Category: Tesla

May 15

Xiaomi is already developing its second EV – and it has its sights set on the Tesla Model Y

Xiaomi is reportedly looking to bolster its EV offerings, as it builds on the success of its debut SU7 Sedan with a compact crossover that considers the Tesla Model Y as a close rivals.

The SU7 was revealed last year and then went on to secure 50,000 orders within the first 27 minutes of going on sale in China earlier this year. It has proven to be a smash hit in its domestic market and Xiaomi Automotive says it built 10,000 units in the first 32 days of production and is on track to deliver a total of 100,000 cars before the end of the year.

Part of the success story has been in the introduction of an awesome 16.1-inch 3K central console, a 56-inch head-up display and the powerful, SnapDragon-based infotainment software that boasts increased levels of AI that learns driver and passenger behavior. This is all before you consider the seamless integration of Xiaomi’s smartphones and other devices.

A recent report from Bloomberg suggests that Xiaomi is looking to increase SU7 Sedan output to meet consumer demand, while simultaneously developing a new model that will take the shape of the popular compact SUV – a segment that is rapidly gaining traction in China.

According to Bloomberg, the company benchmarked its upcoming SUV against Tesla’s Model Y during development, an insight provided by the news outlet’s anonymous sources.

Although specification, battery sizes and any innovative new onboard tech details have yet to be revealed, it would be fair to assume the same or updated infotainment system will feature. Plus, the announcement and eventual delivery of an SUV would bolster the expansion of Xiaomi’s $10 billion overall EV investment, which Bloomberg claims has been personally spearheaded by billionaire co-founder Lei Jun.

Analysis: Xiaomi to become a major EV player

When it was first announced that smartphone giant Xiaomi was entering the EV market, much of the Western world assumed it would be a bit of a novelty – the tech company offering an automotive extension of its digital devices.

But the announcement of an upcoming SUV proves that Xiaomi is serious and, despite the fact that the model is not predicted to arrive until 2025, it marks the expansion of its current production facility, which can only manage around 10,000 deliveries a month, according to Bloomberg.

The new and improved assembly line is set to increase production capabilities to 300,000 units per year, meaning the smartphone maker will be able to deliver the sort of numbers that would make it a serious competitor in the Chinese EV market.

That said, both BYD and Tesla posted serious sales figures in the final quarter of last year, with the former claiming 526,000 battery-only vehicle sales and the latter not fair behind with 484,500 – 1.8 million for the year as a whole.

Despite Xiaomi’s estimated production figures falling some way behind the market leaders, Bloomberg says that its EV business could break even in 2026, two years ahead of schedule. A mightily impressive feat considering how hotly contested the electric vehicle market is in China.

May 14

With a 100% Tariff In Effect, Will We Ever See Chinese Electric Cars on American Roads?

Early adopters of EV technology had a common gripe beyond range anxiety and charging times: price. That is, in the United States. Chinese electric cars are cheaper and many American motorists would like the opportunity to buy a budget-friendly BYD EV. However, the latest tariffs make importing Chinese EVs all but impossible. While it might be a win for American brands, it harms the American consumer.

100% tariffs on Chinese electric cars means it’s unlikely we’ll see BYD, SAIC, NIO, or Geely electric vehicles any time soon

Just shy of 28%. That’s the sort of tariff Chinese-built EVs had to contend with prior to the latest developments. It was more than enough to disincentivize Chinese electric car efforts for the U.S. market. However, the latest tariffs are more than steep, they’re prohibitive. U.S. President Joe Biden and his administration levied 100% tariffs on new Chinese EVs and solar cells. According to the BBC, the administration asserts that the measures are “a response to unfair policies and intended to protect US jobs.”

Like the previous round of tariffs, the maneuver makes it nearly impossible to import Chinese-built EVs. While it’s understandable that the U.S. Government would want to protect the country’s North American clean vehicle initiatives from cheap Chinese EVs, it does impact the American consumer negatively. Currently, affordable Chinese electric cars ship worldwide, giving consumers access to affordable electric vehicle technology, especially those urban commuters.

Of course, a solution would be cheaper US-made EVs from domestic marques like Tesla, Ford, and GM. Tragically, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, one of the cheapest new EVs on the American market, started at around $27,495 for 2023. Conversely, the BYD Seagull, a compact Chinese electric car, sells for around USD 12,000 in the domestic Chinese market.

A BYD EV charges | brunocoelhopt via iStock

It’s not just Chinese EVs, either. The U.S. Government recently overhauled the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) standards for which EVs qualify for the federal clean vehicle tax credit. According to the DOE, all qualifying electric vehicles must “undergo final assembly in North America.” As such, several European models will no longer qualify for the $7,500 incentive.

However, there is one loophole shoppers can exploit when it comes to foreign EVs. The IRS exempts foreign-built EVs from the restrictions as long as drivers lease rather than buy. Still, buyers who want up to $7,500 in federal credits on a new EV will have to opt for a North American-finished EV like the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

May 14

Analysis Reveals Lexus Leads in Low Recall Rates, Tesla Faces Challenges

Insights on Vehicle Recalls: Lexus vs. Tesla

A recent analysis by iSeeCars has highlighted notable differences in recall rates among popular SUVs, pinpointing Lexus hybrids as leaders in reliability. The study found that the Lexus RX450h and NX300h have the lowest predicted recall frequencies in their lifetime, making them standout choices for reliability. In stark contrast, the Tesla Model Y ranks as the SUV with the highest projected recall rate, suggesting potential ongoing maintenance challenges for owners.

Detailed Findings from the iSeeCars Study

Karl Brauer from iSeeCars provided insights into the implications of the study, noting that choosing vehicles like the Lexus RX 450h or MINI Convertible could greatly reduce the likelihood of experiencing recalls. These models have an almost negligible chance of recall compared to the Porsche Taycan and Tesla models, which could see upwards of 60 recalls in their lifespan. While the industry median sits at 3.2 recalls, vehicles from Lexus significantly outperform this average, showcasing their superior build quality and reliability.

Navigating Recalls and Understanding the Impact

For consumers, understanding and managing vehicle recalls is simpler than ever. Owners can access recall information through their local dealership, brand-specific online pages, or directly via the NHTSA’s Recall Lookup Tool using their VIN. The study’s methodology involved a comprehensive review of NHTSA data for vehicles from the 2015-2024 model years, projecting recall frequencies over a hypothetical 30-year vehicle lifespan. This robust analysis underscores the importance of brand selection in mitigating recall risks and enhances consumer awareness of potential long-term vehicle reliability.

Additional Information on Recall Management

  • Ease of Recall Checks: Vehicle owners can effortlessly check for recalls using several convenient methods, ensuring they are always informed about their vehicle’s safety status.
  • Over-the-Air Updates: Many modern vehicles, including Teslas, can receive software-related recall fixes via over-the-air updates, simplifying the process. However, some recalls will still require a physical visit to service centers.
  • Implications for Vehicle Owners: Understanding the recall history and projections for potential future recalls can significantly influence purchasing decisions, particularly for those seeking low-maintenance and reliable transportation options.

This report provides crucial insights for prospective car buyers, emphasizing the importance of choosing models with lower projected recall rates to ensure both safety and convenience.

May 14

Volvo EX60 set to arrive as new Tesla Model Y, Porsche Macan luxury electric SUV rival

A new all-electric luxury SUV is set to hit the market next year to compete with Tesla’s best-selling Model Y. Volvo is joining the luxury electric SUV market with its new EX60 launching next year. The new EX60 will rival premium models from Tesla, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.

As one of the first legacy automakers to commit to an all-electric future, Volvo is seeing the results.

After launching its most affordable EV, the EX30, last year, Volvo’s compact electric SUV is already making a significant impact on the company.

Volvo set a new sales record in the first three months of the year with growing demand for its electric models. Fully electric vehicles accounted for over 40% of sales in 19 markets. That’s up from 13 in Q4 2023.

According to Volvo Cars’ chief commercial officer and deputy CEO, the EX30 is helping boost sales. Volvo’s EV sales share hit a record 21% in Q1, with 14,500 EX30 models sold. This was enough to top the EC60 (6,000) while inching closer to the EX40 (17,400).

Volvo's-new-EVs-Ferrari-likeVolvo EX30 (Source: Volvo)

Volvo also began production of its first electric minivan, the EM90, for China. Deliveries began in March. Meanwhile, Volvo is preparing to launch its larger EX90, which is already attracting Ferrari-like wait times.

Volvo's-new-EVs-Ferrari-likeVolvo EX90 (Source: Volvo)

Volvo EX60 to launch as the latest luxury electric SUV

Volvo looks to keep the momentum rolling next year with its new EX60 expected to debut as an all-electric replacement to the hybrid XC60 Recharge.

The new EV will compete against premium SUVs like the Tesla Model Y, Porsche Macan EV, and Mercedes-Benz EQC. It will sit between the EX40 and EX90 in Volvo’s expanding EV lineup.

Volvo-Recharge-EVsVolvo EX40 (Source: Volvo)

According to Auto Express, the new Volvo electric SUV will be based on the larger EX90’s platform, which could pack up to 100 kWh of battery power. Erik Severinson, chief product and strategy officer at Volvo Cars, calls it an “evolution of the Volvo-developed platform.”

Volvo’s EX60 is expected to maintain the brand’s new design elements, such as its Thor Hammer LED headlights, closed grille, and alloy wheels.

At least one thing remains a mystery. Volvo did not confirm if the EX60 would include advanced LIDAR like the EX90. However, Severinson said the brand is exploring “different kinds of sensors going forward.”

Volvo-EM90-electric-minivanVolvo’s first electric minivan, the EM90 (source: Volvo)

The EX60 will feature a new “structural” battery pack, similar to BYD and Tesla. The design leads to “improved energy density” and “great driveability.”

According to the report, the EX60 could feature up to 400 miles WLTP range. The EX90, with a 107 kWh battery pack, offers up to 364 miles. However, the EX60 is expected to feature a smaller, lighter battery with improved energy density.

Volvo-EX90-priceVolvo EX90 interior (Source: Volvo)

Volvo is moving to use a megacasted rear underfloor for the EX60, a concept used by Tesla, NIO, XPeng, and others. According to Volvo, the new floor design weighs 15 to 20% less than a traditional stamped equivalent.

The method will also increase storage space while speeding up production times. Volvo is expected to launch the EX60 when megacasting production begins next year.

We could see the Volvo EX60 unveiled by the end of the year, with prices and specs arriving at a later date. Check back for more details soon.

May 14

BYD Unveils Sea Lion 07: An Affordable Electric SUV Challenging Tesla Model Y

 
BYD Sea Lion 07BYD Sea Lion 07BYD Sea Lion 07BYD Sea Lion 07BYD Sea Lion 07BYD Sea Lion 07BYD Sea Lion 07BYD Sea Lion 07

BYD’s Latest Technological Leap with Sea Lion 07

BYD is making headlines with the launch of the Sea Lion 07, an electric SUV priced at $26,000, poised to compete directly with Tesla’s Model Y and Volkswagen’s ID.5. Built on BYD’s innovative e-Platform 3.0 Evo, the Sea Lion 07 is set to start deliveries soon, marking a significant step in BYD’s quest to lead the global electric vehicle market. The Sea Lion is part of BYD’s Ocean series, which includes the Seal sedans and Dolphin hatchbacks, and represents the latest expansion of their electric fleet.

Advanced Design and Performance

The Sea Lion 07 mirrors the aesthetic and technical aspirations of the 2021 Ocean-X concept, featuring a sleek design and advanced electric powertrain. This model transitions from concept to reality with its debut at last year’s Guangzhou Auto Show and is underpinned by BYD’s updated e-Platform 3.0 Evo, enhancing integration and charging capabilities. The platform supports exceptionally fast charging, thanks to BYD’s next-gen blade batteries, which charge from 10% to 80% in just 25 minutes using peak power chargers.

BYD Sea Lion 07
Photo: BYD

Competitive Pricing and Impressive Specifications

With a base price roughly equivalent to $26,240, the Sea Lion 07 offers remarkable value, boasting 228 horsepower and the ability to sprint from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 7.3 seconds. Its 72 kWh battery provides a range of up to 550 km (342 miles) per charge under the CLTC standard, making it a formidable rival to the Tesla Model Y. Higher-end models feature up to 523 horsepower and extended ranges, ensuring that BYD’s latest offering is as versatile as it is powerful.

In summary, the BYD Sea Lion 07 not only sets new standards in affordability for electric SUVs but also showcases significant advancements in electric vehicle technology. This launch could potentially reshape market expectations and consumer preferences in the EV sector, highlighting BYD’s commitment to innovation and competitive pricing.

May 14

Turmoil at Tesla: Changes in Leadership and Rehiring Efforts

Major Changes in Tesla’s Team

Tesla is undergoing significant organizational changes that could rival the plot twists of a television drama. Most notably, Renjie Zhu, who led the manufacturing efforts for the Cybertruck, has left the company under unclear conditions. This move is part of a larger trend at Tesla, which has recently reduced its workforce by over 10%, sparking debate about the company’s stability and future directions.

Tesla Cybertruck Review

Reversal in Supercharger Team Strategy

In a surprising turn of events, Tesla reversed its decision to lay off the entire 500-member Supercharger team after facing heavy criticism for potentially undermining one of its most successful divisions. The company has begun reinstating staff, including Max de Zegher, the Director of Charging for North America. This shift highlights the unpredictable nature of Tesla’s decision-making processes.

External Challenges and Strategic Responses

Waymo Faces Federal Examination

Waymo Jaguar I-Pace

The NHTSA has initiated an inquiry into Waymo after several incidents raised concerns about the safety of its autonomous driving systems. This investigation could significantly influence the regulatory landscape for autonomous vehicles and their integration into everyday traffic systems.

Trade Tensions Impacting the Auto Industry

China Topshot Five Models

The intensification of trade disputes between the U.S. and China poses serious challenges for the automotive industry. In response to the U.S. doubling tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, China has threatened retaliatory measures that could affect American auto workers and export markets. Such developments could hinder the progress of the global electric vehicle market and escalate costs for U.S. consumers.

Looking Forward

2024 BYD Seal Review

Tesla’s response to these internal and external pressures is critical as it continues to innovate in the electric vehicle space. The industry is keenly observing how Tesla will handle these challenges, which have implications for business operations, international trade policies, and technological innovation within the sector. Tesla’s efforts to maintain stability and continue its growth are essential for its success in a rapidly evolving market.

May 07

A $175,000 CyberTrailer Camper That Can Charge Your EV Is In The Works

Made by California-based Living Vehicle, the Cybertruck-inspired trailer will be ready next year.

Just when we thought all the Cybertruck-inspired frenzy was over, California-based Living Vehicle is here to prove us wrong.

After the Tesla-branded CyberBeer, Cyberwhistle, Cyberquad and Cybertent (previously known as the Basecamp tent), it’s time for the CyberTrailer to shine under the spotlight. Only this time, it’s not a Tesla product.

Cyber everything

The popularity of the Tesla Cybertruck prompted the launch of several Cybertruck-inspired products. The Cyberwhistle, Cyberquad and Cyberbeer were of Tesla’s own making, and now it’s time for a third party to join in on the action with the CyberTrailer off-grid camper.

As its name suggests, it’s a trailer that somewhat resembles the shape of the controversial Cybertruck pickup. Made by California-based luxury camper specialist Living Vehicle, the CyberTrailer isn’t quite ready for prime time, with the company behind it claiming deliveries will start next year, but it does promise a completely off-grid camping experience.

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While there are no interior photos of the angular camper trailer yet, we can expect above-average amenities, considering Living Vehicle made a name for itself after building ultra-luxury campers that offer things like a water generation system, fold-down patios and top-spec solar panel arrays.

However, while the company’s past models could be configured in such a way that the bill exceeded $600,000, the upcoming CyberTrailer is much more affordable. However, with a starting price of $175,000, we wouldn’t necessarily call it cheap.

According to the Californian builder’s website, the Cybertruck-inspired camper will be entirely solar-powered. It will feature “unlimited water from air creation and recycling,” eliminating the need for utility connections and even RV parks.

Living Vehicle CyberTrailer off-grid camper trailer
Living Vehicle CyberTrailer off-grid camper trailer

A folding patio and gear-hauler ramp will also be included, although we don’t know if they will come as standard or as part of an optional package that costs extra, and an Apple iPad tablet will be the gateway to control most if not all, of the camper trailer’s features.

Besides the Tesla Cybertruck, the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T and R1S will also be capable of towing the CyberTrailer, according to the company, but a weight rating doesn’t exist yet. For context, the F-150 Lightning can tow up to 10,000 pounds, while the R1T and Cybertruck can haul up to 11,000 lbs each.

Living Vehicle CyberTrailer off-grid camper trailer

As with other off-grid campers made by Living Vehicle, the CyberTrailer will also be able to export power from its integrated battery to recharge the EV that’s towing it, although–again–we don’t know specifics. Last year’s HD and LT campers had batteries that could store up to 72 kilowatt-hours of energy and provide Level 1 EV charging. They could also run a mini-split HVAC system.

Living Vehicle is currently taking pre-orders which require a $100 deposit that’s fully refundable if you change your mind. The company says that 50% of the production is already sold out, but it didn’t mention how many units it plans on making.

We’ll know more about the Cybertruck-inspired CyberTrailer as it gets closer to production. In the meantime, let us know in the comments if this sort of thing tickles your fancy.

May 07

Impact of Tesla’s Supercharger Scale-Back on Federal Funding

Tesla’s Unexpected Shift and Its Implications

Tesla’s decision to reduce its involvement in the Supercharger business after securing millions in federal funding has sparked numerous questions. Elon Musk’s abrupt move to dissolve Tesla’s electric vehicle charging division has left many wondering about the fate of the substantial federal funds awarded for expanding fast-charging infrastructure. Specifically, the $28.8 million Tesla won through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program is now under scrutiny.

Federal Funding and the NEVI Program

The NEVI program, part of the Biden Administration’s initiative to build a comprehensive network of EV charging stations across major highways, allocated $5 billion for this purpose. Tesla, a major beneficiary, was granted funds to develop 69 charging sites. However, with Tesla now scaling back its Supercharger network expansion and laying off numerous employees, the future of these projects is uncertain.

What Happens Next?

According to Loren McDonald, CEO of EVAdoption, if Tesla or any other grant recipient withdraws from a NEVI-funded project, the funding typically goes to the next eligible bidder. Each state manages its own NEVI funds through a competitive bidding process. If Tesla backs out and no other bidders exist, states would need to issue a new request for proposals to attract other companies.

Administration’s Stance and Industry Reactions

Officials from the Biden Administration have expressed confidence that Tesla’s decision will not significantly impact the overall goal of expanding EV charging infrastructure. The administration aims to establish 500,000 public charging ports nationwide by 2030, supporting a broader climate agenda that includes increasing EV sales.

Despite Tesla winning 14% of NEVI projects, other major recipients like Love’s Travel Stops and BP are expected to step in and fill any gaps left by Tesla. Industry analysts suggest that Tesla’s withdrawal could create new opportunities for competitors eager to expand their own charging networks.

Challenges and Opportunities

Tesla’s Supercharger network is known for its reliability and extensive coverage, making it a key player in the U.S. EV charging landscape. The company’s reduction in charging infrastructure expansion could create challenges for EV drivers concerned about charging availability. However, Tesla’s ability to build stations more cost-effectively than its competitors has been a significant advantage.

Now, the pressing question is whether other companies can match Tesla’s efficiency and reliability in expanding the charging network. Industry analysts believe that this shift might spur other firms to enhance their capabilities and take advantage of the void left by Tesla’s reduced expansion efforts.

May 01

Here’s How Tesla’s FSD 12 Handles Manhattan Traffic

Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” software did a decent job in one of America’s most chaotic driving environments.

 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been saying for almost a decade that the company’s so-called Full Self-Driving software is on the brink of making Teslas drive themselves. But is it? Thanks to a whole YouTube genre dedicated to Tesla owners putting FSD to the test, you can be the judge.

One recent video posted by the YouTube channel “FSD in NYC” showcases—you guessed it—Tesla’s driver-assistance tech attempting to navigate New York City streets.

Tesla is going hard on autonomy

Elon Musk is pushing harder than ever for Tesla to be not just a car company, but rather an artificial intelligence company. Tesla has promised to bring self-driving technology to its cars for years. But its so-called Full Self-Driving package still requires total human supervision as it attempts to navigate the world.

Today, FSD requires full driver supervision, so it isn’t autonomous. The driver is always legally in control and liable for any mistakes it makes. Sometimes it performs admirably, navigating near pedestrians and other cars in an almost human-like way. Sometimes, it fails at simple tasks and gets confused by scenarios any human wouldn’t think twice about. We recently reported that FSD-enabled Teslas have been slamming into curbs at a rate that’s alarmed Tesla owners.

That’s basically the gist of FSD in NYC’s latest video. A lot of the driving went off without a hitch. But the driver had to hit the accelerator a few times to prompt the overly cautious Tesla to get a move on. It successfully weaved down a street with two double-parked cars, but did so unnecessarily slowly, FSD in NYC said.

“What’s it worried about? I’m not sure,” the driver said.

The Tesla Model Y also got stuck in a crosswalk because it failed to slow for a yellow light. Then it got honked at when it failed to proceed even when it had the right of way across an intersection. All told, the driver notes how human-like FSD feels at times but recognizes that it still needs constant monitoring. The Tesla was running the FSD 12.3.2.1 software release.

“I’m really just monitoring it like a teenage taxi driver in New York, perhaps,” he said.

Check out the full video and let us know how FSD V12 did in one of the most chaotic driving environments in the country. And stay tuned: We’ll be bringing you our own evaluation of Tesla’s latest FSD software in the near future.

May 01

Elon Musk Makes Delusional Claims About the Tesla Cybertruck

As Tesla Cybertruck problems continue to grow, Elon Musk still makes wild claims. It’s time to come back to reality.

It’s perfectly fine for owners to be proud of their trucks. The Tesla Cybertruck problems have provided tons of headaches while still relieving support. Despite using cheap materials and falling short of promises, Elon Musk still makes wild claims about the Tesla Cybertruck.

Is Elon Musk ignoring Telsa Cybertruck problems?

Elon Musk loves his Twitter or X app and recently tweeted that the Tesla Cybertruck is an armored personal vehicle from the future in response to a short video of the Cybertruck driving through water.

He also tweeted that the Cybertruck eats pickup trucks for breakfast with a side of bacon. But what about all of the Tesla Cybertruck problems?

There are accounts of the Cybertruck dying after car washes, failing to get out of small amounts of snow, struggling on sandy beaches, and dying after traversing through shallow puddles.

Also, it’s not exactly an armored personal vehicle. It is made of stainless steel with bulletproof windows, but the truck only stands up to lower caliber bullets, like shots fired from a 9mm handgun.

It didn’t withstand gunfire from higher-powered fires such as the AR-15 or a .50 caliber rifle. People will probably be using their stronger weapons in the apocalypse. Also, good luck waiting around at a charging station if everything hits the fan.

I don’t doubt that Elon Musk poured his heart and soul into this truck, but calling it a technology discontinuity is a stretch. Discontinuity is a fancy word for unique, which the Cybertruck is.

However, it also means a distinct break in physical continuity or time, which is ridiculous. The Cybertruck isn’t from the future, it’s a current truck. Arguably it’s from the past because it was supposed to arrive in 2019.

If the truck was from the future, then Telsa Cybertruck problems wouldn’t include things like the faulty accelerator pedal and wheel covers that destroy tires. A truck from the future would catch these problems before deliveries were made.

The Cybertruck is new and exciting for some and used as a status symbol for the rich. It hasn’t proved it’s off-roading capabilities yet and finally received a locking differential.

Plus, it was supposed to have up to 500 miles of range with the ability to tow up to 14,000 lbs. But it has a range of up to 340 miles and can only tow 11,000 lbs. It’s on par with rivals instead of outperforming them.