News Roundup: Feb 2, 2026

Check out the video: https://youtu.be/mwNTrwGEk90

The Best Gets Better

Often described as “the best car in the world,” the latest Mercedes S‑Class arrives with a major under‑the‑skin overhaul despite its familiar look, with roughly half of its 5,400‑plus parts newly developed or revised. Styling updates focus on a larger optional illuminated grille, abundant gloss‑black trim, and distinctive illuminated star details, while customization is taken to extremes through MANUFAKTUR with hundreds of exterior and interior color choices. Technology is a centerpiece: the new MB.OS, running on a water‑cooled supercomputer with Google and Microsoft AI, supports advanced driver assistance via a dense array of cameras, radars, and sensors, optional 10‑degree rear‑wheel steering, and an interior dominated by the Superscreen. Luxury and novelty extend to the rear cabin with large displays, video‑call capability, heated seat belts, and workflow‑style features such as Notes and Calendar integration—albeit limited to Google and Microsoft ecosystems—while powertrain headlines include a new twin‑turbo, flat-plane crank 4.0L V8.

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WHY THIS MATTERS: Although most competitors in this segment are aging or disappearing (Lexus LS, Audi A8, Genesis G90…), there’s an updated BMW 7 Series due this summer and increased competition from the Chinese, so Mercedes can’t afford to let their flagship languish. The choice of a flat-plane crank is curious, given that this technology isn’t usually refined enough for a luxury car—but it does set Mercedes apart from the competition.

THE BOTTOM LINE: More bling and more tech, but perhaps also now more over-the-top for the sake of shock value.

Rolls-Royce’s 2nd EV

The second electric vehicle from Rolls‑Royce has been spotted testing, appearing to be a Cullinan‑sized SUV that signals the brand’s continued expansion into electrification. Questions remain about whether it will replace the current Cullinan or be sold alongside it, especially as BMW continues to voice support for V12 production. The new EV is expected to borrow heavily from the Architecture of Luxury platform and electric hardware seen in the Spectre, though its larger size and SUV profile could challenge range unless the battery grows, or unless newer Neue Klasse–related technology is adopted. Early indications suggest it will be larger than Bentley’s upcoming urban SUV EV, with an official unveiling anticipated later in the year in close proximity to Bentley’s own debut.

WHY IT MATTERS: Unlike Bentley, Rolls-Royce hasn’t quite abandoned their vision of an all-EV portfolio, and this vehicle looks like a pretty safe approach—and fairly unique in the market, with the closest competitor being the equally massive Cadillac Escalade IQ. Spectre sales have been slipping, so this will be a further test of EV acceptability to Rolls buyers.

THE BOTTOM LINE: The Spectre has been positively viewed as a Rolls first and an EV second, and the Cullinan EV appears to be following the same recipe.

Raising the Bar

The IM Motor LS9 Hyper represents a significant step up for IM Motors, the joint venture between MG and Alibaba under the SAIC umbrella, positioning itself as an Escalade‑sized flagship SUV. It distinguishes itself with advanced maneuverability thanks to 24‑degree four‑wheel all‑electronic steering that dramatically reduces its turning circle versus rivals. Power comes from a trimotor EREV setup delivering 737 horsepower, pairing a 1.5‑liter range extender with an estimated 140 miles of electric range. Inside and out, the LS9 leans heavily into tech and luxury: a roof‑mounted lidar system, an expansive multi‑screen layout for all passengers, underfloor heating, a large fold‑down rear display, and even an integrated shower built into the tailgate underline its ambition to blend utility, comfort, and futuristic flair

WHY IT MATTERS: Spending $100,000—or even $60,000—on a Chinese vehicle five years sounded absurd, but a new wave of luxury brands continue to raise the bar in innovation and technology, putting more pressure on legacy brands

THE BOTTOM LINE: Although the silhouette and overall design aren’t markedly distinguishable from a half-dozen other large Chinese luxury SUVs, it definitely has the potential to lure buyers from legacy brands.

R.I.P.

Despite relatively recent updates that refreshed styling and chassis tuning, Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X are nearing the end of their long lifecycles, with production expected to wind down later this year. Sales volumes for the pair have declined significantly from their peak, reflecting intensifying competition in the luxury EV space and the challenges of platforms that are now 12 to 15 years old. While both models benefited from multiple technology upgrades and minor facelifts over time, they have struggled to keep pace with newer rivals.

WHY IT MATTERS: With Model 3/Y sales down 7% last year, the disappearance of zero emissions credit revenue, and reports that ramp-up of Cybercab and Optimus will be “agonizingly” slow, this is a lost (but admittedly relatively small) revenue stream at a time when Tesla is facing numerous headwinds.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Does this portend the end of the Model 3/Y in a few years?

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