257: When Will Then Be Now?

By The Watt Car Staff — Feb. 12, 2026

As the Toyota Highlander goes all EV, what does that mean for the rest of Toyota’s lineup? Is the RAV4 next? Will the bZ be put out of its misery? We discuss the possibilities on this week’s podcast. Plus, Tesla’s Semi nears production (this time maybe for real), China bans retractable door handles, and more!

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SHOW NOTES
Toyota Highlander goes full EV: https://www.carscoops.com/2026/02/toyota-highlander-ev-suv-launch/

Nissan announces pricing for Rogue PHEV: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70300002/2026-nissan-rogue-hybrid-pricing/

Tesla reveals final specs on production Semi: https://www.cleantrucking.com/battery-electric/article/15816649/tesla-semi-final-specs-range-power-fast-charging

China bans retractable door handles in 2027+ models: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/02/china-bans-all-retractable-car-door-handles-starting-next-year/

Canada changes its “EV Mandate” for a more flexible approach: https://www.cbc.ca/lite/story/9.7075302

BYD sues the US government on tariffs: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/byd-sues-us-government-over-165900311.html

Ferrari EV gets a name, sneak peek of interior: https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/inside-ferraris-luce-ev-the-jony-ive-interior-is-here-130000211.html

This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. Sanchez
Episode art courtesy Toyota
Music courtesy Twisterium at Pixabay
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