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Skoda Peaq: New all-electric seven-seater

Skoda will launch the Peaq in summer 2026 as its largest electric vehicle to date. The name echoes the word “peak”, reflecting its status at the top of the range. Derived from the Vision 7S concept, the production Peaq adopts the Modern Solid design language with minimalist surfaces, C‑shaped lighting and a Tech‑Deck front end. Official statements emphasise an interior designed for modern families and business users, with a spacious cabin and seven seats. The MEB platform from the Volkswagen Group allows a flat floor and a long wheelbase, promising generous room for passengers and luggage. Skoda highlights “Simply Clever” features such as modular seating, practical storage and recycled materials.Technical details remain scarce, but industry observers expect an around 89 kWh battery enabling a WLTP range of roughly 600 km (373 miles) and DC fast‑charging at up to 200 kW. Dual‑motor versions with all‑wheel drive are likely, offering more power than the current Enyaq. The seven seats should fold flat to create a large cargo area. Positioned above the Kodiaq and Enyaq, the Peaq will become Skoda’s flagship yet is expected to undercut premium rivals such as the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9.

Medvedev ousted by Cerundolo at Miami Open

Daniil Medvedev crashed out of the Miami Open on Monday, losing a roller-coaster three-set third round battle against Argentine Francisco Cerundolo 6-0, 4-6, 7-5.

Runway collision kills two pilots at New York airport

Two pilots were killed and dozens of people injured after an Air Canada plane collided with a fire truck on a runway at New York's LaGuardia airport, US authorities said Monday.

Bosnian truckers blocked EU freight terminals for a day over visa rules

Bosnian truck drivers blockaded two freight terminals on the border with EU member Croatia on Monday in a one-day protest over visa rules limiting their time in the bloc.

Rip-offs at the petrol pump?

Fuel prices in Germany have become a political flashpoint. Since war broke out in Iran and the Strait of Hormuz was temporarily closed, global oil prices have surged. Crude oil quotations rose by around 20 percent to 84 dollars a barrel, and the wholesale price of diesel in Rotterdam climbed by 26 cents per litre – almost 50 percent. As a result, German motorists were paying an average of Euro 2.156 per litre for diesel and Euro 2.037 for Super E10 in mid‑March 2026.Petrol‑station leaseholders emphasise that they do not set their own pump prices. The industry’s lobbying group accuses the oil majors of selling fuel they bought cheaply at a huge mark‑up – behaviour described as “predatory capitalism”. Leaseholders receive none of the extra margin yet face the anger of customers. Convenience‑store sales are also collapsing because angry motorists buy nothing after filling up.Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government has responded with a package of measures. Filling stations may raise prices only once a day at noon; price cuts are allowed at any time. Part of the national oil reserve will be released, and the competition authority will get more powers. Critics say this does not go far enough. The social welfare organisation SoVD warns that without a price cap consumers remain at the mercy of suppliers and calls for targeted relief for low‑ and middle‑income households. SPD politicians demand a price cap to ensure that consumers are not “fleeced”, while economy minister Katherina Reiche rejects the idea of a state‑financed fuel subsidy.

Shakira to wrap up world tour with Madrid residency

Pop superstar Shakira will wrap up her record-breaking world tour with a concert residency in Madrid at a custom-built venue, promoter Live Nation said Monday.

World gave Israel 'licence to torture Palestinians': UN expert

The world has given Israel "a licence to torture Palestinians", a UN expert said Monday, with life in the occupied territories "a continuum of physical and mental suffering".

New Mercedes GLC electric

The new fully electric Mercedes‑GLC is scheduled to appear in 2026 as a dedicated EV platform rather than an electrified version of the existing GLC. The initial GLC 400 4MATIC model uses two motors and a 94‑kWh battery, promising up to 406 miles of WLTP range. British order books opened in late‑2025 with deliveries due in mid‑2026. The recommended retail price ranges from £60 350 to £73 350 (about €70 000–86 000).Technical highlights:- Dual‑motor all‑wheel drive with 482–489 hp.94‑kWh battery; WLTP range up to 406 miles; some reports mention 443 miles.- Fast‑charging at 330 kW, taking 22 minutes from 10–80 %; AC charging at 11 kW (22 kW optional).4.3 s 0–100 km/h and top speed 210 km/h.- Interior features include the MBUX Hyperscreen (up to 39 inches), one‑box braking with high recuperation, air suspension with rear‑axle steering and Car‑to‑X connectivity, vegan materials and a spacious boot with 570 litres plus a 138‑litre frunk.

Namibia rejects Starlink licence request

Namibia said Monday it had rejected a request for billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink to operate its satellite internet services in the country, dealing the company a second setback in southern Africa.

Ex-model questioned in France over scout with Epstein links

A former Swedish model has been questioned in France by investigators analysing evidence that could implicate French nationals in the crimes of the convicted US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, sources said on Monday.