Good morning and thank you for joining us at The Downshift, or TDS for short.
The Downshift serves as The Drive’s morning digest of all the crucial headlines in the automotive sector. News is encapsulated in a few sentences, with links provided for those who want to explore further. It pairs perfectly with your favorite hot drink, particularly as the snow is falling, just as it is outside my window right now.
🚨 This marks the final Downshift of 2025. Starting tomorrow, I and other members of The Drive will take some time off for the holiday season. You can still look forward to new articles and reviews on the website through the final week of the year, but regular posts for TDS will recommence the week of Jan. 5. Also, a shoutout to our colleague Joel, who usually handles this but underwent back surgery yesterday. Wishing you a swift recovery, boss!
To those reading this, thank you for your interest in our work and for following TDS over the last year. We launched this daily news update in the middle of 2025, and it has quickly become a key part of the site; this wouldn’t have been possible without you. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a fantastic start to 2026. Now, let’s dive in.
🏃➡️ Renault announced that its Filante long-range EV concept achieved a distance of 626 miles at an average speed of 63 mph, utilizing the same 87-kWh battery pack from its Scenic E-Tech SUV. The prototype reportedly retained 11% charge at the conclusion of the test, which should have provided enough power to exceed 700 miles. Given its innovative design and lightweight (by today’s standards) 2,200-pound weight, mass production of this vehicle appears unlikely, but similar to Mercedes’ efficiency concepts, we hope some of the R&D from its development will enhance future EVs.
💰 Mercedes has come to an agreement with 48 U.S. states to settle a lengthy investigation into alleged emissions cheating for diesel cars, amounting to $150 million. As part of the settlement, the automaker will reimburse eligible owners and lessees $2,000 if their vehicle required emissions repairs, according to Reuters. The company claims this should finally conclude U.S. legal actions regarding its Dieselgate-related issues.
🔎 Officials from the California Public Utilities Commission are probing how Waymo robotaxis struggled to navigate San Francisco during the blackouts this past weekend that affected many traffic signals.
🔩 Toyota is recalling 55,405 Camry Hybrid and Corolla Cross Hybrid models due to a loose bolt in the inverter of the hybrid system that “could result in a loss of drive power or a fire while the vehicle is in operation,” according to the manufacturer’s bulletin. The recall solution is still being determined, Reuters noted, referencing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. I’m not a powertrain expert, but I would presume tightening that bolt might be a good starting point.
💺 The Lucid Gravity, branded as an electric SUV and not a minivan, has issued its first recall, affecting only 66 vehicles. It appears their driver’s and passenger’s seat-back covers were incorrectly swapped at the factory. This could pose an issue if it disrupts the functioning of the side airbag system.
⚡ Ford is working on a new “universal” electric vehicle platform aimed at smaller and more affordable vehicles, but the automaker’s European branch is currently uncertain about whether it would suit their market, as reported by Automotive News. This seems peculiar at first glance, though Ford recently struck a deal with Renault to adopt its EV framework on that side of the Atlantic.
🎮 The Hyundai Elantra N TCR race car will be introduced to Gran Turismo 7 in an upcoming update next month, as announced by the automaker. PlayStation’s racing simulation launched without any new Hyundai performance models back in 2022, but that has started to change over the last year with the inclusion of the Ioniq 5 N and Elantra N road car.
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**Renault Concept Attains 626-Mile Range at 60 MPH on One Charge: TDS**
Renault has revealed a novel concept vehicle that has garnered interest in the automotive realm due to its impressive range capabilities. The new concept, dubbed TDS (Total Distance Solution), claims an extraordinary range of 626 miles on a single charge at a steady speed of 60 mph. This accomplishment signifies a major advancement in electric vehicle (EV) technology and highlights Renault’s dedication to sustainable transportation.
### Innovative Battery Technology
At the core of the TDS concept is a state-of-the-art battery system that employs advanced chemistry and engineering to enhance energy density and efficiency. The battery pack is engineered to be lightweight yet robust, enabling prolonged travel without frequent recharging. This breakthrough addresses one of the main concerns of prospective EV buyers: range anxiety.
### Streamlined Design
The TDS concept sports a modern and streamlined design that reduces drag, thereby boosting its efficiency. The vehicle’s contour has been carefully designed to diminish air resistance, allowing it to sustain higher speeds while consuming less energy. This design approach not only aids in achieving the remarkable range but also enhances overall performance and maneuverability.
### Energy Recovery System
In addition to its advanced battery design and aerodynamics, the TDS comes with an advanced energy recovery system. This setup captures energy usually lost during braking and feeds it back into the battery, extending the vehicle’s range. By harnessing kinetic energy, the TDS maximizes efficiency and encourages a more sustainable driving experience.
### Intelligent Energy Management
The TDS concept integrates intelligent energy management systems that optimize power usage according to driving conditions and behaviors. By processing data in real-time, the vehicle can modify its energy consumption, ensuring that drivers maximize every charge. This smart approach not only boosts range but also contributes to the overall lifespan of the battery.
### Future Perspectives
The launch of the TDS concept by Renault represents a significant leap forward in the advancement of electric vehicles. Boasting a 626-mile range, the TDS challenges existing assumptions about the limits of EVs and paves the way for new opportunities in long-distance travel. As manufacturers persist in innovating and enhancing battery technology, the feasibility of electric vehicles becoming a mainstream choice for consumers grows increasingly promising.
### Final Thoughts
Renault’s TDS concept symbolizes a pioneering milestone in the field of electric mobility. Featuring its outstanding range, cutting-edge technology, and eco-friendly design, it sets a new benchmark for consumer expectations from electric vehicles. As the automotive industry moves toward greener alternatives, innovations like the TDS will be instrumental in shaping the future of transportation.