Ford and Geely have been discussing a potential partnership for “months,” Reuters reported on Wednesday.
Talks are said to include potential vehicle technology sharing and Geely utilizing Ford’s manufacturing space.
This could help Geely avoid huge tariff bills—at least in Europe—while building its global presence.
Ford’s leadership team is enamored with Chinese EVs; its CEO didn’t want to stop driving the Xiaomi SU7 imported into the U.S. That’s why it may come as no surprise that the Ford has reportedly been exploring a partnership with at least one Chinese EV juggernaut.
Ford has been discussing a partnership with Geely Automotive Holdings—the conglomerate that owns brands like Volvo, Zeekr, Polestar, Lynk & Co, Lotus and Geely—for “months,” insiders told Reuters. The companies are exploring a variety of areas for collaboration, eight people with knowledge of the talks told the outlet.
It wouldn’t be the first tie-up between an old-school Western manufacturer and a fast-moving Chinese automaker. And it may not be the last, as the world’s car companies scramble to catch up to China.
Photo by: Patrick George
Talks are said to center around two main topics. The first of which is a framework for shared vehicle technologies, including automated driving. That could help Ford build out its upcoming $30,000 EV pickup and affordable EV platform, or could mean Ford sharing its own legacy expertise with Geely. It’s not exactly clear at this point.
Sources say that the companies have also discussed Geely utilizing Ford’s factory space in Europe to help expand its global manufacturing footprint.
Ford’s under-used plant in Valencia, Spain, is the likely candidate for building Geelys, an insider told Reuters. Ford Valencia Body and Assembly currently assembles the compact Ford Kuga crossover and has an annual production capacity of around 450,000 vehicles. It also happens to be the automaker’s largest manufacturing plant outside of its home turf and was already being considered as a location for a “new, multi-energy passenger car” by Ford in 2024.
Ford’s leadership team and senior Geely executives reportedly met in Michigan last week to hold discussions (the scope of which isn’t clear at this time). Separately, followed by a separate delegation team sent to China by Ford this week.
If a partnership materializes, it could put Geely in a very solid position to avoid the tariffs imposed by the European Union on Chinese-imported vehicles (which are as high as 37.6%). Sources tell Reuters that the manufacturing space talks are more advanced than those on platform sharing, though both companies have declined to confirm any concrete plans.
“We have discussions with lots of companies all the time on a variety of topics,” a Ford spokesperson told Reuters. “Sometimes they materialize, sometimes they don’t.”
Ford did recently deny that it was in talks with Chinese newcomer, Xiaomi, regarding a joint venture to manufacture EVs in the U.S. So the company clearly is willing to deny when something is off the table.
Years ago, Chinese firms learned the ropes of making cars from joint-venture partners, which are required for foreign brands to sell cars in the country. Now the situation appears to have flipped, and established firms are leveraging the strengths of high-tech Chinese newcomers.
Volkswagen has a technology partnership with Xpeng that mirrors its Rivian joint venture in the U.S. Stellantis took a large stake in Leapmotor and has the rights to sell its vehicles outside of China. Ford is licensing LFP battery technology from China’s CATL to make cells domestically.
There’s no word on how the potential Ford/Geely deal might play out for the U.S. right now. Geely clearly wants to expand further into the U.S. market, which is guarded by steep tariffs. Plus, Chinese connected-car software is banned in the U.S., which means that the company needs to find a workaround if it wants to bring its Chinese-market cars here.
As Ford says, these discussions may not amount to anything. But the carmaker’s CATL deal does tell us something: If the Geely partnership does materialize and does extend to the U.S., expect political controversy.
MINI USA has committed to a full 2026 American Rally Association season, marking the brand’s return to factory-backed rally competition in North America. Running as The John Cooper Works Race Team in partnership with LAP Motorsports, MINI will field a John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 in the Limited 4-Wheel Drive class and a 2-door Cooper S in the Open 2-Wheel Drive class.
The program begins this weekend with the Sno*Drift Rally in Atlanta, Michigan (February 6-7), expanding on limited regional appearances last year. Luis Perocarpi will drive the Countryman, with Cristian Perocarpi in the Cooper S. Both drivers bring previous rally experience, including Luis’s participation in the 2025 Nemadji Trail Winter Rally.
“We explored modern rally competition with a couple regional races last year to test the capabilities of our newer models,” said Kate Alini, head of marketing, product and strategy at MINI USA. “Based on competitive performance and fan interest, we decided to commit to a full season and reconnect with our rally heritage.”
MINI’s Rally History and Modern Lineup
MINI’s decision positions the brand against competitors with established rally programs. The original Mini Cooper S achieved significant success in the 1960s, winning the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965, and 1967 against more powerful vehicles. The contemporary MINI ALL4 competed in the Dakar Rally through the 2010s.
Both the Cooper and Countryman will require only minimal safety and competition modifications under ARA rules, relying largely on factory performance capabilities.
2026 ARA National Championship Schedule
The American Rally Association operates the only nationwide stage rally championship in the United States. The 2026 calendar includes eight events spanning February through October across regionally varied terrain. The Sno*Drift event features snow and ice-covered forest roads in northern Michigan and typically attracts 50 competition vehicles from the US and Canada.
Of the five senses, smell is arguably the most primal and yet the most elusive. The body’s olfactory system is intimately connected to the brain’s centers of emotion and memory, capable of evoking the past and subtly shaping the present mood. Francis Kurkdjian — the visionary perfume creation director at Christian Dior Parfums — has mastered the art of translating imagination into “olfactory poetry”, but what exactly does this mean? A graduate of the ISIPCA International Perfume Institute in Versailles, Kurkdjian first taste of success came at the age of 25 with the release of Jean-Paul Gaultier’s “Le Male”. His career has since been marked by a profound dialogue between scent and artistry — be it through collaborations with contemporary artists or through immersive olfactory installations in dynamic locations such as the Grand Palais and the Château de Versailles.
La Collection Privée Range with Cuir Saddle – Fragrance Couture Lids
Read More: Francis Kurkdijan Becomes Dior’s Perfume Creation Director
Each fragrance Kurkdjian creates for Dior is another chapter in this legacy. His genius lies in treating perfumery as a couture craft, where each scent is carefully sculpted like a bespoke garment. In “La Collection Privée” — Dior Beauty’s signature range of fragrances — the olfactory “fabric” is thoughtfully selected and artfully arranged, merging the House’s heritage with modern sensibilities and unexpected twists.
Enter the “Cuir Saddle” — Kurkdjian’s most recent creation for La Collection Privée. Inspired by the emblematic Dior Saddle Bag, the fragrance transforms the classic leather accord — typically smoky, musky and animalic — into something luminous and sensual. Floral facets soften the leather, while suede-like textures and musky, woody undertones create a perfume that feels both intimate, like a second skin. In “Cuir Saddle”, Kurkdjian challenges the conventions of leather perfumery while celebrating the Maison Dior spirit of being unapologetically expressive.
Read More: Luxury’s Cylindrical Fragrance Bottles Let the Scent Speak
Kurkdjian’s starting point was the saddle bag itself. “The shape of the saddle bag is very organic and very close to the body,” he explains. “This is why I imagined a scent that basically melts on skin and becomes part of yourself.” Leather, he notes, is an essential element of the fragrance portfolio and the beloved bag provided a narrative bridge between fashion and perfume. “After that, translating the saddle into a scent was a great story to tell,” he says.
“Cuir Saddle” is not designed for a single gender or personality. Kurkdjian emphasises that perfume does not bestow character: “A perfume is the extension of what you want to convey about yourself. It is not because you’re wearing a perfume that you become sexy or fresh. Perfume accompanies you, but you have to decide who you are. Instead, the fragrance captures an emotion and a tactile experience, echoing the way the bag itself interacts with the body.”
A key innovation of the “Cuir Saddle” is the modernisation of traditional leather accords. Where classical leather fragrances often relied on heavy, smoky or spicy notes, Kurkdjian sought a lighter, softer expression. “Leather traditionally is very dark. My idea was to infuse the leather note with an overdose of musk, white clear musk and white abstract floral notes,” he explains. These elements create a sense of luminosity and transparency while retaining strength and presence. The result is a leather accord that is at once soft, creamy and sensual, yet distinct from historical templates.
Kurkdjian also highlights the role of technology and craftsmanship. “Technology is part of perfumery because of the aroma chemicals we use. Since the 1880s, every perfume has combined natural ingredients with technology. I reshuffled Dior’s IT programme to have something more up to date, almost futuristic, about the possibilities to create a scent.” Beyond the tools, however, the process is ultimately about perspective and interpretation. “Innovation is not necessarily about a new ingredient. Innovation is how you look at things and how you interpret them,” he says.
The fragrance situates itself within Dior’s heritage while responding to contemporary sensibilities. “We were missing a leather fragrance within La Collection Privée and my idea was to fulfil that gap,” says Kurkdjian. He is also clear to add that the fragrance does not follow external trends. “We are not looking at trends. We are making trends at Dior. The Cuir Saddle story is relevant because no one else has a saddle bag. Creating a leather note because of this story is part of who we are.”
Read More: Masculinity, Rebottled: How Marketing Men’s Scents Are Evolving
Cuir Saddle also reflects broader shifts in how consumers engage with perfume. “Some clients seek more complexity as they become educated in fragrances. It is like classical music or ballet — the more you know, the more you seek nuanced experiences,” Kurkdjian observes. The perfume is therefore designed to be both accessible and elevated, appealing to connoisseurs while offering a new lens on a familiar category.
To address the question posed earlier, Kurkdjian translates imagination into “olfactory poetry” — transforming abstract ideas, emotions and memories into tangible, wearable scents that unfold like a story on the skin. At its core, the fragrance is a translation of tactile and emotional experience into scent. Kurkdjian describes it as “soft, lukewarm, very sensual, yet not too dark, with a drive. It is about something very close to the skin, something organic. Leather here is no longer heavy or authoritative; it is intimate and supple.” The shape, feel and body of the bag inform the olfactory architecture of the perfume, producing a novel leather language for Dior that complements the existing collection while signalling a contemporary evolution.
In Kurkdjian’s vision, “Cuir Saddle” is a bridge between tradition and modernity, heritage and innovation, fashion and fragrance. It reaffirms Dior’s capacity to reinterpret its iconic codes and set its own course in luxury perfumery. “Perfume is very simple,” he concludes. “People wear it because they enjoy it. Everything else is secondary.”
Read More: Maison Francis Kurkdjian: Scents of Paris
For more on the latest in wellness and beauty reads, click here.
Boston Public Schools is adding another major block of depot-scale DC fast chargers as it pushes toward a fully electric bus fleet – a reminder that some of the biggest EV charging builds are happening far from highway rest stops.
Orion Energy Systems says it’s installing 105 DC fast chargers at the district’s Freeport Bus Yard under a $4 million contract with Boston Public Schools. The project is being handled by Orion’s Voltrek division and is one of the larger single-site school bus charging installations in the region.
The chargers are part of Boston’s effort to electrify 100% of its roughly 750 school buses – a program the district describes as the largest school bus electrification initiative in the Northeast. Orion and Voltrek have worked with Boston Public Schools on multiple projects tied to that transition, making the district one of the company’s biggest customers.
At the Freeport Bus Yard, the chargers will use an above-ground mounting approach that relies on Jersey barriers rather than traditional trenching. It’s a setup that’s increasingly common for large bus and fleet depots, where speed, cost control, and service access often matter more than aesthetics. Orion has used the same setup on other Boston school bus charging projects, a design that can speed installation and reduce site disruption.
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Boston isn’t the only school system in the region working with Orion and Voltrek. The company is involved in several fleet electrification projects across the Northeast, including municipal deployments and electric van charging for school districts. One recent example is a 13-charger installation for the Lower Pioneer Valley School Educational Cooperative serving the greater Springfield, Massachusetts, area.
That distinction matters as the charging market matures. Public DC fast charging still gets most of the attention, yet depot charging for buses, delivery vans, and municipal fleets is quietly becoming one of the most capital-intensive segments of the market.
Paren research is predicting 8% growth in the US EV charging market in 2026.
Read more: Boston kicks off rollout of 750 electric school buses with first of the fleet transporting students
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If you are looking for a way to give back to the BMW MOA—and you have some time to give on a regular basis—I suggest you run for a spot on the Board of Directors. For those who have been members for many years, you know this organization was built on and continues to run and rely on its volunteers. For those of us who have been around for a long time and had the opportunity to volunteer, we know how much of an impact we make while feeding our souls.
I was fortunate enough to have been elected by the MOA body to a board member position and held that seat from 2021-2024. I ran on the idea I would like to help keep the membership of the organization growing in order to maintain great events and perks available to members, but also to help increase interest in the MOA Foundation. As rider training is a passion of mine, this was a way for me to support riders gaining more skill and confidence and hopefully passing that along to the next group to come along.
Mark Pearson and friend … not board members and not Louise, just a couple of happy MOA members!
While each member who runs for a position on the board does so typically with a passion for the organization and a desire to help make it be better and steer it into the future, one of the lessons my time on the board taught me was there are certain skillsets one might possess that would make an ideal candidate for the “job.” As it turns out, mine skillset was my involvement in the motorcycle industry, and close relationship with BMW Motorrad that benefitted my time with the board. If you have nothing to do with the motorcycle industry or other motorcycle clubs, you may have any number of skillsets or backgrounds that could be of immense value to the organization.
As board members come together and discuss ways of moving the club forward, bringing in new members, or trying new initiatives, the conversation occasionally comes to a sudden halt when the “voice of reason” (aka Ted Moyer, Executive Director) says something like, “That sounds great, I’m just not sure what the legal implication of that would be.” While that may sound like an idea dying before even making it to the meeting notes, it wasn’t necessarily the case when we had a lawyer who sat on the board. When Ted made a statement like that in my first two years on the board, all heads would swivel in the direction of J.K. and he would give us at least a place to launch from.
Also not Louise … this is BJ Hessler, another MOA member!
So now you might be thinking, “Well, I don’t work in motorcycles, and I’m not a lawyer. What could I possibly have to offer?” While it may simply be your ability to listen carefully, think critically, and act quickly and decisively in the best interest of the organization, you may have other needed skills as well. Are you an accountant, financial planner, investment advisor or someone who does better than needing to remove shoes to do math over 10? Do you have legitimate tech/website building skills that go beyond your own personal cooking blog? Do you have a marketing or publicity background which goes beyond making Get Ready With Me videos on Tik Tok?
I mean, don’t get me wrong; we all love a good GRWM that ends with someone shoving a helmet on a freshly coiffed head of hair, or a fast and delicious enchilada recipe ready to be packed in a pannier for the day’s ride. But if you possess specific skills that could be put to use and you are ready to give back in a significant way to the organization that gives so much to you, please consider running for a board member position. It is a challenge that few are up for, but you just might be the right person!
Mercedes-Benz has revealed the latest iteration of its flagship sedan, the S-Class. The facelift version not only has a redesigned top hat but also packs more features and new engines.
While the new S-Class still looks as stately as before, it now features a refreshed front end, which includes new headlights with star-shaped LEDs and a massive grille that now comes with an illuminated frame and a black surround. Around the back are a set of sleek taillights with three star-shaped LEDs.
The interior of the new S-Class is just as well-appointed as its rivals in the segment. It has premium leather-wrapped seats that massage you and rear seats that almost transform into a comfy bed.
The centrepiece of the cabin is the ‘Superscreen’. It houses a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch passenger display and a massive 14.3-inch central touchscreen. There are two 13.1-inch screens for the rear passenger as well.
The S-Class facelift is available with three engine options. The S500 comes with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder hybrid that makes 442 hp and 443 lb-ft. The S580e is a plug-in hybrid powered by a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder unit, producing 576 hp and 553 lb-ft. Finally, the S580 packs a 4.0-liter V8 hybrid that makes 530 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque.
Prices for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift will be announced at a later date.
CLASS C CAMPERS are among the easiest RVs to drive. While many are built on Ford or Chevy truck chassis, a growing number of floor plans now ride on the slightly more luxurious Mercedes-Benz chassis. While these diesel Class C motorhomes offer an upscale driving experience, they also deliver all the modern touches and living comforts you’d expect from an approachable motorhome. Today, we’re highlighting our favorite Mercedes Class C RV campers of 2026.
Key Takeaways
Premium Foundation: Mercedes-Benz provides a high-end Sprinter diesel chassis equipped with advanced safety tech, while manufacturers like Winnebago and Thor build the customized living quarters.
Space-Saving Innovation: The 2026 models focus on maximizing compact interiors, featuring Murphy beds, convertible king-sized sleeping areas, and integrated “gear garages” for outdoor equipment.
Versatile Luxury: These RVs offer an approachable driving experience with diverse floor plans, with prices ranging from $100,000 for utilitarian models to over $250,000 for high-end luxury finishes.
Does Mercedes Make a Class C RV?
While Mercedes-Benz doesn’t make RVs, it does provide chassis platforms for many popular camper manufacturers like Thor, Forest River, Jayco, Winnebago, and more. The Sprinter cutaway chassis includes the front end, mechanical components, engine, driving features, and safety standards that consumers expect from Mercedes. The backend is left as an open frame, allowing each camper brand to create floor plans that meet every RV enthusiast’s needs.
RVs built on the Mercedes chassis offer prospective buyers some of the most compact Class C campers in 2026. You’ll enjoy enhanced features like adaptive cruise control, active brake assist, crosswind assist, and blind spot monitoring. However, the floor plans and construction choices made by RV manufacturers are what really set the best Mercedes RV Class C models apart. Let’s take a closer look.
Top Mercedes Class C RV Models
Mercedes is a top choice for RV manufacturers for a reason. It features a powerful diesel engine, a luxury cockpit, and a standout entertainment system. Compare these Mercedes-Benz Class C RV campers to find models to tour at your local Camping World.
Thor Coleman 24CL
Images by Camping World
Specs
Length: 25’10”
GVWR: 12,125 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 24.5 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
Designed for efficiency and comfort, the Coleman 24CL is a classic Mercedes Class C RV that maximizes interior space. The super-slide includes an RV queen Murphy bed and a large Dream DinetteTM with seatbelts for two additional passengers. Privacy can sometimes be an issue in small Class C motorhomes. So, Thor included a curtain around the Murphy bed to provide a semi-secluded sleeping area.
At 24” x 36”, the shower is one of the largest on this list. Combined with a tankless water heater, it offers endless hot showers under the skylight. A few steps away, the fully equipped kitchen features a 3-burner gas stove, 12-volt fridge, and flip-up countertop extension for additional prep space. For entertainment, you can relax on the sofa and watch TV or swivel it for a cabover bunk movie night.
Check the availability of the identical Freedom Elite 24FL floor plan.
Forest River Forester MBS 2401T
Image by Forest River
Specs
Length: 25’5”
GVWR: 11,030 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 26 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
The Forester MBS 2401T is a cozy Mercedes camper with some luxury features. It features two TVs—one near the sofa/Murphy bed and one in the cabover bunk space. Both are 12-volt powered, so you don’t need shore power to run them. Hello, off-grid movie night! Relax in the power-recline theater seats and enjoy music on the JBL sound system. If you don’t want the cabover bunk, you can opt for a Trekker cab for better aerodynamics on the road and more interior storage.
The kitchen includes extra amenities, such as a combination convection/microwave oven and an induction cooktop. I’d like to see more storage in the bathroom and a privacy curtain for the Murphy bed in future models, but my favorite feature is the European windows. They let in as much breeze and natural light as you want, while including day shades that let in air without bugs.
Compare the similar Sunseeker MBS 2400T.
Jayco Melbourne 24R
Image by Jayco
Specs
Length: 25’2”
GVWR: 11,030 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 26 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
Jayco’s Melbourne 24R puts its own stamp on this classic Murphy bed Class C floor plan with its sleek Ashbrook interior. Jayco is a reliable name in the RV world, and its motorhomes always feature excellent drivability.
Great for weekend jaunts or extended trips, the Melbourne includes everything you need— from an easily stowed power Murphy bed to a 10-cubic-foot refrigerator. The 4,000-watt LP generator delivers power at primitive campsites, and you can upgrade to a 200-watt solar package with a second house battery for additional off-grid staying power.
You’ll need to upgrade to the Premium Mercedes chassis to get features like Active Brake Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control. However, the superior performance of a Mercedes 3500 chassis will still serve you well on the road, even without those premium upgrades.
Forest River Forester MBS 2401BDS
Images by Forest River
Specs
Length: 25’5”
GVWR: 11,030 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 26 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
Using storage space as a privacy wall is a unique design choice for the Forester MBS 2401BDS, and I love it. Small Mercedes Class C RV campers often struggle with limited space, and a partition wall/pantry is a smart way to maximize the interior without sacrificing storage capacity.
This Mercedes-Benz motorhome also features two slides, one for the bed and one for the entertainment or dining area. It comes standard with a U-shaped dinette, but couples can upgrade to powered theater seats. One thing about this floor plan is the extensive wall wardrobe in the bedroom. It’s the largest on this list!
The kitchen features an induction stovetop, flip-up counter extension, and pop up 12-Volt charging ports. Couples or solo travelers can trade the 60” x 80” cabover bunk for the Trekker cap with a built-in entertainment system.
Winnebago View 24R
Images by Camping World
Specs
Length: 25’8”
GVWR: 12,125 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 24.5 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
On my short list of personal favorite motorhomes, the View 24R is a powerhouse designed for comfort and performance. Unlike the other Mercedes Class C motorhomes on the list, this layout boasts a rear twin-to-king bed conversion. This is why it’s one of my dream RVs. It gives you the flexibility to get cozy when you want, but also to separate sleeping spaces if, like me, you’re prone to throwing elbows mid-REM.
The best small RVs rely on maximizing space. The shower and bath each have separate doors, allowing you to use them simultaneously without competing for space. The kitchen is modest, but it does include induction and range burners on the cooktop, and the 10-cubic-foot 12-volt refrigerator has plenty of storage for extended trips.
The all-new gear garage includes L-track cargo tie-downs and enough space for two bikes, with extra room for other gear and accessories.
Check the availability of the identical Navion 24R floor plan.
Jayco Melbourne Prestige 25LP
Image by Jayco
Specs
Length: 25’2”
GVWR: 11,030 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 26 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 5
Holy upgrades! The Melbourne Prestige 25LP is NICE. This might just be my top choice for a couple’s camper. Having a king-size bed in a Class C RV under 26 feet is definitely a highlight, but really, this RV is just about smart design and sleek upgrades.
My favorite feature is the massive skylight over the living area. Open it up to let in cool air, close the bug screen to keep out critters, and pull the blackout shade for privacy or climate control on hot days. This alone would sell it for me, but that’s not the only great feature.
The Melbourne Prestige includes under-cabinet lighting, almost 360° windows in the bedroom, and the option to upgrade to theater seating and a Class B Plus front cap instead of the overhead bunk. The new paint options are sleek, and the Carlton interior feels light, airy, and luxurious.
Honorable Mentions
How Much Does a Mercedes RV Cost?
If you are looking for something reliable but with a more utilitarian feel, you might pay around $100,000 to $150,000 for a Mercedes RV. If you are looking for a luxurious Mercedes-Benz™ camper with upgraded finishes, the price will likely be over $250,000. Overall, what you pay is up to you. Ultimately, the price of a Mercedes RV depends on factors like size, manufacturer, interior finishes, exterior features, and more.
No matter where your travels take you, a Mercedes-Benz Class C RV offers the perfect combination of luxury, drivability, and smart design. Whether you prioritize extra sleeping space, entertainment features, off-grid capability, or upscale finishes, there’s a model that fits your needs.
Would you choose a Mercedes Class C RV? In the comments below, please share your favorite RVs or ask questions.
A Louisiana native turned Arizona desert dweller, Claire and her husband are on a mission to visit as many national, state, and tribal parks as possible. You can find her out on the Phoenix trails for day hikes or on the road in a campervan. Catch her adventures, trail tips, and National Park recommendations on Instagram at @clooseontheloose.
WattEV offers a Truck-as-a-Service solution for carriers and owner-operators—not only does the company have its own fleet of electric trucks, it also operates five heavy-duty EV charging depots, and has 15 more under development. Now the company has added more charging ports and increased the available charging power at its busiest electric truck charging depot, located in San Bernardino, California.
The San Bernardino truck charging depot, located adjacent to I-215, one of Southern California’s busiest freight corridors, has added thirty 250 kW CCS ports and six 1.2 MW MCS ports to its existing 24 ports, and offers 11.5 MW of total charging power. The site will now be able to charge up to 200 electric trucks per day while offering megawatt charging capability for trucks compatible with the MCS standard.
“At our San Bernardino depot, strong and sustained utilization—currently averaging approximately 700 MWh per month—has created the need to more than double the site’s capacity” said CEO Salim Youssefzadeh. “San Bernardino sits at the center of some of the most freight-dense corridors in the country, and scaling this depot enables us to support real-world fleet growth with reliable charging, dependable operations and infrastructure designed for long-term commercial deployment.”
The Zeekr 9X is confirmed for Malaysia, and the brand’s flagship model is slated to arrive as early as end of 2026. This was revealed by Zeekr Malaysia’s GM Eddy Lu at a test drive event for Malaysian media and owners in Harbin, China. Besides the 9X, the carmaker had the 007 GT ‘shooting brake’ and 7X SUV on duty at the winter event.
“The Zeekr 9X is definitely coming to Malaysia, for sure, it’s just a matter of time,” Lu said, explaining that the timeline depends on right-hand drive (RHD) engineering and homologation. “It depends on the engineering progress of converting from LHD to RHD, and also from Chinese regulations to European regulations (which we’ll get in Malaysia). It will be at the end of this year or early next year,” he added.
The 9X is a hugely impressive vehicle – both as a luxury product and in its capabilities – and the 5,239 mm-long SUV doesn’t just serve as a flagship model for Zeekr, but also for the wider Geely Group. As such, it will be priced accordingly.
What this means is that the 9X’s RRP will be significantly higher than the costliest 009, which let’s not forget, also enjoyed tax-free EV status until very recently. The range-topping 009 is the Ultra Luxury, which is priced at RM359,800.
“I think no one will expect that the 9X will be cheaper than that (the top 009). It definitely will be higher than that. The 9X is about half a million RMB (specifically, RMB 465,900 to 599,900 in China), and this is a hybrid. A hybrid CBU will be applied with very high taxes. Keep in mind that this car will be much higher than the price of the highest version of the 009. This is for sure,” Lu explained.
“Keep that in mind that there’s no way for it to be a low priced product. Maybe later this year when we have the final confirmed launch plan, we’ll share with you a bit more regarding the details,” the Zeekr Malaysia chief reiterated.
Built on the SEA-S platform allowing for a 900V high-voltage architecture, the 9X debuts the Geely Group’s SEA Super Hybrid system with up to 1,400 PS (1,030 kW) and 1,410 Nm, allowing the behemoth to accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds.
Confirmed to be a plug-in hybrid and not a range extender EV (REEV), Geely’s 2.0-litre turbo-four with 279 PS can power the wheels directly in certain circumstances. The 9X’s pure EV range is 380 km CLTC and ultra-fast ‘6C’ DC charging (meaning it can charge in kilowatts at six times the battery capacity) from 20–80% can be done in just 8.5 minutes.
Dubbed by some as ‘China’s Rolls-Royce Cullinan’, the 9X is better equipped than most homes. One item that pops out from the extensive kit list is a Naim sound system with 32 speakers (including headrest speakers for the first and second rows) and an industry-record 3,868 watts of power. The name would be familiar to audiophiles, but for the rest of us, Naim has long been Bentley’s top-shelf audio option, which says it all. A Chinese car priced well over RM500k as a bargain? The 9X is a mind bender.
GALLERY: Zeekr 9X in Harbin, China
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Back in 2018, Heath and I ventured across the ocean to New Zealand for our first big international RV trip. This trip changed our lives—plunging us further in love with travel and convincing us that we should move to this gorgeous country immediately.
We always dreamed of returning to New Zealand one day but wondered if or when it would ever happen.
Then, as we booked flights to Japan, a thought crossed our minds. Should we hop down to New Zealand? We were already halfway there!
Well, we were kidding ourselves if we thought Japan and New Zealand were remotely close to each other! Japan is one of the northernmost countries in Asia and New Zealand is the southernmost country in Oceania. It took a long, ten-hour overnight flight, but we made it to Auckland ready to start our next adventure!
Check out our first day picking up our motorhome and setting out to explore the North Island:
In this blog post, I want to share helpful basics for anyone inspired to take their own road trip across the islands of New Zealand. I’ll cover what you need to know before you go, plus tips for planning your route around the country.
Visas
If you’re American, you do need a visa to visit New Zealand. (This came into effect in 2019, after our first visit to New Zealand.)
You need to apply for what is called a NZeTA, or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority. The application is simple and straightforward. You’ll need your passport handy for this, but it shouldn’t take more than two minutes of your time.
I had to get four of these total—one for each member of the family including the children—and each application was approved in about 60 seconds via email. They advise that you apply a few weeks ahead of time for your visa due to processing times and you can even pay extra to have your visa processed “in a few hours.” I applied a month before our trip and as I mentioned, we were instantly approved.
While these visas are easy to get, they aren’t cheap. They cost $58 NZD or about $36 USD each, meaning it cost nearly $150 to procure visas for our family.
Driver’s License
You do not need an international driver’s permit or IDL to drive in New Zealand. All you need is an active driver’s license from your country—with an English translation, if necessary—and the confidence to drive on the left side of the road!
Flights
Flights to New Zealand can be expensive and, if you’re coming from the States, very long. Now that we have kids, we have a new travel rule: Always fly direct. We flew direct from Tokyo to Auckland and since the flight was overnight, jetlag wasn’t too bad. (Plus there’s only a four-hour time difference between New Zealand and Japan.)
I highly recommend flying Air New Zealand if you can. We flew Air NZ from Tokyo and home to Houston. Both times were amazing and some of our easiest flights yet with the kids. Not to spoil the last video of our series, but let me just say, I’ve NEVER had such good sleep on an airplane. 10/10 would recommend.
Air New Zealand doesn’t fly out of every US city, but they do fly direct out of major jobs. It’s worth it to book with them to start and end your New Zealand trip!
(I have no affiliation with Air NZ, but flying with kids and babies is hard. They made it easy. I’m now obsessed with them.)
Best Times to Visit
New Zealand, as I mentioned, is the southernmost country in Oceania, meaning you can expect cold winters. This is the only time of year I would not recommend visiting New Zealand. You can campervan the country in the winter—especially if you like to ski—but if you’ve ever camped in freezing temperatures before, you know the challenges that come with ice.
For both of our visits, we chose to visit during the fall months, March, April, and May. The temperatures are perfect this time of year. It’s warm during the day and chilly at night, though you can expect rain. You’ll need a warm jacket and a swimsuit (for those hot springs!). You’ll get similar temperatures in their spring months, September through November.
Summer is probably the best time to visit, with warm weather perfect for New Zealand’s many beaches or hiking through the mountains. But it’s also peak season for tourism, which is why we generally avoid it. Busy season requires more planning and reservations for campsites, which can be a headache to book from abroad. We prefer shoulder season to beat the crowds and have a more flexible plan. (Bonus: rentals and other things are usually cheaper in the off-season too!)
Packing
Packing for a camping trip is very different than packing for other vacations. You’ve got to think about if your suitcase can handle hiking boots and if you’ll need a heavy jacket for camping in the mountains. (I recommend both for New Zealand!)
One thing we were very cognizant of after our first trip to New Zealand was our number of bags. We had three checked bags for our trip and failed to realize that our final flight into New Zealand—all booked with Delta—was on a partner airline that only allowed one checked bag per person. We spent 20 minutes on the floor of the airport repacking items to fit into two bags and be within weight! (Those hiking boots ended up on our feet.)
A few years older and wiser, albeit with kids in tow, we now travel with only one large suitcase.
How do we fit everything for four people into one suitcase for a month-long international adventure?
The short answer: packing cubes. People swear by packing cubes and I have been converted. They make packing SO MUCH EASIER.
The long answer: a three-page list of must-have travel items that I follow to the letter.
Packing for a road trip is very different than packing for a trip where you plan to stay in hotels or Airbnbs. You have to keep in mind that you’ll spend most of your time outside, that you’ll likely be cooking more meals than eating out, and that you’ll be in more extreme temperatures compared to a climate-controlled hotel.
Fortunately, if you book the right camper, you don’t have to worry about packing sheets, towels, dishes, and other camping gear.
Booking a Camper
Heath and I have nowed RVed in 10 countries, renting an RV in each. Not all RV rentals are created equal. For example, in Japan, we had to pay extra for a stovetop, cooking utensils, and sleeping bags. And in our upcoming trip in the UK, we’re paying extra for sheets and towels. Personally, I find this incredibly frustrating. No one wants to fly halfway across the world with sheets in their suitcase!
But in New Zealand, we’ve never had to worry about this added hassle.
During both trips to the country, we rented our RV from Wilderness Motorhomes.
When I say they are the absolute best RV rental company in the world, I mean that very sincerely.
What makes Wilderness the best?
Look at that motorhome. It is so incredibly spotless and beautiful. (Guys, getting a clean RV with the bed neatly made… This is not a guarantee with other rentals. Trust me on that!) Everything about a Wilderness motorhome is luxurious.
Wifi included! Many rental options do not offer wifi. The internet on board our Wilderness is some of the best connectivity we’ve ever had in any country. We had wifi service everywhere we camped. And we camped in some pretty remote places!
Amazing customer service. Customer service is a key component of any travel plan, especially when you’re flying around the world to visit a country. If something comes up before or during your trip, their team is quick to help you resolve any problems.
When we picked up our Wilderness Motorhome, one thing you don’t see in the video above is us signing the rental agreement stating that our rental would be returned on May 8th. There was only one problem with this. I booked our return flights to the US for May 9th! 🙈 Such a rookie travel mistake on my part. I completely mixed up the days when I booked our flight home. Wilderness waved off my stress and quickly adjusted our rental to be one day longer. There was an updated agreement in our email inbox before we pulled off the lot. The team was so quick to adapt, sympathetic to my mistake, and so kind to let us extend our trip.
I, on the other hand, am still embarrassed!
We are always blown away by the professionalism and warmth of the Wilderness team. There is no other rental company we would choose to rent in New Zealand!
Planning our Route
As we state in the video, during our last visit to NZ, we spent most of our time on the South Island. So much time in fact, that we had to cut our North Island visit short.
There were a few places I knew I wanted to revisit on the North, like Rotorua and Taupo, but I didn’t know where to start planning for the rest of the island.
I headed to Wilderness’s website, remembering how they helped me plan our trip back in 2018.
They have over a dozen road trip itineraries with stops, things to do, and convenient notes like how many days a route might take. I grabbed the Auckland to Cape Reinga road trip as well as the Auckland to Coromandel itinerary. (You’ll see us start driving the Coromandel peninsula in the video. Holy WOW it is one of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen.
photos
If you’re planning a road trip to New Zealand, I highly recommend downloading one of their free road trip itineraries to help you start planning!
Things to Know Before You Go
I have long believed New Zealand to be the most beautiful country in the world. Revisiting New Zealand and seeing more of the North Island has only further reinforced this belief. It is truly a gem that should be on every bucket list.
We can’t wait to share this New Zealand video series with you. Be sure to subscribe on Youtube for all of the videos 🙂
