John Mahoney
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Articles by John Mahoney
Geely Galaxy TT super-sedan launched: Is this the Xiaomi SU7 rival that we’ll actually get in Australia?
The Geely Galaxy TT has arrived as a sleek, fast alternative to the fast-selling Xiaomi SU7 that could also provide a bargain-priced rival to the Porsche Taycan if it follows the inbound Galaxy Cruiser to Australia. Scheduled for launch as soon as next month in China, the new Geely Galaxy TT has courted controversy by mimicking the Xiaomi SU7’s styling in a bid to attract a more youthful audience. It’s no wonder.
Why Ferrari, BMW and Tesla are ditching copper wiring in the race to build lighter, cheaper EVs
Car-makers around the world are abandoning more than a century of copper wiring in favour of aluminium as they search for ways to build lighter, cheaper and more efficient electric vehicles. News agency Reuters reports Ferrari, BMW, Tesla and Stellantis are among the manufacturers either already using aluminium wiring or preparing to expand its use, with Chinese policy-makers also encouraging the switch.
MG reveals large and sporty electric concept: The Cyber is shaping as a cut-price Ferrari Purosangue and BMW X5 rival
A new concept for the inbound MG Cyber was unwrapped at last weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, paving the way for a flagship BMW X5 rival. Designed to supersede the current MG Cyberster as the car-maker’s new flagship model, the new MG Cyber might be rebadged and sold under SAIC’s premium IM Motors brand, although the design and development of the five-metre-long SUV is currently being undertaken by MG.
Bentley names its first EV: Torcal ‘urban SUV’ locked in for September debut targeted at controversial Ferrari Luce
Bentley has released an official teaser of its first all-electric car and announced that the inbound SUV will be named the Bentley Torcal when the drapes come off in London on September 23. Originally referred to as an ‘urban SUV’, the first teaser reveals a rear tailgate that shows off new wide horizontal LED tail-lights with diamond graphics flanking the firm’s trademark ‘B’ emblem.
MG GO! concept revealed: Previews MG2 EV hatch to rival BYD Atto 1 and Geely EX2
The baby MG2 all-electric hatchback has been previewed ahead of its 2027 debut, following the MG GO! concept’s unveiling at last weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. Previewing the production EV that will arrive in the second half of next year, the Chinese-owned British brand said the MG GO! was “more than a glimpse [at] a future new B-segment electric hatchback”, suggesting that the majority of the small five-door’s styling will carry over.
Fiat goes big on small affordable EVs: Line-up includes a spiritual replacement for the iconic Ape ute
Fiat has unwrapped two cute EVs based on its Fiat Topolino microcar sold in Europe, with one of them including a battery-powered replacement for the Piaggio Ape that first went on sale in 1948 and was only dropped in Europe over emissions regulations in 2024. Named the Fiat Tris, the new pint-sized battery-powered ute sticks with three wheels and has just been confirmed for the right-hand-drive UK market, not that any conversion has been needed for the centrally mounted seat.
Polestar 4 SUV outed: Does a rear window and a more practical shape deliver a genuine BMW iX3, Benz GLC and Volvo EX60 fighter?
The emerging all-electric premium mid-size SUV segment is set to boil over next year with the arrival of the Polestar 4 SUV wagon, a more practical five-door EV from the Sino-Swedish brand that will rival the BMW iX3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo EX60.
Unhinged: $2m production McMurtry Spéirling is F1 car-quick and can drive upside down
McMurtry Automotive has unleashed arguably history’s wildest EV, unwrapping the production Spéirling Pure, a track-focused zero-emission hypercar capable of giving F1 cars a run for their money. Priced in the UK at £995,000 (A$1.9m), McMurtry claims this production EV is as much as 95 per cent new next to the original prototypes which famously and jaw-droppingly smashed the Goodwood Festival of Speed hillclimb record.
Plug-in play: Meet the Lamborghini Urus SE Performante, the plug-in hybrid V8 with more power than the old Aventador V12
Lamborghini has unleashed its hottest, most powerful take yet on the Lamborghini Urus SUV that blends near-supercar performance with a zero-emission range of up to 60km. Featuring the Italian brand’s latest iteration of its plug-in hybrid powertrain, the new Lamborghini Urus SE Performante combines a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 and an eight-speed auto, with a large single e-motor and a 25.9kWh battery for an epic 596kW of power and 1000Nm of torque.
RECONsidered: Rugged Jeep Recon and fast Wagoneer S off the menu for Australia as brand looks to China for help to produce a Defender-rivalling hybrid and EV
Jeep has announced it will no longer launch right-hand drive versions of its flagship Jeep Recon 4×4 and luxurious Wagoneer S in markets like Australia. Originally, the Wagoneer S that was launched back in 2024, along with the more recent Recon that’s just gone on sale in North America, were both tipped to land locally later this year or in 2027, until Jeep pulled the plug on right-hand drive production.
2026 Jaecoo J7 SHS Track Review: Affordable plug-in hybrid SUV proves the powertrain is the star
If you’re shopping for an affordable plug-in hybrid SUV in Australia, chances are you’ll end up looking at a Chinese brand. Jaecoo is one of several marques under the rapidly expanding Chery umbrella, and its J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System) aims to combine bold styling, generous equipment and a genuinely useful electric driving range with an aggressive price tag.
Electric Porsche 911 will not happen, says brand’s boss, as German sports car-maker dials back EV aspirations
Porsche’s chief executive has once again ruled out a battery-powered version of its flagship coupe and cabriolet, but admitted the continued rollout of electrified powertrains would be crucial to the survival of the 911. “There will be no fully electric 911,” said Michael Leiters at the car-maker’s annual general meeting, with the Porsche boss confirming the T-Hybrid technology first introduced last year in the 911 GTS would remain central to the model’s future.
Nissan Qashqai EV axed before launch: Japanese giant focuses on slashing costs as it fights for its future
Nissan’s EV strategy has suffered another blow following news that the all-electric Nissan Qashqai, which was due to make its debut this year, is no longer happening. Announced in 2023 as part of the Japanese brand’s £3 billion (A$5.7 billion) investment in its Sunderland plant and wider European operations, plans to launch a zero-emission version of its best-selling small SUV were shelved early last year, according to Reuters.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz Good-Night Pack: This is the official camper conversion the all-electric Kombi always deserved
Four years after it was originally launched, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz is finally available with a Good-Night Pack that turns the all-electric people mover into a camper. On sale now in Germany as an accessory that is expected to be rolled out to other markets soon, the new Good-Night Pack introduces a range of hardware and software upgrades designed to make the ID. Buzz better suited to overnight stays.
Multi-talented new SUV confirmed
Multi-talented new SUV confirmed BMW believes there's no such thing as too much choice with its all-new fifth-generation BMW X5. Why else would it go ahead and develop no less than five different powertrains that include a mild-hybrid petrol and diesel, plug-in hybrid, all-electric and, from 2028, a hydrogen fuel-cell?
2027 BMW X5 is a multi-talented SUV that will have petrol, diesel, hybrid, electric and hydrogen power options
BMW believes there's no such thing as too much choice with its all-new fifth-generation BMW X5. Why else would it go ahead and develop no less than five different powertrains that include a mild-hybrid petrol and diesel, plug-in hybrid, all-electric and, from 2028, a hydrogen fuel-cell? On sale in Australia late this year, the new BMW X5 is the third member of the German brand's Neue Klasse family of next-generation vehicles, lining up alongside the mid-size iX3 and more recently unveiled i3.
Production Slate ute and SUV revealed: All-electric line-up could go on-sale in Australia for $35,000
Jeff Bezos-backed Slate Auto has revealed the production version of its all-electric pick-up ahead of first US deliveries later this year. Already revealed as a prototype last year, the new battery-powered ute has been developed to disrupt the huge pick-up market with an affordable EV that blends ultra-low pricing with exceptionally low running costs. A small, rugged SUV is also available, with both models sharing a single 134kW and 264Nm electric motor driving the rear wheels.
Luxe SUV to get cheaper, faster
Luxe SUV to get cheaper, faster Audi has confirmed that it is working on cheaper and faster versions of its recently facelifted 2026 Audi Q4 e-tron, with new additions primed to arrive on sale within 12 months. According to Audi product planner Herman Verbeek, speaking to Carsguide, the upgraded all-electric compact SUV will be continually improved from its introduction in Australia late this year as part of plans to extend the model's lifespan into 2030.
Big issue remains as 2027 Audi Q4 e-tron gets faster and cheaper to be more competitive against Mercedes-Benz EQA and BMW iX1
Audi has confirmed that it is working on cheaper and faster versions of its recently facelifted 2026 Audi Q4 e-tron, with new additions primed to arrive on sale within 12 months. According to Audi product planner Herman Verbeek, speaking to Carsguide, the upgraded all-electric compact SUV will be continually improved from its introduction in Australia late this year as part of plans to extend the model's lifespan into 2030.
Skoda Peaq EV unveiled: Seven-seater lands with up to 647km range to challenge the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9 and even Volvo EX90
The 2026 Skoda Peaq has been unveiled, with the flagship three-row SUV introduced to rival other all-electric seven-seaters like the Kia EV9 and the Hyundai Ioniq 9.
Renault Megane E-Tech updated: Overhauled French compact EV headed our way in 2027
The upgraded all-electric Renault Megane E-Tech has gone under the knife to freshen up its act and to help the small crossover challenge the likes of the upgraded BYD Atto 3, Kia EV4 and the inbound Hyundai Ioniq 3. Confirmed to arrive in Australia in the first half of 2027, the Renault Megane E-Tech bags a sportier look that has already been previewed by the Austral and Rafale SUVs sold in Europe, with the high-riding hatch featuring an almost entirely redesigned front end.
Can you believe this? An oil company says its built a better EV that slashes recharging times
Fuel giant Shell has unwrapped an electric car concept that introduces pioneering EV technology that could dramatically boost efficiency while slashing charging times to almost the amount of time it takes to fill a combustion-powered car with fuel. Named the Triple 10 Challenge concept, Shell says its new EV takes just 10 minutes for a 10 to 80 per cent battery refill while offering unmatched efficiency of 10kWh/100km, plus a life-cycle CO2 footprint of 10 tonnes.
BYD Denza Z sports car debuts: Preposterously powerful and fast coupe and convertible on the way
BYD has confirmed the production version of its Porsche-targeting Denza Z electric sports car will make its global debut at this week’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, with the Chinese brand promising up to 1179kW and a top speed of 350km/h. The Denza Z Coupe will be unveiled alongside an even more extreme Denza Z Racing variant, headlining an eight-model showcase across the BYD, Denza and Yangwang brands at the famous British event.
Proof annoying car feature is finally gone
Proof annoying car feature is finally gone The latest all-new third-generation Audi Q7 large SUV underwent a dramatic redesign ahead of its official launch earlier this month. Speaking to Carsguide, a source working closely with the German car-maker confirmed that the Q7 was originally set to adopt wing grip door releases in place of conventional door handles, but that decision was reversed at the very last minute over safety concerns.
Proper door handles are back: Audi ditches hidden door handles in the new 2027 Audi Q7 SUV following Chinese ban, with BYD, Tesla and more expected to follow
The latest all-new third-generation Audi Q7 large SUV underwent a dramatic redesign ahead of its official launch earlier this month. Speaking to Carsguide, a source working closely with the German car-maker confirmed that the Q7 was originally set to adopt wing grip door releases in place of conventional door handles, but that decision was reversed at the very last minute over safety concerns.
Audi Q4 e-tron 2027 review: International first drive
Quiet and refined to drive Rivals are much quicker to charge A top-seller in France, Germany and in the UK, Audi Q4 e-tron volumes have never quite made an impact Down Under. It's not exactly hard to work out why. First introduced back in 2021 in Europe, Audi Australia waited until 2024 before it rolled the Q4 e-tron SUV and swoopier Sportback variant out locally.
BMW iX3 EV rival gets big improvements
BMW iX3 EV rival gets big improvements Likes Still looks great Classy new cabin Quiet and refined to drive Dislikes Needs a price cut Rivals are much quicker to charge Average driving range A top-seller in France, Germany and in the UK, Audi Q4 e-tron volumes have never quite made an impact Down Under. It's not exactly hard to work out why. First introduced back in 2021 in Europe, Audi Australia waited until 2024 before it rolled the Q4 e-tron SUV and swoopier Sportback variant out locally.
Porsche Taycan overhauled: Trailblazing EV has now added a driving feature Porsche previously rejected
Despite initially being sceptical about them, Porsche has upgraded the Taycan with Hyundai Ioniq 5 N-style virtual gearshifts and a special body kit from German race team Manthey. Other changes introduced as part of the light refresh include a mildly updated infotainment system, an AI-powered onboard assistant and the addition of low rolling-resistance tyres that increase driving range by up to 20km.
Massive changes for Geely EX5: Power hike, rear-wheel drive, active aero. Look out Tesla and BYD!
A significantly upgraded Geely EX5 has been revealed in China in a mandatory MIIT (Ministry of Industry and Information Technology) filing and is hotly tipped to preview a facelifted version of the Chinese brand’s small SUV sold in Australia. Overhauling the Geely EX5 that was only introduced globally in 2024 and launched in Australia in April last year, the headline changes are both a cosmetic makeover and the switch to a more powerful 245kW rear-mounted motor.
Folgore to the fore: Electric Maserati GranTurismo, GranCabrio and Grecale add range, revise styling and get an interior makeover
The all-electric Maserati GranTurismo coupe, GranCabrio roadster and Grecale mid-size SUV have all gone under the knife, gaining a fresh look.. Now looking more aligned with the Maserati MCPura supercar, the Folgore trio’s tweaked bumpers are claimed to better manage airflow and even improve downforce on the GranTurismo and GranCabrio when combined with a central splitter.
Look out Denza B5, Toyota Prado and Ford Everest! Geely Galaxy Cruiser 700 is launching with an 830kW tri-motor plug-in powertrain
Fresh details of the inbound Geely Galaxy Cruiser 700 SUV have surfaced ahead of its launch later this year, revealing it will come with an incredible 830kW triple-motor plug-in hybrid powertrain. Built to battle the Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Series Prado, Ford Everest and Land Rover Defender as well as other hybrid SUVs like the Denza B5, the all-new Geely Galaxy Cruiser 700 is the most rugged creation yet from the Geely brand and, to prove it, it has been teased tackling tall sand dunes.
Shark hunter: Chery Stockman is the new name for the super-efficient plug-in hybrid diesel ute designed to overtake the BYD Shark 6 and Ford Ranger PHEV
Chinese car-making giant Chery has named its first-ever ute for the Aussie market the Stockman after holding a competition to help decide on a badge for the all-new dual-cab 4×4 pick-up due to arrive later this year. Developed under the KP31 codename, Chery said the more than 20,000 submissions from Australians included suggestions such as Orca, Terra, Outride, Ridgeback, Ironbark, Longreach and Mate for its BYD Shark 6 rival.
Whoops! Lucid Cosmos SUV accidentally unveiled in patent drawings. Tesla Model Y fighter looking good for Australia
Luxury US EV maker Lucid has inadvertently previewed its inbound Lucid Cosmos ahead of its debut later this year, after submitting blueprints of the mid-size all-electric SUV for patenting. Posting multiple line drawings to the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), the patent images clearly show how the brand’s first-ever right-hand drive vehicle is shaping up.
Forthing Taikon 5 EV and PHEV pricing for Australia confirmed: The Jaecoo J5 has competition!
Forthing has confirmed pricing for its first Australian model, the Taikon 5, with the new Chinese brand undercutting many established rivals as it prepares to launch locally later this month. The Ateco-backed brand’s four-model Taikon 5 range will start from $36,990 drive-away for the range-extender hybrid Luxury, rising to $42,490 drive-away for the flagship battery-electric Exclusive.
The most luxurious, expensive BYD ever?: Great Han arrives to challenge Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series with long EV range and PHEV option
BYD has expanded its flagship Dynasty family of cars to include the all-new BYD Great Han, a full-size sedan that has been built to rival luxury limos from Europe, such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S-Class. Available with either a battery-electric or plug-in hybrid powertrain, the range-topping EV blends dual motors, 570kW and a large battery that provides 880km of range on the Chinese CLTC test cycle.
Is this baby EV MG’s next big thing? 2027 MG2 teased as new rival for BYD Atto 1, Geely EX2 and Hyundai Inster
An all-new MG EV has been locked in for an unveil at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next month that is tipped to preview a small entry MG hatch that will be on sale next year. Helping build anticipation for the firm’s new baby EV that’s expected to be dubbed MG2, MG has released two pictures of the car it plans to unwrap on the world’s most famous hill climb. The first teaser pic reveals the MG2 will feature a snub nose that includes a pair of oval lamps with ‘b’-shaped LED graphics.
Should Australia be getting this? New BYD Dolphin G plug-in with 1040km range detailed for Europe
The BYD Dolphin G has been detailed for European buyers, revealing the Chinese brand’s small plug-in hybrid hatchback will come with an impressive 105km EV range and low pricing. The bad news is it has already been ruled out for Australia.
BMW M3 EV revealed! Stunning wide-hipped concept previews 750kW production Neue Klasse electric weapon
Ahead of its reveal later this year, BMW has released one final concept for its next-generation M3 at the Le Mans 24 Hours, with the M Concept Neue Klasse tipped to be as close to the real thing as you can get. Based heavily on the all-new i3 sedan, the inbound 2027 BMW M3 will be available with both an updated version of the current car’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine and a wild quad-motor EV powertrain that will produce more than 750kW of power.
First details of next Ford Puma EV revealed: Compact electric SUV is gonna be a Renault 4 under the skin
The second-generation Ford Puma Gen-E EV will be the second vehicle developed under the recently announced joint venture with Renault, with the all-electric SUV built on the same architecture as the Renault 4 sold in Europe. Set to launch in 2028 alongside the Renault 5-based Fiesta hatch, the next Puma Gen-E will measure around 4.2m long, making it a rival for vehicles such as the Kia EV3 and BYD Atto 3.
Has solid state been surpassed already? Lithium-air could be the next big thing in EV batteries … how does a 1600km range sound?
Battery mahufacturing giant CATL has revealed more details about the pioneering lithium-air battery technology it is developing, which offers an energy density almost 50 times that of the most powerful lithium-ion batteries and could give even small cars a range of more than 1600km.
Benz announces more GLC EV variants: BMW iX3 and Volvo EX60 have a fight on their hands
More affordable variants of the all-electric Mercedes-Benz GLC have been revealed ahead of the mid-size SUV’s Australian debut in the fourth quarter of 2026 (October to December). That means the all-new Benz SUV will better be able to fight prestife rivals such as the BMW iX3 and Volvo EX60, which are also going to be offered in multiple variants.
Mitsubishi reveals shock new EV! Eclipse name returns on SUV developed with Nissan
The Mitsubishi Eclipse nameplate has been revived once again, this time as a small all-electric SUV created chiefly for the North American market, but which could also be exported to other markets, including Australia. If the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback EV looks familiar, it’s because it is almost identical to the current third-generation Nissan Leaf EV SUV released in 2025.
All change at Lexus! Toyota’s luxury brand has developed a new plan for its EV future
Lexus has pulled the plug on the production version of the 2023 Lexus LF-ZC concept (pictured above) that it was readying to do battle with the inbound BMW i3 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric. According to Japanese media, Lexus’ cancellation of its mid-size premium sedan comes in the wake of the Toyota brand’s wider strategy to focus its resources elsewhere following the slowdown of electric vehicle sales in key markets such as North America.
High Roller: Classy Ferrari Luce-rivalling Rolls-Royce Spectre Series II gains more power, range and luxury stuff
Four years after it was first introduced, the Rolls-Royce Spectre has been overhauled and freshened up in a bid to ensure the ultra-luxurious two-door has what it takes to stay relevant against new opposition like the Ferrari Luce. Far more than a gentle facelift, the new Rolls-Royce Spectre Series II comes with a power-up, 18 per cent more range, faster charging speeds and more ways to personalise the large battery-powered coupe than ever.
Hot Cupra Tindaya EV locked in: Spanish brand eyes up all-electric BMW iX3 and Mercedes GLC with all-new flagship mid-size SUV
Cupra has given the go-ahead to build its most ambitious vehicle yet, based on last year’s wild Cupra Tindaya concept. According to Autocar, work is already underway to create a production version of the 2025 Munich motor show concept that stunned with its sharp, rakish and futuristic design. Built to sit above the current Tavascan and Terramar, it was originally thought the 4720mm-long Tindaya would be a replacement for the Formentor.
Zia Ahmad’s OAM honours a lifetime of community journalism
This week Zia Ahmad – a regular contributor to P&I – became the first Muslim to receive the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to journalism – and the second member of his family to receive the nation’s highest civilian honour. Two generations. Two OAMs. One remarkable family.
CATL accelerates sodium-ion battery development, announces new battery with 600km range will enter production this year
The world’s largest battery producer, CATL, has announced it is pushing ahead with plans to mass-produce within 2026 a sodium-ion battery capable of delivering a driving range of up to 600km. According to Wu Kai (pictured top), chief scientist at CATL, previous manufacturing bottlenecks have eased and mass production can now begin, with the sodium-ion batteries destined for passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, battery-swapping networks, the national grid and stationary energy storage.
Zia Ahmad’s OAM honours a lifetime of community journalism
This week Zia Ahmad – a regular contributor to P&I – became the first Muslim to receive the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to journalism – and the second member of his family to receive the nation’s highest civilian honour. Two generations. Two OAMs. One remarkable family.
Large seven-seat 2026 Skoda Peaq previewed: Kia EV9, Hyundai IONIQ 9 and Volvo EX90 fighter will be revealed this month!
The all-electric 2026 Skoda Peaq three-row large SUV has been teased ahead of its official unveiling on June 23. Releasing design sketches of the incoming production car, Skoda has previewed a seven-seat EV that will rival the Kia EV9, Hyundai IONIQ 9 and Volvo EX90.
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