All posts by Francis Mitterrand

News

Polestar to Build Upcoming Polestar 7 SUV in Europe Through Volvo Partnership

In a strategic move to broaden its global manufacturing network, Polestar has announced plans to produce its upcoming Polestar 7 at Volvo Cars’ new factory in Košice, Slovakia, marking the brand’s first contract manufacturing venture in Europe. The decision aligns with Polestar’s long-term strategy to deepen collaboration within the Geely Holding Group, leveraging advanced shared technology and production capabilities.

The premium compact SUV, Polestar 7, is slated for launch in 2028 and will be built using Volvo’s technology base, drawing on next-generation cell-to-body battery technology, in-house developed electric motors, and a shared component architecture from within the group. This partnership is expected to yield both performance and cost-efficiency benefits, while maintaining the distinctive design language and dynamic driving experience Polestar is known for.

Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Polestar, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:

“Working with Volvo Cars to develop and manufacture Polestar 7 in Europe is a unique opportunity that will strengthen our position in our home market. Our strategy of utilizing Group architectures as the base for our future model line-up gives us access to the best, latest technologies, in a cost-efficient manner.”

Polestar 7 represents the brand’s latest step in redefining the premium electric SUV category, building on the success of its previous models while embracing cutting-edge innovation from within the Geely-Volvo ecosystem.

Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars, added:

“Our collaboration with Polestar on the development and manufacturing of the Polestar 7 underscores how Volvo Cars and Polestar continue to leverage synergies to efficiently deliver outstanding vehicles built for our distinct customer segments.”

Volvo Cars began construction of the Košice plant in 2023, strategically chosen for its strong supply chain infrastructure and proximity to key European markets. Once operational, the factory will serve as a critical hub for Polestar’s European ambitions, reinforcing the brand’s presence in a highly competitive segment.

As the automotive world watches the evolution of premium EVs, the Polestar 7 looks poised to make a significant impact, combining Scandinavian design, sustainable innovation, and precision European manufacturing.

Source: Polestar

News

Skoda Confirms EV Estate Plans with Next-Gen Octavia Combi Concept

In an automotive landscape dominated by SUVs and crossovers, the humble station wagon may seem like a relic of the past. Yet for Skoda, it remains a cornerstone of practicality, efficiency, and family appeal. This September, the Czech automaker will remind the world of the wagon’s enduring value with the unveiling of an all-electric concept version of the next-generation Octavia Combi at the Munich Auto Show.

A Glimpse Into Skoda’s Electric Future

First teased in 2023 as a “spacious electric estate,” the new concept is aimed at families and business users looking for a blend of utility and sustainability. Measuring approximately 4.7 meters in length, the electric Combi maintains the classic elongated profile of its predecessors but injects modern styling with sharp lines, large wheels, and a sporty silhouette. Initial design previews came in the form of a sculpture that hinted at the brand’s evolving design language.

The vehicle is being developed on the Volkswagen Group’s SSP (Scalable Systems Platform) — the same next-generation electric platform set to underpin future models like the upcoming VW Golf EV. This modular architecture promises enhanced range, efficiency, and digital connectivity.

Originally slated for release in 2026, the electric Octavia Combi’s launch has been delayed toward the end of the decade, a timeline shift that reflects Skoda’s strategic pacing in its EV rollout.

Evolution, Not Replacement

Importantly, Skoda isn’t abandoning its combustion roots just yet. While electrification is accelerating, the electric Combi won’t replace the existing Octavia lineup. The current generation, introduced in 2019 and refreshed in 2024, will continue with a diverse powertrain offering—including gasoline, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. A second facelift is reportedly in the cards, likely extending the MQB-based Octavia’s production life well past 2030.

This strategy speaks to Skoda’s pragmatic approach. Rather than forcing a full electric transition, the brand is giving customers the freedom to choose when and how they adopt EV technology.

A Stronghold in the Wagon Market

Despite changing market trends, the Octavia Combi remains Skoda’s best-selling model in Europe in 2025, even outselling its hatchback counterpart. From January to May, the wagon moved 81,353 units, an impressive figure considering it marked a 21% year-over-year decline. This performance underscores the ongoing relevance of wagons for European buyers who value space and versatility.

EV Momentum Builds

May 2025 was a milestone month for Skoda’s electric ambitions. The brand delivered 14,290 electric vehicles, a staggering 181% increase year-over-year, overtaking Tesla and placing second only to Volkswagen in European EV sales. This surge was largely driven by the introduction of the Elroq SUV, which joins the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe in Skoda’s growing electric portfolio.

Looking ahead, the electric expansion continues. In 2026, Skoda plans to introduce the Epiq, a compact EV SUV targeting a base price of €25,000. Built on the same platform as the VW ID.2 and Cupra Raval, the Epiq is positioned as an electric alternative to the Fabia, Scala, and Kamiq—models that will remain available with ICE options. Also slated for a 2026 debut is the production version of the Vision 7S concept, a large electric SUV that will sit above the Elroq and alongside the ICE-powered Kodiaq.

With the upcoming electric Octavia Combi concept, Skoda isn’t just reviving the wagon—it’s reimagining it. The brand’s commitment to the estate body style, even in an EV-focused era, signals that practicality and innovation can coexist. As Skoda balances tradition with transformation, one thing is clear: the station wagon still has a place in the modern garage—and it might just be electric.

Source: Auto News

Gallery:

Skoda Confirms EV Estate Plans with Next-Gen Octavia Combi Concept
News

Bentley Prepares Hardcore Continental GT as Lightweight Supersports Successor Looms

Bentley is sharpening its grand tourer for a new, more aggressive role on the road—and possibly the track. The British marque is developing a new range-topping Continental GT variant, one that insiders suggest could serve as a spiritual successor to the 2013 Supersports.

While the iconic Supersports badge hasn’t been officially confirmed, recent developments hint strongly at a return to a more hardcore, purist-oriented Continental GT. In a recent interview with Autocar, Bentley’s head of R&D, Matthias Rabe, confirmed that the brand isn’t ruling out transplanting the formidable 641 hp 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the Bentayga Speed into its sleek grand tourer.

Spy shots captured earlier this month support the idea of a more performance-focused model in development. Test mules were spotted with clear aerodynamic enhancements, including a fixed rear wing and aggressive front-end aero—clues that Bentley is dialing in the GT for sharper handling and lap-time capability rather than outright top-speed bragging rights.

Importantly, this new Continental GT appears to take a different path from the electrified direction of the current generation. The fourth-gen GT, launched just last year, is exclusively hybrid-powered and delivers up to 771 hp in its Speed configuration. But where that model leans into hybrid tech for raw power and efficiency, the upcoming variant seems poised to champion lightweight construction and unfiltered combustion engine thrills.

A key visual departure is the new exhaust layout. Ditching Bentley’s signature oval pipes, the prototype sports twin exhausts on either side—hinting at a potentially reworked rear architecture and possibly a more distinctive exhaust note. Newly designed alloys also feature, though the overall bodywork remains largely camouflaged. Unlike its 2013 namesake, which stood out with exaggerated front air intakes and muscular styling cues, this new model keeps its cards close to its chest—for now.

While Bentley has yet to release technical specifications or official naming, industry insiders speculate the new model will be built in limited numbers and command a price tag significantly north of the GT Speed’s £202,400 base. Whether it wears the Supersports name or adopts a new identity altogether, it’s clear Bentley is preparing to unleash a Continental GT that celebrates dynamic purity and performance heritage in a world increasingly dominated by electrification.

Expect more details to surface as the car nears its official unveiling—likely sometime in 2025.

Source: Autocar

Gallery:

Bentley Prepares Hardcore Continental GT as Lightweight Supersports Successor Looms