Future Alpine vehicles will feature the design language introduced with the new A390 crossover. Alpine has plans for two electric convertibles derived from the upcoming A310 and A110 models. The A310 is set to debut as a fastback GT, which will later be followed by a convertible version. These electric vehicles may incorporate the tri-motor configuration seen in the new A390 crossover. By 2030, Alpine aims to have seven electric models available, indicating a change for the brand while still catering to those who prefer a more interactive driving experience. Among these will be a convertible based on the new fastback GT platform, known as the A310. As we are still some time away from the release of these new models, detailed information is scarce. What is confirmed is that the A310 will first arrive as a four-door fastback, followed by a convertible version. Considering the current market trends, it is reasonable to predict that the convertible will feature a two-door layout, as four-door convertibles have nearly disappeared. The fastback design is expected to closely align with that of the new Alpine A390. This sleek crossover boasts elegantly flowing bodywork and presents a sporty silhouette on the road. Its bold styling, especially the sharply defined front end, would translate well to a low-profile fastback design. It’s likely that the same tri-motor system used in the A390 will be implemented, which includes a single motor at the front axle and two at the rear, providing 396 hp in the GT version and 463 hp in the GT3. Concerning Alpine's second new electric convertible, it will be based on the next-generation A110, anticipated to launch next year. In contrast to the current model, this new iteration will feature a futuristic design akin to the A390. The roadster will be offered alongside the standard coupe variant, as reported by Autocar. Like the A310, details about the A110's powertrain remain limited. Alpine previously showcased an all-electric version of the existing model, equipped with a 60 kWh battery and a rear-mounted electric motor generating 239 hp and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) of torque. While these specifications are somewhat promising, we can expect the new model to debut with an increased battery capacity and more power. Source: Autocar

      A new annual fee of $150 per public EV charger port will be implemented next year as part of statewide regulations.

      Maryland will impose this yearly fee for each public EV charger port, while gasoline pumps will continue to be registered at just $20 each. Unregistered chargers may be rendered inoperable until they meet compliance requirements.

      Maryland has promoted itself as a frontrunner in clean energy, with a goal of having 1.1 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030. However, as of October 2025, the registration figures are below 150,000, indicating that the state is still far from achieving its objective or the desired rate of adoption.

      A new law is expected to complicate reaching this goal, as it could reduce the number of available electric vehicle chargers throughout the state.

      Starting January 1, 2026, all public EV chargers in Maryland that accept any type of payment must register with the Weights and Measures program, with an annual cost of $150 per charging port.

      For typical four-port Level 2 installations, this amounts to a yearly state fee of $600. In comparison, Maryland imposes only $20 per gasoline pump nozzle.

      The Maryland Department of Agriculture, which manages Weights and Measures enforcement, informs Planetizen that the fee aims to support inspection, verification, and compliance activities.

      Officials state that inspectors will begin site visits in January to verify registration and ensure that chargers display necessary information, such as rates and service contact details.

      Charging ports that fail to register on time will be taken offline, accompanied by a stop-use notice and a prominent red tag. Any repairs or adjustments needed for non-compliant equipment will require approval from a registered service agency. Consequently, EV owners in Maryland may need to seek new charging locations.

      Who Bears the Cost?

      Independent operators and property owners who host chargers in apartments, condominiums, workplaces, hotels, or retail establishments have voiced concerns about this change. They argue that the annual fee could affect the financial viability of maintaining chargers that experience lower usage rates.

      Conversely, some believe that commercial fast-charging networks are better equipped to absorb the costs, which could lead smaller charger hosts to take their chargers offline to cope with the expense.

      State inspectors are anticipated to start accuracy testing of electricity metering in spring 2026. New charging equipment installed after January must meet certified compliance before being permitted for public use. The outcome of these changes remains uncertain and will only be revealed over time.