Car news today: The 1000km battery breakthrough, 2026 Toyota RAV4 hybrid takes shape, and more

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Thanks for joining us on Monday, February 24th 2025. Mercedes-Benz shows off a battery-tech breakthrough, we’ve imagined the new 2026 Toyota RAV4 hybrid, Kia’s EV masterplan nears completion and Geely’s just-launched EX5 becomes price-leader in its segment.

Browse this issue:

• The 1000km battery breakthrough
• Australia’s new best-selling car previewed: 2026 Toyota RAV4 render
• Kia’s EV masterplan is almost complete with new electric van
• Tesla Model Y’s latest nightmare: Geely confirms seriously cheap EX5 pricing
• 2025 Geely EX5 reviewed

The 1000km battery breakthrough

• Mercedes-Benz and battery partner Factorial begin real-world tests of solid-state batteries in an EQS mule. Expect an EQXX concept-inspired development vehicle next to push technology further. 

• Long considered the silver bullet to electric vehicle ownership, the current prototype promises 25 per cent more range in the same size and weight battery, meaning 1000km of driving range will soon become reality. 

• Super fast charging and minimal fire risk are other benefits. Expect to see the tech eventually in  Benz’s upcoming passenger cars before 2030. 

Australia’s new best-selling car previewed: 2026 Toyota RAV4 render

• Exclusive Chasing Cars renders see the next-gen 2026 Toyota RAV4 take shape with Toyota’s latest ‘Hammerhead’ design language and blockier body. 

• Deliveries expected to start in 2026 on a modified version of current RAV4’s ‘GA-K’ platform with either improved 2.5-litre petrol-electric or potentially all-new down-sized turbo-petrol hybrid.

• Other upgrades should include revamped cabin technology, enhanced safety, refined ride and handling. With ute competition only growing, this is RAV4’s runway to take Australia’s best-selling new-car honours. 

Kia’s EV masterplan is almost complete with new electric van

• With everything from cut-price small EVs to seven-seat family trucksters and an electric ute either in the pipeline or on sale, Kia has now added the PV5, a battery-powered van and people mover to clip the VW ID.Buzz’s wings. 

• The PV5 will launch this year with AI-controlled dispatch software, 400-volt EV architecture, and many body configurations. Futuristic looks are guaranteed with more details due on the 27th.  

Tesla Model Y’s latest nightmare: Geely confirms seriously cheap EX5 pricing

• Australia’s newest Tesla Model Y rival had its official pricing leaked on industry site Redbook, with the brand confirming the sharp starting price for the 430km driving range electric mid-size SUV. 

• At $43,490 for entry-level Complete and $47,490 for top-spec EX5 Inspire (both before on-road costs), Geely’s pricing not only undercuts the Leapmotor C10, Deepal S07 and Tesla Model Y, but the new Chinese brand’s previous $49-55K guide. 

2025 Geely EX5 reviewed

• Deputy editor Curt Dupriez attended the launch of the Geely EX5, yet another new electric mid-size SUV from China with its eye on the Tesla Model Y. 

• Curt noted how many features are packed into the up-spec EX5 Inspire, along with a spacious second row, soft ride and interior presentation. 

• Less sparkling were the EX5’s many sub-menus, slow charging, weak road-holding and a clumsy user interface. 

• Now we know the price, it’s possible the niggles can be forgiven for the sheer amount of metal on offer. An extended drive in future will confirm things. 

Review: Read Here

The next issue of Car News Today will be published on Tuesday 25 February at 4.30pm Sydney time.