The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated its intent to propose new rules aimed at standardizing and simplifying how all vehicle doors are opened from the inside. This move seeks to prevent scenarios where occupants, particularly in emergency situations, struggle to exit a vehicle due to complex or unconventional door-opening mechanisms. While not exclusively targeting EVs, some newer electric vehicle designs have featured flush or unique door handle types that could be impacted.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has declined a petition to investigate Tesla's unconventional door handles. Instead of focusing on one automaker, the agency plans to develop new, broader safety regulations for vehicle door systems, potentially influencing future EV designs. This move aims to address potential safety concerns related to non-traditional door mechanisms across the automotive industry.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated it will develop new rules for vehicle door latch and lock systems. This move stems from a petition highlighting safety concerns with electronic door releases, particularly in emergency situations. The potential new standards could impact Tesla and other automakers using non-mechanical door handles across their vehicle lineups.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating new regulatory measures concerning vehicle door handles. This comes in response to multiple crash incidents where emergency responders faced difficulties opening doors, raising concerns about occupant safety and timely extrication.
Massachusetts is considering comprehensive legislation to categorize and regulate various micromobility devices, including electric bikes and scooters. This new framework could permit higher-speed electric motorbikes capable of reaching 30-40 mph, offering clearer guidelines for their use across the state.
Across the United States, school districts are increasingly facing a dilemma: how to balance the independence e-bikes offer students for daily commutes against growing safety concerns. The surge in e-bike popularity amongst youth has led to a rise in accidents and reckless riding, forcing administrators to consider restrictions even as these electric vehicles provide valuable transportation options.
Chrysler is recalling over 28,000 Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid vehicles due to a software problem that could lead to a sudden loss of drive power. This issue, which has been identified in certain 2017-2023 models, could increase the risk of a crash if the vehicle stalls unexpectedly.
New proposed legislation under consideration would require all new vehicles to incorporate ignition interlock devices, designed to prevent impaired driving. While the concept aims to enhance road safety, privacy concerns and the practical implementation for all drivers, not just those with prior offenses, are significant hurdles.
A new court document reveals that the Trump administration allegedly withheld billions of dollars in federal grants for critical EV infrastructure projects, including EV charging and battery manufacturing facilities, from states that did not vote for Donald Trump in the 2024 election. This action, if proven, represents direct political interference in the equitable distribution of funds meant to advance electric vehicle adoption and domestic manufacturing across the country.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is initiating efforts to establish new safety standards for vehicle doors. This move comes after several incidents, including some involving Tesla vehicles, where occupants were unable to exit the car after crashes due to various door-related issues. The agency aims to address these concerns to improve post-crash egress for all vehicle occupants.
The prospect of renewed trade hostilities under a potential Trump administration raises concerns about the affordability of electric vehicles in the U.S. New tariffs on imported goods, particularly from China, could significantly impact the prices of EVs and their components, leading to higher costs for American buyers. This economic ripple effect could impede wider EV adoption and make sustainable transportation less accessible for many households already facing financial pressures.
Following a recall of certain Tesla models over potential interior door release failures, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced it will develop new general regulations for interior door handles across all vehicles. This move aims to prevent occupants from being trapped inside cars during emergencies, a concern highlighted by the design of some Tesla door mechanisms. The new standards could impact future vehicle designs beyond Tesla.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has denied a petition to investigate alleged defects in the manual door releases of 2022 Tesla Model 3 vehicles. This decision comes despite the agency simultaneously announcing plans to develop new door safety regulations that will apply to all automakers. NHTSA cited a lack of widespread complaints as the reason for denying the Tesla-specific probe.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is considering new, broader regulations regarding vehicle door safety, spurred in part by concerns over Tesla's electronic door handles. While NHTSA declined to open a defect investigation into Tesla's specific door release mechanism, the agency acknowledges the broader safety implications for passengers exiting vehicles after a crash. This move suggests potential industry-wide changes to how car doors function in emergencies.
The ubiquity of electric bicycles raises questions about their fundamental design and classification. As micromobility solutions become increasingly vital for urban transportation, the e-bike category might need to evolve beyond the traditional pedal-assist model to embrace diverse forms of light electric vehicles. This discussion encourages a re-evaluation of how we categorize these personal transport devices based on their function rather than their appearance.
A U.S. Senate panel has approved bipartisan legislation aimed at restricting the sale of Chinese-made vehicles in the American market. The proposed bill seeks to counter potential economic and national security risks associated with increasing imports of electric vehicles from China.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has approved three more mobile battery energy storage systems from Coulomb Solutions (CSI) for its Clean Off-Road Equipment (CORE) Voucher Program. This approval allows businesses to significantly reduce the upfront cost of deploying these zero-emission solutions through a point-of-sale discount. The qualifying systems offer capacities of 233 kWh and 466 kWh, providing versatile options for temporary power needs.
A bipartisan U.S. Senate bill, aimed at preventing vehicles with significant Chinese components from receiving federal tax credits, has advanced. Originally focused on Chinese manufacturers, the legislation's broad language could inadvertently impact European automakers like Mercedes-Benz that utilize Chinese-sourced parts or joint ventures, potentially escalating trade tensions.
California has launched a new incentive program aimed at making electric vehicles more accessible, particularly for those new to EV ownership. The initiative offers significant rebates to first-time EV buyers, encouraging wider adoption across the state. This move is part of California's ongoing efforts to accelerate the transition to zero-emission transportation.
July 23, 2026·Cars.com News·California Air Resources Board
California's Air Resources Board (CARB) has revised and relaunched its Clean Fuel Reward program, allocating $250 million to incentivize the purchase of new medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks. This updated program aims to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission commercial vehicles, but initial reactions suggest it might disproportionately benefit smaller trucking operations.
Toyota's distinctive Crown model receives an enhanced hybrid system for its 2027 iteration, building on its existing electrified offerings. This refresh brings marginal pricing adjustments while focusing on powertrain refinements. No PHEV or BEV version was announced, so it remains out of scope for EV Digest.
Laredo, Texas, a critical hub for North American trade, has seen its economy flourish despite existing tariffs. However, the prospect of new protectionist policies under a potential Trump administration introduces significant uncertainty. These trade shifts could impact the numerous supply chains that rely on the port of entry, including those for electric vehicles and their components moving between Mexico and the United States.
Tesla has issued a recall for 15 vehicles mistakenly sold to U.S. customers that were originally intended for the Canadian market. These vehicles do not meet specific federal safety standards required for sale and use in the United States, prompting the manufacturer to reacquire them. The issue highlights the distinct regulatory requirements between the two North American markets.
The Trump administration indicated its intent to maintain tariffs as a key trade policy instrument, despite a recent Supreme Court ruling. This stance could have significant implications for the global supply chains supporting the electric vehicle industry, particularly regarding component costs and availability for U.S. and North American manufacturers.
A recent study from McGill University projects that accelerated EV adoption, the retirement of older diesel trucks, and reduced traffic could significantly improve public health in major Canadian cities. By 2040, these measures could prevent thousands of premature deaths, primarily by reducing exposure to harmful ultrafine particulate matter from vehicle emissions.
A U.S. District Court has ordered the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement the 2024 National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for fine particulate matter, commonly referred to as soot. This ruling compels the agency to enforce stricter health-based standards for air pollution, which is expected to indirectly benefit the adoption of zero-emission vehicles by addressing air quality concerns.
Polestar has announced it will not challenge the US import ban that prevents some of its models from entering the country. This decision leaves many Polestar dealerships with a limited inventory and an uncertain future, as the brand grapples with regulatory hurdles.
The Sierra Club is strongly criticizing a Congressional effort to strip California of its Clean Air Act waivers, which allow the state to set more stringent emissions standards for vehicles than federal requirements. This proposed legislation, introduced by Representative Harriet Hageman, targets long-standing policies crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks. The move could undermine California's ability to drive cleaner vehicle technologies and influence national environmental policy.
Polestar has declared it will not contest a potential federal ban on future vehicle sales, effectively signaling an end to the brand's presence in the lucrative U.S. market. This decision comes despite the company's efforts to diversify its manufacturing footprint outside of China. The move spells significant uncertainty for current and prospective Polestar owners and enthusiasts in the States.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is moving to implement new headlight performance regulations, prompted in part by complaints about excessive glare from modern high-intensity headlights, particularly those found on Tesla vehicles. This federal action could lead to better-designed adaptive lighting systems and a reduction in dangerous glare for oncoming drivers. The move comes as Congress has directed the agency to update outdated headlight standards.
Hyundai is recalling approximately 47,000 Kona and Kona Electric SUVs from the 2021-2023 model years due to a faulty seatbelt assembly for the rear center seat. The issue could prevent proper restraint in a crash, posing a safety risk. Owners are advised to avoid using this particular seat until remedies are implemented.
Polestar is reportedly preparing to withdraw from the U.S. market after facing a sales ban attributed to its reliance on Chinese technology. This move comes after extensive discussions with the U.S. Department of Commerce.
California has enacted new legislation, SB 168, to establish fresh Electric Vehicle (EV) purchase incentives. These state-level initiatives aim to encourage EV adoption and are being evaluated for their effectiveness compared to previous federal tax credits, which were recently phased out.
The Trump administration's plan to impose a 50% tariff on numerous Canadian exports could significantly disrupt the North American automotive supply chain, particularly impacting electric vehicle components and raw materials. This move, utilizing an untested legal provision, risks reigniting a major trade dispute with one of the United States' largest trading partners. Such tariffs could lead to increased production costs and higher EV prices for consumers on both sides of the border.
As electricity demand and costs climb nationwide, several states are distinguishing themselves through forward-thinking energy policies. These states are prioritizing smart grids, renewable energy integration, and EV charging infrastructure to meet consumer needs and environmental goals. Their efforts offer a blueprint for other regions grappling with similar challenges.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has ordered Tesla to recall approximately 20,000 older Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The directive addresses a non-compliance issue where the headlights are deemed excessively bright, potentially posing a safety risk to other drivers.
The previous administration's proposed cuts to wildfire research at the Environmental Protection Agency and Forest Service could have significant consequences for the safety and resilience of EV charging infrastructure. Worsening wildfires, exacerbated by climate change, pose direct threats to grid stability and can damage physical charging stations, particularly in fire-prone regions. Understanding wildfire patterns and mitigating their effects is crucial for protecting the growing network of EV chargers and ensuring reliable electric vehicle adoption.
California's clean vehicle rebate program, designed to incentivize EV adoption, recently updated its list of eligible manufacturers. While some brands are notably absent, this change primarily reflects stricter new rules aimed at focusing the rebate benefits.
Many major corporations are scaling back or quietly abandoning their ambitious climate goals. Economic pressures and competing priorities have led companies to delay or scrap initiatives aimed at reducing their environmental impact, including those related to EV adoption and supply chains.
Subaru Canada has announced significant price reductions for its 2024 Solterra and Solterra Uncharted (the Canadian name for the 'Wilderness') all-electric SUVs. These adjustments aim to bring both models below the $60,000 threshold, making them eligible for the Canadian federal Electric Vehicle Availability Incentive (iZEV) rebate program. The move is expected to boost sales for Subaru's EV offerings in the Canadian market.
Tesla is offering to buy back 15 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles that were manufactured in its Shanghai Gigafactory or Berlin Gigafactory and inadvertently imported into the United States. These vehicles are subject to an unusual federal recall because they do not meet U.S. regulatory standards, such as those for seatbelt warnings and pedestrian alert systems, prompting the company to rectify the issue by repurchasing them from owners.
NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy have filed requests with state and federal regulators to merge, aiming to create a colossal power utility serving 10 million customers across the southeastern United States. This proposed consolidation would significantly reshape the energy landscape in the region, impacting grid infrastructure and potentially the pace of EV charging network buildout.
A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine affirms the scientific validity of attributing extreme weather events to human-caused climate change. This strengthens the basis for potential lawsuits seeking damages from those responsible for greenhouse gas emissions. While not directly about EVs, this scientific validation underlies the policy push for decarbonization and EV adoption to mitigate future climate impacts.
California is launching a new incentive program offering a $3,500 rebate aimed at enticing first-time EV purchasers. This initiative seeks to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles across the state by making them more accessible to new buyers. The program emphasizes increasing EV ownership among residents who have not previously owned or leased an electric car.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently published consumer complaints concerning the 2026 Cadillac XT5, a vehicle not yet released to the public. These early filings, some of which refer to it as a plug-in hybrid, highlight potential issues even before its official market debut.
BMW is recalling approximately 29,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles across its 3-Series, 5-Series, and 7-Series models in the United States and Canada. The defect, stemming from the engine starter relay rather than the high-voltage battery, poses a fire risk and has prompted BMW to advise owners to park these vehicles outside until repairs are completed.
As Dodge prepares to introduce its new electric Charger, the brand is offering significant discounts on the outgoing gasoline-powered Charger models. This move aims to clear inventory and incentivize buyers for the traditional ICE versions before the EV era fully kicks in.
A new analysis reveals that over 111,000 clean energy jobs across various sectors, including EV manufacturing and charging infrastructure, were lost during the Trump administration due to policy reversals. These actions, which ended 223 clean energy programs, also resulted in an estimated $82.9 billion in forgone investments. The report highlights the potential economic impact of shifting regulatory priorities on the burgeoning clean energy industry.
BMW has issued a significant recall for approximately 30,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles in the U.S. due to a fire hazard. The recall, impacting 3, 5, and 7 Series PHEVs, stems from a combustion engine component rather than the high-voltage battery.
BMW is recalling more than 29,000 hybrid vehicles in the United States, citing a potential fire hazard. The recall addresses an issue where debris could enter the hybrid system's control unit, possibly leading to a short circuit and heightened fire risk.
