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Luxury is all around you in a Mercedes-Benz, even when you look above your head. The German automaker introduced Magic Sky Control over a decade ago, and the feature has enhanced the driving experience. Here’s a guide to one of the manufacturer’s most innovative functions.  

What Is Magic Sky Control?

Magic Sky Control is an electronically controlled glass roof system that allows drivers to adjust transparency levels. Experts say Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to implement this type of customizable sunroof. The manufacturer implemented it for models like the S-Class and the SLC. You could also see it on Maybach models. 

How Does Mercedes-Benz Make It Work? 

This switchable glass roof leverages suspended particle device (SPD) technology. This innovation can block most visible light and outperforms typical windshield materials. Each sunroof contains layered glass with microscopic particles suspended in liquid. This clear fluid evenly distributes the particles between the glass layers, ensuring quick alignment and scattering when the driver pushes the button. 

The Benefits of Magic Sky Control 

Luxury buyers want comfort and customization from their vehicle’s automotive technologies. Here are five benefits of Magic Sky Control for Mercedes-Benz drivers. 

1. Cabin Comfort

Work commuting or road tripping could mean sitting in your car for hours. So, the last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable while driving. Magic Sky Control allows Mercedes-Benz drivers to adjust their sunroof with a single button press. You can block sunlight on the brightest days and make the interior more comfortable. 

2. Energy Efficiency

SPD technology helps drivers block the solar heat gain entering their vehicles. This feature is beneficial when the dog days of summer arrive. Increased energy efficiency means you can rely less on the air conditioner and save fuel. If you drive an electric Mercedes-Benz, you save battery power on your trip. Electric vehicles need up to 10 hours on a level 2 charger, so it’s helpful for commuters. 

3. Customization

Magic Sky Control lets Mercedes-Benz drivers control the ambience of their cabin. On sunny days, you can open the sunroof to increase fresh air and natural light. Alternatively, drivers may close it to create a more intimate and cozy atmosphere. Regardless, the technology can go hand in hand with LED lighting systems to make the interior more immersive.

4. UV Protection

High ultraviolet (UV) levels can be dangerous, even when you’re inside a car. The SPD smart glass blocks light when drivers turn off Magic Sky Control, which limits the amount of natural light in the cabin. Protection is essential because UV light can cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. The Mercedes-Benz feature also safeguards interior materials, such as leather. 

5. Heightened Privacy

Traditional sunroofs need mechanical shades or blinds to give drivers privacy. These components could block the view and be cumbersome to install. Mercedes-Benz’s electronic roof system provides instant privacy by pressing a single button. Drivers benefit from deep tints, whether driving in their neighborhood or in the city. You save room and make the cabin cleaner by leaving behind physical shades.  

The Influence of Magic Sky Control 

Mercedes-Benz unveiled its SPD technology in the early 2010s, and manufacturers have since followed suit. Porsche, a rival to Mercedes-Benz, offers a panoramic roof with variable light control. BMW drivers enjoy an electrochromic glass roof that improves acoustics and UV protection in their iX SUVs. Other manufacturers with electronic sunroofs include Hyundai, Cadillac and Lexus.

The Future of Electronic Roof Technologies

Mercedes-Benz owners and other drivers can look forward to new technologies and innovations. For instance, industry experts unveiled black SPD smart glass at CES 2025 in January. This innovation enhances thermal comfort while improving visibility for drivers. You can also expect AI integration and automation, with sunroofs understanding weather forecasts. 

The Magic of Mercedes-Benz Sunroofs

Magic Sky Control is a testament to innovation, comfort and luxury. Mercedes-Benz pioneered SPD smart glass in sunroofs and has redefined the in-cabin experience. Now, drivers can control interior lighting and optimize comfort on every trip. The feature has inspired manufacturers to implement similar technologies, with more innovations on the horizon. 

The past five years have been momentous for the electric vehicle (EV) industry. It bucked the trend and overcame pandemic-related disruptions to post record sales at the beginning of the 2020s. The first half of the decade witnessed the United States passing the Inflation Reduction Act, BYD taking global market leadership from Tesla, Norway leading the world in EV adoption and the rollout of numerous innovations, like megawatt charging stations.

Can the industry outdo itself over the next five years? Discover five events that will reshape electric mobility in this EV forecast.

1. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Will Soar

According to McKinsey’s annual mobility survey published in April 2025, consumers consider ADAS as a premium auto brand differentiator in 10 years. This sentiment reflects the motoring public’s growing fascination with partial driving automation.

Although Chinese premium EV owners regard ADAS more highly than their American and European counterparts, this feature may become a unique selling proposition that outweighs brand prestige, powertrain technology, exterior and interior design, and value stability by the turn of the decade.

2. Fast-Charging Infrastructure Will Spread Nationwide

After exceeding its EV sales share goal for 2025, China is setting its sights on charging infrastructure development. It aims to have full coverage in urban areas and on highways and expanded coverage in rural areas by 2030. The country’s past performance suggests that this target is achievable, given that it already has over 85% of its fast chargers in place.

Meanwhile, the size of Europe’s fast-charging network has grown in line with the number of EVs on the road. Although the U.S. hasn’t been as rapid, EV forecasters expect the country to have over 500,000 public charging points before the next decade begins.

3. Solid-State Batteries Will Be More Pervasive

Solid-state batteries are the holy grail, as they theoretically outperform lithium-ion ones in energy density, charging speed and safety. However, many manufacturers are still racing to scale up the technology’s mass production. According to Grand View Research’s EV forecast, advancements in solid-state battery technology will help drive the global EV market size to reach $ 1,595.75 billion by 2030.

Leading the charge is Mercedes, which took an EQS equipped with a lithium-metal solid-state battery for a spin in February 2025. MG Motor announced in August that its MG4 was the first mass-produced vehicle with a semi-solid-state battery. Toyota will launch its own version in 2027, while CATL’s and BYD’s solid-state batteries are in development and could be ready for prime time in the same year.

4. Battery Pack Prices Will Continue to Drop

High battery prices had been a barrier to EV adoption. They’d inflated sticker prices and repair costs. Fortunately, the average cost of battery packs has been declining primarily due to the falling prices of metals, particularly lithium and cobalt. A significant portion of EV battery prices stems from these commodities.

In 2022, the average cost of battery prices dropped to $153 per kilowatt-hour — about 90% lower than in the mid-2000s. After falling sharply in 2024, industry observers note that the downward trend will persist until 2030.

5. U.S. Stricter Emissions Rules Will Push EV Adoption

In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized new tailpipe emissions rules for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles, applying to model years 2027 through 2032. More stringent regulations aim to compel automakers to build more eco-friendly cars and drive EV adoption and ultimately achieve the country’s sustainability targets.

Unfortunately, the American government eased its original requirements and adopted a more technology-neutral and performance-based approach after receiving backlash from the industry. Environmental advocates complained that the rules could be tougher, while the auto interests said that they’re still too strict. Regardless, the new standards moderated the initial EV adoption forecasts and greenhouse emissions reduction projections.

The Near-Term EV Forecast Is Favorable for Motorists 

The EV landscape is changing rapidly in real time. Despite prevailing and emerging challenges, the industry is heading in the right direction. Growing interest in Level 2 automation, expanding public charging networks, impending rollouts of solid-state batteries, falling battery pack prices and mounting pressure to go electric should make the next five years exciting for EV enthusiasts.

As we accelerate into the future, AI cars are transforming from a sci-fi fantasy into a tangible reality. Rapid technological advances are reshaping the automotive industry, sparking interest in autonomous vehicles. These innovations promise to improve safety, efficiency and convenience for car owners and society alike. However, for some, the idea of an AI car may still seem strange or even somewhat alien, raising questions about trust and the role of technology in our daily lives.

Beyond Self-Driving — A New Automotive Reality

An “AI car” means much more than just its self-driving capabilities — it’s a revolutionary shift in how we interact with our vehicles. Imagine a car that drives itself and also functions as a co-pilot, with real-time navigation and safety alerts. You’ll also have a built-in mechanic on board, diagnosing issues before they become problems and scheduling maintenance seamlessly. 

Additionally, your personal assistant will always accompany you as your AI vehicle manages your calendar, plays your favorite music on request and even orders your morning coffee on the way to the office. As we explore this new automotive reality, we’ll consider the design, functionality and overall experience of these intelligent machines.

Embracing the Unusual — Why Future Cars Might Seem Alien

As you envision the future of AI vehicle design, you’ll likely have to embrace the “foreign” concept it brings along. Just as the past’s extreme designs have sometimes pushed the boundaries of convention, future AI vehicles may appear as equally alien. 

Consider what people thought in the 1950s when Buick unveiled its 1956 Centurion, complete with a rearview camera system instead of mirrors — or BMW’s GINA from around 2010 — a car with an elastic fabric exterior skin. Imagine how people reacted to these and other concept cars that were often ahead of their time and, let’s face it, too weird for mass production in their eras. In a similar vein, the likely unconventional shapes and innovative functionalities that AI cars will offer in the future will challenge many perceptions of what a vehicle should be.

Core Technologies Driving the AI Revolution

Several groundbreaking technologies underpin the future of AI cars, promising to redefine your driving experience. These innovations should enhance safety and efficiency, while creating a more personalized transportation experience for passengers.

1. Full Autonomy — The End of the Driver’s Seat

Level 5 autonomy, or full automation, represents the pinnacle of self-driving technology, where vehicles operate without requiring your intervention as the “driver.” In this scenario, passengers can relax, work or even socialize while the car makes decisions in real time while navigating through traffic. The shift to full automation will fundamentally change your relationship with driving, transforming your vehicle into a mobile living space instead of a mere transportation tool.

2. V2X Communication — When Your Car Talks to the World

Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication enables cars to interact with other vehicles, infrastructure and even pedestrians. With V2X, your car can share information about road conditions, traffic signals and potential hazards ahead with practically anybody or anything. Imagine a world where your car alerts you to a pedestrian crossing or communicates with traffic lights to optimize your route. Theoretically, V2X will significantly improve overall travel efficiency and reduce accidents.

3. Predictive AI — Your Car Knows You Better Than You Know Yourself

Predictive AI takes personalization to the next level by learning from your habits and preferences. It can adjust your cabin settings — such as temperature and music — based on your mood or the time of day. This technology also anticipates your vehicle’s maintenance needs, alerting you before a part fails, for seamless and safer commutes.

What Will AI Cars Actually Look Like?

Your future AI car’s aesthetics will likely reflect a blend of futuristic design and functionality. Expect aerodynamic pods that enhance fuel efficiency, minimize drag and maximize road performance, with modular designs emerging to adapt for specific work or leisure purposes. 

Traditional vehicle elements, such as side mirrors and large grilles, could phase out, replaced by sleek surfaces that incorporate advanced sensors and cameras. As AI technology advances, your car’s function will dictate its form, prioritizing safety and connectivity to join the visually striking and innovative automotive landscape.

The Road Ahead for the AI Car

With the widespread adoption of AI cars fast approaching, significant societal shifts, such as building public trust and establishing clear regulations, are required. Road infrastructure must evolve to support these advanced vehicles, ensuring safety and efficiency. People also need to adjust to being driven rather than driving. 

Despite these challenges, you’ll likely be part of a significant transformation in the relationship between car owners and their personal transportation. As AI cars integrate into society, expect a redefinition of the link between mobility and everyday driving.

Imagine your car’s wheels not just spinning, but thinking: choosing their own optimal shape, material and even alignment in real time. Welcome to a world where AI wheels aren’t just visuals, they’re performance hardware and yes, they’re rolling toward you now.

Why Wheels Matter in the AI Era 

Before diving into the high-tech stuff, it’s worth remembering that wheels are the backbone of a car’s performance. They determine handling, comfort, aerodynamics and even fuel efficiency. However, despite being a vital component, wheel innovation has remained relatively unchanged for decades, until now. 

As artificial intelligence begins reshaping every corner of the automotive world, even your wheels are getting smarter. To understand the scale of this transformation, just look at the gaming industry, where experts predict the generative AI market will surge from USD 922 million to over USD 7.1 billion by 2032. AI wheels can analyze data, adjust to conditions and help designers rethink what’s physically possible, turning an ordinary set of rims into adaptive performance tech.

AI in Wheel Design From Generative Concepts to Bespoke Manufacturing 

AI is already revolutionizing the design of car wheels. Generative-design algorithms can now create thousands of wheel variations based on performance goals like strength, weight or airflow. Designers simply set the parameters and the AI produces unique patterns, often resembling futuristic sculptures more than traditional rims.

A great example is the DeepWheel research project, which used AI to generate a vast dataset of realistic 3D wheel models for performance testing. Meanwhile, custom brands like Hodoor World are experimenting with AI-generated forged wheels, allowing customers to visualize and order tailor-made designs that were previously impossible.

Best practice is to always pair AI creativity with real-world simulation and safety validation. Even the most beautiful model needs to meet structural standards before it hits the road.

AI in Wheel Manufacturing and Materials Optimization 

Beyond design, AI is revolutionizing the manufacturing process of wheels. Machine-learning systems are analyzing alloys and composites to find the perfect balance of lightness and durability, while predictive algorithms help manufacturers minimize defects and material waste.

Some companies are already utilizing AI to design custom wheels with enhanced aerodynamics and stiffness, thereby improving performance without adding weight. These tools can even monitor manufacturing conditions in real time, flagging micro-imperfections before they cause quality issues.

Best practice would be to integrate AI-driven design with automated quality control. When sensors, data analytics and human oversight work together, the result is a stronger, smarter wheel ready for modern vehicles and high-speed environments.

Smart Wheel Systems — Sensors, Self-Adjusting Alignment and Predictive Maintenance 

Today’s AI doesn’t stop at design. In fact, it’s creeping into the wheel hub itself. Smart wheels equipped with sensors can now track temperature, vibration, tyre pressure and wear patterns in real time. When connected to an AI system, that data translates into early maintenance alerts, dynamic alignment adjustments and even on-the-fly performance tuning.

For instance, AI-powered customization combines visualization with functional insights, helping drivers and manufacturers predict how a wheel will perform long before it hits the road. In the near future, expect AI to adjust camber and toe angles automatically, responding to terrain or driver behavior.

Best practiceis to treat your AI wheels like any other smart device — secure their data, run regular calibrations and ensure software updates are part of your maintenance routine.

Visualization, Aftermarket and Consumer Experience 

The aftermarket world is getting a digital glow-up, too. Thanks to AI visualisation tools, car enthusiasts can now “test-fit” different wheel styles virtually, swapping finishes, sizes and offsets in real time. 

Manufacturers and tuners benefit just as much as AI speeds up prototyping, reduces material waste and gets new designs to market faster. Customisation is no longer just about looks; it’s about precision and performance tailored to you.

Best practicewould be to always follow virtual design sessions with physical test fitting to confirm load ratings and clearance before installation.

Challenges, Risks and What’s Next 

As exciting as AI wheels sound, there are real hurdles to overcome. Regulatory approval, safety testing and manufacturing costs still lag behind the technology’s potential. Over-reliance on AI design without human oversight can also lead to unexpected structural flaws or data bias.

Still, the road ahead looks promising. In autonomous and EV applications, AI-integrated wheels could adjust aerodynamics, communicate with braking systems and even generate power through kinetic feedback. It’s a future where your car’s wheels won’t just spin, they’ll think.

Best practice would be to keep humans in the loop. AI enhances engineering brilliance rather than simply replacing it. 

Rolling Into the Future

AI is transforming wheels from passive metal circles into dynamic, data-driven performance assets. Whether in design, manufacturing or smart systems, AI wheels are set to make every turn smarter, smoother and more customized than ever before.

I don’t know about you, but I am so tired of the “AI revolution.”

Remember 2023 and 2024? You couldn’t read a single article, watch a single video, or even buy a smart toaster without being told how “Generative AI” was about to change all of human existence. Every startup was an “AI company,” and every “guru” on social media was five minutes away from achieving Artificial General Intelligence in their garage. It was a gold rush. It was a bubble. And it was, frankly, exhausting.

Well, we’re at the end of 2025, and I’m happy to report that the bubble has burst. This was the “Great AI Hangover” year—the year we collectively woke up, looked at the mess, and finally started cleaning it up.

And as a gear-head, a tech editor, and someone who actually likes making things, I can tell you this: it’s the best thing that could have happened. The hype is dead, and the utility is finally here.

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The “Do-Everything” Dream Is Dead

The first casualty of 2025 was the “do-everything” model. The race to build the biggest, most god-like Large Language Model (LLM) hit a wall of reality. Sure, the new models are better, but they weren’t the leap to sentience everyone breathlessly predicted.

Instead, the market finally figured out what some of us knew all along: a “jack of all trades” model is a master of none.

The real revolution this year wasn’t in the cloud; it was in what the industry is calling “Vertical AI.” Instead of one giant AI trying to write a poem, diagnose cancer, and trade stocks, we now have specialized models. We have AI for healthcare that’s trained only on medical journals. We have AI for construction that only understands blueprints and material stress.

This is the “boring” AI that’s actually changing things. It’s not a party trick; it’s a tool. It’s the difference between a flashy concept car and the high-torque wrench that lets you build a real one. The endless flood of “GPT-wrappers” (thin apps that were just a skin on an API) are gone, and in their place, we’re getting software that has AI baked in to do one specific job incredibly well.

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The Real Power Is in Your Hand

The second, and for me, more exciting, shift is that AI is finally moving out of the data center and into our hardware. For years, “AI” meant typing into a box that was connected to a billion-dollar server farm on the other side of the country. It was slow, and it was a privacy nightmare.

2025 was the year of on-device processing.

We’ve been covering the hardware at Modded for a long time, and this is the payoff. Companies are finally in a silicon arms race over their NPUs (Neural Processing Units). When Apple announced its M5 chips earlier this year, they didn’t just talk about faster CPUs; they bragged about Neural Accelerators in the GPU and a faster Neural Engine.

Why does that matter? Because it means the AI runs on your laptop or phone. It’s fast. It’s private (your data isn’t being sent to a server for “training”). And it’s personal. When your device learns your habits, it’s not to sell you ads; it’s to make the tool work better for you. This is the AI that gives you real-time photo editing without a “processing” spinner, or a smart assistant that actually knows your context without being a creep.

This move to “Small Language Models” (SLMs) that can run locally is the single biggest leap toward making AI a practical part of our gear, not just a service we subscribe to.

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AI Finally Gets a Body

The last piece of the puzzle is the one I care about most: the AI is no longer just a chatbot. It’s getting a physical body.

We’re seeing it in the cars we’re testing. The ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) in 2025 and 2026 models are on another level. They’re not just “lane-keeping” anymore. They’re using these new, efficient AI models to process camera and lidar data in real-time, allowing them to understand complex, messy urban environments. It’s still not “self-driving,” thank God—I like to drive—but it’s a co-pilot that’s genuinely smart and not just a nervous backseat driver.

We’re also seeing the rise of “AI Agents”—software with the power to do things. Not just suggest, but act. In the design world, engineers are telling an AI, “Run 1,000 stress tests” on a part, and the agent does it. In coding, agents are making their own code changes and submitting them for human review.

This is the future I’m here for. The hype was all about AI replacing us. The reality is that AI is becoming a powerful, specialized, and physical tool that helps us do our jobs better.

So yeah, 2025 was the “Trough of Disillusionment,” as the big analyst firms call it. The party’s over. But for those of us who actually build, drive, and use tech, the real work has just begun. And it’s going to be a hell of a lot more interesting than a chatbot.

I’ve been ranting about “Right to Repair” for years. It’s felt, for the most part, like shouting into the void. For the last decade, we’ve been sold a raw deal: products that are glued shut, locked by software, and designed to be thrown away the second a single component fails. It’s a culture of digital landfills, and it’s the exact opposite of what we stand for at Modded. We’re about modifying, tinkering, and owning the gear we buy.

If you can’t fix it, you don’t own it. Period.

For a long time, the situation looked bleak. But as we’re closing out 2025, I’ve got to admit, I’m feeling something I haven’t felt in a while: optimism. The tide is finally turning. This was the year the “Right to Repair” movement stopped being a niche complaint and started becoming the law of the land.

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The Legislative Hammer Finally Dropped

The real shift wasn’t a change of heart from corporations; it was a legislative hammer. After years of groundwork, the state-level laws passed in places like New York, California, and Minnesota are finally showing their teeth. These laws, which seemed like minor procedural wins at the time, are now forcing manufacturers to do the one thing they’ve spent billions to avoid: make parts, manuals, and diagnostic tools available to everyone, not just their “authorized” (and wildly expensive) repair networks.

We’re seeing the domino effect right now. By early 2025, it became clear that it was simply too expensive and complicated for companies to have different policies for different states. California’s rules, being the most comprehensive, are effectively becoming the national standard.

And it’s not just phones and laptops. This year, the movement has momentum in every sector, from medical devices to motor vehicles.

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The Two Big Villains Get Their Comeuppance

Let’s talk about the two biggest offenders, because their reactions tell the whole story.

First, Apple. For years, their “Self Service Repair” program was, in my opinion, a joke. It felt like malicious compliance—sure, you could rent a 79-pound toolkit to change a battery, but the process was so complex and the parts-pairing was so restrictive that it was designed to make you give up and just go to the Genius Bar. But now, thanks to these new laws, they’re being forced to simplify the process and—crucially—stop using software locks to brick devices that use third-party or salvaged components. They’re still not happy about it, but they’re complying.

Then, there’s John Deere. This, for me, was always the most outrageous case. Farmers—the original modders and mechanics—were being software-locked out of fixing their own tractors. A farmer would have to wait days and pay a technician hundreds just to authorize a new part. It was absurd. The lawsuits and federal pressure that came to a head this year have been a massive win. Deere has been forced to make its diagnostic software and parts available, breaking the monopoly its dealer network has held for years.

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Why This Is About More Than Just Saving Money

This is the part that really matters to me. Yes, it’s great that you’ll be able to get your phone screen replaced for a reasonable price. But this is a much bigger cultural win.

1. It’s the Real Sustainability: For all the corporate talk about “green” initiatives, the most sustainable thing you can do is not buy a new product. The “reduce, reuse, repair” mantra always had “repair” in it, but companies conveniently forgot that part. Keeping a perfectly good laptop out of a landfill just because its battery is shot is the environmental victory.

2. It’s a Vote for Ownership: We’ve been pushed toward a future where we don’t own anything—we just license our music, subscribe to our car’s heated seats, and rent our software. “Right to Repair” is a massive pushback against that. It re-establishes the simple, powerful idea that when you buy a piece of gear, it’s yours. You can open it, you can tinker with it, and you can see how it works.

3. It’s Bringing Back the “Modded” Culture: Companies like Framework have been proving this model can work for years. They built an entire business on high-performance laptops that are designed to be upgraded and repaired. You don’t buy a new one; you just buy a new mainboard or a new port. That’s the future.

The fight isn’t over. Companies will still try to make things difficult. They’ll argue it’s for “security” or “safety.” But the momentum has shifted. For the first time in a long time, the future of gear feels like it’s back in the hands of the people who actually use it. And that’s a future I’m excited to be a part of.

As we’re closing out 2025, I’ve been looking back at the car market, and I’ve got to say, this year did not play out how the “gurus” predicted. If you’d asked me in 2023, I would have told you 2025 was going to be the year of total, all-out EV domination.

Instead, what we got was something far more interesting: the “Great Reality Check.”

This was the year the EV hype-train met the hard realities of charging infrastructure, buyer budgets, and basic practicality. And honestly? It has made the entire automotive landscape better and more diverse. Here at Modded, we’re all about the future of mobility, but we’re also realists who like to get our hands dirty. This year, the industry finally caught up to that mindset.

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The Hybrid Strikes Back

First, let’s talk about the hybrid. For a while, they were treated as a “compromise” technology, a stop-gap that enthusiasts and tech-heads were supposed to look down on.

Well, 2025 was the year the hybrid struck back, and it was led by, of all things, the 2025 Toyota Camry.

I know, I know—a Camry. But hear me out. Toyota made the bold move to make it a hybrid-only lineup. While other brands were sinking billions into EV platforms that still cost too much, Toyota doubled down on a proven, efficient, and—most importantly—affordable system. The payoff? A car that gets over 50 MPG, looks sharp, and costs what a normal family can actually afford. This wasn’t a retreat from an electric future; it was a brilliant strategic move that met the market where it actually is, not where Silicon Valley wishes it was. It’s the sustainable choice for the millions of people who don’t have a Level 2 charger in their garage.

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The “Soul” Injection

But 2025 wasn’t just about practicality. It was also the year EVs finally found their soul. For me, the car that proved this wasn’t some six-figure luxury barge; it was the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

I’ve driven a lot of EVs that are fast in a straight line. They’re impressive, but they’re sterile. They feel like appliances. The Ioniq 5 N is the absolute opposite. It’s the first EV I’ve driven that feels wonderfully unhinged. With 641 horsepower (with boost), simulated gear shifts (the “N e-shift“) that kick you in the back, and a sound profile that’s part-WRC car, part-TIE Fighter, it’s a performance car first and an EV second. Hyundai’s engineers clearly asked, “How can we make this fun?” They nailed it. It’s a $66,000 hatchback that can embarrass supercars while putting the biggest, dumbest grin on your face. This is the car that proves the enthusiast’s future is secure.

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The Electric Muscle Car Finally Arrives

And look, I have to talk about the big one: the Dodge Charger Daytona EV. This was the car I was most skeptical about. A muscle car isn’t just about 0-60 times; it’s about noise, vibration, and attitude. How could an EV possibly replicate that?

Well, I’ve seen them on the road, and I’ve heard them. That “Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust” is no joke—it’s loud, it’s weird, and it absolutely works. It gives the car a presence that other EVs lack. With the 670-horsepower Scat Pack model hitting 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and that wild “R-Wing” on the front for downforce, Dodge didn’t just build an electric Charger. They built a new kind of muscle car. It’s the most “Modded” EV on the planet, hands down. It respects the past but isn’t afraid to use technology to be absurdly, unapologetically aggressive.

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The Revolution We Were Actually Waiting For

But as much as I love the unhinged Ioniq 5 N and the revolutionary Charger, they aren’t the most important car of 2025.

That title, in my book, goes to the Chevy Equinox EV, and it’s for one simple reason: it finally delivered on the original promise of the EV transition—affordability for the masses. We’ve been covering this for years, and the biggest barrier to EV adoption has always, always been price. The Equinox EV, finally shipping in volume, starts at a $33,600 MSRP and delivers an EPA-estimated 319 miles of range.

This is the game-changer. This is the car that lets a normal family make the switch without destroying their budget.

It also dovetails with the real tech win of 2025: the standardization of the NACS (Tesla) charging port. With almost every manufacturer adopting the plug for 2025 or 2026 models, the “range anxiety” problem is finally being solved from the infrastructure side. For us in the outdoor and gear space, this is massive. It means one plug, one network, and the freedom to actually go places.

So yeah, 2025 stands out. It was the “Year of the Realist.” We got practical hybrids, EVs with genuine soul, and, finally, an affordable option for everyone. The future isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s fragmented, diverse, and a hell of a lot more exciting.

See you on the road.

The future of cities is one of the most exciting and critical challenges facing us today, with innovations such as smart homes and autonomous cars already underway. However, what if these technologies aren’t separate, but integrated into a single city built from scratch? 

That’s what’s happening in Toyota’s Woven City. Located at the base of Mt. Fuji, it serves as a real-world test course and urban environment for developing and testing future mobility technologies. What would it be like to live in such a futuristic city?

A “Living Laboratory” for the Future

Residents and visitors of the Woven City can collaborate and experience new ways of living and moving within its boundaries. It has areas for everything from autonomous vehicles to smart homes and robotics.

The Woven City is not a fantasy, but a research and development initiative. Toyota unveiled its plans to build a prototype city on a 175-acre site in Japan at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show. It set the stage for the automotive titan’s ambitious goals — to create a place where researchers, engineers and scientists can develop technologies in a real-world environment.  

Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota Motor Corporation, stated that the city welcomes all those who wish to improve the way people live in the future. 

A Glimpse Into Daily Life in Toyota’s Woven City

Here’s what the day-to-day life of the city’s future residents may look like based on the initiative’s focus and setup. 

A Connected, Sustainable Sanctuary

Homes in the city blend tradition and technology. Developers typically build most residential spaces with wood and employ traditional Japanese joining techniques for construction. Robots help humans have more time by taking care of everyday tasks, such as taking out the trash and performing other chores. 

Homes may also have AI-powered sensors. These devices track the residents’ health and well-being and automatically adjust home systems based on their findings. 

A “Woven” Grid Designed for People and Mobility

Toyota’s Woven City also has a unique street grid as its core organization structure. It’s designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and includes three types of streets: 

• Primary streets for high-speed traffic: These are reserved exclusively for autonomous, zero-emission vehicles, including those used for transportation and deliveries.
• Shared streets for personal mobility: These mixed-use streets are for lower-speed transportation like scooters, bicycles and other personal mobility devices. Pedestrians can also use them. 
• Linear park or promenade streets: Only pedestrians can use these streets, which are filled with greenery and designed for leisure, social interaction and connecting with nature. 

The city will also have a network of underground streets for logistics. These will separate waste disposal and automated deliveries from the pedestrians and automated vehicles on the surface. 

The Technology Powering the City

The Woven City is Toyota’s answer to the massive shifts in its sector. The automotive industry has undergone the most significant developments over the past century, from electric and autonomous cars to advancements in AI, connectivity and sustainability. The company applied many of them in the city. 

Solar panels on rooftops and green hydrogen fuel cells power the Woven City, making it a fully sustainable community. The city also has a a virtual replica created from real-world data. This gives inventors, researchers and other parties a simulation platform to model scenarios, test technologies and optimize systems before actual implementation. 

The Future Is Starting: Phase 1 Complete

Toyota completed the first phase of construction in October 2024, which includes a test course for mobility, where many of the initial trials will take place. The company is preparing to launch some of these trials, and some operations set to begin the following year. 

In late September 2025, the Woven City opened its first section. Around 300 people will live on-site during the first phase, including Toyota employees and their families. The population may increase to about 2,000 as the project develops. 

The Beginnings of a Blueprint for the Future

Toyota’s Woven City is more than just a tech showcase. It’s a human-centric experiment that has the potential to redefine the future. With its setup, the world can proactively design a better way of living, rather than just reacting to change. The project’s impact will also extend beyond the automotive industry. It’s a tangible, working model of a future that is actively being built today. 

Your vehicle deserves to look and function its best. While many focus on cosmetic upgrades, there’s beauty in choosing accessories that boost your car’s functionality, safety and longevity.

The items that merit your investment must improve the long-term return on your asset. Discover the seven best car accessories every modern driver must own.

1. Portable Lithium-Ion Jump Starter

While old-fashioned jumper cables are still used today, they aren’t that compatible with the electronics in modern vehicles due to voltage surges. Meanwhile, a portable lithium-ion jump starter can do this work without the need for another car and jumper cables. It’s much smaller than traditional ones and often includes features like USB ports for charging electronics, a built-in flashlight and safety protections like short-circuit and reverse polarity protection.

Ensure that you obtain your item from a reputable supplier. Some products sold online were reported to have a high risk of fire due to poor internal construction.

2. Smart Phone Mount With Wireless Charging

A mount with wireless charging capabilities is one of the best car accessories for enhanced convenience. It’s a simple way to keep your car cable-free and your phone always with battery. Look for a mount with a strong suction for windshield placement or dashboard, a motion-sensor-powered automatic phone grip and an adjustable foot if you have a large phone.

3. High-Fidelity Dash Cam

A dash cam is a valuable tool for enhancing your safety and security. It provides clear evidence in cases involving traffic crashes, parking collisions, road crimes, or other unexpected situations. Opt for a high-fidelity dash cam equipped with advanced features, such as 4K resolution, advanced sensors and upgraded image processing capabilities that can capture details like license plates. Look for additional features like remote live view, voice control support and Wi-Fi connectivity. 

4. Underglow

Underglow is an excellent choice for people who enjoy DIY projects. This accessory looks fantastic on lowered cars, and you can choose from a variety of colors depending on your preferences. Aside from its aesthetic benefits, underglows help boost your visibility on the road. Opt for heavy-duty LED strips to ensure they can withstand harsh environmental conditions. Smart pods are also a wise choice, especially when you’re looking for something with multiple lighting modes and smartphone control.

5. High-Quality All-Weather Floor Mats

When was the last time you replaced your floor mats? Replacing your existing ones with all-weather options is a smart investment to protect your vehicle’s interior from wear and tear. It can help trap and contain moisture and dirt, which can lead to mold — a type of fungus that can trigger allergic reactions and shortness of breath. 

The most noteworthy feature of high-quality mats is their precise fit. Brands use laser-scanning technology to map the contours of your car’s floor plan, ensuring complete coverage and preventing the mat from sliding.

6. Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner

Whether you deep-clean your car weekly or go on a cross-country road trip frequently, a portable car vacuum cleaner is essential to maintain a healthy indoor environment. It ensures every nook and cranny is free from pesky blades of grass, food crumbs and other indoor pollutants that may trigger rhinitis, asthma and eczema. Choose one that successfully blends performance, price and household versatility. Consider attachment styles and an extendable hose to let you reach tighter areas.

7. Modular Trunk Organizer

City dwellers, corporate workers, soccer moms and more will all benefit from an organized trunk. A modular trunk organizer is one of the best car accessories you can buy if you or a family member prefers a highly organized environment. This can save your sanity and money by safeguarding your items. Soft-edge trunk organizers can accommodate more items, while rigid-edge ones are ideal for securing fragile items, such as glass bottles.

Invest in the Best Car Accessories

These accessories will enhance your car’s functionality and longevity. Choose ones that can help empower you. Review your options and invest in those that will make your journey more secure, efficient and enjoyable.