Polestar’s all-electric SUV, the Polestar 3, has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance travelled by an electric SUV on a single charge. The Long Range Single Motor model covered an impressive 581.3 miles (935.44 km), significantly surpassing its official WLTP range of 438 miles (706 km). Professional drivers Sam Clarke, Kevin Booker and Richard Parker meticulously optimised efficiency during the 22-hour, 57-minute test, achieving an energy consumption rate of 19.5 kWh per 100 miles (12.1 kWh/100 km).

Conducted under mixed weather conditions, including rain, the challenge followed strict protocols. Guinness World Records judge Paulina Sapinska oversaw the attempt, with Webfleet providing verified telematics data, including GPS tracking, battery levels and odometer readings. The unmodified Polestar 3 rode on standard 20-inch wheels with factory-fitted Michelin Pilot Sport 4 EV tyres.

Remarkably, the SUV still had 20 percent battery remaining when it reached its WLTP range and continued for an additional eight miles (12.87 km) after displaying zero percent charge. The drivers rotated every three hours to maintain focus, with the AA on standby for safety. The achievement highlights the Polestar 3’s real-world efficiency and endurance beyond laboratory estimates.

Matt Galvin, Polestar UK Managing Director, said, “While Kevin, Sam and Richard pushed the Polestar 3 to the boundaries of its range capability, it goes to show how battery range has improved exponentially over the past few years. For a large luxury SUV to go way beyond a London to Edinburgh distance is truly impressive. When this achievement is coupled together with real world independent tests such as Norway’s El Prix winter range test earlier in the year where the Polestar 3 Long Range Dual Motor won against 23 other electric vehicles, it goes to show: long distances are perfectly achievable with minimal fuss. Add to this rapid charging with up to 250 kW allowing a 10–80 percent charge in 30 minutes, the adage that ‘EVs can’t go far’ has been very much consigned to the history books.”

Driver Sam Clarke said: “Since we first started setting records, we have noticed how much more driving it is taking to achieve them! While we aim to push the car to the limits, the car is also pushing us to our limits. I am pleased to be setting the first electric SUV journey record, and to do it in such a capable EV like the Polestar 3 has been a real pleasure.”

Driver Kevin Booker said: “Setting this record alongside Sam and Richard is a great achievement – especially in a large SUV such as the Polestar 3. There’s always jeopardy, and our attempt could have been hampered by the adverse weather conditions and traffic we experienced – there was a lot of standing water during part of the day, meaning more resistance from the tyres and lower efficiency. But, finishing up on zero percent at nearly one o’clock in the morning knowing we’d beaten previous records was a fantastic feeling!”

Driver Richard Parker said: “After the rain subsided, we had a few more challenges on our hands including some interest from the local constabulary! When they realised our official attempt was ultra-efficiency, and they had wished us good luck – we were back on track and getting into our routine of driving shifts until a last-minute road closure near Melton Mowbray was an additional test for us to face. It was another proof point that the record isn’t just down to the driver but also the passenger – quick-thinking co-pilot navigation was just as vital as battery management for this attempt.”

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Samarth E-Mobility has announced the development of a 100 percent indigenous electric vehicle (EV) technology platform. Engineered and manufactured in India, the full-stack system integrates critical components including the battery pack, motor and power electronics, which will power the company’s upcoming electric motorcycle.

The platform was developed over three years at the company’s R&D facility in Kalol, Gujarat. It features in-house hardware and software, including a battery management system (BMS), motor controller, power control module (PCM), DC-DC converter and an AI-controlled onboard fast charger with a 1500W capacity.

Samarth E-Mobility has completed homologation for its battery pack through NATRAX, while its BMS has been validated by iCAT. The technology has undergone 51,000 km of real-world riding and 3,400 km of torture testing to ensure reliability across Indian climatic conditions.

It has developed rare-earth-free motor, 1500W onboard fast charger with AI control and proprietary operating system and instrument cluster.

The company stated its manufacturing facility in Chhatral, Gujarat, has a monthly capacity of 45,000 units for the new products.

The company operates a 150,000 sqft manufacturing site, providing an annual capacity of over 500,000 units. By producing the technology stack in-house, the firm aims to reduce import dependency and build domestic intellectual property within the electric two-wheeler value chain.

Priyank Rakholiya, Co-Founder, Samarth E-Mobility, said, “India’s EV transition demands more than assembly-driven solutions. It requires deep engineering, indigenous innovation and products designed ground-up for Indian riders. At Samarth E-Mobility, we have spent the last three years building our entire technology stack in-house from battery systems and software architecture to motor and power electronics. Our endeavour is to enter the electric motorcycle segment, backed by validated technology, patented designs, and a clear vision to deliver reliable, high-performance electric mobility solutions. We will soon launch our brand in the premium aspirational space, reinforcing our commitment to building a truly self-reliant EV ecosystem in India.”

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CUPRA has unveiled an evolved version of its first all-electric model, the CUPRA Born, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to challenging conventions. The vehicle has been comprehensively re-engineered to offer a more intense and emotionally engaging driving experience, marked by striking exterior updates, a refined cabin and enhanced technology.

The exterior evolution embraces CUPRA’s dynamic design language, featuring newly sculpted front and rear bumpers. Distinctive triangular Matrix LED headlights complement a prominent illuminated CUPRA logo, which is now seamlessly integrated into the three-dimensional rear light cluster, enhancing the car’s visual presence.

On the interior front, the focus is on driver engagement and elevated quality. A redesigned steering wheel now incorporates intuitive physical controls, while new door panels contribute to a more premium feel. The immersive digital environment is amplified by a larger 10.25-inch digital cockpit, supported by an augmented reality head-up display. The auditory experience has also been transformed, with a Sennheiser Contrabass sound system delivering deep, immersive bass, while a newly developed Interior Sound Signature strengthens the connection between the driver and the machine.

Performance remains a core pillar, with the new Born intensifying every journey through its hallmark electrifying dynamics. Drivers can select from four distinct motor and battery configurations. Features such as launch control, a new One Pedal Driving System and wider tyres for both 19- and 20-inch wheels further sharpen the driving experience. This performance is matched by an updated suite of safety systems, including Travel Assist 3.0 with cloud-enhanced functionality, new Crossroad Assist, an upgraded Front Assist and pre-crash protection with rear detection.

The new Born offers flexible powertrain choices to suit different needs. The V1 and V2 versions, equipped with a 58-kWh battery, achieve an estimated range of around 279 miles (approximately 449 km). For extended range, both these models and the range-topping VZ version can be specified with a 79-kWh battery, targeting approximately 372 miles (approximately 598 km). Personalisation is available through six exterior colours, including the newly introduced Timanfaya Grey.

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Hyderabad-based electric vehicle company Keto Motors has secured CMVR Type Approval Certification from the Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC) for its nine-metre Urbanova KE9 electric bus. The certification confirms the vehicle's compliance with safety and performance standards, including structural integrity and range efficiency.

The company is now initiating customer demonstrations and preparing for deployments across State Transport Undertakings (STUs), school fleets and employee transportation providers.

The Urbanova KE9 is engineered for urban mobility and smart city networks. Through a technology partnership with TRON, a Taiwanese E-bus OEM, Keto Motors utilises liquid-cooled battery technology, a self-developed Battery Management System (BMS) and Fleet Management Systems (FMS).

The e-bus features a 245 kW liquid-cooled PMSM motor delivering 3000 Nm of torque.  A claimed cruise range of 188 km (IDC) and a top speed of 80 kmph. It can accommodate 31 seated and 11 standing passengers. It supports CCS2 fast charging support, regenerative braking, ABS and air suspension.

The company aims to start production in early FY2027 at the company’s 20-acre facility in Jadcherla, Telangana. The plant features in-house bus body manufacturing and testing systems, with an annual capacity of 1,000 units.

In addition to the nine-metre model, Keto Motors is developing 12-metre and 6-metre platforms to expand its presence across the public transport sector.

Venkatesh Challa, Director of Keto Motors, said, “Securing CMVR Type Approval for the Urbanova KE9 is a defining milestone for Keto Motors. This certification reinforces our commitment to delivering dependable, high-performance electric mobility solutions designed specifically for Indian roads and fleet operators. With approvals in place, we are now focused on accelerating customer deployments and supporting India’s transition toward clean, zero-emission public transport.”

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Bengaluru-based electric vehicle start-up Ultraviolette Automotive has introduced Battery Flex a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) programme designed to lower the entry cost of its electric motorcycles. The initiative is launched in partnership with Ecofy, a non-banking financial company (NBFC) specialising in green financing.

Under the new model, the upfront cost of the Ultraviolette X-47 is reduced by 40 percent. Customers can purchase the motorcycle chassis for INR 149,000 and subscribe to the battery for a monthly fee starting at INR 2,499. At the conclusion of the subscription period, ownership of the battery is transferred to the customer at no further expense.

The Battery Flex model is designed to reach price parity with internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles. By separating the cost of the battery from the vehicle, the company aims to make performance electric mobility accessible to a broader consumer base.

Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-Founder, Ultraviolette, said, “At INR 250,000, Ultraviolette was at price parity with similarly powered ICE motorcycles. Now, with a starting price of INR 150,000, riders gain access to better technology, features, and performance that outpaces every segment. With operating costs as low as INR 2,499 per month, which is lesser than the average spends on petrol, we are redefining what affordability means in motorcycling. The introduction of Battery Flex makes performance, technology-driven mobility more attainable and practical for riders across India, while keeping the focus firmly on what matters most: the thrill of riding an Ultraviolette.”

Niraj Rajmohan, CTO & Co-Founder, Ultraviolette, added, “Battery technology sits at the core of every electric vehicle, and at Ultraviolette we have invested years of R&D to ensure our batteries deliver uncompromised performance, safety, and longevity. With the launch of Battery Flex, we are extending this innovation to our customers in a way that is both flexible and accessible. It reflects our commitment to building technology that adapts to customer needs and makes performance mobility more practical than ever before.”

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