Lifestyle

Slate, a new American EV startup, has debuted its first model: a radically simplified, fully electric pickup starting at under $20,000 USD after incentives. Dubbed the Slate Truck, the vehicle is engineered for maximum affordability, personalization and everyday utility.The standard model features a 52.7-kWh battery with 150 miles of estimated range, rear-wheel drive and a 1,400-lb payload capacity. A larger 84.3-kWh battery extends range to 240 miles. Despite its minimalist design — think crank windows and steel wheels — the truck includes essential safety tech like Forward Collision Warning and up to eight airbags.What sets Slate apart is its modular approach. With over 100 accessories and a DIY SUV conversion kit, owners can easily transform the truck into a five-seat SUV with a rear se...

Porsche has unveiled the 911 Spirit 70, a limited-edition cabriolet that pays tribute to the bold style of the 1970s and early ’80s. Debuting at the Shanghai Auto Show, the model is limited to 1,500 units and builds on the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet with a hybrid-assisted 3.6L boxer engine producing 541 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque.Finished in a new Olive Neo paint with Bronzite accents and a black soft top, the car features retro touches like black silk-gloss racing stripes, a 1963-style Porsche crest and gold-plated badging. Inside, the cabin is trimmed in a modernized black and olive Pasha pattern — a nod to one of Porsche’s most iconic interiors — set against club leather in basalt black with contrast stitching.The fully digital instrument cluster mimics classic analog dials with green nu...

Mercedes-Benz will bring steer-by-wire technology to its production vehicles starting in 2026, marking a leap in vehicle control and interior flexibility. Unlike traditional systems, steer-by-wire eliminates the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels, replacing it with an electrical system that transmits steering input "by wire."The system enhances everyday driving with improved handling, greater agility in city settings and easier parking — no wheel re-gripping required. It also allows for a flatter steering wheel, providing a more spacious interior and clearer display visibility. The automaker notes future use cases might include immersive gaming while parked and a more relaxed driver position under conditionally automated driving.Notably, the technology us...

BRABUS has revealed its latest performance and styling package for the Mercedes-AMG E 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+, boosting the luxury plug-in hybrid to a staggering 700 hp and 625 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the PowerXtra B53-700 upgrade, the sedan or wagon rockets from 0–60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, despite its 2.3-ton weight.A plug-and-play control unit enhances engine mapping, raising the 3L turbocharged six-cylinder’s output to 537 hp, while the stock 120 kW (163 hp) electric motor remains untouched. Top speed is electronically capped at 173 mph. Visually, the E 53 receives bold BRABUS enhancements, including carbon aero parts, a rear diffuser with quad titanium/carbon tailpipes and custom fender accents. A set of 21-inch BRABUS "PLATINUM EDITION" alloy wheels and height-adjustable sport springs ...