Electric Cars

Stark Unveils Limited Edition 80 HP Electric Supermoto: The Titanium-Enhanced Sköll

Stark Future, a leading innovator in electric dirt bikes, has revealed an extraordinary new model, the Stark VARG SM Sköll. This limited-edition electric supermoto builds upon the already impressive VARG SM platform, transforming it into a sleek, dark machine with enhanced performance and an exclusive aesthetic. With only 500 units planned for global release and no subsequent production runs, this motorcycle is poised to become a highly coveted item among enthusiasts. The Sköll distinguishes itself not merely through its striking all-black appearance, but also through significant engineering refinements that push the boundaries of electric motorcycle design.

Inspired by Norse mythology, where Sköll is the wolf destined to pursue and consume the sun, the motorcycle embodies a sense of power and mystique. This mythological connection is reflected in the bike's design, which features an extreme commitment to black, applied through specialized manufacturing processes rather than simple surface coating. Beyond its visual transformation, the Sköll incorporates the full ALPHA specification, delivering 80 horsepower and advanced dynamic traction control. The core architecture of the bike, including its 7.2 kWh structural battery, single-speed drivetrain, chassis, and carbon-fiber-sleeved motor with integrated inverter, remains robust, providing a reliable and potent foundation for this exclusive model. The attention to detail extends to weight reduction, making the Sköll the lightest VARG SM produced to date.

The Sköll: A Fusion of Dark Aesthetics and Advanced Engineering

Stark Future's new Sköll supermoto is a limited-edition marvel that meticulously blends a darkened aesthetic with cutting-edge engineering. Far from a mere cosmetic upgrade, the bike's pervasive black finish results from specialized manufacturing techniques, including anodizing and powder coating applied to virtually every component. This extensive treatment covers elements such as the triple clamps, steering stem, swingarm, motor housing, and even the handlebar map switch, creating a cohesive and aggressive visual identity. The only notable contrast is the gleaming gold 520 RK MXU chain against a black 7075 T6 rear sprocket, adding a subtle touch of flair to the otherwise monochromatic design. These deliberate choices underline Stark's commitment to delivering a truly unique and visually striking machine.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Sköll integrates significant performance enhancements. It inherits the robust ALPHA specification from the existing VARG SM, boasting a peak power output of 80 horsepower and advanced dynamic traction control for superior handling. The underlying structural components, such as the 7.2 kWh battery pack, single-speed drivetrain, and carbon-fiber-sleeved motor, remain foundational, ensuring the bike's formidable capabilities. A key highlight of the Sköll is its substantial weight reduction, achieved through the incorporation of 3D-printed titanium footpegs, which shave off 140 grams, and a comprehensive titanium bolt kit, reducing another 900 grams. Cumulatively, these modifications decrease the bike's weight by 1.1 kg (2.4 lb), bringing its total claimed weight down to 123.4 kg (272 lb). This makes the Sköll the lightest VARG SM, further amplifying its already impressive power-to-weight ratio and promising an even more exhilarating riding experience.

Exclusive Production and Enhanced Performance Through Lightweighting

The Stark VARG SM Sköll stands as a testament to exclusivity and performance, with Stark Future committing to a strictly limited production run of just 500 numbered units worldwide. This scarcity ensures its status as a collector's item, with no plans for future batches, underscoring the brand's confidence in its rapid sales performance. Each of these special motorcycles will commence deliveries in October 2026, targeting discerning riders who value both unique design and superior engineering. The name "Sköll," derived from Norse mythology, symbolizes a relentless pursuit of excellence and aligns perfectly with the bike's aggressive, all-black aesthetic, achieved through meticulous manufacturing changes rather than superficial coatings, reflecting a deep commitment to quality and detail.

A critical aspect of the Sköll's design philosophy is its focus on lightweighting, which significantly enhances its performance. By replacing standard components with advanced materials, Stark has managed to achieve a notable reduction in overall mass. The integration of new 3D-printed titanium footpegs alone contributes to a 140-gram weight saving, while a comprehensive titanium bolt kit shaves off an additional 900 grams. These combined efforts result in a total weight reduction of 1.1 kg (2.4 lb), bringing the Sköll's claimed weight down to 123.4 kg (272 lb), making it the lightest iteration of the VARG SM. This reduction, though seemingly marginal in isolation, is highly significant in a high-performance electric supermoto, further intensifying the bike's already absurd power-to-weight ratio and promising an even more dynamic and responsive ride. The Sköll truly caters to those who demand peak performance and a distinct, uncompromised aesthetic.

Kia's New PV7 Electric Van Spotted in US Following Global Unveil

Kia's groundbreaking PV7 electric van, which recently made its global debut, has been observed undergoing testing in the United States. This sighting immediately follows its official unveiling, reigniting discussions about Kia's intentions for the North American market. The PV7, an integral part of Kia's innovative Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) series, represents a significant step forward in electric commercial and passenger transport solutions. Its presence on American roads, even in a camouflaged prototype form, signals potential market exploration, though concrete plans for its US launch are yet to be confirmed.

The PV7 stands out as the second electric van in Kia's PBV collection, following the PV5, and is notably larger, extending over 17.5 feet in length. This increased size allows for greater versatility in its configurations, which will include both Passenger and Cargo variants from its initial rollout. The van's power comes from advanced nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) battery packs, available in 71.5 kWh and 96.2 kWh capacities. The Long Range Cargo model is projected to achieve a WLTP range exceeding 285 miles, making it suitable for extensive operational demands. While front-wheel drive will be standard, Kia has indicated plans to introduce an all-wheel drive option, further enhancing its utility. The FWD powertrain is capable of delivering up to 268 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, ensuring robust performance for various applications.

Equipped with an 800V electrical architecture, the PV7 supports rapid charging, allowing it to go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 25 minutes when connected to a 350 kW DC fast charger. The Cargo version of the PV7 is specifically designed for business needs such as delivery and logistics, offering 2- or 3-seat layouts and up to 6.1 cubic meters of cargo space, with a High Roof variant expanding this to 8 cubic meters. Conversely, the Passenger model is tailored for families or shuttle services, accommodating up to nine passengers, and even an 11-seater configuration will be available in Korea.

Despite the recent sighting of the PV7 prototype undergoing hot-weather testing in the US, the likelihood of its immediate market introduction remains a subject of speculation. Kia has announced that the PV7 will first launch in Korea and Europe in the latter half of 2027, with "additional markets, derivatives, and conversion models" to follow without specific timelines for the US. Previous instances, such as the PV5 being tested in the US without subsequent release, add to the uncertainty. Factors like import taxes on vehicles manufactured in South Korea could pose economic hurdles. Furthermore, Kia's CEO has emphasized the PV7's strategic targeting of the European light commercial vehicle market, suggesting that other regions might not be an immediate priority.

The appearance of Kia's new PV7 electric van on American soil undoubtedly piques interest among fleet operators and electric vehicle enthusiasts. This large, capable electric vehicle offers compelling specifications and versatile applications that could address various transportation needs. However, a combination of production logistics, potential trade tariffs, and strategic market positioning suggests that its availability in the United States, while a possibility, is not yet a certainty. Continued observation of Kia's global rollout strategy and any official announcements will be key to understanding the PV7's future in the American market.

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Volvo's Next-Generation PHEVs Outperform Competitors in Electric Range

Volvo has unveiled its groundbreaking long-range plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the XC60 and XC90, setting a new benchmark for electric driving capabilities in the American market. With an extended electric range that significantly outpaces its rivals, these models are a cornerstone of Volvo's strategic shift toward an all-electric lineup.

New Volvo PHEVs Lead the Market in Electric Range

In a significant announcement made on September 15, 2026, Volvo introduced the revamped XC60 and XC90 SUVs. These new plug-in hybrid variants boast an electric driving range of up to 78 miles for the XC60 and 73 miles for the XC90 on a single charge. This remarkable achievement is attributed to a substantially larger 41.2 kWh battery, more than double the capacity of previous models. This advancement positions Volvo's new PHEVs as leaders in electric range, far exceeding competitors such as the new Toyota RAV4 PHEV, which offers an estimated 54 miles of electric range.

Volvo's President and CEO, Håkan Samuelsson, emphasized that these new long-range hybrids are crucial in the company's journey towards a completely electric future. Alongside the new all-electric XC60, these models reinforce Volvo's strong electrified offerings within the mid-size SUV segment.

The updated XC60, Volvo's all-time best-selling model, features a refreshed interior and exterior design. Notable enhancements include Volvo's signature Thor's Hammer LED headlights, a redesigned dashboard and door panels, and the integration of the latest active safety technologies. The interior is also equipped with an 11.2-inch screen powered by Google Gemini, Google's next-generation AI assistant, enhancing the in-car experience. Both the new XC60 and XC90 will benefit from regular over-the-air (OTA) software updates, ensuring they remain at the forefront of automotive technology.

Production of these advanced PHEVs is slated to commence in the autumn of 2026, with initial customer deliveries anticipated in early 2027. While these new models are being rolled out, Volvo recently announced the discontinuation of the electric EX40 from its US lineup after the 2027 model year. This move is part of a broader strategy, as Automotive News reported that Volvo plans to introduce a new entry-level electric SUV, potentially named the EX50, by the end of 2027. This more affordable EV, expected to start around $50,000, will complement the EX60, which currently begins at $59,795 and offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 307 miles.

Although pricing for the new long-range XC60 and XC90 PHEVs has not yet been disclosed, the current 2026 Volvo XC60 PHEV starts at $62,545, and the 2026 XC90 PHEV starts at $77,595. Volvo's three-row electric SUV, the EX90, is priced starting at $78,090.

The introduction of Volvo's long-range XC60 and XC90 PHEVs marks a significant leap forward in sustainable automotive technology. Their extended electric range and advanced features demonstrate a clear commitment to an electrified future. This development not only offers consumers more environmentally friendly and efficient driving options but also intensifies competition within the plug-in hybrid market, potentially accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles globally. It's a promising sign for a cleaner, more sustainable transportation landscape.

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