EV Digest: Tesla Repairs, Lexus RZ, BYD Seagull, & More

Repair or Upgrade: Tesla Wheel Options

• A cracked 21-inch Uberturbine rim costs ~$1,100 to replace at Tesla, but local repair may be cheaper. Alternatively, downgrading to 19-inch wheels (Costco $2,000+) could save money long-term.

New EV Models: Lexus, BYD, Skoda, Mazda

• The 2026 Lexus RZ 350E is a mixed bag: good refinement, but limited range and slow charging.
• BYD will launch the 2026 Seagull on May 11, the first entry-level EV with LiDAR, promising advanced safety.
• The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq gains ADAS features; Mazda CX-30 Turbo Aire Edition tested well.
• MG reveals a small electric SUV with a “liquid-solid state battery” for improved range.
• An electric Citroën 2CV could be priced under £15,000—a nostalgic, affordable option.

Industry & Tech News

• SpaceX’s Starship Booster 19 completed a full-duration 33-engine static fire test.
• EU regulators are skeptical of Tesla’s self-driving tech safety claims.
• Ethanol blended fuels won’t save money compared to regular gasoline.
• Colorado approves balcony solar panels, but certified units are scarce.

Market Trends & Buyer Advice

• Should you switch to an EV? Analyze your commute, charging access, and total cost of ownership.
• A buyer’s market for Ford Mustang Mach-E in SoCal may emerge in 3-6 months.
• One owner canceled a Cybertruck order for a Ford F-150 PowerBoost, citing practicality.
• Porsche is shutting down its Cellforce battery subsidiary.
• April EV sales rose in Belgium, Argentina, Spain, Italy, Australia, and the UK.

For more details, visit eCarsToday.com/ecars-the-latest.