Introduction to CATL’s Revolutionary Battery Technology
CATL, China’s leading battery manufacturer, has significantly advanced its technology with the introduction of the Shenxing Plus lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. This innovation was prominently featured at this year’s Beijing Auto Show. The Shenxing Plus battery notably offers an impressive quick-charge capability, providing 370 miles of range from just a 10-minute charge, and a total range of 621 miles on a full charge.
Comparative Advantages of CATL’s New Battery
In comparison, Tesla’s 15-minute Supercharging technology increases vehicle range by up to 200 miles, showcasing CATL’s superior charging speed. This performance is based on the CLTC testing cycle, known for its optimistic range estimations compared to WLTP and EPA standards. Despite the lack of disclosed efficiency metrics, the leap in LFP battery technology presented by CATL is undeniable and suggests substantial advancements over previous models.
Technical Enhancements and Market Impact
The Shenxing Plus represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Shenxing SuperFast Charging Battery, increasing the fast-charging capability by nearly 50%. This battery boasts an energy density of 205 watt-hours per kilogram, surpassing BYD’s latest Blade battery but still trailing behind the nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cells used by Tesla. A novel aspect of the Shenxing Plus is its C-rate of 4, indicating it can add approximately 600 km of range in 10 minutes. CATL has enhanced the battery’s anode with a proprietary 3D honeycomb material to optimize energy density and manage expansion during charge cycles. The integration of cell-to-body 3.0 technology also improves volume efficiency by 7% over its predecessor.
Factual Additions and Emotional Engagement
The Future of Electric Mobility
CATL’s latest development in battery technology not only marks a significant milestone for the company but also for the electric vehicle industry as a whole. The Shenxing Plus battery’s ability to charge rapidly diminishes one of the major barriers to EV adoption—charging time—making electric cars more appealing and practical for everyday use.
Implications for Sustainable Transportation
As CATL continues to push the boundaries of battery technology, the implications for sustainable transportation are profound. The introduction of more efficient and faster-charging batteries helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with vehicle charging and supports global efforts towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system.
Emotional and Economic Impact
The rapid development and deployment of such advanced technologies not only foster technological optimism but also promise significant economic benefits. By enhancing the appeal of electric vehicles through reduced charging times, CATL is not just innovating; it’s revolutionizing the way we think about mobility and energy consumption, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable future powered by advanced technology.
A massage building in Garland County was destroyed on Thursday after a black Mercedes drove through its front wall, causing it to cave in.
In a release, the Garland County Sheriff’s Office says that they responded to a call reporting a private property accident at 2:52 p.m. on Thursday.
They arrived at 1539 Airport Road to find a black Mercedes that had driven through the front wall of a local business, Angel Massage.
The Sheriff’s Office says that LifeNet units responded for the involved parties.
KATV reached out to the Garland County Chief Deputy, who confirmed that there were no lasting injuries from the incident by saying “Everyone involved is ok.”
Despite its initial positive outlook, Hertz’s large-scale adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has encountered financial turbulence. The rental car leader aimed to pioneer the largest EV fleet in North America in 2021 by integrating numerous models from leading manufacturers like Tesla, General Motors, and Volvo. However, unforeseen market shifts, including drastic price reductions for new EVs in 2023, have escalated depreciation rates and repair costs, leading to substantial financial losses for Hertz.
Ongoing Challenges and Strategic Adjustments
Hertz’s vision of replacing gasoline-powered vehicles with EVs was initially celebrated but has since been deemed problematic, forcing significant operational changes. In a recent announcement, Hertz disclosed plans to increase private sales of its EVs by 10,000 units, targeting a total of 30,000 sales in 2024. The company revealed a staggering $195 million depreciation charge for its remaining EV inventory and noted an average increase of $339 in depreciation costs per vehicle, of which $119 is attributed directly to EVs.
Market Dynamics and Consumer Opportunities
Despite the challenges, Hertz’s predicament presents a unique opportunity for consumers interested in affordable EVs. The company’s first-quarter report showed a $2.1 billion revenue, a slight increase from the previous year, yet it faced $567 million in losses due to hefty depreciation expenses. While the rental market remains robust, the influx of affordable, lightly used EVs from Hertz’s fleet offers a cost-effective option for consumers wanting to transition from gasoline to electric vehicles. Available through a dedicated sales portal, these EVs, including models like the Chevrolet Bolt and Kia EV6, are offered at significantly reduced prices, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Factual Additions and Emotional Engagement
Economic and Environmental Impact of EV Adoption
Hertz’s aggressive shift towards electric vehicles, while financially strenuous, underscores a broader commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. By making EVs more accessible through reduced pricing, Hertz not only addresses its inventory challenges but also contributes to environmental sustainability. This move potentially accelerates the adoption of electric vehicles, reducing overall carbon emissions and fostering a greener future.
Navigating Through Market Challenges
The journey of Hertz into the EV market highlights the complexities of adapting to rapidly changing automotive technologies and consumer preferences. Although the company faces financial hurdles, these challenges can pave the way for innovations and strategies that might redefine the rental and automotive industry. The resilience and adaptability Hertz demonstrates could inspire other companies to pursue similar transitions, albeit with more cautious planning and risk assessment.
A Catalyst for Change in Consumer Behavior
For consumers, Hertz’s current situation offers more than just the opportunity to purchase an EV at a lower cost; it serves as a catalyst for a broader shift in transportation preferences. By choosing to invest in a used EV, consumers are not only taking advantage of a financial deal but are also participating in a movement towards more sustainable and innovative transportation options. This shift could significantly influence the pace at which society moves away from fossil fuels and embraces cleaner, more sustainable vehicle technologies.
iCar is diversifying its product range with the introduction of the sturdy 03T and the groundbreaking X25 electric minivan, enhancing its current 03 SUV collection. These additions highlight iCar’s commitment to developing rugged and inventive electric vehicles targeted at a younger, tech-savvy demographic. With a vision to introduce eight distinct models by 2026, iCar is leveraging its collaboration with Chery to solidify its footprint in the competitive market.
Exploring the Enhanced 03T and Revolutionary X25
Premiered at the Beijing Auto Show 2024, the 03T is an evolution of the standard 03 model, modified with superior features for enhanced off-road performance. Significant updates include broader fenders, optimized bumpers for increased maneuverability in rugged environments, and larger wheels engineered for exceptional terrain handling. While preserving the foundational dimensions, the 03T offers augmented ground clearance, delivering robust and reliable performance.
The X25 introduces a new vision for minivans with its advanced electric crossover format, integrating modern aesthetics with functional, off-road capabilities. This vehicle distinguishes itself with a novel, spacecraft-like design equipped for both urban commutes and explorative missions. The configuration promotes exceptional agility and extensive internal space, making it suitable for various customization options.
Widening iCar’s Range of Vehicles
Also featured at the auto show was the iCar V23, inspired by iconic off-road vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender. Offering up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, the V23 will be available in multiple drivetrain options, enhancing its versatility. iCar’s strategic plan to unveil eight innovative models by 2026 organizes these into three series: the technologically advanced 0 Series, the robust V Series, and the flexible X Series minivans.
Refined Factual Insights and Emotional Resonance
Advancing Towards Eco-Friendly Automotive Solutions
iCar’s initiative to expand its line of EVs signifies a move towards a more eco-conscious automotive future. By prioritizing electric engines, iCar plays a pivotal role in minimizing environmental pollutants and promoting sustainable practices. This strategy meets the increasing consumer demand for green vehicles and aligns with broader ecological conservation efforts.
Facilitating Sustainable Exploration
The debut of models such as the 03T and X25 equips adventurers and city dwellers alike with the means to explore diverse environments responsibly. These models are crafted to adeptly traverse both urban and off-path conditions, offering both resilience and flexibility. iCar enables drivers who value ecological responsibility and adventure to engage in new explorations with a minimal environmental impact.
Attracting a Young, Eco-Conscious Audience
iCar’s marketing strategy focuses on attracting young consumers by blending sleek, futuristic designs with state-of-the-art technology. This approach not only nurtures brand loyalty but also encourages young drivers to make environmentally favorable choices. Focused on this youthful market segment, iCar is poised to become a frontrunner in the rapidly advancing EV landscape, adapting to and anticipating consumer trends and values.
Toyota is ramping up its transition to electric vehicles with a $1.4 billion enhancement of its Princeton, Indiana plant. This facility, known for assembling the Toyota Sienna and Lexus TX, will now also produce a new three-row electric SUV. This initiative not only highlights Toyota’s dedication to expanding its electric lineup but also escalates the total plant investment to a notable $8 billion.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
This new venture will add 340 jobs to the existing workforce of 7,500 at the Princeton plant. It is a key part of Toyota’s wider $18.6 billion investment strategy aimed at boosting its U.S. electric vehicle production capabilities initiated in 2021. The expansion underscores Toyota’s commitment to stimulating economic growth and securing sustainable employment in the area.
Advancements in Production and Commitment to Quality
Toyota’s latest announcement includes setting up a new battery pack assembly line that will use lithium-ion batteries from its $13.9 billion North Carolina battery production plant, anticipated to start operations next year. This move is part of Toyota’s efforts to optimize its supply chain and enhance manufacturing efficiencies. Tim Hollander, the president of Toyota Indiana, highlighted the firm’s pledge to uphold high production quality and reliable job prospects, ensuring Toyota’s standards of excellence and dependability continue to meet customer expectations.
Enhanced Insights and Community Engagement
Solidifying the U.S. Manufacturing Presence
Toyota’s investments are pivotal in its shift towards electric vehicle technology, reinforcing its manufacturing base in the U.S. This expansion not only aligns with global sustainability efforts but also positions Toyota as a leader in the electric vehicle sector, poised to meet future market demands.
Strengthening Community Ties Through Employment
The addition of new jobs at the Princeton facility does more than enhance Toyota’s production capacity; it plays a crucial role in bolstering local economies. By providing new and stable employment opportunities, Toyota is actively contributing to the economic well-being of thousands of families, thereby reinforcing its role as a central community figure.
Upholding High Standards in Innovative Manufacturing
As Toyota forges ahead with the production of new electric models, it remains focused on delivering high-quality and high-performance vehicles. The investment in advanced manufacturing techniques and worker training ensures that the new electric SUVs adhere to the stringent quality standards Toyota is known for, enhancing consumer trust and satisfaction.
For nearly a decade, Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk has been vocal about the potential of self-driving technology, including robotic taxis. Despite the big dreams, actual progress has been a mix of advancements and setbacks. In Tesla’s recent earnings call, Musk reaffirmed the company’s focus on artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles, sidelining traditional car manufacturing to a secondary role.
Tesla’s Shifting Priorities and Musk’s Bold Claims
Although Tesla remains primarily a car manufacturer by revenue, Musk emphasized the company’s shift towards becoming an AI and robotics leader. He was reticent about upcoming car models, choosing instead to highlight autonomous technologies and Tesla’s plans for a fleet of self-driving taxis. Musk’s narrative hasn’t much changed over the years; he’s been making similar bold predictions about Tesla’s self-driving capabilities without substantial fruition.
Robotaxis and Autonomous Ridesharing: A Recurring Theme
Musk’s vision includes transforming part of Tesla’s fleet into autonomous taxis, enhancing personal vehicle utility by integrating them into a ride-sharing network reminiscent of combining Airbnb with Uber. This concept was first introduced in his 2016 “Master Plan, Part Deux” and reiterated in 2019 during Tesla’s “Autonomy Day.” Despite his assurance of having over a million robotaxis by 2020, this ambitious target remains unmet.
Additional Insights and Analysis
Challenges in Realizing Autonomous Driving
Creating reliable autonomous vehicles remains a complex, costly endeavor, one that Tesla continues to pursue despite technological and regulatory hurdles. Musk’s recent updates about the latest version of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software suggest imminent improvements, yet these claims mirror past promises that have yet to yield a fully autonomous driving experience. Tesla’s approach relies heavily on vision-based systems, eschewing the lidar and detailed mapping that competitors like Waymo use to navigate autonomously.
Skepticism and Speculation Amidst Ongoing Development
The continuous delay in delivering a fully autonomous system has led to skepticism. Tesla has sold the FSD package for years, promising significant advancements that would allow vehicle owners to engage in other activities while in transit. However, as of now, Tesla drivers must remain alert and ready to intervene, despite Musk’s assurances of near-term autonomy.
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
Despite the setbacks and ongoing challenges, Tesla’s influence on the automotive industry is undeniable. The company has catalyzed a shift towards electric vehicles and advanced driver-assistance technologies across the sector. Whether Tesla can finally fulfill its promise of self-driving technology remains to be seen, but its impact continues to stimulate significant advancements in automotive technology.
Many people on the market for one of the best used SUVs will consider the Jeep Renegade. This is because it’s sporty, and it’s also decently affordable compared to other Jeep vehicles. However, buying a used Jeep Renegade requires more work than some other options, as it has never been one of the best small SUVs for reliability and overall quality. Still, the later models do pretty well.
A used Jeep Renegade could be one of the best small SUVs for buyers
The first question many used car buyers ask is, “How many miles will a used option last.” Of course, this depends on the vehicle in question. For a used Renegade, the prognosis isn’t the best. Owners can expect a Renegade to last between 100,000 to 150,000 miles. As mentioned, this isn’t one of the best small SUVs for reliability.
However, the good news is that many vehicles outlive their predicted lifespan. With the used Jeep Renegade, it’s possible for it to meet the 200,000-mile marker. Of course, this is only with the proper maintenance. Still, this is below the average life span for an SUV. However, even if your used Jeep Renegade lasts over 200,000 miles, this doesn’t mean the ownership experience will be easy, as they can have issues.
Generally, the 2019-2020 Jeep Renegade models are safe to buy as used vehicles.
Common problems with used Renegade models
Make no mistake, the Jeep Renegade is one of the best small SUVs in some ways. It has a dynamic look, it has lightweight off-road capabilities, and it’s decently spacious for its class. However, there have been problems with this subcompact SUV since the first model. In particular, buyers should stay away from the 2015 Jeep Renegade as CarComplaints gave it the “Beware of the Clunker” award.
Regarding general issues, there are some engine problems. This is particularly true with the 2017 model. In particular, these problems can impact the 2.5-liter engine. The issues range from the engine stalling to consuming massive amounts of oil. Notably, several models of the Renegade use oil at a higher rate than drivers expect.
The Jeep Renegade also has transmission problems in various model years. Specifically, some owners have experienced hard gear shifts as well as delays in transmission engagement. Overall, there are many advantages to buying a Renegade. However, the 2015-2018 models have the most issues. Buyers should know that the Renegade was discontinued after the 2023 model year.
Classic cars are not only a testament to the era they originate from but also a timeless investment in style and nostalgia. While some classic vehicles are high-ticket items at auctions, there are a myriad of reasonably priced options that enchant both seasoned collectors and novices alike. Here is a curated list of 15 classic cars that are as affordable as they are iconic.
A Tour Through Automotive History
Robert Couse-Baker/Wikipedia
1967 Volkswagen Beetle: Known affectionately as the “Bug,” this beloved model is famed for its distinctive shape and endearing performance, gaining a cult status by 1967 thanks to significant enhancements in its engine and suspension systems.
User:Sfoskett/Wikipedia
1908 Ford Model T: Often called the “Tin Lizzie,” this revolutionary vehicle made car ownership possible for the average person, celebrated for its pioneering role in mass production and enduring reliability.
Junglecat/Wikipedia
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air: Notable for its eye-popping aesthetics, the Bel Air is distinguished by its bold grille and dramatic tailfins, complete with rocket-like lights, making it an epitome of 50s charm.
Hugh Llewelyn/Wikipedia
1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS: Renowned for its engineering excellence and sleek design, the 911 Carrera RS is a sports car icon with a lightweight frame, potent engine, and streamlined aerodynamics.
free photos & art/Wikipedia
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata: This car remains a pinnacle of affordable sports car design, celebrated for its thrilling ride and dynamic balance, achieved through perfect weight distribution and nimble handling.
Berthold Werner/Wikipedia
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray: Introduced in 1963, the Corvette Stingray is famed for its innovative design and powerful engine, though its unique split-window was phased out after one year due to practicality concerns.
DeFacto/Wikipedia
1961 Jaguar E-Type: Described by many as the most beautiful car in history, the E-Type is a design marvel with its sleek lines and powerful performance, drawing from its racing heritage.
Blackrock, Co Dublin/Wikipedia
1973 BMW 2002: This compact sedan is lauded for defining BMW as a brand synonymous with driving pleasure, combining sporty flair with practicality in a chic package.
Bahnfrend/Wikipedia
1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL: Esteemed for its dramatic gullwing doors and state-of-the-art fuel injection technology, the 300SL stood out as a technological marvel of its time.
Kroelleboelle/Wikipedia
1965 Ford Mustang: As a stalwart of American muscle, the Mustang debuted as a force in automotive culture, known for its powerful engines and bold design, sparking the era of the pony car.
Rudolf Stricker/Wikipedia
1957 Fiat 500: Designed for the bustling cities of Italy, the Fiat 500 was a marvel of compact design and efficiency, making it perfect for the urban environment with its petite form and economical engine.
Vauxford/Wikipedia
1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40: This off-roader is revered for its durability and capability, making it a top choice for adventurers thanks to its robust build and exceptional reliability in harsh terrains.
DeFacto/Wikipedia
1964 Aston Martin DB5: This grand tourer epitomizes British luxury and style, famed not only for its stunning looks but also for its association with the cinematic world of James Bond.
Rudolf Stricker/Wikipedia
1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow: As a symbol of opulence, the Silver Shadow features an ornate interior and classic styling, serving as a mobile testament to luxury since its introduction.
Mondial de l’Automobile 2010, Paris – France/Wikipedia
Also known as the Nissan Fairlady Z, this Japanese car took the automotive world by storm upon its release. The 240Z’s inline-six engine delivers smooth power, while its balanced chassis and precise steering make it perfect for challenging roads.
Emotional Insights and Investment Value
The Joy of Classic Car Ownership
Owning a classic car is an emotionally rewarding experience that connects enthusiasts to the history and artistry of bygone eras. These vehicles not only provide a direct link to the past but also offer the exhilaration of driving something truly unique. Each model listed here continues to inspire admiration for its design and engineering prowess.
Cultural and Financial Rewards of Collecting Classics
Investing in a classic car transcends mere financial speculation; it’s about passion and participation in a culture that celebrates automotive milestones. Owners take pride in the restoration, maintenance, and display of their vehicles, often reaping the rewards of increased valuation over time. More importantly, these cars bring joy, a sense of community, and the satisfaction of preserving an important piece of automotive history.
Toyota introduced the Camry into the American market in 1983, and the model has spent over four decades forging an outstanding reputation. As one of the most common cars seen cruising the roads, its popularity comes from its consistent track record of dependable performance. Based on J.D. Power rankings, this curated selection is for existing Camry fans and prospective buyers who want the most reliable and cost-effective cars that Toyota has to offer.
2021 Toyota Camry – 83/100 Power Ranking
DestinationFearFan/Wikipedia
The 2021 model allows drivers to choose between two powertrains paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. They can pick a proven 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 203 HP or an energetic 3.5-liter V6 with 301 HP. It also saves gas, using 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. This car has a massive return on money due to its specs, especially with a standard touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility.
2022 Toyota Camry – 84/100 Power Ranking
Elise240SX/Wikipedia
This mid-size sedan has eight trim levels: LE, SE, SE Nightshade, XLE, XSE, TRD V6, XLE V6, and XSE V6. While LE is the base, manufacturers designed the XLE for performance using a sport-tuned suspension and a better engine. This model is reliable due to its innovative safety components, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and an automatic emergency braking system.
2013 Toyota Camry – 84/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
This model bagged a five-star safety rating based on its standard security measures, such as the emergency brake assist and anti-lock brakes. Toyota added new interior materials and colors, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system.
2009 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Aero7/Wikipedia
While it’s not the newest in town, this car is usually recommended and chosen in the market for being dependable, affordable, and easy to use. It has an EPA-estimated 21 and 31 mpg for city and highway, respectively, which is pretty impressive. Besides a spacious interior, you’d love this car for its cloth upholstery, leather seats, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and premium six-speaker audio system.
2008 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Bryan Mitchell/Getty
Like the 2009 model, the 2008 Camry has a 169 HP 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that saves fuel or a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 268 HP for drivers seeking more power. Despite its oil-burning problem, owners have shared their satisfaction, praising its ride quality and low maintenance costs.
2010 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Justin Sullivan/Getty
The 2010 Camry came with several notable improvements from past models while retaining the core strengths that made it a bestseller. The new six-speed automatic transmission and some engine refinements improved fuel economy. The car had a new grille, larger headlights, and redesigned tail lights, which gave it a modern and sophisticated look.
2018 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Scott Olson/Getty
Toyota ditched several traditional elements, including the conservative look of previous models. Camrys now had a sharper design with a lower stance and athletic lines, giving them an enticing look. However, they didn’t stop at a stylish exterior; they upgraded the interior, swapped the six-speed automatic for an eight-speed unit, and added tech features to make driving more secure.
2017 Toyota Camry – 86/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
This ideal family sedan is available in LE, SE, XSE, and XLE, four trim levels with basic, sporty, and luxurious options. Customer reviews recommended the XSE trim as it stands between the base LE and topmost XLE in terms of price and features, especially the technology and security packages.
2012 Toyota Camry – 86/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
For this one, 2012 marked the final year of its design generation before a refresh for the 2013 model. Toyota managed to sell 404,886 units despite the slight issues with its engine coolant systems and air conditioning. The fuel-conscious four-cylinder has up to 25 mpg for driving in the city and 35 mpg for the highway. It is considered reliable for its good crash-test results, safety features, and a powerful V-6
2011 Toyota Camry – 87/100 Power Ranking
Two hundred percent/Wikipedia
We’re not surprised folks keep buying this 2011 model. Reviews have shown us that it’s a terrific buy for commuters or anyone who wants a pleasant ride without constant car trouble. While it doesn’t have the fancy look of a Ferrari, owners love it for being dependable at a budget-friendly price.
2024 Toyota Camry – 88/100 Power Ranking
Dinkun Chen/Wikipedia
The Camry mainly stayed the same in 2024, so manufacturers would prepare for the debut of the upcoming 2025 model. The decision also allowed Toyota to maintain consistency in its powertrain, technology, and safety components. It has a comfortable interior with top-notch specs, especially in the XLE trim level, with heated front seats, push-button ignition, and a wireless charging pad.
2023 Toyota Camry – 88/100 Power Ranking
Dinkun Chen/Wikipedia
In 2023, Toyota introduced the Nightshade Edition without significant changes from the previous model year. It retained its three engine options comprising two gasoline engines and a hybrid setup. The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder base engine had up to 206 HP, the V6 engine had 301 HP, and the hybrid powertrain gave 208 HP.
2016 Toyota Camry: 89/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
J.D. Power gave the 2016 model a decent rating for quality, making it one of the best Toyota Camrys they’ve ever surveyed. In addition, this car won J.D. Power’s “Best Mid-sized Car” award as the seventh-gen series neared its end. Surprisingly, the company sold only 388,618 units, marking the first time the Camry dropped below 400,000 sales since 2011.
2015 Toyota Camry – 90/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
Toyota unveiled a more aggressive design for the Camry, making significant changes to every body panel except for the roof to give the vehicle a fresh look. This transformation proved successful, as the 2015 model year achieved impressive sales numbers of 429,355 units, mainly due to its striking new appearance. Despite being released almost a decade ago, owners still praise this vehicle for its quality and reliability.
2014 Toyota Camry – 92/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
The Camry has a well-regarded reputation for interior comfort, with ample legroom and headroom for passengers. According to J.D. Power rankings, it is the most dependable machine due to its many features. Some of its available options are ten airbags, fog lights, and an electronic stability system. Higher trims have leather seats, a sunroof, and a touchscreen infotainment system with hands-free Bluetooth connectivity.
Costs vary wildly and owners have to go through Tesla-approved installers, which may make it harder for some to get the work done.
The Cybertruck is Tesla’s first consumer EV that supports bidirectional charging. The EV maker calls the feature Powershare and it basically means that the truck’s roughly 123-kilowatt-hour battery pack can be used to power tools and appliances, charge other EVs and even provide backup power to an entire house if the grid goes down.
To act as a mobile generator, though, Tesla requires Cybertruck owners to install a so-called Powershare Gateway–a hardware panel that takes power from the pickup’s battery and routes it to the house’s electrical installation. It can also route power from the grid to the car’s battery to keep it topped up. Those who ordered the top-spec Cyberbeast Foundation Series get a $4,000 installation credit included in the vehicle’s purchase, but as one owner recently found out, that amount might be extremely low.
One Tesla Cybertruck owner was quoted over $30,000 to install the necessary hardware that transforms the angular EV into a battery generator capable of powering an entire house. However, as several commenters pointed out, that estimate might have been inflated, with other owners saying they were quoted less than $5,000.
Joe Tegtmeyer, who’s best known in the EV community for his drone videos of Tesla’s Gigafactory Texas, bought an all-wheel drive Foundation Series Cybertruck, so he didn’t get the $4,000 installation credit. The purchase did, however, include a $595 Powershare home charger, a $230 Powershare mobile connector and the aforementioned $1,800 Powershare Gateway.
As he explained in detail in the X post embedded below, Tegtmeyer wanted to take advantage of his truck’s power-exporting capabilities and contacted Tesla about it. The company sent a certified installer to his house to survey the electrical system which included an existing 36.6 kW roof-mounted solar system and an upgraded 250-amp main panel.
After everything was said and done, the Tesla-approved installer–Treehouse in this case–came up with an eye-watering estimate of $33,837.5. According to the company’s estimate, the biggest piece was represented by a utility upgrade to 320A amounting to $24,150. With two Tesla Powerwalls–that’s a stationary battery that also acts as a generator–the estimate went up to $64,275.
Tegtmeyer was told that the utility upgrade was necessary to make all the components work together flawlessly and that it wasn’t an option that could be deleted, but some commenters pointed out that might not necessarily be the case.
People also revealed in the comments section that Tegtmeyer’s situation might be an outlier and that the cost of installing Tesla’s Powershare gateway varies wildly from home to home. One person in Southern California said he got quoted $3,500 for the installation. Others got estimates of $4,400, $2,150, $2,870 and $5,000.
As a reminder, the all-wheel drive Tesla Cybertruck starts at $79,990, so a $33,000 installation cost for the extra hardware amounts to almost half the price of the car, which is unreasonable, to say the least.
