TOYOTA GR GOING HYBRID, NEW ALFA ROMEO STELVIO SPIED, 500+ HP AMG CLA COMING + MORE! WEEKLY UPDATE

EV Channels Review

This weekly update covers several significant automotive news items. Key highlights include Toyota's GR division exploring hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains for its 2.0L turbo engine, potentially offering up to 400 horsepower, though development on the mid-engine GR concept (possibly an MR2 successor) is still in its early, 'pray to God' stages. Alfa Romeo's next-generation Stelvio has been spied, appearing longer and lower on the new STLA Large platform, with both gas and electric versions expected, debuting this year and going on sale in 2026. Mercedes-AMG is set to launch an all-electric CLA with over 500 horsepower using axial flux motors, while the A-Class is confirmed to be discontinued, leaving the CLA as the entry-level model. The 'baby G-Wagon' will reportedly receive its own dedicated platform for off-road capability. Cupra reaffirms its commitment to US sales by the end of the decade, planning to offer EVs, gas, and plug-in hybrids. BYD has unveiled a groundbreaking 1 MW charging platform capable of adding 250 miles of range in 5 minutes, significantly outpacing current non-Chinese EV charging speeds. Mazda is developing its own EV platform and hybrid system for global markets, with the first production model arriving in 2027, alongside a new Skyactiv-Z engine for hybrid applications debuting in the next-gen CX-5. Ford has teased an Explorer Tremor, likely replacing the Timberline trim. Finally, demand for the BMW M5 Touring has exceeded expectations, leading to increased production and bolstering hopes for future wagon availability in the US, potentially including an M3 Touring.