As artificial intelligence traffic cameras become standard across Australia, concerns are mounting over their accuracy, particularly when it comes to detecting mobile phone and seatbelt offences. With AI-based enforcement now operating nationwide, a growing number of motorists are questioning infringement notices and taking their cases to court.

AI cameras are designed to automatically identify illegal mobile phone use and seatbelt breaches, capturing images that can lead to fines and demerit points. However, according to high-profile traffic lawyer at Astor Legal, Avinash Singh, the technology is far from foolproof. Singh warned that the systems frequently misinterpret common items as mobile phones.

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“AI cameras are notoriously unreliable at detecting mobile phone use in particular,” Singh said. “The technology often mistakes other objects for phones. We’ve seen cases where wallets, glasses cases and even battery packs have been incorrectly flagged.”

Transport authorities across the country maintain that images captured by AI cameras are reviewed by trained human operators before penalties are issued. While this reassurance is intended to build confidence in the system, Singh says it raises further questions.

“If these images are genuinely being checked by people, it makes the volume of incorrect detections all the more concerning,” he said. “There’s no transparent way for drivers to verify how thorough that review process actually is.”

Legal professionals report that AI-generated infringements are now being regularly challenged, particularly in cases where the image evidence is unclear or open to interpretation. Singh is encouraging drivers who believe they’ve been wrongly fined to consider disputing the notice rather than paying it automatically.

“To challenge an AI-based fine, the driver must elect to take the matter to court instead of paying it,” Singh explained. “The case is then listed for a hearing, where a criminal defence lawyer can argue that the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the image shows a mobile phone.”

With AI enforcement expanding and penalties remaining severe, experts say scrutiny of the technology – and how it’s applied – is likely to intensify as more drivers push back against questionable fines.

China is set to outlaw retractable and flush-fitting door handles on new vehicles, following growing safety concerns that electrically operated systems can prevent occupants or emergency services from opening doors after a crash.

The ban will come into effect from 1 January 2027 and applies to passenger vehicles weighing under 3.5 tonnes. Under the new rules, cars must be fitted with clearly identifiable physical door handles on both the inside and outside, each incorporating a mechanical emergency release that can operate independently of the vehicle’s electrical systems.

The move follows a series of high-profile incidents worldwide involving vehicles with electronic door mechanisms. In the United States, Tesla has faced multiple lawsuits linked to crashes in which doors allegedly failed to open due to power loss. US safety regulators have been assisting investigations into several fatal incidents where occupants were unable to exit vehicles after collisions.

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China has seen similar cases. Last year, domestic manufacturer Xiaomi was scrutinised after a driver reportedly died when he could not escape his SU7 electric sedan following a crash. These incidents prompted China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) to conduct a wide-ranging safety review covering more than 230 vehicle models equipped with electronically operated door handles.

Following that review and a public consultation process, the government decided regulatory intervention was necessary. The new standards specify that at least one interior door handle must be mechanically released and easily recognisable to occupants. Exterior handles must also allow sufficient hand clearance to operate a mechanical release and must be positioned no more than 300mm from the door’s edge.

The decision could have implications beyond China, which remains the world’s largest automotive market. Carmakers may be reluctant to engineer separate door-handle designs for China and other regions, potentially accelerating a broader shift back to conventional handles globally.

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Flush and retractable handles have become increasingly common over the past decade. Popularised by Tesla and high-end brands such as Aston Martin, the design has since spread across a wide range of European and Chinese manufacturers. The handles are often used to reduce aerodynamic drag, making them particularly attractive for electric vehicles seeking greater driving range.

Every Tesla model currently on sale uses electronically operated handles, though the company has previously indicated it is working on solutions to meet upcoming regulations.

While the new rules will apply immediately to newly approved models from 2027, vehicles already in production will be granted a transition period of just over two years to comply. As a result, drivers may soon see a noticeable design shift as manufacturers prioritise mechanical simplicity over flush aesthetics in the name of safety.

The New South Wales Government has moved to defend plans to expand its speed and red-light camera network after motorists criticised the rollout as a form of revenue raising.

Under the proposal, around 10 new cameras will be installed each year across the state, with Transport for NSW (TNSW) confirming the devices will be placed at locations identified as high risk based on crash and near-miss data. The announcement has prompted strong reactions from some drivers, who argue the program unfairly targets motorists.

TNSW, however, insists the cameras are designed solely to reduce road trauma. Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, the department said the approach is aimed at rule-breakers rather than compliant drivers, and that all locations are chosen using evidence-based safety assessments.

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The next wave of cameras is expected to be installed across several Sydney suburbs, including Auburn, Beecroft, Blacktown, Concord, Greenacre, Lewisham, Sylvania, Wentworthville and Wetherill Park. Regional areas are also included, with new enforcement planned for Blackbutt, Doyalson, Nowra and San Remo.

Chadi Chalhoub, Executive Director of Transport Safety, said the expansion is a direct response to persistent road safety concerns. “Last year we lost more than 350 people on our roads, and around 40 per cent of those deaths occurred in crashes where speeding was the main factor,” he told the outlet.

Those figures reflect a broader national trend. More than 1300 people were killed on Australian roads in 2025, many in crashes authorities say could have been avoided.

According to Chalhoub, research consistently shows automated enforcement plays a key role in improving driver behaviour. “Expert evidence tells us camera enforcement is one of the most effective ways to increase road safety, and it’s used widely both nationally and internationally,” he said.

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He added that red-light speed cameras are installed at intersections with a history of serious incidents, with the goal of slowing vehicles and preventing drivers from running red lights.

Responding to claims the program is unfair, Chalhoub stressed that motorists are given ample warning. “Every speed camera in NSW is clearly signposted, whether it’s a red-light camera, an average speed camera or a mobile unit,” he said. “All locations are also published on the TNSW website.”

The government, he said, would prefer drivers never be fined at all. “We would rather have people follow the rules and stick to the speed limit than receive even a dollar from penalties,” Chalhoub told Yahoo\.

“There are no excuses for speeding,” he added. “Slow down and drive to the conditions.”

Tesla Australia has made a small change to its line-up to bring it inline with other markets around the world, including the USA and Europe.

Regular versions of the Model 3 sedan and Model Y mid-size SUV will now be called ‘Premium’, with the Performance models still sitting atop the range. Instead of just ‘Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive’, ‘Model 3 Premium Rear-Wheel Drive’ is now in its place.

Tesla says the move is to align the local operation with its global naming structure – but it also potentially opens the door for the less expensive Standard models to launch in Australia at some point. The Standard models are available in some global markets and offer less features, but are priced lower as well. Officially, Tesla Australia says that the Standard models won’t be offered locally.

Aside from the new naming structure, the Model 3 and Model Y have received no changes to specifications or pricing and the Model 3 continues to be priced from $54,900 plus on-road costs and the Model Y from $68,900 +ORC.

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The brand also recently extended its Australian warranty to five-year/unlimited km coverage, which is joined by five years of roadside assistance as standard.

2026 Tesla pricing in Australia (plus on-road costs):

The Sydney Harbour Concours d’Elegance will return for 2026, promising a bigger and better show compared with last year.

The classic car meet will again be held on Cockatoo Island on Sydney Harbour, running from Friday, February 27 to Sunday, March 1 with tickets now on sale.

A collection of more than 50 vintage, classic and unique automobiles across categories will be assessed by an international judging panel.

Concours vehicles will parade daily, with commentary from a panel of experts and discussions with owners. The rare and refined line-up for 2026 includes:

• Interbellum Elegance: Featuring a 1934 Bugatti Type 57 Graber Roadster and the 1936 Delage D6-70 Figoni et Falaschi Cabriolet
• The Ashes: Classic British and Aussie rivals go head-to-head, from a 1971 Ford XY Falcon GT-HO Phase III to a 1957 Aston Martin DB2/4
• Disegno Italiano: Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Maserati – the masters of Italian style come together in a visual feast
• Carrozzeria Touring: Three Lancia Flaminia GTs by Touring, Aston Martin DB6s bring Italian coachbuilding flair and grand touring elegance
• Plastic Fantastic: Lightweight innovation and composite cool, featuring the 1957 Buchanan, 1958 Chevrolet Corvette C1, 1969 McLaren M12 Can-Am M6GT, 1974 Bond Bug and more
• Catch My Drift: Cult Japanese heroes, including the 1999 Subaru Impreza WRX 22B, 2011 Lexus LFA and Honda NSX R
• Generation Alpha: The future of speed and design – think McLaren Senna XP, 2023 Ford GT, and a 2024 Porsche 911 Dakar

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Beyond the classic cars on display, some of the world’s most prestigious marques will be showcasing the latest in modern motoring.

This is an opportunity to inspect new cars and motorcycles in detail, including the latest from Aston Martin, Bentley, Brough Superior, Lamborghini, McLaren and Rolls Royce.

In addition to cars and motorcycles, the Sydney Harbour Concours d’Elegance will showcase artist Simon Cavelle creating a live artwork, painting a vehicle over the three day event, or view Camilla Albertini’s photography exhibition “Women and Motors? Just Joy,” which is a high-impact cultural project conceived at the Fratelli Cozzi Museum in Italy.

Tickets for the Sydney Harbour Concours d’Elegance 2026 are available to purchase here.

New research from car insurance comparison site MoneySuperMarket has revealed which cars the world dreams of owning the most.  Using a combination of global Google search data and a consumer survey of 4000 drivers worldwide, researchers identified the most searched-for dream cars across the world as well as each country’s top Googled dream model. 

The study also discovered the most preferable colours, the reasons people desire certain vehicles over others, and the main barriers preventing people from owning their ‘dream car’. 

Taking the top spot as the world’s dream car is the Ford Mustang, racking up well over 100 million (116,686,707) searches over a five-year period. In addition to the global top spot, the Mustang also ranks as the most-desired in Chile, Mexico, Peru and Georgia, as well as many American states. 

Second place went to the Porsche 911. While the Mustang scored higher in overall worldwide searches from car fanatics, when drilling down into the country-by-country data, the 911 featured at the top of the list for more countries. In fact, Porsche scored well as a brand overall, with the Cayenne and Macan SUVs also featuring in the top 20.

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The Dodge Charger was placed third, with the Tesla Model 3 in fourth place. Like Porsche, Tesla appeared in the top 20 three times with the Model Y in sixth and the Model S in 18th place.

After the Ford Mustang, two other Ford models also featured in the top 20 dream cars list. The Bronco storms into the global rankings in fifth, thanks to 66.7 million searches worldwide over the past five years. The Ford GT had almost 37 million searches, earning it 10th position. 

Elsewhere in the list, Audi, Cadillac, Land Rover, Lamborghini, Mitsubishi, BMW, Nissan and Toyota all make an appearance.  

The World’s Top 20 Dream Car Models:

Rank	Car Manufacturer	Car Model	Search Volume (5yr)
1	Ford	Mustang	116,686,707
2	Porsche	911	91,616,454
3	Dodge	Charger	87,045,992
4	Tesla	Model 3	82,352,518
5	Ford	Bronco	66,679,533
6	Tesla	Model Y	64,254,969
7	BMW	M3	64,253,540
8	Porsche	Cayenne	54,514,477
9	Toyota	Supra	48,073,643
10	Audi	R8	40,949,539
11	Ford	GT	36,979,907
12	Cadillac	Escalade	34,046,793
13	Porsche	Macan	34,036,414
14	Land Rover	Defender	33,994,384
15	Lamborghini	Urus	32,502,155
16	Mitsubishi	Lancer	30,123,684
17	Audi	Quattro	29,755,265
18	Tesla	Model S	28,243,246
19	Nissan	Skyline	26,979,618
20	Land Rover	Discovery	25,141,304

Australian results were a bit different, with the 911 placed first and the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 coming in second and third places respectively. The Mustang was placed fourth and the BMW M3 fifth.

Australia’s top five dream cars:

1. Porsche 911 – 3,658,700 (five-year searches)

2. Tesla Model Y – 3,594,500

3. Tesla Model 3 – 3,325,000

4. Ford Mustang – 2,695,900

5. BMW M3 – 2,471,200

Aside from car type, MoneySuperMarket also surveyed dream car colours, with black (30 per cent) the top colour, ahead of red (13 per cent), blue (11 per cent), white (10 per cent) and grey (nine per cent).

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Following on from the recent first teaser, Toyota has released another image of its new SUV that’s due to be revealed next week. While the last image showed the rear of the new SUV with its continuous light bar across the rear, the new one instead reveals the interior. Because of that, we see the new model’s dashboard and seating layout for the first time.

A flurry of speculation has followed the release of the teaser images, with many outlets speculating that this new model is an electric version of the Kluger (sold overseas as the Highlander) and Toyota’s first electric three-row large SUV.

From the second shadowy teaser image, we can see the three-row layout of the new Toyota SUV, including the second row captain’s chairs. The second row features a separate climate zone with a similar looking screen to the current Kluger, while we can also see the new dashboard layout.

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A large touchscreen that appears to be from the new-generation RAV4, featuring Toyota’s new Arene infotainment software, features prominently on the dashboard, and the digital driver’s display also appears to be similar to the new RAV4’s.

We also see a large panoramic sunroof, air vents in the roof, USB-C chargers for third row passengers and blinds for the rear doors.

Whatever this new Toyota is, we won’t have to wait long as it’s due to be revealed on February 11.

BMW Australia has confirmed a series of updates for its X1 and X2 small SUV ranges ahead of the 2026 model year, introducing new powertrain options while streamlining others as the brand adapts to evolving emissions standards and customer demand.

The most significant addition is the BMW X1 xDrive25e, a new plug-in hybrid variant that will arrive in Australia around the middle of the year. It becomes the most accessible entry point into BMW’s local PHEV range, pairing a three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and high-voltage battery. Total system output is rated at 180kW, with the electric motor contributing up to 80kW on its own.

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BMW says the X1 xDrive25e is capable of travelling between 78 and 86 kilometres on electric power alone under WLTP testing, depending on specification. Energy is stored in a 14.2kWh lithium-ion battery, which supports AC charging at up to 11kW using either single- or three-phase power. Under ideal conditions, a full recharge can be completed in around one hour and 45 minutes.

The arrival of the new X1 plug-in hybrid expands BMW Australia’s electrified offering to six PHEV models, alongside nine fully electric vehicles currently on sale. BMW has also confirmed that its next-generation iX3, based on the Neue Klasse architecture, is scheduled to reach Australian customers in the second half of 2026.

Alongside the new hybrid model, BMW will revise petrol-powered X1 and X2 variants to meet the EU6e emissions standard, ahead of Australia’s transition to WLTP testing in the coming years. As part of that change, three-cylinder petrol engines across both model lines will gain 48-volt mild-hybrid systems for the first time, designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions while improving responsiveness.

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BMW’s fully electric iX1 and iX2 will also be updated. Dual-motor xDrive30 versions of both models will adopt new silicon carbide inverters, which BMW says improve efficiency, power density and driving range. As part of a broader range simplification, the single-motor eDrive20 versions of the X1 and X2 will be dropped from the local line-up.

BMW has also flagged increases in standard equipment for petrol X1 and X2 variants, aligning specification upgrades with the mechanical changes. Full pricing and detailed specifications for the revised 2026 range are expected to be confirmed closer to the Australian launch window.

X1 Pricing

X2 Pricing

Ferrari’s newest flagship supercar is as confrontational to drive as it is to look at. By addressing the shortcomings of the SF90 and amplifying the drama, speed and sense of occasion, Ferrari has created a machine that feels purpose-built for the modern era. It is extravagantly expensive and unapologetically extreme, but as a car designed to be driven and savoured, the new Testarossa earns its place at the summit of Ferrari’s road-going lineup.

The name alone carries weight. The new Ferrari 849 Testarossa references its mechanical makeup, with eight cylinders and 490cc per cylinder, but the badge only hints at what lies beneath. This is a plug-in hybrid supercar producing a combined 773kW, capable of accelerating from 0–100km/h in around 2.3 seconds and pushing on to a top speed beyond 340km/h. Figures like these put it firmly among the world’s fastest production cars.

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Under the skin, a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 produces 611kW on its own, supplemented by three electric motors — two driving the front wheels and one integrated at the rear. Together, they deliver a staggering 842Nm of torque. The hybrid system also allows limited electric-only driving, with a modest battery providing enough range for short, low-speed trips. At speed, the Testarossa generates enormous aerodynamic grip, producing hundreds of kilograms of downforce and enabling lap times at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track that eclipse even halo cars of the past.

In person, the car is intimidating. It appears wide and muscular, with an aggressive stance and an exhaust note that leaves no doubt about its intent. Yet step inside and the experience changes. Ferrari has clearly focused on making the Testarossa more approachable from behind the wheel. The cabin layout has been simplified, addressing criticism of overly complex touch controls in recent models. Physical buttons have returned for key functions, including a proper starter button and a dedicated selector for the hybrid system’s drive modes.

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The driving position is spot on, with excellent visibility for a car of this performance level and a steering wheel inspired by Ferrari’s Formula One program. The ride is firm, as expected, but surprisingly compliant given the car’s capabilities. Two suspension setups are offered, with the track-focused Assetto Fiorano delivering sharper responses at the expense of comfort.

At low speeds, the Testarossa is calm and manageable, even refined. In Hybrid or EV modes it glides quietly, belying its potential. Switch into Performance or Qualifying, however, and the character changes dramatically. Acceleration becomes brutal, the all-wheel-drive system delivering relentless traction, while the steering and brakes provide clarity and confidence rarely matched in cars of this power.

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There are compromises. The ride may prove harsh on imperfect roads, and despite improvements, parts of the interface remain complex. The price, likely approaching $800,000 in Australian terms before options, places it well beyond reach for most buyers.

Yet judged on what it sets out to be — a cutting-edge Ferrari that blends hybrid technology with genuine driver involvement — the new Testarossa succeeds emphatically. It is outrageous, demanding and unforgettable, exactly as a Ferrari flagship should be.

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Specs

GWM Australia has announced that the plug-in hybrid variant of the popular Tank 300 off-road large SUV will be launched locally from March 2026.

Priced from $55,990 drive away for the entry-level Lux, the plug-in hybrid will be the fourth available drivetrain for the Tank 300 and will use the same 300kW drivetrain as the larger Tank 500, with up to 105km of electric driving range. First announced in December 2025, the Tank 300 PHEV Ultra will arrive first, with the lower-spec Lux arriving soon afterwards.

Centre of the Tank 300 plug-in hybrid is GWM’s ‘Hi4-T’ plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to a 120kW electric motor for 300kW power and 750Nm torque combined peak outputs. As with the Tank 500, the 300’s PHEV system is mated to a mechanical four-wheel drive system with a transfer case and locking differentials for the same excellent off-road capability that it’s known for.

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GWM is yet to confirm the Tank 300 PHEV’s battery size, but claims that it offers up to 115km of electric driving range (NEDC) and can be DC fast charged at up to 50kW for a claimed 30 to 80 per cent charge in as little as 24 minutes. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality at up to 6kW to power external power devices is standard.

The Tank 300 PHEV’s 3000kg braked towing capacity is identical to the other Tank 300 models.

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2026 GWM Tank 300 pricing (drive away):

The GWM Tank 300 plug-in hybrid will go on sale in Australia from March 2026, with local specifications to be confirmed then.