Everything that happened in EVs on 26 September 2026

Volkswagen’s ID. Unyx 09 combines Xpeng technology, a battery of more than 92 kWh and an 800-volt platform in a nearly five-meter electric sedan for China, with possible relevance for future European models. Meanwhile, Xiaomi is preparing a European EV launch for the second half of 2027, focusing particularly on Germany while it builds dealer, management and development capacity.

Saudi brand Ceer has revealed the radically styled Exobot Sedan and SUV, both using an 800-volt platform and offering as many as three motors with up to 634 kW, although charging performance appears less dramatic. The next BYD Han has also emerged in prototype form, showing roof-mounted LiDAR and promising a new Blade Battery, faster charging, and electric and plug-in hybrid variants.

Rivian’s European ambitions are moving downmarket. The company says the R3 will lead a family of smaller, more affordable European models, with the R4 and R5 expected much later on a new platform. Rivian also confirms that the R3 should cost substantially less than the R2, while the proposed R4 could eventually lower the entry price again.

Tesla says its Australian and New Zealand fleet data show 40% fewer collisions with FSD Supervised than with manual driving, a positive signal that still lacks independent comparative validation. A separate account of Tesla’s FSD safety figures notes that the system has covered more than 160 million kilometers in the two countries. Tesla is also bringing Grok Bot into its vehicles for voice-controlled emails, calendars and purchases, initially for SuperGrok Heavy subscribers.

Mercedes has two wins to report: the electric GLC was named German Premium Car of the Year 2027, despite key pricing, range and charging specifications remaining under wraps, while its new smart home-charging service offers a 10-cent bonus per intelligently charged kWh in Germany for customers with compatible tariffs and smart meters.

Battery and charging upgrades are also in focus elsewhere. The Nio Firefly is set to gain a 60 kWh battery and more than 400 km of range, alongside its unusual battery-swapping capability, though European pricing and availability remain unclear. Renault, meanwhile, is giving the 2027 Scenic E-Tech improved batteries and steadier charging curves, with the Long Range model taking 28 minutes to charge from 15% to 80%.

For owners looking to use an EV as a mobile power source, our guide to Xpeng vehicle-to-load operation explains adapter requirements, power limits and the precautions needed to run external 230-volt devices safely.

On the business front, Porsche says its plan to eliminate 5,000 jobs by 2035 remains unchanged, rejecting reports of another 4,000 cuts as weakness in China, US tariffs and the wider transition continue to pressure the company.

Finally, Waymo is rewarding San Francisco riders who combine robotaxis with public transit, offering a $2.85 credit for eligible trips paid with a Visa card, with expansion to other markets possible later.