Electric Cars

While Honda's electric vehicle (EV) ambitions in North America faced setbacks due to tariffs and market volatility, leading to the cancellation of three new EV models, the company is actively exploring pioneering EV solutions within its home country of Japan. One such endeavor is the established Mobile Power Pack, a portable 22-pound battery system designed for electric scooters, which can be effortlessly exchanged at specialized charging and vending stations. This practical innovation, reflecting Honda's roots in two-wheeled mobility and Japan's urban landscape favoring compact vehicles, has been operational for several years.

Addressing the more complex challenge of charging four-wheeled EVs, Honda, in collaboration with Taisei Corporation, is transforming what was once a futuristic concept into reality: dynamic inductive charging for electric vehicles on public roads. Beginning early next year, real-world durability and feasibility tests will commence on a section of the Tateyama Expressway located east of Tokyo. This advanced charging infrastructure will feature a network of inverters embedded directly into the driving lanes, powered by conventional DC supply stations situated alongside the road. Vehicles equipped with compatible receiving panels on their undercarriage will be able to replenish their batteries while in transit, with target charging rates reaching up to 150 kWh for larger commercial vehicles.

A key advancement in this project is the integration of simplified wiring within the road-embedded units, combining the inverter and charging coil into a single, highly durable pad. The rigorous testing phase is designed to demonstrate that the initial investment in this infrastructure will be offset by minimal long-term maintenance, with plans to subject the surface to millions of vehicle passes. While widespread adoption of on-the-go charging roads in places like the United States may be a distant prospect due to differing road maintenance standards and the potential for electrical hazards from potholes, the successful validation of this concept holds significant promise for commercial applications. Particularly for scenarios involving continuous-operation cargo shuttles in environments such as busy ports, stretches of inductively charged road could ensure uninterrupted vehicle operation. Meanwhile, Honda's broader North American electrification strategy appears to be in a temporary holding pattern.

This pioneering venture into dynamic inductive charging by Honda and Taisei Corporation represents a significant stride towards a more sustainable and convenient electric future. By confronting the practical challenges of EV infrastructure head-on, they are not only advancing technological boundaries but also inspiring a global conversation about innovative energy solutions. Their commitment to rigorous testing and long-term viability underscores a dedication to progress that benefits both industry and society, paving the way for a world where electric vehicles seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, reducing range anxiety and promoting environmental stewardship.

Ford has officially rolled out the Bronco ORV package, a specialized offering from its Ford Custom Garage program designed to elevate the off-road prowess of the 2025 and 2026 Bronco models. This new package aims to build on the Bronco's successful reintroduction in 2021, which has already seen various special editions like the Heritage and Stroppe editions. The ORV package equips the Bronco with a robust Fox off-road suspension, a skid plate directly from the high-performance Bronco Raptor, and enhanced auxiliary LED lighting. A ProCal calibration tool is also included for fine-tuning performance. Aesthetically, the ORV package introduces distinctive 17-inch black Weld wheels, striking red Bronco badging, a sleek matte black hood decal, and exclusive ORV badges on the fenders, giving the vehicle a rugged and refined look ready for challenging terrains.

The Bronco ORV package is made available across several trims, including the base Bronco, Outer Banks, and Big Bend, and can be optioned with or without the Sasquatch package. Under the hood, the SUV benefits from a sophisticated Fox off-road suspension system and gains critical underbody protection with a skid plate and fuel tank plate adopted from the formidable Bronco Raptor. For nighttime adventures, a Rigid auxiliary lighting kit is integrated into the robust front bumper, with options to add lights on the hood and a roof-mounted light bar for maximum illumination. Further enhancements include a high-clearance Borla exhaust, a heavy-duty rear differential cover, a hydraulic hood lift kit, and an ARB air compressor conveniently located under the hood. Every Bronco ORV also comes equipped with a Ford Performance ProCal device, an advanced calibration tool for comprehensive data logging and diagnostics.

Beyond its functional upgrades, the Bronco ORV also boasts significant stylistic modifications. It rides on 17-inch black Weld wheels featuring matching lug nuts, complemented by more prominent fender flares for a bolder stance. The iconic Bronco badging is rendered in a vibrant red, harmonizing with the vehicle's tow hooks. A Stealth hood decal is applied to reduce sun glare, enhancing driver visibility. The rear Ford badge receives a smoked finish, and a unique triangular ORV-branded logo adorns the fenders, signaling its special edition status. Optional sill plates with Ford Performance branding further underscore the vehicle's enhanced capabilities and exclusive design.

Ford states that the Bronco ORV will be a limited-edition offering for the 2025 and 2026 model years, though specific production numbers have not been disclosed. This package comes with an additional three-year/36,000-mile supplemental warranty, effective from the new-vehicle in-service date, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. Importantly, the installation of the ORV package does not invalidate the standard factory warranty. The Bronco ORV package carries an additional cost of $18,995 beyond the vehicle's base price and can be acquired through authorized Ford dealerships, offering an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts seeking a highly capable and visually striking off-road vehicle.