For E.V.erything
Manufacturer Bios
Vehicle Reviews
Tools and Tutorials
PLUGGED IN RIDE Issue 1 April 2026
In this issue of PLUGGED IN RIDE
LEARNING
Spotlight on EV manufacturers
The Renault 5 E-Tech focusses on usability and driving dynamics.
The Renault 5 E-Tech focusses on usability and driving dynamics.
The Renault 5 E-Tech focusses on usability and driving dynamics.
Spotlight: Polestar
Polestar carries a DNA of Scandinavian minimalism, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to sustainability.
By RNR (Ed.)
Spotlight: VinFast
VinFast, a global EV powerhouse, is dominating SE Asia while growing in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
By RNR (Ed.)
Spotlight: Toyota
Toyota’s 2025–2026 offensive built around the “beyond Zero” (bZ) family signals a genuine step-change.
By RNR (Ed.)
DRIVING
Spotlight on EV vehicles
Manufacturer’s Spotlight by Lectric Love
A deep dive in the history and vision of Mahindra, a global AI, mobility, technology company.
EV spotlight: Alpine A390
Alpine’s A390 is the second model in Alpine’s ambitious ‘Dream Garage’ plan to launch seven fully electric vehicles by 2030.
By RNR (Ed.)
EV spotlight: VinFast Shark 6
The BYD Shark 6 game changer with a Hybrid 1.5 litre turbo high-power engine may be coming to Canada.
By RNR (Ed.)
EV spotlight: Toyota bZ5X
Unveiled at Auto Shanghai 2025 (formerly bZ3C concept), the bZ5 is a stylish fastback crossover targeting the premium segment.
By RNR (Ed.)
BUYING
Spotlight on Commercial
Buyer tool: EV sport bike?
Electric sport bikes are the next evolution of performance bikes combining instant torque, sleek sport bike styling and modern tech.
By: RNR (Ed.)
Buyer tool: Best Chinese SUeV
Read how the pure-EV SUV segment is where Chinese brands have made the most dramatic inroads globally.
By: RNR (Ed.)
Buyer tools: Checklist
With global access to vehicles we see varying methods of measuring EV range; here’s our guide to navigate.
By: RNR (Ed.)
Learning
Tutorials
Buyer tool: EV sport bike?
Electric sport bikes are the next evolution of performance bikes combining instant torque, sleek sport bike styling and modern tech.
By: RNR (Ed.)
Buyer tool: Best Chinese SUeV
Read how the pure-EV SUV segment is where Chinese brands have made the most dramatic inroads globally.
By: RNR (Ed.)
Buyer tools: Checklist
With global access to vehicles we see varying methods of measuring EV range; here’s our guide to navigate.
By: RNR (Ed.)
PLUGGED IN RIDE tutorials
Can’t find a specific EV review?
1
DRIVE
Vehicle purchasing can be a daunting experience oddly akin to an interpersonal relationship: First you date, go out-on-the-town then, see if you jibe and if all goes well, you fall in love. Change date to test-drive and well,…
We’re here to help, but calling us matchmakers is a stretch. PIR publishes EV Spotlights, reviews on both late-model and early-model EV cars, trucks, motorcycles, scooters and e-bikes. We review commercial EV for job-ready transport. If you need direction, we’ve created PIR Guides for vehicle assessment.
2
BUY
So you’ve fallen in love with a vehicle, but prior to making the big commitment, it’s wise to meet the parents aka manufacturer. After all, you’re considering a long-time commitment – best get to know what the manufacturer’s history and what they value. And let’s not forget the extended family (aka servicing). It’s not just to the vehicle you’re committing, but also to the company which makes it.
We publish Manufacturer Spotlights for you to know as much as possible about the company with which you’ll be contending.
3
LEARN
When the honeymoon’s over it becomes apparent that every relationship requires work, some even counselling. Understanding and respect always help optimize any relationship.
To help, PLUGGED IN RIDE created a virtual Tool-Roll with shopper’s assists & global EV reporting. Take courses in the PIR Academy to familiarize yourself with the EV paradigm; it’s free & available 24/7. Eligible for incentives? PLUGGED IN RIDE collates information regarding global EV programs*