendly.”
Industry observers, however, question whether European manufacturers can profitably build €15,000 EVs while competing against lower-cost Chinese brands that benefit from extensive vertical integration, lower labour costs, and established battery supply chains.
Under the European Commission’s proposed E-Car framework, vehicles measuring less than 4200mm in length would qualify for additional regulatory incentives, including enhanced CO2 credits and simplified homologation requirements.
The measures are intended to help restore viability to Europe’s struggling small-car market.
One of the first beneficiaries is expected to be Citroen, which is reportedly preparing to revive its iconic 2CV nameplate as a fully electric city car priced below €15,000.
A related Fiat model is also expected to emerge from the program.
The timing reflects growing concern about the collapse of Europe’s traditional minicar segment.
According to industry consultancy Arthur D Little, annual production of A-segment vehicles has fallen from approximately 720,000 units in 2021 to around 320,000 units this year, while segment market share has declined from 9.1 per cent in 2012 to just 3.9 per cent in the first quarter of 2026.
Analysts say the economics of affordable vehicles have become increasingly challenging as safety requirements, cybersecurity regulations, software integration, and emissions standards add cost and complexity to vehicles traditionally sold on price.
At the same time, buyers are increasingly choosing used vehicles or moving into larger segments where monthly finance repayments differ little from those of a city car.
Stellantis believes new development methods, greater supplier integration and strategic partnerships will help overcome those hurdles.
The company says its E-Car models will feature dedicated battery-electric technology developed alongside selected partners to accelerate time-to-market and improve affordability.
Production will take place at the same Italian facility that has long produced the Fiat Panda, one of Europe’s most successful budget cars.
Despite the challenges, industry experts expect affordable EVs to play a crucial role in helping manufacturers meet increasingly stringent European emissions targets.
Transport and Environment cars director Lucien Mathieu predicts several €15,000 EVs will reach European roads before the end of the decade as automakers seek to reduce fleet emissions and avoid costly regulatory penalties.
Whether European manufacturers can achieve profitability while matching Chinese rivals on price remains the key question.
“The challenge extends beyond engineering a €15,000 EV,” said Arthur D Little automotive practice manager Nicola Borgo.
“Legacy European automakers must create a development and manufacturing model that can profitably serve an entry-level market that is smaller, more regulated and facing aggressive Chinese competition – or risk ceding the segment entirely.”
The E-Car project represents more than a new model range for Stellantis as it is a test of whether Europe’s automotive industry can reinvent affordable mobility for the electric age while keeping production, jobs and technology development on home soil.
Mainstream conversations about electric cars usually focus on the size of screens, software speeds, or battery capacity, but the true engineering revolution happens deep within the chassis. Mercedes-Benz wants to prove its mechanical dominance by starting large-scale production of a highly unusual electric motor. The German automaker chose its historic Berlin-Marienfelde facility to construct this new drive system. Established back in 1902, this site is the oldest factory in the long history of the brand. Instead of closing it down, management transformed it into a high-tech center for premium electric cars and advanced propulsion technology.
Most common EVs on the road today rely on conventional radial flux motors. In those setups, the magnetic forces push outward like the spokes on a bicycle wheel. Mercedes is moving away from that industry standard by betting heavily on axial flux technology. In an axial flux design, the electromagnetic force flows parallel to the rotating axle rather than radiating outward. This change allows the internal parts to sit in a flat, disc-shaped layout.
As seen in the image above, two magnetic rotors sandwich a single central stator from the left and right. This clever mechanical arrangement allows engineers to shrink the overall size of the motor significantly and increase its power output at the same time.
The new motor makes its official market debut inside the high-performance Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door Coupe. Because the axial flux architecture remains remarkably thin, the electric motor mounted on the front axle measures just under 9 cm in width. The two electric motors driving the rear wheels are even smaller, with each measuring roughly 8 cm wide. Engineers tuck these slim powerplants directly into a compact High Performance Electric Drive Unit. This unit bundles the thin motors together with a small planetary gearbox to save valuable space.
Drivers should not confuse the small physical size of these motors with a lack of performance. The front-axle motor spins at rapid speeds exceeding 15,000 revolutions per minute. When working together inside the all-electric Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door Coupe, the unique powertrain layout creates intense acceleration – the heavy performance vehicle launches from a standstill to 62 mph in 2.1 seconds. For buyers who choose the optional Driver’s Package, it keeps accelerating until it reaches a maximum top speed of 186 mph.
A British company YASA created the early prototypes that Mercedes engineers used as a starting point. The German manufacturer saw enough potential in the technology to purchase YASA completely in 2021. To test the durability of the design before beginning mass assembly, the company built the CONCEPT AMG GT XX. This technology demonstrator completed an endurance test at the Nardo track in Italy, where it drove continuously for 7 days and 13 hours. The car covered more than 24,900 miles during the run and established 25 distinct long-distance speed records for EVs.
Moving from a prototype to a mass assembly line is a notorious headache in the automotive industry. To accomplish this, the Berlin factory dedicated 30,000 square meters of floor space to the project, spreading the machinery across three massive halls and seven production lines. Workers must manage a complex assembly process that involves 98 separate steps. The engineering team had to design 65 of these manufacturing steps specifically for the brand, and 35 of the processes are completely new to the global manufacturing industry, which in the end resulted in more than 30 new patent applications.
The unique shape of the motor creates severe manufacturing problems for the production team. The factory has to use flat, rectangular copper wire to form the internal coils instead of common round wire. The square shape allows the factory to pack more copper into the tiny frame, but bending thick copper wire at high speeds around sharp corners without tearing the protective insulation layer is incredibly difficult. Assembly workers use automated lasers to weld the delicate wire ends inside a cramped housing. The laser must apply heat instantly to avoid melting the plastic structures sitting right next to the welding points.
Another complex challenge involves laser transmission welding on the plastic drivetrain parts. This process demands geometric precision to avoid damaging the surrounding parts. To guarantee reliable production, Mercedes-Benz uses optical AI software to check the joints in real time. The AI camera system identifies the exact position of each part, creates virtual safety zones over fragile areas, and guides the laser path. The process creates seals that hold high oil pressure and withstand heavy physical stress.
The most dramatic part of the entire assembly line happens during a step that factory workers call the “wedding.” This is where automated arms lower the central stator between the two heavy rotor discs. Because the rotors contain permanent magnets, they pull toward each other with an immense force of 9 kN. This magnetic pull creates a force equal to roughly 1,984 lb. The robotic assembly system must hold the stator perfectly steady in the exact center plane between the magnets, allowing a tiny error tolerance of less than 0.004 inches. A dedicated computer program monitors the alignment and sends high-frequency corrective adjustments during the final 0.5 seconds of the process.
The high-tech assembly lines operate right alongside the Mercedes-Benz Digital Factory Campus. Since 2022, this campus has used the company’s MO360 digital network to test out new manufacturing software. The launch of the axial flux motor line comes at an important historical moment for the brand. It is now 2026, marking exactly 140 years since Carl Benz patented his original vehicle in 1886. To celebrate, the automaker is driving three S-Class sedans to 140 locations around the globe on a promotional tour that lasts until October.
Corporate executives will spend the year celebrating historic gasoline vehicles and pushing mainstream electric options like the CLA and GLC, but the real future of the company rests on these complicated electric motors. Competing globally needs high volumes and consistent quality. By risking major capital on 35 untried global assembly processes, the German company is betting that the ultra-thin motors will give its premium electric cars a permanent advantage over international rivals.
During the luxurious launch of the Vision BMW Alpina this past weekend at Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como, Italy, we had the chance to sit down with BMW Group head of design, Adrian van Hooydonk, along with BMW Alpina head of design, Maximilian Missoni, to learn all about the shark-nosed concept and what’s to come for the iconic, now in-house sport/luxury brand.
The concept itself was built upon a BMW 8 Series coupe platform with a V-8 under its hood, presumably a version of BMW’s stout 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 that was available across the 8 Series range. (BMW ended production of the 8 Series in April of 2026 and so far, no successor has been named.) As for the coming BMW Alpina production models, Van Hooydonk did confirm that V-8 engines would power them at the outset.
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When asked whether BMW Alpina would ever produce an all-electric powered vehicle, Missoni took the corporate line that, like the parent company, BMW Alpina will explore a philosophy of “technological openness” when it comes to hybridization and electrification. Both designers also said some of the Alpina character would be implemented via software tuning.
BMW Group head of design, Adrian van Hooydonk, introducing the Vision BMW Alpina concept at the 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.
Top Speed: A Quiet 186 mph
Whereas M stands for motorsports in BMW’s universe, Alpina has always emphasized high-speed cruising and understated performance, versus raw power and extreme handling limits. Van Hooydonk confirmed that speed remains a focus for the BMW Alpina brand, and its coming production vehicles will target top speeds of 186 mph (300 kph).
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This may not sound particularly fast these days, but the aim is to achieve those types of speeds effortlessly, as befitting a gentleman’s express. “BMW Alpina is for connoisseurs who love driving fast. But they don’t want to communicate that they bought a race car. That would be for an M car,” said Van Hooydonk.
Van Hooydonk and Missoni are designing production BMW Alpina vehicles that can cheat the wind at up to 186 mph.
Key Design Cues
Note the amber DRLs, prominent shark nose, and Alpina word mark on the front air dam.
Expect future BMW Alpina production cars to retain the signature Alpina design cues developed since its founding in 1965. These include the Alpina word mark, as seen on the front air dam and rear of the concept, signature blue and green colors inside, amber daytime running lights, and oval exhaust tips. There will be some potentially controversial design changes going forward, including:
Even when the market may not be at its strongest and it isn’t ideal to consider putting your vehicle up for sale, sometimes circumstances outweigh any reasons to remain patient and hold on until the market rebounds. From a seller’s perspective, everyone desires to get the maximum resale value possible from their car, whether it be an economy car like a Honda Civic Sedan, a high-value, premium luxury SUV or a highly collectible, limited edition, modern sports car. Everyone wants to recoup as much of their initial investment as possible (though in some cases, a profit can be turned if the car becomes a collectible).
Though most people advise accepting the best sounding offer or negotiating a middle ground price that satisfies both buyer and seller, there are several strategies for how to increase your car’s resale value, or achieve the maximum possible resale value for your car – some of which we will outline in this article.
These tips are things you can do to help keep your car’s resale value as high as possible; resale value is not an exact science, however, and your mileage may vary.
Choose The Right Model
Certain Models Sell Better Than Others
2026 Hyundai Sante Fe SEL. Front, three-quarters. Motion. On-roadHyundai
One of the proven ways to achieve the maximum resale value from selling your car is to choose the right model in the first place – namely, apply as much foresight as possible to ensure the model you will one day put on the market will have as many desirable factors as the cars it will go up against one day. While many try to avoid or negate this undeniable fact, the truth is that all cars depreciate – or begin to lose their value – within the first few miles (or as soon as they are driven off the showroom floor). But it’s worth remembering that certain models depreciate faster than others, with some putting in a better effort towards holding their value over multiple years in the long run.
Previous data trends have shown a Mercedes-Benz or Jaguar will likely be worth half as much as it was initially sold new after a few years, while a model from a Japanese manufacturer like Lexus will arguably have not suffered the same degree of depreciation over the same time period.
Having the foresight to buy a model that features desirable equipment or specifications can also play a small role in getting the most out of your car’s resale value. Certain upholstery colors and convenience features (e.g. power mirrors/seats, climate control, etc.) make them more desirable to potential buyers, while in more current-era vehicles, those featuring ADAS tech (advanced driving assists) like lane-keep assist or adaptive cruise control are more sought after.
Avoid Modifications As Far As Possible
Mansory-tuned Audi RS Q8 making 986 horsepowerMansory
While everyone has their individual tastes when it comes to making their car “look the part,” it’s important to remember that most modifications, whether aesthetic or functional, do not add any monetary value to a car (as much as some like to believe). Aftermarket parts, especially those not from the car’s original manufacturer, like body kits, spoilers, or other exterior/interior decorations (carbon fibre, Alcanatra material or upholstery) are typically viewed as a liability for any future keepers, who, ideally, don’t want to be burdened with what a previous owner did to the car under their care.
This is especially true of cars turned into full show or project builds under one owner, as how they want said vehicle to be an expression of themselves may not apply to whoever will have to take care of it in the future (which can be less incentivizing if owners go to the extreme and add irreversible mods like widebody kits, or stance/airlift suspension setups that are too labor-intensive time-consuming to consider removing).
An exception can be made for modifications that address known flaws specific to the model that instill buyer confidence in the long run. Good examples include an IMS bearing replacement for early, water-cooled 996/997-generation Porsche 911s, rustproofing on classic cars, or the installation of new rod bearing replacement for the E90-gen BMW M3 or E60-gen BMW M5. Changes that bring up-to-date convenience features, like a modern-era head unit with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity or better-grade sound system, along with certain ‘OEM’ mods like coordinated wheels and exterior details can add small (but not major) value.
“If your vehicle has a well-known issue or design flaw, it’s safe to assume that most potential purchasers are aware of it. Therefore, addressing the problem in advance with a reputable aftermarket or OEM solution can immediately improve a buyer’s confidence and help usher in a faster sale. It shows you are a responsible owner, and responsible owners are often rewarded in the long run.
– Anthony Capretto, CarBuzz
But ultimately, if you’re asking “what’s my car’s value?” with the inclusion of various modifications added, you stand a better chance of getting some of your money back by selling the parts separately, and focus on selling the vehicle as close as possible to its original, unmodified state.
Store Your Car In The Right Place
BMW 1M in Storage Under Car CoverAdrian Ma/CarBuzz
One way to increase your car’s resale value is to treat it with as much care as you can. You don’t need to go to extreme lengths to cover everything, top to bottom, in protective plastic or anything to that degree. However, ensuring the car is kept indoors and under a car cover to protect it from dust or debris can go a long way to preserving its exterior, especially the condition of the paintwork, from sunlight exposure or scratches/dents. Any interested buyer will want confidence that the car they are inspecting has been cared for by its current keeper, and a pristine, well-preserved body will be a major factor when the car’s value is at play.
Look After The Bodywork – And Keep It Clean
Barn Find Ferrari 308WD Detailing/YouTube
Just like anyone selling real estate will go out of their way to clean their property and make it presentable for viewers beforehand, the same strategy can apply when trying to get the most out of your car’s resale value to prospective buyers.
Those interested in buying a car and the expenses involved with the purchase want to see that parting with their money is justified, whether they are viewing the car in person, having a third party inspect it on their behalf, or using an auction platform to facilitate their potential purchase remotely. It is, therefore, worthwhile to give the car you are selling a full valet/cleanse that makes its exterior and interior presentable, and show the car in its best possible state for viewers.
Addressing even the most minor of issues, such as a light bulb that has gone out, a faulty window or power seat motor, or a warning light appearing on the dashboard, can all go a long way to instill buyer confidence during their inspection, as well as convincing them to be on board with what you feel is your car’s resale value (while eliminating nitpickers who attempt to lowball). Even taking the time and small investment to perform small remedies like paint less dent removal or cleaning the wheels of brake dust can pay for themselves in the long run when attempting to sell.
“The first step is to ask whether your car is ready for sale. What will buyers look for / be put off by? Small issues can offer buyers the opportunity to knock you down. It’s a good idea to address these first to save the hassle down the line, and to show buyers that you care about the car you’re selling. If the car is due for a service or its annual MOT test, it’s usually worth the cost to get them done prior to listing (for sale).”
Carry Out Regular Maintenance
With Comprehensive Documentation To Back It Up
Mechanics carrying out Mercedes-Benz ServiceMercedes-Benz
No matter what car you are attempting to sell, ensuring it is maintained to its prescribed maintenance schedule, or some form of regular upkeep, with relevant documentation to back it up, is a proven way of how to increase the resale value of a car.
Any buyer will want some peace of mind that previous owners have treated the car they are interested in with care and zero neglect, with no serious mechanical concerns they have to worry about. This is especially true of some modern classic cars, as well as certain models that have attracted a reputation in media coverage or owners’ groups for mechanical issues specific to them. This can range from fixes that should have been added as part of manufacturer-issued recalls to certain powertrain components that are known to fail, like certain engines or transmissions. High-value, luxury models should ideally come with a full service history that confirms routine care by specialist workshops, while the presence of detailed service records for collectible, classic cars can play a big role in whether they are worth their true market resale value or not even half of the average price range.
“In addition to photos, the next biggest thing you can do is to gather up all of the reciepts and documentation you have on the car to show you’ve taken care of it. For the best effect, get a service done right before listing it, and ask the shop to do a full inspection of the car, which serves as a clean bill of health, much like a PPI. Good photos + recent service history takes a ton of guesswork out of the equation, and both of these will pay for itself.”
– Nick Roshon, NicksCarBlog
The more detailed picture that the service record can illustrate how much care has been put in, the more comfortable a buyer will likely be when it comes to deciding if your car is worth purchasing. If applicable (depending on state and country), ensuring the latest road worthiness test or inspection has been completed can also add a slight amount to your car’s sale value.
