Plugged in Australia

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Plugged In Australia Episode 14 – Recorded February 11th 2026 from Western Sydney. 

Host Jamie delivers extensive coverage of Chery's strategy avoiding price wars with Atto 1 competitor and emphasis on premium features/warranty/service for long-term value, new GWM plus-sized luxury PHEV SUV full reveal with three-row seating, powertrain specs, range, charging, interior luxury, and Australian family/regional potential. 

Volkswagen Group 5 million electric drive units milestone with production plant details and implications for local supply, Kia Australia CEO on axing EV incentives having no effect on demand plus comprehensive 'bit of everything' 2026 EV strategy with lineup launches, business case insights for small models, and market adaptation, BYD's first EV major power boost and new AWD version approved with full specs update. 

BYD Aussie boss detailed comments on value battle with Tesla including battery safety/tech/local tuning advantages, Ferrari electric car interior returning to physical buttons with Australian designer influence and usability benefits in glare/heat, Kia's electric hot hatch spotted testing with performance hints and dynamic details. 

BYD Fang Cheng Bao Titanium 7 tough electric SUV and Great Tang largest SUV reveals with off-road capability/luxury specs and positioning, GWM Cannon PHEV uncovered as Shark 6 rival with power/towing/off-road details and Australian launch consideration, and EV tax FBT debate heating up with lobby warnings on sales momentum risk plus expert policy analysis on incentives impact.

 Full specs, updates from past episodes, balanced market context, and real implications for Down Under drivers.

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Plugged In Australia Episode 13 Host Jamie delivers an in-depth look at Toyota's confirmed Highlander EV as its first three-row electric SUV with full specs, range, powertrain, charging, seating, and Australian potential, Toyota replacing CEO amid defence against Chinese brand rise plus exposed EV patents for game-changing tech, BYD outselling Tesla 10-to-1 in January with detailed model breakdowns and market shift update from past episodes, Tesla Semi final specs with two trims, battery sizes, range, power, charging, and heavy-haul implications, accelerating electric car depreciation data with Australian examples and factors, China's 212 off-road 4WDs confirmed for Australia with Jeep-like ute/SUV details and capability, ex-Holden plant stopping GWM Ora production impact, and Volkswagen simplifying ID.Buzz pricing. Extensive specs, updates from previous episodes, balanced market context, and real implications for Down Under drivers.

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Plugged In Australia Episode 12 –  February 9th 2026 from Sydney. Host Jamie delivers an in-depth look at Xpeng's new GX large three-row electric SUV with up to 700km range, 500kW triple-motor power, air suspension, and premium features, ongoing uncertainty around the electric Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman project (updating from Episode 7) with delays, cost issues, and potential full cancellation, detailed insights on the 2027 Toyota Corolla's redesigned TNGA-C platform, standard hybrid powertrains, potential PHEV with 60-80km range, styling, interior, and safety upgrades plus Australian pricing expectations, Ford-Geely partnership for European production and technology sharing with potential global implications including Australia, BYD Seal 6 PHEV wagon spied in Melbourne as a practical family alternative with over 1000km total range and 200km electric-only, Leapmotor C10 mid-size SUV with discounted drive-away pricing under $50,000 and up to $4,000 factory bonus plus full specs, WA's electric bus rollout scaling to 130 vehicles by 2029 with depot upgrades and emissions savings, Mercedes-AMG confirming three all-electric performance SUVs on AMG.EA platform with axial flux motors and over 700kW, Toyota HiLux hybrid delays to 2027 with mild-hybrid diesel details and future full hybrid/PHEV plans, Kia PV5 modular electric van approval with configurable bodies, up to 90kWh battery for 400km range, and commercial potential, GAC Aion UT compact hatch approval with 500km range and affordable pricing, Tesla's vehicle-to-grid rollout starting with Cybertruck, and Jaguar selling its last new petrol car in Australia marking full EV transition. Extensive specs, updates from past episodes, Australian market context, and balanced implications.

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Plugged In Australia Episode 11  February 7th 2026 from Sydney. Today we deliver in-depth coverage of five-star ANCAP ratings for Geely EX5/Starray, Kia EV4, Leapmotor B10, and Zeekr 7X with full category breakdowns and standout features, comprehensive 2026 BYD Shark 6 upgrades including 2.0-litre turbo for 345kW/750Nm, 3500kg towing, locking diffs, two-speed rear transmission, potential 300km EV range, cab-chassis option, and BYD's leadership strategy with dealer expansion and local tuning, Subaru Trailseeker electric SUV confirmation with 280kW dual motors, 4.4s sprint, 533km range, all-terrain specs, and Australian road relevance. 

Geely EX5 OTA adding Android Auto and full alert silencing with new sounds, NSW EV charging expansions via Jolt commuter parks listing locations and green power details plus strata grants up to $80,000 with eligibility and benefits, Genesis dedicated luxury EV platform for 2027 with flagship hints. 

Mining fleet electrification with Fortescue's 220-tonne trucks detailing battery, regen savings, and rollout, Volvo Bus BZR Electric coach with customisable battery/range and safety, affordable MG ZS Vibe specs undercutting rivals, Zeekr X power and charging upgrades, Denza B7 off-roader local tuning, fleet CO2 reduction key questions with examples. 

NZ's strong electrified sales breakdown as regional preview, GWM Ora 5 potential hatch replacement details, and the efficient Vessev VS-9 electric hydrofoil ferry specs and service. Extensive specs, Australian context, and market implications.

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Plugged In Australia Episode 10 – February 6th 2026 updates fromAustralia. We cover the Kia EV3 all-wheel-drive confirmation for Australia (but no GT yet), fading prospects for the entry EV2, massive price cuts on Smart #1 and #3 electrics up to $13,500, the cheapest EVs in Australia with at least 120km range, Volvo CEO predicting EVs cheaper than petrol within five years, Polestar's fresh $400 million funding boost, Geely EX5 gaining Android Auto via OTA, MG teasing a new electric sedan rival to Model 3 and Seal, over-hyped EV demise claims amid sales surge, federal inquiry into solar panel recycling, and MINI Countryman Electric details. Specs, pricing, market shifts, and Aussie implications all here

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Plugged In Australia Episode 9 – early February 2026 updates from Sydney. We cover January VFACTS sales with BYD's massive surge and Tesla's slump signalling a changing guard, Fortescue taking delivery of huge battery-electric mining trucks from China, Tesla's Apple CarPlay ambitions still alive, new policy questions on supporting Australian-made EVs, China's upcoming ban on hidden door handles, and research showing Aussies dream of Mustangs and 911s amid the EV shift. Full sales figures, specs, and market insights for Down Under drivers.

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Bonus Episode of Plugged In Australia! We dive deep into groundbreaking Australian research from Deakin University on structural battery integration—using the battery pack as a load-bearing part of the EV chassis. We break down the trade-offs and massive benefits: huge stiffness gains, better ride quality, and weight savings up to 87kg without losing performance. Explained clearly for everyday listeners—why this could mean lighter, safer, more efficient EVs on Australian roads soon. No jargon overload, just the key insights from engineers at Deakin's School of Engineering.

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Plugged In Australia Episode 7 brings the latest EV updates from Sydney in early February 2026. Host Jamie covers the Kia EV5 dipping under $50k drive-away with strong deals, Tesla's new rooftop solar panels and Model 3/Y name changes (no cheaper Standard variants here), potential axe for electric Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman, BMW X1 PHEV return, Kia confidence in EV4 sedan sales, new lower-interest subsidy for Hyundai/Kia EVs, Audi RS5 PHEV and entry EV confirmation, GWM Tank 300 PHEV pricing with big power, Jaguar electric sedan battery details, VW ID.Buzz further cuts, and Kia EV5 facelift plans. Specs, pricing, and Australian market insights packed in!

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to Plugged In Australia! In Episode 6 we break down the hottest early 2026 EV news from Sydney. Kia confirms the punchy EV3 GT for Australia with sporty performance and sharp pricing, Tesla rolls out a $2000 trade-in bonus on the bestselling Model Y, Geely extends factory incentives on the EX5 SUV, and the refreshed MG4 hatch gets launched with big price slashes in right-hand-drive markets.

We also cover Jaguar doubling down on its all-electric relaunch (no hybrids in sight) and Tesla's big strategy shift—focusing almost entirely on autonomy with no new traditional drivable models soon. Deals, hot hatches, premium reboots, and the robotaxi future—all with Aussie buyer angles!

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

G'day and welcome to Episode 5 of Plugged In Australia, your essential guide to the electric vehicle revolution Down Under. This week, we're spotlighting the surge in affordable EVs hitting our shores in 2026—from top-value SUVs under $50k to exciting new sedans and rugged hybrids from brands like Geely, MG, and Kia. We'll break down the best buys for budget-conscious families, tease upcoming launches that could shake up the market, and tie in global trends to what they mean for Aussie roads. Whether you're hunting for your first EV or tracking the latest tech, we've got the news to keep you charged!

Disclaimer:

All specifications, pricing, and information discussed in this episode were correct at the time of recording. The electric vehicle market moves quickly, so we recommend you always check the latest details directly with manufacturers, dealers, or official sources.

This podcast provides general news and information only, based on publicly available sources and Australian Consumer Law guidelines. It is not legal, financial, or professional advice. For advice specific to your situation, please contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or seek independent professional guidance.

Plugged in Australia and its hosts are not responsible for any decisions, misunderstandings, or purchases made based on the content of this show.

Sourcing & Transparency

At Plugged in Australia, all our stories are sourced from publicly available news articles and reports. We do not receive any advance information or briefings from brands or manufacturers.

Any analysis or opinions we share are based solely on this public information.

Our main sources include (though we also use many others, and they vary by episode):

• https://www.carsales.com.au/
• https://www.carexpert.com.au/
• https://thedriven.io/
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://autotalk.com.au
• https://www.carsguide.com.au
• https://evcentral.com.au
• https://www.drive.com.au