Ford Motor is recalling nearly 1.1 million Ford and Lincoln vehicles because of a software problem that could cause the rearview camera image to malfunction when the car is in reverse, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.
“A frozen rear-view camera display image while in reverse can create a false representation of where the vehicle is relative to its surroundings, increasing the risk of a crash,” the NHTSA stated in a May 9 report.
Ford is not aware of any injuries related to the software error. The automaker has received one report of a minor crash resulting in property damage.
The recall affects 1,075,299 vehicles, including the following Ford and Lincoln models:
To fix the problem, a vehicle’s so-called accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will eventually be available to be updated for free either in person at a Ford/Lincoln dealership, or remotely through an over-the-air update, according to Ford.
Notification letters are expected to be mailed to owners of affected vehicles on June 16 to alert them of the rearview camera problem. A second letter will be sent once the remedy is available sometime between July and September, recall documents state.
Affected vehicle owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332; Ford’s number for this recall is 25S49.
Owners can also contact NHTSA’s vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov. NHTSA’s number for the recall is 25V-315.
The camera issue is the latest of several recalls this year by the Detroit automaker. Most recently, Ford recalled roughly 274,000 Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition vehicles because of a poorly installed front brake line that could lead to reduced brake function, NHTSA said in another recall dated May 9.
In November 2024, NHTSA fined Ford $165 million for moving too slowly to recall vehicles with faulty rearview cameras and for failing to give the agency complete information as required by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
Utes and pick-up trucks form one of the most popular new vehicle segments in Australia, and it’s also one of the busiest in terms of new models and technology development.
We’ve seen numerous new utes out of China in particular, and a lot of them are pushing the boundaries in terms of cabin refinement and tech. Plenty of hybrid and EV utes have already started arriving too, and more are on the horizon.
With that in mind, we’ve asked the CarExpert team which electrified ute they would buy if they were in the market.
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LDV (Maxus) eTerron 9
JAC Hunter PHEV
LDV eT60
Toyota Tundra
To make things interesting, we’ve thrown it open to all utes with any form of electric assistance, which makes everything from mild-hybrids to fully electric utes eligible for selection.
Some of these aren’t yet on sale in Australia, so the team was also invited to speculate on models they think will be winners.
Options include:
BYD Shark 6
Ford Ranger PHEV
GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid
GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV
JAC Hunter PHEV
LDV eT60
LDV eTerron 9
Toyota HiLux 48V
Toyota Tundra
Marton Pettendy: Ford Ranger PHEV
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) utes make a lot of sense in a country like Australia because they offer EV-dwarfing range to haul people and their cargo over long distances between fuel stops, and diesel-beating torque that makes them ideal for towing, off-roading and general driving duties of all types.
The Ranger PHEV may have a higher price, a smaller battery and therefore a shorter electric-only range than the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, but it also has the biggest engine with the most torque, the highest payload, and a 3500kg towing capacity to match its diesel siblings and the GWM.
Available in four variants to suit a wider range of buyers, it will also have the backing of 180 dealers nationwide, the engineering expertise of a 122-year-old automaker, and the unrivalled combination of design, technology, refinement, performance and capability that attracted more Aussies than any other new vehicle last year.
Interested in buying a Ford Ranger? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
The electric ute segment is essentially non-existent in Australia right now, with just the lame LDV eT60. I’m excited to drive the new LDV eTerron 9, however.
Then there are the hybrids. The Tundra looks great, but it’s not exactly a Prius when it comes to efficiency and I wouldn’t pick one over the other American pickups for the price Toyota is asking. The much cheaper GWM Cannon Alpha has a plush interior, but its ride quality is average at best.
The real centre of activity is the plug-in hybrid ute segment, and of the three either here now or coming within the next few months, I’ve driven just one: the BYD Shark 6.
Its interior puts most utes to shame, with slick tech, an attractive design and nice materials. The powertrain is also smooth and refined, with seamless shifts between petrol and electric power. But it still rides like a ute – a decent one, but a ute nonetheless – so don’t expect it to feel quite like an SUV as some have.
If you’re buying a ute, though, don’t you want maximum capability? For example, the 3500kg braked towing capacity and off-road capability of the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV?
But I come back to that point about unladen ride quality – no matter how much you use your ute, I doubt you always have something in the tray. These are often used as family vehicles, and they need to be comfy.
The regular Cannon Alpha isn’t exactly smooth, so I wonder how it fares with a big, heavy battery. The regular Ranger is the ride quality benchmark in its segment, but we haven’t driven one yet and these Chinese rivals significantly undercut it on price.
One of these three would likely be my pick, but I’ll need to drive them all to make up my mind.
James Wong: GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV
Having not yet driven the Ford, the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV – based on our drive of a pre-production prototype – is the best example yet of how to maintain a dual-cab’s desired capability with an electrified drivetrain.
With a huge battery offering heaps of EV range, the Alpha PHEV can realistically be driven as an EV for over 100 kilometres for regular commuting, while also offering 3.5t towing and a proper mechanical 4WD system to do typical ‘ute stuff’.
Even better, the GWM’s cabin is luxe and its PHEV system puts out plenty of power and torque to get this 2.8-tonne beast moving with surprising gusto.
It’ll be interesting to see if my mind changes as more options arrive in Australia over the coming months.
Interested in buying a GWM Cannon Alpha? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
Which of these has a stellar reputation – the kind of image and success greater than the brand it’s from, even enough to hold up that entire company for some years now?
Which has off-road credentials, safety tech, predictable servicing costs and a proper dealer network?
And which is a handsome, rugged yet practical ute – the PHEV seeing it lead its segment rival and the only other vehicle on this list I’d seriously consider, the Toyota HiLux.
Like the Toyota, it’s also less of a risk when it comes time to move it on, too, given it promises best-in-class dynamics with the 3500kg holy grail towing rating. Plug me into a Ford Ranger PHEV.
Interested in buying a Ford Ranger? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
I’ve been a staunch advocate for the BYD Shark 6 since it arrived in Australia, but over time it’s become abundantly clear that the lifestyle-oriented marine predator doesn’t do ute things as well as rivals.
And it’s not only old-school internal combustion engine (ICE) utes that have the wood over the Shark 6, as the new GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV represents a compelling alternative in the electrified space.
With a bigger battery, more torque, better towing capacity and superior EV range, the Cannon Alpha Plug-in Hybrid brings more capability on-road and offers a proper four-wheel drive system with front, rear and centre locking differentials for when the tarmac disappears.
The Cannon Alpha PHEV effectively blends traditional workhorse traits with the flexibility of plug-in hybrid power, and it’s not even that expensive – pricing starts from as little as $61,490 drive-away for the base Lux, while the flagship Ultra comes in at $67,990 drive-away. Buy either for a modern, well-rounded ute experience.
Interested in buying a GWM Cannon Alpha? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
I’m aware that saying I haven’t decided seems like a cop-out, but there’s actually a lot I want to consider before choosing one of these cars.
To get it out of the way, I wouldn’t go for a fully electric ute, because I don’t think it makes a lot of sense in Australia. The mild-hybrid and hybrid Toyotas are old and expensive respectively, so they’re off the cards for the time being too.
After having driven the Shark for a week earlier this year (review coming soon), I was impressed by its on-road composure and general upmarket presentation. It also presents well and has a mostly competent suite of driver assist tech, but its off-road shortcomings make it difficult to pin to the top of my wishlist.
By default, that gives the Cannon Alpha an edge with its standard inclusion of low-range gearing and locking differentials. It may still suffer from similar driver assist inconsistencies seen on other GWM products, which is why I’m cautiously confident about its success.
Then there’s the Ford Ranger PHEV, which has a lot to live up to. The Ranger is still the segment benchmark with diesel power, so Ford at least has a strong foundation to build upon when implementing PHEV tech.
It starts to look less appealing when you consider the price, and then the fact that its claimed EV-only range is half that of the BYD and GWM. Still, good interior tech and otherwise solid construction could make up for that.
At the end of the day, it’s really between the Cannon Alpha and the Ranger in my eyes. There should be a fair indication of what ute buyers prefer by the end of the year, once owners have had time to mull their vehicles over and after they’ve both been on sale for a few months.
We’re also due to drive the Ranger PHEV for the first time very soon, so time will tell.
Let us know which you’d pick in the comments below!
Ford Australia has announced a new limited edition ‘blackops’ version of its popular Ranger ute-based Everest off-roader, to help defend the large SUV sales crown it stole from the Toyota Prado for the first time last year.
Based on the second-rung-up Everest Trend 2.0L Bi-Turbo 4WD, the new Black Edition adds a range of blacked-out aesthetic upgrades for $68,990 before on-road costs – $1950 more than Trend’s price of $67,040 plus on-roads.
However, the Black Edition is being introduced with a drive-away price of $69,000, which is just $10 higher than its list price (excluding statutory on-road costs). That makes it significantly cheaper than the Trend on which it’s based.
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Exclusive extras include black roof rails, black side steps, black 18-inch alloy wheels with 255/65R18 all-terrain tyres, a black 18-inch spare alloy wheel, black front grille, black ‘EVEREST’ bonnet lettering, black ‘EVEREST’ interior door sill plates, black side mirrors and black door handles.
Limited to “an initial production run of 750 vehicles”, the Everest Black Edition is now available to order nationwide, ahead of first deliveries starting in July.
At $69k drive-away, the latest seven-seat 4×4 version of the Everest, which continues to be priced from $54,240 plus on-roads for the entry-level Ambiente 2.0L Bi-Turbo RWD, now brings to four the number of variants that undercut the Prado (from $72,500).
At that point the Everest admission price will increase by $5000 to $59,240 plus on-roads for the Ambiente 2.0L Bi-Turbo 4WD, while production of the latest limited edition Everest Wildtrak ended in April.
Ford is yet to advise whether it will offer another Everest Wilkdtrak limited edition, but says it has plenty of dealer stock available across the latest 2025.50MY Everest range, including the Ambiente, Trend, Sport, Tremor, Wildtrak and Platinum.
“Everest Black Edition is a bold response to the ever-evolving market – a fresh and distinctive take on one of Australia’s favourite 4WD SUVs,” said Ford Australia marketing director Ambrose Henderson.
“Packed with family-favourite features and full-time 4WD, Everest Black Edition builds on the proven strengths of the Everest, adding a distinctive blacked-out appearance that underscores the suite of interior and advanced driver-assist features that has made the Everest the pick of the segment.
“The Black Edition is the seventh variant of the Everest family – giving motorists more choice to suit their needs – and with a $69,000 drive-away price, it delivers outstanding value for Australians who demand more from their SUV.”
The Black Edition will only be available in three achromatic exterior colours, all of them for no extra cost: Aluminium Metallic prestige paint, Shadow Black prestige paint, and an exclusive new Alabaster White pearlescent paint.
However, three option packages are on offer, including a Premium Seat Pack ($1200), Towing Pack ($1950) and Touring Pack ($2900).
In addition to the standard leather-accented trim (not for the third row), the Premium Seat Pack brings heated and ventilated front seats, the driver’s with 10-way power adjustment and a memory function, and the passenger’s with eight-way power adjustment.
Naturally, the tow pack adds a tow bar and hitch, plus an integrated electric trailer brake controller and 12-pin wiring harness to take advantage of the Everest’s 3500kg towing capacity.
And the Touring Pack combines the towing hardware of the Towing Pack with a 360-degree camera and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which offers steering control for reversing trailers via a rotary dial.
The Black Edition is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine delivering 154kW of power and 500Nm of torque to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4×4 system with selectable 2H, 4A, 4H and 4L modes.
There’s a locking rear differential and selectable drive modes including Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts and Sand, plus an 800mm wading depth and 229mm of ground clearance.
Carryover safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control with stop/go, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, lane centring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic sign recognition, as well as a reversing camera and front and rear parking sensors.
Other standard features include a 12.0-inch touchscreen running Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system and featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, FordPass Connect embedded modem, and inbuilt satellite navigation with one year of connected navigation services included.
Other standard equipment includes an eight-speaker sound system, configurable 8.0-inch colour digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charger, five USB ports, three 12V outlets, a 240V/400W household power socket, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry/start, automatic LED headlights, automatic high-beam and zone lighting.
All Everests are backed by Ford Australia’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and 180-strong national dealer network.
After outselling the evergreen Prado in 2024, when Toyota was low on stock before the latest 250 Series arrived in November, the second-generation Everest (released in late 2022) also proved more popular last month when it attracted one more customer.
However it remains well behind the Prado this year, with 7220 sales to the end of April versus 10,674 for the Prado.
Neither Ford nor Toyota have yet offered end of financial year deals for the Everest or Prado.
Ford Motor is recalling 273,789 Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition vehicles because of a poorly installed front brake line that may lead to reduced brake function increasing the risk of crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in recall dated May 9.
Affected vehicles may have “a bent brake line” that could come into contact with the engine air cleaner outlet pipe, which is a hose used to transfer filtered air from the car’s air filter to it engine. As a result, the outlet pipe may become damaged, resulting in a brake fluid leak, causing the vehicle’s front brakes to stop working, recall documents state.
“A brake line leak may cause a longer-than-expected brake pedal travel and result in a reduction in the rate of deceleration. If there is a rapid loss of brake fluid or the brake fluid is completely depleted, this can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash,” the NHTSA states in its report.
Ford is not aware of any reports of any accidents or injuries as a result of the faulty brake line.
The recall affects the following models:
2022-2024 Lincoln Navigator
2022-2024 Ford Expedition
Assembly issue
The cause of the bent brake line stems from faulty assembly during the vehicles’ engine installation process at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant. An internal review of plant records conducted by the U.S. carmaker’s Critical Concern Review Group earlier this year, discovered that modifications to the engine installation process had been make by the Louisville plant in November in order to prevent damage to the brake line.
“Through this investigation, Ford’s CCRG discovered that Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant (KTP) had modified the radiator hose stowage process during engine decking. This modification was done to prevent the brake line from being bent and was made starting on Nov. 20, 2024 to ensure proper clearances were met,” the recall documents say.
The vehicles included in the recall were manufactured prior to the modification made at the plant.
Warning signs
In the event of a brake fluid leak, the driver may experience an increase in pedal travel, or the distance brake pedal moves when depressed.
“With continued driving, a leaking brake line will cause the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir to decrease,” the recall states. When that happens, a red brake warning indicator light will illuminate once the fluid level drops to a dangerously low level.
Remedy
To fix the problem, Ford dealers will inspect the front brake line and, if needed, replace the brake line or air cleaner outlet pipe, at no cost. Owner notification will be mailed May 26, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 25S47.
Consumer may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov. NHTSA’s number for the recall is 25V-314.
Slate Auto, an electric vehicle startup based out of Troy, Mich., has garnered the attention of high-profile investors like Amazon’s Jeff Bezos. But its product is far from flashy: a no-frills, two-seater pickup truck with a base price under $20,000. The vehicle doesn’t have a touch-screen display or stereo, standard features seen in new cars today. Still, potential customers seem to appreciate the affordable price and retro approach. Slate received over 100,000 reservations less than three weeks after unveiling its pickup truck in April, TechCrunch first reported.
“We are truly humbled by America’s response to Slate’s brand launch and the launch of our truck,” said Jeremy Snyder, Slate’s chief commercial officer, in a statement to TechCrunch. “We are excited for what the future holds.”
Investors have also taken notice of Slate’s unconventional approach. In addition to support from Bezos Expeditions, Jeff Bezos’s family office, the company has reportedly raised $700 million from backers including General Catalyst and TWG Global—the holding company led by billionaires Mark Walter and Thomas Tull.
Slate’s minimalist truck is designed as a “blank slate,” giving customers the freedom to customize it. Instead of traditional paint, the vehicle is made from gray molded polypropylene, but buyers can choose from a wide range of colored vinyl wraps. The standard battery offers a 150-mile range, with an option to upgrade to a 240-mile pack. Customers can also purchase more than four dozen add-on accessories—such as integrated speakers, seat covers and door cubbies—though pricing for these extras hasn’t been disclosed.
Slate’s base model is a compact truck, but the company plans to offer DIY kits that allow customers to transform the vehicle into different configurations. One kit converts the truck into a five-seat SUV, while another adds van-like cargo space to the pickup.
More than 100,000 people have already reserved a so-called “Slate Truck,” but that number doesn’t guarantee actual sales. Reservations required only a $50 deposit, which is fully refundable if buyers change their minds.
Still, with a starting price under $20,000, Slate’s vehicles are among the most affordable EVs on the market. They’re significantly cheaper than the nearly $30,000 Nissan Leaf or $28,000 Ford Maverick, and cost a fraction of luxury models like Tesla’s Cybertruck or Rivian’s R1T, which start above $70,000.
Slate’s retail price tag is actually in the mid-$20,000 range, but the vehicle is expected to qualify for a $7,500 federal EV tax credit. The company’s U.S.-based supply chain may also shield it from many of the Trump administration’s tariffs on imported cars. Production is slated to begin in late 2026 at a former printing plant in Warsaw, Ind., with a goal of manufacturing 150,000 trucks annually by 2027.
“The idea for Slate goes back to 2022 when several visionary thinkers asked: could we build a radically affordable and simple car?” said Chris Barman, Slate’s CEO, during the automaker’s truck unveiling last month. “Then we took it a step further. Could we build it here in America?”
The Ford Ranger is set to ditch its SYNC4 infotainment system under a revised tech strategy which will also enable the popular ute to run its BlueCruise autonomous driving system.
SYNC4 will be used in the upcoming Ford Ranger PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) as well as the recently revealed 2026 Ranger Super Duty – but these may be the final Rangers with the system.
While timing of SYNC4’s departure is yet to be revealed, a report from FordAuthority pointed to comments from Ford digital design boss, Doug Field, who said the SYNC4 system will make way for a version of Ford Digital Experience (FDE) – with the Toyota HiLux-rivalling Ranger top of the queue.
Also set to move to FDE are the F-150 and Mustang, with the latter set to join the Ranger in getting BlueCruise for the first time.
FDE was developed in collaboration with Google, with the roll-out beginning in the US on the 2025 Ford Explorer large SUV – and several models from Ford’s luxury brand Lincoln – not sold in Australia.
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2025 Ford Explorer with Ford Digital Experience
“Software can sit in several types of electrical layouts, and in our plan, we’ll innovate within a layout that draws from our existing platform instead of building a whole new one,” said Mr Field.
“For example, we will be able to take our very successful Ford and Lincoln Digital Experience that we’ve launched in the Ford Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus and Navigator to many more products like Mustang, Bronco, Ranger, and F-150.”
FDE brings a more smartphone-like experience centred around personalisation for vehicle owners, where preferred apps are displayed front-and-centre on the screen.
The ability to fit FDE in existing vehicles comes after Ford dropped development of its FNV4 (fully networked vehicle) software.
Instead, it will update existing platforms, enabling the use of its BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving system, while developing a separate electrical architecture for its upcoming low-cost electric vehicle (EV) platform.
BlueCruise, a Level 2 autonomous driving feature, allows for hands-free driving across over 209,000km of highways in North America.
As of July 2024, it can also be used across 132,000km of highways in Europe, as Ford continues to receive regulatory approval for the feature in different markets. It currently isn’t supported in Australia.
The Ranger’s move to what Ford is calling the FNV3.X electrical architecture may see SYNC4 replaced in the Ranger in a model year update ahead of a new model on a fresh platform, with the current underpinnings having been introduced in 2011.
The next-generation Ranger is expected in 2028 after the Ford F-150 development was delayed 12 months, with the two vehicles previously planned to share the same platform for the first time.
It is not clear whether the planned shared platform strategy – which was intended to reduce the number of platforms globally to streamline manufacturing costs – will go ahead.
SYNC4 was announced in 2019 and brought capabilities including over-the-air (OTA) updates including cloud-based navigation and connected services.
The Ford Ranger was the first Ford Australia vehicle to gain the FordPass smartphone app when it was launched locally in 2020.
Driving range has long been a key consideration for new car buyers chasing their first (or next) electric vehicle (EV) – after all, nobody wants to suffer from ‘range anxiety’.
The good news is that modern EVs can cover more ground than ever before, and the local battery-electric vehicle market now includes several new models with range claims in excess of 600km from a single charge.
That applies to both high-end and mainstream models, meaning that you don’t have to be rich to enjoy the benefits of recent technical advancements.
For example, the Tesla Model 3 sedan is still among the EVs with the longest range in Australia, as is its Swedish rival – the Polestar 2 fastback sedan.
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Hyundai Ioniq 6
Polestar 3
Porsche Taycan
Tesla Model 3
But neither sits at the top of the tree. Read on to find out which EVs top the range rankings in 2025.
Our range measurements are all based on the WLTP testing cycle, which is the most universal and realistic standard for EV range and allows for a direct comparison between each of the 10 cars listed below.
We’ve omitted claimed energy consumption, as the specifications published by each brand are often based on varying test cycles like the less-accurate NEDC yardstick, or the more lenient CLTC standard.
Click on a model in the table below to jump directly to its information on the page, or continue scrolling for the full article.
Polestar 3 Long Range Single Motor
The introduction of a more affordable, single-motor variant has seen the Polestar 3 large SUV jump to the top of the range rankings in Australia.
With 706km of claimed driving range, the Long Range Single Motor is well ahead of the chasing pack, and it’s cheaper than most of the cars on this list at $118,420 before on-road costs.
You can also fork out for either of two more powerful dual-motor versions, although both offer significantly less range.
By contrast, the Long Range Single Motor boasts industry-leading endurance at the cost of grunt – it produces just 220kW of grunt and completes the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.8 seconds (claimed).
When you do finally run out of juice, the base Polestar 3 accepts DC fast-charging at up to 250kW (if you can find it), which is claimed to give its battery a 10-80 per cent charge in around half an hour.
Specifications
Polestar 3 Long Range Single Motor
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
706km
Battery capacity
107kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion battery with nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry
Max. DC charge rate
250kW
Interested in buying a Polestar 3? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
It’s a one-two for Polestar, with the Swedish brand also boasting the EV with the second longest range in Australia.
The Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor has a smaller battery than its bigger brother, but it still offers a claimed 659km of range – more than direct rivals including the Model 3.
It’s a lot cheaper than the Polestar 3 too, at $66,400 before on-road costs.
Energy may be sourced from a downsized 82kWh battery, but the Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor is powered by the same single, rear-mounted electric motor producing up to 220kW and 490Nm.
At just over two tonnes, the Polestar 2 is far lighter than the 3, contributing to a quicker claimed 0-100km/h sprint time (6.2 seconds) and superior energy efficiency (14.9-15.8kWh/100km).
Specifications
Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
659km
Battery capacity
82kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion
Max. DC charge rate
205kW
Interested in buying a Polestar 2? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
The first electric Mercedes-Maybach is the most expensive EV ever sold by Mercedes-Benz in Australia, and it comes with a claimed driving range of 635km.
Priced from $328,607 before on-road costs, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 is an ultra-premium SUV to rival the likes of the Bentley Bentayga and Range Rover.
However, you won’t find an exotic combustion powertrain under the bonnet. Instead, the EQS 680 is powered by dual electric motors producing 484kW and 950Nm.
At its maximum charging capacity, the EQS 680 is claimed to recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in 31 minutes, while AC charging is capped at 22kW.
Standard equipment includes air suspension, leather upholstery, dual 11.6-inch rear passenger screens, a 15-speaker Burmeister sound system, and wireless headsets.
Specifications
Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
635km
Battery capacity
107.8kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion
Max. DC charge rate
200kW
Interested in buying a Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
There’s more to the Porsche Taycan than blistering performance, as it can also cover a lot of ground between charges.
Turbo
The mid-spec Taycan 4S is the pick of the lineup from a range standpoint, offering a claimed 635km. It goes pretty well too, with the ability to sprint from 0-100km/h in a claimed 3.7 seconds, courtesy of dual electric motors producing 340kW and 710Nm.
You’ll pay for the privilege – the Taycan 4S costs $216,300 before on-road costs – but few EVs blend performance and efficiency like Porsche’s slick sports sedan.
By upgrading from the entry variant, Taycan 4S buyers also gain access to heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and a 14-speaker sound system, among other extra kit.
All variants in the range are compatible with DC fast-charging up to 320kW, enabling a 10 to 80 per cent charge time of less than 20 minutes (claimed).
Specifications
Porsche Taycan 4S
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
635km
Battery capacity
97kWh (net)
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion
Max. DC charge rate
320kW
Interested in buying a Porsche Taycan? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
Tesla may have pioneered the mass-market EV, but rivals have caught up from a driving range standpoint.
The latest iteration of the Model 3 offers 629km of range in Long Range trim, less than the Polestar 2 it competes against.
However, the Tesla is cheaper at $64,900 before on-roads, and the base grade starts at just $54,900 plus on-roads.
The Long Range also packs more performance than its Swedish rival, with power sourced from dual electric motors that output 366kW, which is enough for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.4 seconds.
DC charging speed is capped at 250kW, enough to replenish the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in a claimed 27 minutes.
Specifications
Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
629km
Battery capacity
79kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion battery with nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry
Max. DC charge rate
170kW
Interested in buying a Tesla Model 3? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
They’re a rare sight on Australian roads, but the BMW i7 luxury limousine remains one of the range champions in the EV space.
This big, bulky electric sedan is capable of travelling 624km between charges, courtesy of a 105.7kWh lithium-ion battery.
The battery feeds a pair of motors producing a combined 400kW and 745Nm, propelling the base i7 from 0-100km/h in a claimed 4.7 seconds.
BMW says the i7 xDrive60 can charge from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 34 minutes (claimed).
Expect to part with at least $233,787 before on-road costs to put one on your driveway, extending up to $260,361 plus on-roads for the performance-focused i7 M70 xDrive.
Specifications
BMW i7 xDrive60
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
624km
Battery capacity
105.7kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion
Max. DC charge rate
195kW
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The Polestar 4 has less endurance than its stablemates, but still comfortably qualifies for this top 10 list with 620km of driving range.
Priced from $78,500 plus on-road costs, the Polestar 4 is available in single-motor and more expensive dual-motor guises, the latter of which starts from $88,350 plus on-road costs.
Polestar quotes outputs of 200kW and 343Nm for the Single Motor variant, which climbs to 400kW and 686Nm for the dual-motor.
The former is claimed to accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds, and can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes using a 200kW DC charger.
The mid-size electric SUV’s standout feature is its rear window, or rather lack thereof.
Specifications
Polestar 4 Long Range Single Motor
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
620km
Battery capacity
100kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion battery with nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry
Max. DC charge rate
200kW
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Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 sedan has been a regular fixture in Australia’s EV landscape for several years, and it remains a leader in the range stakes.
You’ll get a maximum of 614km between charges from the 77.4kWh lithium-ion battery, which is offered with a choice of 168kW/350Nm single-motor rear-wheel drive or 239kW/605Nm dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrains.
Hyundai claims 614km of range with the former and 519km with the latter. The company hasn’t detailed any mechanical changes for the upcoming facelift, although the range will be bolstered by a new high-performance N flagship and a sporty-looking N Line variant.
Pricing has not yet been announced, but the single-motor model is currently available for $71,500 before on-road costs.
All Ioniq 6 models use an 800V electrical architecture which, when connected to a public DC fast-charger, allows for a 10 to 80 per cent charge in 18 minutes (claimed).
Specifications
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Dynamiq Extended Range RWD
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
614km
Battery capacity
77.4kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion
Max. DC charge rate
350kW
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Lotus isn’t a brand you’d expect to see in a list of efficient vehicles, but the Eletre SUV bucks that trend with 600km of driving range.
The base Eletre and Eletre S offer the longest range, priced at $189,990 before on-road costs and $229,990 plus on-roads, respectively.
Both are underpinned by an 800V electrical architecture which allows for a 10 to 80 per cent charge in a claimed 20 minutes via a 350kW DC charger.
The Eletre pairs efficiency with performance – the long-range variants produce 450kW and 710Nm, giving them the ability to hit 100km/h from a standstill in a claimed 4.5 seconds.
All Lotus Eletre vehicles ride on multi-link front and rear suspension, featuring dual-chamber air springs and Continuous Damping Control.
Specifications
Lotus Eletre
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
600km
Battery capacity
112kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion
Max. DC charge rate
355kW
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The mid-spec Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium rounds out this list with a range of 600km.
Priced from $86,990 before on-road costs, the Premium features a 91kWh battery pack which feeds a 216kW/430Nm motor mounted on the rear axle.
The maximum AC charging speed for all models is 10.5kW, and the maximum DC charging speed is 150kW.
It takes a claimed 45 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 per cent using DC power for the Premium, longer than many of its rivals.
The updated MY25 Mustang Mach-E will arrive in Australia in the second half of 2025, bringing a tweaked rear electric motor which not only produces more torque but provides greater driving range.
Specifications
Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium
Max. claimed range (WLTP)
600km
Battery capacity
91kWh
Battery chemistry
Lithium-ion battery with nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry
Max. DC charge rate
150kW
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Ford Motor on Wednesday said it is raising prices on three models produced in Mexico, pointing to higher U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles as one reason for the adjustment.
The vehicles subject to the price increases of up to $2,000 per model include the Maverick, Bronco Sport and Mach-E, Ford said in a statement to CBS News.
The price hikes apply only to imported vehicles that were built after May 2. Those models are expected to arrive dealership lots in late June. Ford noted that cars that have already been shipped and that are currently on dealer lots are not subject to the price hikes.
Ford also said the price increases are a result of “our usual mid-year pricing actions combined with tariffs we are facing.”
Reuters was first to report Ford’s price changes.
The Trump administration in March imposed a 25% tariff on vehicles assembled abroad. Ford said it is shouldering some tariff-related costs and has not passed all of the burden onto its customers. The U.S. imports roughly 8 million vehicles annually.
Hit to earnings
Ford on Monday said it expects to take a $1.5 billion hit to its operating profit from tariffs this year. The Detroit automaker also withdrew its full-year financial guidance because of mounting economic uncertainty created by the Trump administration’s trade policies.
For car buyers, higher U.S. tariffs on foreign-made vehicles, along with retaliatory levies from other countries, could raise the price of cars by $2,000 to $12,000 depending on the model, according to Anderson Economic Group (AEG), a consulting and research firm.
Ford’s Mach-e, an electric version of the company’s Mustang that is made in Mexico, faces tariffs of more than $12,000, according to AEG. By contrast, the automaker’s Explorer SUV, which is manufactured in Illinois, faces levies of roughly $2,400.
Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.
