AUTONEWS

EuroNCAP. The Chinese car MG 3 has a defect that customers don't notice(video)

All vehicles sold in Europe undergo crash tests to determine the level of protection they offer to occupants, adults or children, during frontal, side, and rear impacts. Better or worse, the different models for sale deserve evaluations from Euro NCAP professionals, to differentiate the less safe from the more safe, but this European safety organization had never, until now, been forced to demand a repair of design or production defects. That is, until testing the MG 3, a small Chinese utility vehicle whose seat fixings expose occupants to excessive risks.

During the off-center frontal impact, the rails that should fix the driver's seat to the chassis of the MG 3 proved unable to withstand the forces applied to them and gave way. This allows the seat to rotate and move suddenly and violently forward several centimeters (11.2 cm), subjecting the occupant's body to greater stress and potentially causing damage upon impact with the car body.

Faced with the Euro NCAP findings, MG identified the root of the construction defect and developed a solution to effectively protect occupants in the event of a collision. The seat rails and their respective fixings were replaced, ensuring that the seat and its occupant remain seated, and in their original position, during a violent crash.

Euro NCAP urges MG3 owners to complete free safety recall repair...Euro NCAP is encouraging all MG3 owners affected by a safety recall to arrange a free repair with their local MG dealer as soon as possible.

The recall follows independent crash testing carried out by Euro NCAP last year, during which the MG3 experienced a front seat rail failure in a frontal crash test. The issue allowed the driver’s seat to become unlatched during the impact.

Following a detailed technical review, MG agreed with Euro NCAP’s findings that the issue could also occur in real life and addressed the root cause with an improved design that was verified by Euro NCAP and eliminates any risk of the seat unlatching. The manufacturer swiftly implemented the change to production vehicles. MG has subsequently developed a repair for existing cars and has worked quickly with authorities in Europe and the UK to initiate a recall and repair campaign for affected MG3 models already sold to customers.

The repair is available free of charge through authorised MG dealerships, and recorded owners of MG3s built before August 2025 should already have been contacted directly by MG.

Euro NCAP’s testing programme exists to independently verify vehicle safety performance and identify potential risks, helping consumers make informed decisions and encouraging continual safety improvements across the automotive industry. The recall demonstrates the importance of collaboration between independent safety testing organisations, vehicle manufacturers and regulators.

New MG3 buyers can be confident that the issue has been adequately addressed. Owners of an MG3 built before August 2025 are strongly advised not to ignore or delay the repair, and to contact their local MG dealer to check if it is affected and have the recall work performed.

This was a significant safety flaw that Euro NCAP uncovered, and we were pleased with MG Motor’s robust response. Owners of the MG3 and MG3 Hybrid+ who haven’t heard about the vehicle recall or are still to take action should contact their local MG dealer, and they will confirm whether their car is one of the affected models, and arrange repairs, if necessary, at no cost to the owner...Dr. Aled Williams, Programme Director Euro NCAP

Euro NCAP Alerts MG3 Owners...The European automotive safety organization Euro NCAP has issued an alert to owners of the MG3 model to urgently carry out a free repair related to a safety flaw identified during crash tests. The problem was discovered in frontal impact tests conducted by the organization, which classified the situation as rare and potentially serious.

According to reports released by Euro NCAP, the driver's seat adjustment mechanism failed during the frontal crash test, causing partial torsion of the seat at the moment of impact. This failure significantly increased the forces exerted on the right leg of the test dummy, leading to a "poor" rating for protection in that area of ​​the body.

Despite the incident, the MG3 received an overall four-star rating in European safety tests. Euro NCAP explained that the current scoring system does not provide for automatic penalties for this specific type of mechanical failure, although it admitted concern about what happened. The entity also revealed that it had never recorded a similar problem in hundreds of vehicles tested since 1997.

The manufacturer MG Motor later confirmed that it had introduced changes to the seat mechanism and the driver's airbag system in the most recently produced units. However, vehicles already delivered to customers require a technical intervention in a workshop to ensure that the problem is fully resolved.

Recall campaigns are already underway in several international markets, including the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. In some countries, thousands of vehicles produced between 2024 and 2025 were covered by the recall. The repair consists of installing additional components in the driver's seat fastening system and will be carried out at no cost to the owners.

Euro NCAP has now appealed to all MG3 owners to respond quickly to contact from dealerships and schedule the technical intervention. The organization guarantees that the solution developed by the brand has been validated and considered effective, reinforcing that the update is essential to ensure the expected levels of protection in the event of an accident.

The Chinese group SAIC, to which MG belongs, introduced the new parts in MG 3s manufactured from August 2025 onwards, with thousands of units in circulation still to be repaired, sold previously and equipped with the weaker fixings. But despite the manufacturer having designed new parts, which it installs in the defective cars free of charge, the reality is that owners are not responding as positively to the recall as would be expected, given the seriousness of the situation and the potential risks.

Contacted, MG representatives in Portugal, the Marketing and Communications Manager, Alexandra Beny da Silva, stated that “the process of informing customers about the need to proceed with the free repair of their vehicles has already begun”. He further stated that "more than 20% of the customers contacted have already had the repairs done." This seemingly positive reaction from Portuguese drivers is higher than the average in other countries, where MG 3 users tend to "turn a blind eye" to the safety recall. This led Euro NCAP, in an unprecedented move, to issue a statement drawing attention to "the need to install the new seat fixings as soon as possible."

KIA MOTORS

Kia K4 Sportswagon

The new Kia K4 Sportswagon has appeared on the price lists across the EU. The successor to the Ceed Sportswagon with a mild hybrid (MHEV) engine boasts an ECO label and low fuel consumption.

It has been a few months since the new K4 Sportswagon had its public premiere. With this practical variant, Kia is reinforcing its commitment to the C-segment and not letting the estate car die out in the compact class.

Now everything is ready to open the order books for the new K4 Sportswagon with the aim of competing with models such as the Škoda Octavia Combi, Seat Leon Sportstourer and Peugeot 308 SW, and this compact family car boasts an ECO label and low fuel consumption. Kia has structured the K4 Sportswagon offer into Drive and Tech trim levels.

As for the mechanics, the options are minimal. Under the hood of the new K4 Sportswagon is a 1.0-liter T-GDi three-cylinder gasoline engine. This electrified powertrain features 48-volt mild hybrid (MHEV) technology, producing 115 hp and 200 Nm of peak torque. It can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The more powerful and €1,300 more expensive version is the 150 hp 1.6 T-GDI, available exclusively with the seven-speed DCT7 automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard.

The bodywork follows Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy, which is very minimalist and makes extensive use of straight lines. In the front and rear views, horizontal lines emphasize the vehicle's width. On the sides, the rear door handles are "hidden" in the pillars, just like in a Peugeot 206 SW.

The interior of the Kia K4 Sportswagon borrows heavily from the look already seen in the hatchback and sedan models. On the dashboard, the model is marked by a large panoramic display that includes two 12.3" screens for instruments and multimedia, as well as a separate 5.3" touchscreen for air conditioning control.

In the more sporty GT-Line version, the appearance of the Kia K4 Sportswagon is complemented by specific body details. This includes roof rails and wheel arch linings painted in black, as well as exclusive bumpers. Inside, this concept is continued with adapted materials and a different color scheme.

Regarding the engine options, several turbocharged gasoline engines are available. The base model is a 1.0-liter T-GDI turbo with 115 hp and, surprisingly, a six-speed manual transmission. This engine is also available with the aid of a mild electrification system, of the MHEV type, with 48 volts and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Korean station wagon achieves a combined fuel consumption of 5.7 liters per 100 kilometers and CO2 emissions of 129 g/km according to the WLTP cycle. Thanks to its MHEV technology, it is classified as a hybrid vehicle and carries the eco-label, with the associated mobility benefits in certain EU markets.

Prices in Germany start at €29,990, just €1,000 more than an equally equipped and motorized hatchback.

Autonews

AUTONEWS

Bosch Mobility Aftermarket shows why good lights are the key to driving safety

Only believe what you can see clearly...Confidence and trust behind the wheel do not come from speed, but from a feeling of complete control over the vehicle and the road conditions. That is why Bosch and its ⁠Mobility Aftermarket division wanted to talk about light not only through technical specifications and numbers, but through an experience that every driver knows – the moment when darkness changes the way you drive and shows how crucial clear visibility really is.

This was the central theme of an unusual event organized for media representatives, influencers and partners to present the Bosch light bulb program for passenger cars and trucks and the importance of top visibility while driving.

Through an interesting sound and light experience, guests had the opportunity to confront the feeling of reduced visibility and uncertainty on the road and the challenges that drivers face when conditions do not allow for clear enough visibility and when high-quality bulbs are crucial.

Bosch presented a wide portfolio of vehicle bulbs developed for different needs – from standard Pure Light bulbs and lights, which are characterized by an excellent quality-price ratio, to advanced LED and Xenon solutions and Ultra White bulbs that provide 100% more light on the road compared to standard bulbs, and which are characterized by an exceptionally long service life, thanks to the use of the highest quality materials.

A special focus was on the Plus 200 Gigalight bulbs, the most powerful halogen bulbs in the Bosch range that provide up to 200% more light compared to standard halogen bulbs, with stronger contrast and a longer light beam that allows drivers to notice obstacles on the road earlier and have more time to react.

"When it comes to driving safety, the quality of light is not a matter of comfort, but of trust and security. Bosch bulbs are developed to provide drivers with maximum visibility in all driving conditions, with a long service life and the reliability that the Bosch standard implies," said Bratislav Kocić, Sales Director of the Bosch Mobility Aftermarket Division for Serbia and Montenegro.

After the official part, the guests were presented with interesting activations, including a visibility test in a specially designed dark room, which additionally allowed them to feel the difference that quality lighting makes while driving through personal experience. Also, an interesting performance by quiz masters Milan Bukvić and Dušan Macura further emphasized the key message - that without clear visibility there are no safe assessments and decisions on the road.

As a global leader in the automotive industry and a company that has been developing innovative mobility solutions for almost 140 years, Bosch continues to set standards of quality, safety and technological reliability on roads around the world. In a world where road safety often depends on split-second and timely reactions, clear visibility becomes more than just a comfort - it becomes a matter of trust. That's why Bosch sends a simple but important message to all drivers: "Only trust what you can see clearly. Trust Bosch."

The Bosch Gigalight Plus line consists of premium, high-performance halogen bulbs designed to offer up to 120% or 150% more visibility and light range compared to conventional halogen bulbs.

Key highlights:

Increased visibility: The use of xenon gas and optimized filaments provides a longer and more intense beam of light, making it easier to see license plates and obstacles.

Design and temperature: Emits a whiter light than common bulbs (generally around 3900K to 4200K), improving the aesthetics of the vehicle without altering its originality.

Safety: Offers UV protection (which prevents yellowing of the headlight lenses), is fully legalized and within the required power standards (generally 12V and 55W).

HUAWEI

Huawei Aistaland GT7: Porsche Taycan and Panamera mix

The Aistaland brand (Chinese name: Qijing) was recently created in China, a joint project between the GAC automobile group and the technology giant Huawei. This project is not part of the HIMA alliance – the automotive technology alliance that Huawei previously launched with other local vehicle manufacturers. The first product of Aistaland is the striking electric shooting brake GT7, whose appearance is inspired by the station wagon version of the Porsche Taycan.

After the first images in March and the public premiere at the Beijing Auto Show in April, the interior and technical information have now been revealed, but the price has not yet been announced. The Aistaland GT7 is based on an 800-volt electric platform, has air suspension and wheels with a diameter of 19, 20 or 21 inches. The shooting brake is 5,050 mm long, 1,980 mm wide and 1,470 mm high.

More than just a new model, the GT7 marks the debut of the Qijing brand within the Huawei ecosystem and has already begun its journey with pre-orders, even before the full disclosure of price and versions. But what really stands out here is not just the format or the premium positioning, but the technological base.

The birth of the AISTALAND brand is the result of a collaboration between GAC Group and Huawei Qiankun. Positioned as a premium smart EV brand, it operates on a model where Huawei provides the full-stack intelligent solution while GAC handles vehicle R&D arces. The car debuts the new HUAWEI XMC Qiankun digital chassis engine, the next-gen Xiaoyi AI assistant, and a Kirin battery pack co-customized by CATL, Huawei Qiankun, and AISTALAND.

In other words, Huawei Qiankun has chosen the GT7 as the launchpad for its latest tech in autonomous driving, smart cabins, chassis control, and battery technology. This "priority on debut resources" gives AISTALAND a strong starting point for a new brand, but it also means the cost of trial and error is shared by both parties.

The GT7 adopts a set of three electric motors, something still rare even among high-performance models. This allows for much more precise control of torque and dynamic behavior, reinforced by a Huawei digital chassis capable of adjusting everything in milliseconds.

The electric base also follows the most advanced line in the Chinese market. The model uses an 800V architecture combined with a new generation battery supplied by CATL, with support for ultra-fast charging in the 6C standard. In practical terms, the promise is to recover about one kilometer of range per second under ideal conditions, a number that puts the GT7 among the fastest in this regard.

Another point that reinforces this technological profile of the model is the assisted driving system. The car features an 896-line LiDAR, indicating readiness for more advanced automation functions, already based on an architecture geared towards level 3 in specific scenarios. It's a significant leap compared to what is seen in most models currently available.

Inside, the logic remains the same. The GT7 should debut a new evolution of the HarmonyOS system, focusing on total integration between car, user, and services. The proposal goes beyond a traditional multimedia center and starts working with specialized intelligent assistants, capable of performing specific functions within the vehicle's ecosystem.

There is a three-spoke steering wheel, a narrow instrument panel, a 15.6-inch freestanding multimedia tablet and a double-height center console with a wireless charger. The seats are heated and ventilated with a massage function and a retractable footrest. Equipment includes a head-up display and a 21-speaker audio system. The station wagon can also project sound, including engine noise simulation.

The shooting brake format, in turn, helps position the model in a space that is still relatively unexplored outside of China, but which has been gaining strength there. At about five meters long and with a wheelbase of three meters, the GT7 clearly enters the large segment, combining a more sporty proposition with a high level of interior space.

In practice, this puts the model in an interesting competition. On the one hand, it speaks directly to cars like the Zeekr 001, which consolidated this type of body in the premium electric segment. On the other hand, the advancement in technology and software brings the GT7 closer to rivals like the Xiaomi SU7, which also bet on digital integration as their main differentiator.

This combination makes it clear that Huawei is not only participating in the automotive market, but trying to redefine part of the game. The GT7 emerges as a product conceived from the beginning based on digital architecture, with hardware and software evolving together, something that is becoming standard among new Chinese brands.

The 3,000 mm wheelbase shows that the Aistaland GT7 has a cousin in the similar electric station wagon Shangjie Z7T, a joint project of Huawei and SAIC (part of the HIMA alliance). The GT7's luggage capacity is 647 liters, and by folding the rear seats it increases to 1,606 liters. There is also an additional luggage compartment with a capacity of 215 liters in front.

The appearance of the GT7 is determined by frameless side doors and an electrochromatic panoramic roof. The list of available equipment also includes an autopilot system with an 896-line lidar sensor above the windshield. Driver assistance systems, like other electronics, come from Huawei, with multimedia operating in artificial intelligence mode.

The Aistaland GT7 will be offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The basic version uses an electric motor with a capacity of 250 kW (340 hp), while data on the 4×4 modification with three motors has not yet been released, except for the announcement that it will accelerate to “hundreds” in 2.98 seconds. According to Chinese media, the Aistaland GT7 will be available with a battery capacity of 86 or 103 kWh, or a maximum range of up to 900 km (CLTC).

by Autonews

CADILLAC

Cadillac XT5 PHEV

Cadillac is preparing to launch a plug-in hybrid version of the XT5, which has been in production since 2024 and is currently available exclusively in China.

As a reminder, there is also a global XT5, which is sold in parallel in the US and other markets. The Cadillac XT5 PHEV has been certified as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in the database of the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Commerce, as a supplement to the mild 48-volt hybrid with a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (237 hp).

Although the design remains virtually identical to the Chinese model revealed in 2024, the XT5 has now gained a PHEV hybrid variant that would directly compete with the Volvo XC60 in Brazil. Currently, the Swedish SUV leads the mid-size luxury SUV category precisely because of its focus on electrified powertrains. This could be Cadillac's major differentiating factor. Furthermore, the XT5 is also produced in China.

The powertrain of the new PHEV version includes a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline 4-cylinder (156 hp) and two electric motors, which together produce 367 hp. There is no information about the battery yet. The PHEV version is certified only with all-wheel drive, probably in combination with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The PHEV is equipped with an autopilot system with a lidar sensor above the windshield (the XT5 2.0T does not have lidar).

The plug-in hybrid also has a different look, namely redesigned bumpers. The new Cadillac XT5 is likely to debut in China before the end of the year. The current SUV, excluding special offers, costs from 379,900 yuan, which is equivalent to 47,970 euros. Otherwise, there are no official announcements about the transition of the global XT5 to a new generation.

The new car is equipped with a 308 T engine dedicated to the hybrid system with a dual electric motor, forming the total power in mixed combustion.

In terms of the external appearance of this model, in addition to the powertrain, it basically follows the general design of the current conventional models. The front has a classic square-shaped front grille, decorated with mesh patterns and combined with the design of the two-part separate lamps that strongly highlight the visual recognition of the complete vehicle body.

The roof includes installed laser radar hardware, likely equipping advanced intelligent driving assistance configurations. In addition, this new model has an intake grille with automatic closing and sensors in the bumper that are practical.

The side of the body maintains the traditional design of the door handle equipped with multi-space alloy wheels, side window edge surrounded by a glossy black decorative strip creating a sophisticated and luxurious feel. The rear uses the transverse chromatic strip connecting the T position lights on the sides with an aerodynamic component installed at the upper end, increasing the sporty aspect of the complete vehicle.

The exhaust layout has been significantly adjusted, discarding the old design with two exposed double intakes and replacing them with a concealed exhaust structure. In terms of body dimensions, the exact measurements are 4890/1675 mm (23 inches) with a wheelbase of [insert value here] meters.

At the core of the powertrain, this new model is equipped with the General Motors-produced LD-1 turbocharged fuel engine, integrated into the hybrid electric system. The maximum output of this engine can reach up to 23 kW with a dual engine configuration divided into two groups: the front engine reaches a peak power of [insert value here] mW while the rear engine reaches a value of [insert value here] watts.

Furthermore, this new model also includes an external discharge function, satisfying the needs of outdoor electric driving situations.

Autonews

NISSAN

Nissan Frontier Sport Edition

The 2027 Nissan Frontier offers more ways for drivers to get the most out of their pickup truck, with the addition of a Sport Edition package aimed at off-road drivers.

The new package, available on SV 4x4 and 4x2 trims, includes bold yellow accents on both the interior and exterior that help the Sport Edition stand out from the crowd, plus the confident confidence of all-terrain tires and added protection.

The Nissan Frontier mid-size pickup is offered in a variety of configurations to meet the needs and desires of customers, with King Cab or Crew Cab body styles, a choice of 1.5 or 1.8-meter cargo space, and four well-equipped trim levels: S, SV, PRO-X and PRO-4X. The Frontier also offers Dark Armor, Sport Edition and PRO-4X R packages so customers can further personalize their pickup truck.

The Frontier is built at Nissan’s Canton, Mississippi, plant, demonstrating Nissan’s long-standing commitment to manufacturing in the U.S. and to American jobs.

Nissan’s long tradition of building rugged off-road vehicles continues to inspire Frontier owners to take on off-road adventures. Now, there are more ways to add features to make off-roading accessible, right from the showroom floor.

For the 2027 model year, the Nissan Frontier SV package adds a Sport Edition package (available on SV 4x4 and 4x2 configurations) that includes 17-inch black wheels shod with 265/70R17 Hankook Dynapro tires, an aluminum skid plate, LED fog lights and front accent lighting.

Visual changes for the Sport Edition package are inspired by the popular Frontier PRO-X and PRO-4X packages, starting with a black lower front grille, grille and mirrors, complemented by “Sport” badging on the side and tailgate. The durable black upholstery scheme features contrasting yellow accent stitching.

The Frontier also adds all-terrain tires, allowing drivers who plan to venture off-road to opt for added control and confidence. This expanded offering answers the call of Frontier drivers who want to do more with their trucks, whether it’s for work, hobbies or exploring easy off-road trails. The Frontier PRO-X and PRO-4X models also add a sunroof package with the Convenience Package, giving customers more flexibility in choosing the specific stand-alone features they want on their truck.

This year, the Frontier adds a new Alpine metallic paint option to its color palette, offering a sleek new look. Exterior color choices for the Frontier also include Red Alert, Tactical Green Metallic, Afterburn Orange, Gun Metallic, Boulder Gray Pearl, Super Black, Glacier White and Bluestone Pearl.

The wireless phone charger in the PRO Package has been upgraded for faster and more consistent charging.

To give drivers more choice, the Nissan Frontier continues to offer the “Dark Armor” and “PRO-4X R” packages. “Dark Armor,” available on the SV trim level, gives the Frontier a sleeker, more subtle look with a gloss black grille, exterior badging, mirrors, interior trim accents and a roof liner, plus 17-inch “Dark Armor”-specific gloss black aluminum wheels. The PRO-4X R package offers enhanced off-road capabilities, with more aggressive Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme off-road tires in 265/70R17 size fitted to 17-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped shifter and titanium-finish accents for the grille inserts and skid plate.

It comes with a 3.8-liter direct-injection V6 engine, built in the USA and rigorously tested for reliable performance. The Frontier’s V6 engine is rated at 310 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. The 2027 Nissan Frontier PRO-X (4x2 only) and PRO-4X make off-roading a breeze with Bilstein suspension components, black 17-inch wheels with Lava Red lettering, all-terrain tires, and an electric rear differential lock (PRO-4X only). The PRO-X and PRO-4X models have an even more rugged look with Lava Red fender flares, Lava Red tow hooks, black exterior trim, and unique Lava Red interior accents.

The PRO-X and PRO-4X are also available with the intelligent Around View Monitor; on the PRO-4X, an Off-Road mode is added that can be used at speeds up to 12 mph.

All 2027 Frontier packages feature standard driver assistance and safety technologies that give drivers more confidence and safety, including lane departure warning, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors and intelligent cruise control. Frontier also offers simplified, powerful connectivity technologies, with a standard 8-inch and optional 12.3-inch (SV, PRO trim levels) touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and up to four USB ports. The standard 7-inch Advanced Drive Assist display keeps drivers informed of vehicle information right on the instrument panel.

Autonews

AUTONEWS

What kills EV battery range? Real-time images pinpoint lithium metal weak spots

While it's true that, just like their petrol and diesel counterparts, electric vehicles may not always match their advertised range in day-to-day conditions, the great news is that there is plenty you can do to maximise your EV’s range. 

You’re not alone if you’ve wondered about how far your electric vehicle can really go. We’re here to clear up the myths and focus on the facts – and put the power back in your hands. By understanding the ins and outs of EV range, you’ll be set to boost your car’s performance and make the most of every charge.

Let’s take a look at the top factors that can influence the range of your EV, so you can hit the road worry-free.

A crucial clue to simultaneously increasing electric vehicle (EV) driving range and battery lifespan has been discovered. A research team at KAIST has observed the exact moment of degradation in lithium metal batteries at the nanoscale (approximately 1/100,000th the thickness of a human hair) and identified the fundamental cause of performance decline. This is evaluated as a significant turning point in accelerating the commercialization of next-generation batteries.

                1 / 1Overview of the EC-AFM measurement process. Credit: ACS Energy Letters (2026)

The research team, led by Professor Seungbum Hong from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, identified the degradation mechanism of the lithium metal anode, a core component of next-generation batteries. The research is published in the journal ACS Energy Letters.

Lithium metal is dubbed a "dream battery material" due to its significantly higher energy density compared to conventional batteries. However, the rapid decline in performance after repeated charge and discharge cycles has been the biggest obstacle to commercialization. In particular, when lithium is deposited or stripped irregularly, it can form "dead lithium"—lithium that is electrically disconnected—which leads to performance degradation and poses safety risks.

Height maps and surface slope maps during the first-third plating/stripping processes. Credit: ACS Energy Letters (2026

The research team utilized in situ electrochemical atomic force microscopy (EC-AFM), which allows for real-time observation of the battery interior, to track the entire process of lithium deposition (plating) and removal (stripping). As a result, they confirmed that the lithium reaction does not occur uniformly across the entire surface but occurs selectively at specific locations.

Specifically, in porous regions with rough surfaces, voids were easily formed when lithium was stripped away, leading to the creation of "dead lithium" that becomes electrically isolated. This phenomenon acts as a direct cause of the sudden decline in battery performance.

The significance of this study lies in experimentally identifying where and how lithium metal batteries are damaged. Furthermore, it proved that the "initial morphology," where lithium is first formed, is a key variable that determines the long-term lifespan of the battery.

Accordingly, it is expected that if the surface where lithium forms is controlled uniformly and precisely in the future, battery life and stability can be dramatically improved. This suggests a design direction that can simultaneously achieve increased EV driving range and the development of long-life batteries.

Professor Seungbum Hong stated, "This research is highly significant as it directly confirmed the cause of battery performance degradation at the nanoscale. It will serve as an important foundation for developing safer and longer-lasting next-generation batteries."

The biggest everyday drains on EV battery range are highway speeds, extreme temperatures (both hot and cold), and heavy climate control use. Unlike gas cars, EVs use significantly more power overcoming aerodynamic drag at high speeds and rely on battery energy to heat or cool the cabin.

Specific factors that reduce your driving range include:

-High speeds & aggressive driving: Aerodynamic drag increases exponentially with speed. Rapid acceleration and hard braking drain the battery far faster than smooth, steady driving.

-Extreme weather: Frigid winter temperatures (freezing or below) thicken battery fluids, reducing efficiency and capacity. Similarly, extreme summer heat can cause the car to use energy to cool the battery.

-Heating and air donditioning: Turning on the cabin heater or air conditioner creates an auxiliary load that diverts power from the drivetrain. The Department of Energy notes that range can drop by up to 32% in sub-zero temperatures.

-Heavy loads & inefficient tires: Extra weight, roof racks, and trailers reduce efficiency. Using winter tires, having low tire pressure, or incorrect wheel alignment also increases rolling resistance.

Poor charging habits (long-term degradation): Over time, consistently charging the battery to 100% or letting it drop to 0% accelerates natural battery degradation.

Provided by The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)