Automotive
ALL-ELECTRIC KIA EV6 WINS “BEST EV OF 2022” FROM THE DRIVE
All-electric EV6 commended for combination of category-level advantages in driving dynamics, available ADAS features, all-electric range
- All-electric EV6 commended for combination of category-level advantages in driving dynamics, available ADAS features, all-electric range
- EV6 sets the benchmark for electric vehicles as inaugural segment award winner
IRVINE, Calif. – This week, the all-electric Kia EV6 was named “Best EV of 2022” by the editorial team of The Drive in the publication’s inaugural awards distribution. Editors from The Drive noted that the combination of the EV6’s styling, driving dynamics, occupant comfort, and all-electric range helped it stand out in the electric-vehicle segment.
“The all-electric EV6 delivers on the matters that make an EV rise to the top of the class, such as a starting MSRP under $50,0001, an EPA estimated range of 310 miles of all electric range2 in its Wind and GT-Line RWD trims3, as well as numerous other characteristics that make it desirable to own,” said Steven Center, COO and EVP, Kia America.
The EV6 was selected from among the top-ranked electric vehicles as determined by the editors of The Drive in their last 12 months of vehicle evaluations.
“Our team has been consistently and extremely impressed with the Kia EV6—the level of thought and care that went into crafting a more approachable and affordable electric vehicle is obvious. It’s got head-turning design, a usable range, excellent performance and handling, and a great suite of advanced driver assistance features,” said Kyle Cheromcha, editor-in-chief, The Drive. “And to have all of that protected by an exceptional factory limited warranty—this is the kind of car that actually gets people to switch to an EV, instead of merely considering it.”
The EV6 continues to rise in popularity. To date, more than 19,000 EV6 models have been sold at Kia retailers in all 50 states. The EV6 delivers jaw-dropping performance, ultra-fast DC charging compatibility, an available onboard power generator4, and a flat-floor interior that utilizes innovative materials throughout the cabin. The EV6 offers a wide array of advanced driver assistance systems5, a remarkable level of connectivity features, as well as Kia’s latest-generation energy-efficient heat pump, which scavenges waste heat from the vehicle’s coolant system. The EV6 is a critical part of the Kia “Plan S” strategy to launch at least two battery-electric vehicles (BEV) per year and build a full line-up of 14 BEVs by 2027.
Kia America – about us
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles sold through a network of over 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.*
For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.
* The K5, Sportage, Sorento, and Telluride (excludes HEV and PHEV models) are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.
1 Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) excludes destination ($1,295) and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges. Actual prices set by retailer and may vary.
2 Based on EPA estimates on a full battery charge. Actual range will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on range, please see www.fueleconomy.gov.
3 Wind AWD and GT-Line AWD are rated an EPA estimated 274 miles of range on a full battery charge. The EV6 GT is rated at an EPA estimated 206 miles of range on a full battery charge. Actual range will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on range, please see www.fueleconomy.gov.
4 The Onboard Power Generator can be used until the battery’s charge falls to 20 percent.
5 Advanced driver assistance systems are not substitutes for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
Source: KIA
Automotive
2027 Toyota Tundra Adds Trailhunter Package and Updated Technology
The 2027 Toyota Tundra adds a Trailhunter package, refreshed styling and a standard 14-inch touchscreen. Starting MSRP is $42,890.
Last Updated on November 7, 2026 by Daily News Staff
PLANO, Texas — Toyota is updating the 2027 Tundra with refreshed exterior styling, a new Trailhunter package and additional technology for its full-size pickup lineup.
2027 Toyota Tundra: Trailhunter Package and Tech Updates
Based on the SR5 grade, the Trailhunter package adds Old Man Emu suspension, Michelin all-terrain tires, front recovery hooks and extra underbody protection. A locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control help drivers navigate challenging terrain, while bronze-colored wheels distinguish the package.
The TRD Pro receives newly designed, adjustable FOX Q3S shocks, standard red tow hooks and a new Honeycomb paint option.
Inside, a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen becomes standard. Toyota also adds a built-in drive recorder and makes Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 standard across the lineup. Gas and i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrains remain available.
Toyota lists the 2027 Tundra with a starting MSRP of $42,890. Buyers should check destination charges, options and dealer pricing when comparing total costs.
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Slate Auto and Smarties Launch Colorful EV Starter Packs
Slate Auto has partnered with Smarties Candy Company on six pastel customization packages for its upcoming electric truck. Announced October 27, the Smarties x Slate collection gives buyers another way to personalize the minimalist EV before deliveries begin.
The six Starter Packs are inspired by Smarties flavors: Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Grape, Pineapple, Orange and Strawberry. Each package includes a coordinating vehicle wrap, color-matched mirror decals, a Smarties-branded rocker decal, a logo decal, a customized key-fob end cap and a matching interior Slatelet.
Customers will be able to purchase the packages through the Slate Marketplace as their delivery dates approach. Pricing for the Smarties packages was not included in the announcement.
The collaboration fits Slate’s strategy of selling one simplified vehicle platform that owners can customize over time. Every truck leaves the Warsaw, Indiana, factory with gray exterior panels designed to be wrapped instead of conventionally painted. Buyers can keep the two-seat pickup configuration or select one of Slate’s five-seat SUV conversions.
The partnership does not change the truck’s core price or specifications. Slate continues to list the Blank Slate pickup at $24,950 before its $1,450 destination charge, with an estimated 205 miles of range. The range figure is still a company projection rather than a final EPA rating, and Slate continues to say its first deliveries are expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
For Slate, the Smarties collection is more than a seasonal promotion. It demonstrates how branded wraps and accessories could become an important part of the company’s business model while allowing buyers to change the appearance of their vehicles without purchasing a different truck.
Source: Slate Auto’s official Smarties collaboration announcement
Automotive
4 Tips for Efficient EV Charging at Home
Efficient EV Charging at Home: Your car has one job – to take you where you need to go. For electric vehicle (EV) owners, that means keeping it charged so it’s ready to hit the road when you are. Charging your car at home is convenient and cost-effective, especially if you have the right equipment and routines.
4 Tips for Efficient EV Charging at Home
(Feature Impact) Your car has one job – to take you where you need to go. For electric vehicle (EV) owners, that means keeping it charged so it’s ready to hit the road when you are.
Charging your car at home is convenient and cost-effective, especially if you have the right equipment and routines. Consider these quick tips from the EV experts at Schneider Electric.
Watch this video to learn more:
//www.youtube.com/embed/IELsXkSgOQQ
Install a Level 2 Home Charger
While many EV owners start with standard Level 1 charging using typical 120-volt household outlets, upgrading to a 240-volt Level 2 charger can offer extra efficiency and convenience. With significantly faster charging speeds, these units increase your driving range per charging hour and can replenish your battery in a fraction of the time.
Charge During Off-Peak Hours
If your electric company has variable pricing based on the time of day, you may be able to lower your utility bill by shifting your charging routines. This could mean doing most of your charging overnight and unplugging during peak daytime hours when rates are often more expensive.
Consider a Smart Charger
Since Level 2 chargers can add significant electrical load to your home, many EV owners are concerned they’ll need to make costly electrical upgrades to accommodate the higher power requirements. Instead, consider a smart Level 2 home charger with dynamic power management like the Schneider Charge.
With built-in technology called SmartAmp, this charger intelligently monitors the electrical demand in the home and adjusts the output to your EV accordingly. Whether you’re running a dryer full of laundry or turning on the air conditioning, the system can automatically dial back the charging power to your EV when necessary then ramp it back up when demand drops. This way, you won’t have to worry about overloading your electrical system or being forced to install pricey new panels so you can get everything done.
Since it works with all standard EV charging formats, it’s built to fit your current vehicle and whatever you buy next. Plus, through the connected app, you can conveniently schedule charging with a tap, giving you the ability to manage your EV routine remotely – or just set it and forget it.
Track Your Habits
Understanding your current charging habits can help you fine-tune your routines over time. Smart chargers can make tracking simple and automatic with apps that allow you to access information like how often you’re charging your vehicle, how long it takes and how much energy it consumes.
Learn more about smart EV charging at SE.com.
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