Today in Cars: Chery’s small EV hatch incoming, Ram 1500 recall widens, Tesla suspension probe, Honda’s hybrid heat

I spent the morning bouncing between phone briefings and a dash to the shops in a hybrid (traffic was ugly, the mpg wasn’t). Here’s the quick-and-grippy version of what matters today—from an Aussie-tuned Chery ute to a widening Ram recall and a Tesla suspension probe you’ll want to know about.

Chery makes two big moves: a new small EV hatch and Aussie-tuned Stockman

Lepas small hatch: EV and PHEV powertrains

According to CarExpert, Chery’s Lepas brand is about to unveil an all-new small hatchback with both pure electric and plug-in hybrid options. If you’re picturing something around BYD Dolphin/MG 4 territory, you’re not far off the brief: compact footprint, urban-friendly, but with enough legs for a weekend run down the coast.

I’m curious about chassis tune more than headline range. In this size class, the difference between “busy” and “buttoned down” on a chewed-up city ring road is night and day. A good tune keeps it planted over sharp expansion joints; a bad one has you pogoing. We’ll see which way Lepas goes.

Premcar turns a spanner for Chery’s Stockman

Also from CarExpert: local engineering ace Premcar—the mob that’s made Aussie-market off-roaders ride and handle better for years—will now lend its touch to the Chery Stockman. If you’ve driven any of Premcar’s previous projects, you’ll know what that typically means: locally validated suspension, tougher underbody hardware, and a calibration that suits corrugations, heat, and real-world towing rather than perfect lab roads.

I’ve done enough outback miles to know the value of a locally signed-off setup. On a loaded ute, the difference between “fine on paper” and “calm with two dirt bikes and a dog crate out back” is usually spring rates, bushings, and countless hot laps on rough test loops. This is a smart play for Chery if they want credibility with tradies and weekend warriors.

Safety watch: Ram 1500 recall and a Tesla suspension probe

1.5 million Ram 1500s recalled globally; Australia included

CarExpert reports a global recall affecting roughly 1.5 million Ram 1500 pickups, with Australian-market trucks caught up in the action. If you own a 1500, expect contact from the brand and your local dealer with next steps. I’ve done plenty of miles in 1500s—the steering’s easy, cabins are cavernous—and the dealer network is used to moving quickly on campaigns like this. Don’t ignore the notice when it lands.

1.2 million Teslas under probe for front suspension complaints

Carscoops says U.S. regulators have opened a probe into approximately 1.2 million Teslas after 150+ reports of front suspension issues. Investigations don’t equal recalls, but they do mean data gathering and, if needed, action. Practical tip from the “what’s that clunk?” file: if you hear new front-end knocks over speed humps or feel vague steering after a pothole strike, get it inspected promptly—probe or no probe.

Honda’s two-front momentum: record hybrids and a “baby EV” for Australia

Hybrids set a new sales record as gas tops $4

With U.S. fuel prices back over $4 a gallon, Honda’s hybrid lineup just notched a fresh sales record, per Carscoops. No shock there. When fuel spikes, efficient cars stop being a spreadsheet exercise and start feeling like freedom. The latest Honda hybrids have that easy torque off the line and an almost eerie calm at 70 mph—I noticed it again last week in stop-and-go, where the engine barely bothered to wake up.

Australia gets pricing for the Honda Super-One “baby EV”

CarExpert adds that Honda has confirmed Australian pricing for the Super-One, a pint-sized electric city car. We’ll dig into the spec sheet once the first cars land, but the brief is clear: tight-footprint EV, perfect for narrow inner-city parking and darting across town. Shorter-wheelbase EVs can feel a touch skittish on truly broken surfaces—ask any tester who’s hit a nasty tram track at speed—but they’re sublime in gridlock and miserly around town.

Quick takeaways

• Chery’s EV push is broadening: a small Lepas hatch with EV/PHEV power plus local Stockman tuning via Premcar.
• Ram 1500 owners should watch for recall notices and schedule dealer visits promptly.
• Tesla owners in the U.S. should stay alert as regulators probe front suspension complaints.
• Honda’s hybrid surge shows how fast the market pivots when fuel prices bite.
• Australia’s getting another urban-friendly EV option with the Honda Super-One.

Who should care today? A simple snapshot

Owner checklist

• Ram 1500: Watch for recall notices; have your VIN handy for dealer confirmation; don’t delay the booking.
• Tesla: If you hear new front-end noises or feel steering looseness, get a suspension check; keep service records tidy.
• Hybrid shoppers: Test-drive in rush hour to feel EV-mode smoothness; compare real-world mpg readouts, not just window stickers.
• City EV shoppers (Honda Super-One, etc.): Measure your garage/parking space and consider home charging cable reach before you buy.

Conclusion

Today felt like a snapshot of the market in motion: safety under the microscope, electrification marching on, and a reminder that local tuning still matters in a global car world. If you’re shopping, the good news is choice. If you’re already an owner, the good news is support—recalls and probes are the system doing its job. Either way, keep your tires aired, your VIN noted, and your expectations realistic. The rest tends to fall into place.

FAQ

• Is my Ram 1500 part of the recall?
  The global campaign includes Australian-market vehicles, per CarExpert. Have your VIN ready and contact your dealer for confirmation and scheduling.
• Which Teslas are under the suspension probe?
  U.S. regulators are investigating approximately 1.2 million vehicles after 150+ complaints, according to Carscoops. Until details narrow, stay alert for symptoms (clunks, alignment changes) and book inspections if needed.
• When will Chery’s Lepas small hatch be available?
  A reveal is imminent per reports. Timelines and markets will firm up at launch; expect EV and PHEV options.
• What did Premcar’s involvement change on the Chery Stockman?
  Expect local validation and tuning suited to Australian roads and loads. Exact hardware and calibration details will be outlined by Chery as the program rolls out.
• How much is Honda’s Super-One in Australia?
  CarExpert says pricing has been announced. If you’re shopping, check with your local Honda retailer for the most up-to-date drive-away numbers and estimated delivery timing.