Category: EV

Jul 12

Act Fast: Should You Order a Chevy Bolt Before It Disappears?

GM Announces End of Chevy Bolt Production

General Motors has revealed that it will cease production of the Chevy Bolt by the end of 2023, marking the end of an era for this popular electric vehicle. Launched in 2016, the Bolt has gained recognition for its reliability and affordability, making it a top choice for many EV enthusiasts. Although production will soon end, there’s still a window to place an order, but is it worth it?

Why Is Chevy Ending the Bolt?

Despite its success, including impressive sales figures and significant contributions to GM’s position in the EV market, CEO Mary Barra has announced the discontinuation of the Bolt. GM plans to shift focus towards new electric models and increase production capacity at their Orion assembly plant. With plans to boost production of electric trucks, the decision reflects a strategic move to cater to emerging market demands.

Is Ordering a Bolt Still a Good Idea?

For those set on owning a Chevy Bolt, now is the time to act. GM intends to produce 70,000 units this year, with the final order cycle beginning August 17. However, potential buyers should be prepared for potential delays, as some customers are still waiting for their orders to be fulfilled.

Alternative Options for Prospective Buyers

If immediate availability is a priority, it may be wise to consider other EVs with higher supply levels. While the Bolt offers great value, buyers who need a vehicle right away might benefit from exploring alternative options. As the electric vehicle market evolves, numerous other choices are available to meet diverse needs and timelines.

Jul 12

Surge in All-Electric Vehicle Registrations: Nearly 450,000 BEVs in 2023 So Far

Rapid Growth in BEV Registrations

In the first five months of 2023, the U.S. has witnessed a remarkable surge in all-electric vehicle (BEV) registrations, totaling approximately 447,500 units. This represents a substantial 68% increase compared to the same period last year, with BEVs now making up about 7% of the total vehicle market, up from 4.6% in 2022. May alone saw close to 100,000 new BEV registrations, reflecting the ongoing shift toward electric mobility.

Tesla Dominates, Non-Tesla EVs on the Rise

Tesla continues to lead the BEV market with a commanding 60.5% share, having registered 270,698 units by the end of May. Despite this dominance, non-Tesla BEVs have surged by 103% year-over-year, capturing 39.5% of the market. Brands like Chevrolet, Ford, and Volkswagen are increasingly making their mark, with Chevrolet and Ford registering 29,282 and 22,425 units, respectively, and Volkswagen’s ID.4 showing significant growth.

Leading Models and Market Trends

The Tesla Model Y remains the top performer with nearly 168,000 registrations, driven by strategic price reductions that doubled its sales compared to last year. The Tesla Model 3 follows with 87,200 registrations, while the Volkswagen ID.4 emerges as a strong competitor in the electric SUV segment. New entrants like the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra are also beginning to make their presence felt in the growing BEV market.

Jul 12

How Tesla’s Price Cuts Almost Disrupted an EV Subscription Startup

Price Cuts Threaten Autonomy Inc.’s Viability

Tesla’s aggressive price reductions and rising inventory levels nearly derailed Scott Painter’s ambitious venture, Autonomy Inc. Painter, renowned for founding companies like Fair and TrueCar, had initially planned to acquire $1.2 billion worth of electric vehicles (EVs) from Tesla, General Motors, and Volkswagen. These vehicles, intended for a subscription-based service, saw their value plummet overnight due to Tesla’s global price war, reducing the fleet’s worth from $85 million to approximately $57 million almost instantly.

Strategic Overhaul Amidst Market Turmoil

Facing financial strain, Autonomy Inc. underwent significant restructuring, including workforce reductions from 120 to 45 employees and securing $12 million in emergency funding. The startup, which initially aimed to purchase 23,000 EVs from 17 different manufacturers, has now scaled back to about 1,300 vehicles, with a target of 3,000 to stabilize operations. This adjustment comes as EV inventories in the U.S. surged by 342% compared to the previous year, reflecting a market oversupply.

Market Impact and Consumer Benefits

The current surge in EV inventory and ongoing price cuts are benefiting consumers with more affordable options. For example, the 2023 Tesla Model 3’s starting price has dropped from $43,000 to $40,240, and with tax incentives, the effective cost is around $34,380. This pricing strategy has contributed to Tesla’s record-breaking deliveries and reshaped the competitive landscape in the EV market.

Jul 12

GM Begins U.S. Shipment of 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

Production Milestone and Initial Shipment

General Motors’ Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico has reached a significant milestone with its production of the Chevrolet Blazer EV. Recent reports confirm that the first Blazer EV has already left the plant and is en route to the United States, with the facility now producing an impressive 65 units per hour. Tereso Medina Ramirez, General Secretary of the Confederation of Workers of Mexico, expressed enthusiasm about the Blazer EV’s successful debut and its forthcoming market introduction.

Upcoming Model Availability and Specifications

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV will be available in several trims, including 1LT, 2LT, RS, and SS, with initial deliveries expected for the 2LT and RS models starting this summer. The highly anticipated Blazer EV SS, with a starting price of $65,995, will be available in spring 2024, while the entry-level 1LT model’s launch has been postponed to winter 2024. Each model promises varying ranges between 247 to 320 miles, with the Blazer EV featuring a robust powertrain lineup including front-wheel, rear-wheel, and all-wheel drive options.

Jul 12

Top 20 Electric Vehicles with the Longest Range for 2023

Advances in Electric Vehicle Technology

The rapid pace of innovation in the electric vehicle (EV) sector is exemplified by the Polestar 2, a model that blends impressive range with sleek design. The 2023 Polestar 2, equipped with a front-mounted motor, offers an EPA-rated range of 270 miles per charge, showcasing its advanced technology and stylish aesthetics. However, the forthcoming 2024 Polestar 2 will feature significant upgrades, including a larger battery and more efficient motors, pushing the single-motor model’s range to 320 miles and enhancing the dual-motor version’s range to 276 miles.

Top 20 Longest-Range Electric Cars, Trucks, and SUVs for 2023

  1. Tesla Model S Long Range – With a range of approximately 405 miles, the Model S remains a leader in long-distance EV travel.
  2. Tesla Model X Long Range – This SUV offers an impressive 348 miles per charge, combining space and endurance.
  3. Tesla Model 3 Long Range – Known for its efficiency, the Model 3 covers up to 358 miles on a single charge.
  4. Tesla Model Y Long Range – This compact SUV provides a range of around 330 miles, ideal for family trips.
  5. Ford Mustang Mach-E (Extended Range) – Offering up to 312 miles, this electric SUV blends performance with practicality.
  6. Chevrolet Bolt EV – The Bolt EV achieves a commendable 259 miles, proving its worth as a budget-friendly long-range option.
  7. Chevrolet Bolt EUV – Slightly larger than the Bolt EV, the EUV offers a range of up to 247 miles.
  8. Rivian R1T – This electric truck can travel up to 314 miles, making it suitable for rugged adventures.
  9. Rivian R1S – The SUV variant of the R1T offers a similar range of up to 314 miles, with added versatility.
  10. Audi e-tron – Providing a range of up to 222 miles, the e-tron combines luxury with electric efficiency.
  11. Audi Q4 e-tron – A compact SUV with a range of up to 250 miles, offering an attractive alternative in the Audi lineup.
  12. Porsche Taycan 4S – With a range of up to 287 miles, the Taycan delivers high performance and luxury.
  13. Polestar 2 (2024 model) – The upgraded 2024 Polestar 2 will reach up to 320 miles for single-motor variants, with dual-motor models achieving 276 miles.
  14. BMW iX – This electric SUV boasts a range of approximately 324 miles, merging luxury with practicality.
  15. BMW i4 – With a range of up to 300 miles, the i4 offers a sporty and efficient electric driving experience.
  16. Nissan Ariya – The Ariya delivers a range of up to 300 miles, offering a stylish and spacious electric SUV.
  17. Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Known for its futuristic design, the Ioniq 5 provides a range of up to 303 miles.
  18. Hyundai Kona Electric – This compact SUV achieves a range of up to 258 miles, combining efficiency with practicality.
  19. Kia EV6 – The EV6 offers a range of up to 310 miles, showcasing Kia’s commitment to electric mobility.
  20. Mercedes-Benz EQS – As a luxury flagship, the EQS delivers an impressive range of up to 350 miles, offering a premium electric experience.

These vehicles represent the forefront of EV technology, providing consumers with a range of options to meet their long-distance driving needs. As advancements continue, the choices for electric vehicles with extended ranges will only improve, offering even greater convenience and efficiency for drivers.

Jul 12

Canoo Delivers First Electric Crew Transport Vehicles to NASA for Artemis Missions

A Milestone in Space Transportation

Canoo Technologies, despite being less prominent in the headlines recently, has achieved a significant milestone by delivering three Crew Transportation Vehicles (CTVs) to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. These electric vans will play a crucial role in NASA’s Artemis lunar missions, transporting astronauts to the launch pad. While Canoo’s electric vans won’t journey to the Moon, they will ensure astronauts travel to their launch site in comfort and style.

Innovations and Future Prospects

The CTVs, based on Canoo’s Lifestyle Vehicle design, are tailored to accommodate astronauts in full gear, along with support crew and equipment. The unique design of these vehicles aims to enhance safety and comfort for the nine-mile trip to the launch pad. Canoo plans to showcase images of the CTV’s interior and exterior later this year, adding an exciting layer of anticipation to this development.

Impact and Context

The Canoo Lifestyle Vehicle is currently priced starting at $39,950, reflecting a $5,200 increase from the initial price announced in May 2021. This price point is for the Delivery variant, which features two front seats and an enclosed cargo area. The more advanced passenger variant’s pricing remains undisclosed, highlighting Canoo’s ongoing evolution in the electric vehicle market.

NASA’s Artemis II mission will mark a critical step towards establishing a permanent presence on the Moon. This mission will test both NASA’s deep space exploration capabilities and the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft with crew members on board for the first time.

Jul 12

Unveiling the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV: A New Era of Electric Luxury and Performance

Revolutionary Electric Luxury

Mercedes-Benz introduces the eagerly awaited 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV, a true embodiment of luxury melded with groundbreaking electric performance. As Mercedes-Benz transitions to an entirely electrified future, it ensures that the exhilarating AMG spirit remains undiluted. The AMG EQE SUV is adorned with the prestigious Affalterbach performance badge, marking it as the pioneering electric SUV to carry this symbol of excellence.

Exhilarating Performance and Design

The AMG EQE SUV is not just about luxury; it’s a performance behemoth with dual motors producing an awe-inspiring 677 horsepower, complemented by standard all-wheel drive. The vehicle incorporates advanced features like rear-axle steering and AMG Ride Control air suspension, which are derived from the luxurious S-class sedans, ensuring a ride that’s both dynamic and supremely comfortable. Each element, from the embossed AMG emblems to aerodynamically optimized exterior features, is meticulously designed to boost both aesthetics and efficiency.

Technological Mastery and Interior Elegance

Inside, the EQE SUV offers an expansive, high-tech cabin that prioritizes both passenger comfort and technological sophistication. The interiors are spacious, providing ample room for adults without the need for a third row, set against a backdrop of exquisite materials and high-tech displays, including the optional MBUX Hyper screen that stretches across the dashboard. The infotainment system features a 12.8-inch touchscreen with MBUX software, supporting voice commands, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, enhancing both functionality and connectivity.

This electric SUV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, thanks to its potent 677 horsepower setup, further amplified to 738 pound-feet of torque with the AMG Dynamic Plus package. Notably, the EQE SUV’s adaptive drive modes tailor power output to suit various driving conditions, from conserving energy on slippery roads to unleashing full power in Race Start mode. Fast-charging capabilities allow the battery to gain 100 miles of range in approximately 15 minutes, showcasing not only its performance prowess but also its practicality for daily use.

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV represents a significant milestone in electric vehicle technology and luxury, setting a new standard for what enthusiasts can expect from high-performance electric vehicles. With its combination of thrilling power, advanced technology, and luxurious design, it promises to deliver an unmatched driving experience.

Jul 12

Ford Contemplates Revival of the Fiesta as an Electric Vehicle Using VW’s MEB Platform

The End of an Era and a Glimpse into the Future

Ford of Europe marked the end of an iconic era on July 7, as the last Fiesta subcompact hatchback was manufactured in Cologne, Germany. Despite the cessation of its combustion-engine models, Ford is not closing the door on the beloved Fiesta. The company is open to reintroducing the Fiesta in an electrified form, potentially breathing new life into the classic nameplate with cutting-edge technology.

Potential Collaboration with Volkswagen for an Electric Fiesta

Martin Sander, the head of passenger cars at Ford Europe, in a discussion with Automotive News Europe, hinted at the possibility of a battery-electric version of the Fiesta. This new iteration would likely utilize Volkswagen’s MEB Entry platform, tailored for affordable small EVs. Ford’s ongoing collaboration with Volkswagen, which already includes plans to build two electric vehicles on the MEB platform, suggests a promising avenue for the Fiesta’s return as an electric vehicle.

Ford’s Strategic Shift and Electrification Efforts

The transformation of Ford’s Cologne factory, which has undergone a $2 billion upgrade to accommodate the production of EVs, positions it well for the potential manufacturing of a small, more affordable electric vehicle. The plant is set to produce an electric compact SUV and a “sports crossover” in the near future, showcasing Ford’s commitment to its electrification strategy in Europe. While Ford has moved away from smaller combustion-engine models due to financial and environmental pressures, the shift towards electric vehicles offers a new chapter for the Fiesta, aligning with Ford’s goal to become fully electric in Europe by 2030.

Jul 12

Rising Insurance Costs for EVs Due to Uncertain Battery Repair Data

The Challenge of EV Battery Safety and Insurance Costs

Thatcham Research reveals a troubling trend where insurance companies are forced to write off even mildly damaged electric vehicles (EVs) due to a lack of reliable battery diagnostics. Without clear data on battery safety, insurers often declare such vehicles as total losses, leading to higher insurance premiums for EV owners. This issue is particularly pronounced in the UK, where EV-related claims are already 25.5% more expensive than those for traditional vehicles and take 14% longer to repair.

The Financial and Environmental Impact of Battery Replacement

The high cost of EV batteries further exacerbates the problem, with the battery sometimes accounting for up to half of the vehicle’s value. Replacing a damaged battery can be more expensive than the vehicle itself, challenging both financial feasibility and the ecological benefits of owning an EV. Thatcham Research emphasizes the need for improved diagnostics and repair options to prevent unnecessary waste and manage repair costs effectively. As car manufacturers like Ford and GM explore module-level repairs, while Tesla opts for full-pack replacements, the future of affordable and sustainable EV repairs remains uncertain.

Jul 12

Texas Again Delays Vote On Tying EV Charging Funds To Tesla’s NACS

Texas has reportedly delayed a vote on grants of federal funds to build EV chargers to August 16 after several charging companies protested the plan to include Tesla’s NACS connector in charging stations.

A Reuters report cited three unnamed sources who claimed the vote was postponed because of the pushback from EV charging companies.

Texas’ department of transportation confirmed that the issue was removed from the agency’s July agenda “at the discretion of the commissioners,” adding that the agenda for the August meeting had not been finalized. The vote in Texas could be key as it could influence other states to do the same.

On June 21, Texas announced plans to mandate EV charging companies to include Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) alongside the US standard Combined Charging System (CCS) if they wanted access to federal funds as part of a program to electrify highways.

However, days later, EV charger makers and operators including ChargePoint, FLO, ABB, FreeWire, and EVBox, criticized the plan, calling it “premature.”

In a letter to Texas Transportation Commission’s chairman, the companies said more time was needed to test the interoperability of Tesla’s connectors with the CCS standard.

Before the latest postponement, the vote had already been delayed once to July 11 from June 29 after members of Texas’ transport commission, including the chairman, said they wanted to understand NACS and its implications before voting on the issue.

“We do think the reason why this decision is being punted is there is reaction within the industry that this is a big announcement and let’s just do this responsibly,” an unnamed executive from an EV charging company told Reuters.

The same source said that “Texas is a bit of a bulwark” and what Texas does “sets a precedent for other state transport departments.” So far, Washington state has talked about similar plans and Kentucky has mandated that EV charging companies include Tesla’s plug.

The federal funds for EV charging stations require charging companies to offer CCS, but plans to adopt Tesla’s NACS connector by Ford and General Motors have prompted other carmakers and charging companies to embrace the technology.