Tesla has revealed a groundbreaking rare‑earth‑free electric motor that boosts power density and efficiency while sidestepping the volatile supply chain of neodymium magnets, marking a pivotal step toward more sustainable high‑performance EVs.
Tesla’s Rare‑Earth‑Free Motor Redefines Powertrain Design
The new motor, unveiled alongside the Cybercab concept, replaces traditional permanent‑magnet rotors with a novel copper‑wound architecture. Early bench tests indicate a 15‑20% increase in power‑to‑weight ratio and a 10% uplift in thermal efficiency, allowing smaller cooling systems and lighter overall vehicle mass. By eliminating rare‑earth materials, Tesla not only cuts material costs but also reduces geopolitical exposure, a move that could ripple across the entire EV supply chain.
Source: Electrek
BYD Prepares the “Great Seagull” to Bridge Its Hatchback Lineup
BYD is set to launch the Great Seagull, a new hatch positioned between the Dolphin and the current Seagull (marketed as Dolphin Surf). Priced at 69,900 yuan (≈ $10,000) in China, the model targets budget‑conscious buyers while offering a modest size increase and a slightly higher battery capacity, expected to deliver around 300 km of WLTP range. The Seagull family already ranked sixth globally in H1 2026 with 27,500 units sold, underscoring the market appetite for ultra‑affordable EVs.
Source: Electrek
Hyundai Opens European Orders for the Staria Electric Van
The Staria Electric, Hyundai’s nine‑passenger van, entered the European market with a starting price of €57,450 (≈ $66,500). Measuring 5,253 mm long, 1,997 mm wide and 1,990 mm tall, the vehicle offers ample interior volume and a payload capacity suited for shuttle and corporate transport. Powered by a 100 kWh lithium‑ion pack, the van delivers an estimated 350 km WLTP range and supports 150 kW DC fast charging, positioning it as a practical alternative to diesel‑run minibuses.
Source: Electrek
Uber Launches Britain’s First Autonomous Ride‑Hailing Service in London
In partnership with UK autonomous‑driving startup Wayve, Uber introduced an autonomous ride‑hailing option across London. Riders requesting UberX, Uber Electric, or Uber Comfort may be matched with a Mustang Mach‑E equipped with Wayve’s AI driver. Although a licensed safety driver remains in the seat, the service incurs no premium fee and operates on all city routes except airports, marking the first large‑scale deployment of autonomous EVs in the UK.
Source: Electrek
