Escalating Vandalism at EV Charging Stations: A Nationwide Concern

Rising Incidents of Vandalism

Across the United States, from Texas to California, there has been a surge in vandalism targeting electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Notably, Tesla Superchargers and various public charging points have been compromised, with incidents involving severed cables and damaged infrastructure reported in cities like Houston and Fresno. These attacks not only cause significant financial losses—often amounting to thousands of dollars for each repair—but also considerable inconvenience for EV owners reliant on these facilities for their transportation needs.

Chargers vandalized in Houston, TX

Motivations and Implications

The motivations behind these acts vary from criminal intentions to harvest copper from the charging cables, a material that fetches a price on the scrap market, to ideological opposition against electric vehicles. This criminal activity disrupts the availability of charging infrastructure, essential for the growing number of EV users, and poses broader questions about the security of critical transportation infrastructure. The frequent targeting of these assets highlights a crucial vulnerability in urban planning and the need for enhanced protective measures.

Chargers vandalized in Sumner, WA
Charger vandalism in Fresno, CA

Preventive Measures and Long-Term Solutions

In response to these challenges, some cities are adopting more robust security measures. For instance, Fresno is installing protective cabinets around charging stations and locking them during off-peak hours to prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, enhancing surveillance around these sites, increasing lighting, and positioning chargers in well-trafficked areas could deter potential vandals. These steps are vital not only to protect the infrastructure but also to reassure the public about the reliability and safety of transitioning to electric vehicles.

Substantial Savings on Kia EV6: Up to $9,000 in Discounts Available Now

Major Discounts on Kia EV6

The Kia EV6, a standout among electric vehicles, just became an even better deal with potential savings reaching up to $9,000. This substantial discount combines a $7,500 Customer Cash incentive with an additional $1,500 Select VIN Summer Cash offer on specific models currently in dealer inventories. Initially reported by CarsDirect, this promotion is aimed at offsetting the lack of a federal tax credit for the EV6, enhancing its market appeal dramatically.

Navigating the Deals and Financing Options

While the extra $1,500 discount is enticing, it’s exclusive to certain models on the lot, urging potential buyers to contact local dealers for eligibility details. Buyers should also be cautious of possible dealer-installed add-ons that could increase the overall cost. For those prioritizing financing over upfront savings, Kia offers a 0% interest rate for 60 months to well-qualified buyers who choose to forego the $7,500 cash offer. Lease agreements also include a federal tax credit of $7,500, supplemented by additional state-specific incentives.

Additional Incentives and Buying Tips

For existing Kia owners, an extra $500 loyalty bonus is available, and military personnel can avail themselves of the same amount in credits. These incentives make the EV6 a highly attractive proposition in the competitive EV market. However, securing the full $9,000 discount requires careful negotiation with dealers, who are known for their stringent sales tactics. Similar incentives are also available for Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, though the same considerations regarding dealership negotiations apply.

Audi A6 E-Tron: Anticipated Launch and Features of the New Electric Sedan

Introduction to Audi’s Electric Evolution

As Audi transitions towards electric vehicles (EVs), the brand continues to blend futuristic concepts with its established lineup. The Audi A6, traditionally a symbol of midsize luxury, is set to embrace this shift with its electric version, the A6 E-Tron. Expected to debut later this year, the A6 E-Tron promises to maintain the prestige of its predecessors while incorporating advanced electric technology.

Design and Specifications

The Audi A6 E-Tron concept, initially unveiled in 2021, showcases a four-door sportback design that retains the proportions of the current A6 but with a broader stance. Emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency, Audi has designed the A6 E-Tron to achieve a drag coefficient of 0.22, comparable to high-efficiency models from Tesla. The design features include air curtains and a rear spoiler, enhancing airflow without compromising the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.

Spy photos suggest the production model will include split headlights and a grille similar to the Q6 E-Tron, diverging slightly from the initial concept. The vehicle is also expected to feature intricate LED lighting, although it remains to be seen how these elements will be adapted for the production version.

Performance and Practicality

The A6 E-Tron is set to utilize the Premium Performance Electric (PPE) platform, developed jointly with Porsche. Initial models are likely to offer a dual-motor setup providing all-wheel drive and an output of approximately 469 horsepower. Audi also plans to introduce more potent versions under its S6 and RS6 badges, potentially testing models with even greater power.

A significant advancement with the PPE platform is its range capability, with the A6 E-Tron targeting a WLTP range of 435 miles, which should translate to over 300 miles under EPA standards. The platform’s 800V electrical system enables fast charging, allowing for a 10-80% charge in just about 21 minutes using a DC fast charger.

Availability and Future Prospects

Audi is also exploring a wagon variant of the A6 E-Tron, the A6 Avant E-Tron, which combines traditional sedan features with a more spacious rear, ideal for families or those requiring extra cargo space. Pricing details are yet to be released, but it is expected that the A6 E-Tron will carry a premium over the conventional A6 due to its advanced features and electric drivetrain.

Audi plans to unveil the A6 E-Tron by late 2024 or early 2025, following a slight delay due to software development challenges. This launch is part of Audi’s broader strategy to compete directly with other luxury electric vehicles, such as the Tesla Model S, and to continue leading innovation in the electric vehicle market.

Conclusion

The upcoming Audi A6 E-Tron represents a significant step in Audi’s commitment to electrification, blending traditional luxury with modern EV technology. With its anticipated features and performance, the A6 E-Tron is poised to be a standout offering in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape, promising a blend of style, performance, and environmental consciousness.

Surge in Electric Vehicle Sales in Germany, with Plug-in Hybrids Leading the Way

Overview of Electric Vehicle Market Trends in Germany

In April 2024, Germany witnessed a notable 20% increase in new passenger car registrations, totaling 243,102 vehicles, with an overall increase of 8% to 937,887 vehicles registered in the first four months of the year. This upward trend in vehicle registrations includes a significant boost in plug-in electric car sales, attributed primarily to an upswing in plug-in hybrid models. Despite the absence of EV incentives in 2024, the market for all-electric vehicles remained stable, indicating sustained consumer interest.

Detailed Analysis of Plug-in Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Sales

During April, the sales of new plug-in electric vehicles rose by 8%, totaling 44,803 registrations, although the market share slightly decreased to 18.4% from 20.5% the previous year due to the broader market growth. Notably, the registrations for battery-electric vehicles slightly decreased by 0.2% to 29,668, impacting their market share, which dropped to 12.2%. In contrast, plug-in hybrid vehicles experienced a robust 28% increase in registrations, demonstrating a growing consumer preference for this technology.

Future Outlook and Manufacturer Performance

Looking ahead, the German electric vehicle market shows promise for further expansion, especially with the anticipated launch of more sophisticated models. Major manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, BMW, and Audi continue to lead in plug-in registrations, with Tesla notably trailing in the eighth position with 1,637 units. The industry anticipates that upcoming models and enhancements in charging infrastructure, particularly with the integration of faster charging capabilities through the PPE platform’s 800V electric system, will bolster the electric vehicle adoption rate.

This analysis reveals a dynamic shift towards hybrid models and suggests a competitive and innovative future for the electric vehicle industry in Germany. As manufacturers continue to evolve and adapt to market demands and technological advancements, the landscape for electric vehicles is expected to grow, offering more choices and better technologies to consumers.

Tesla Model Y Performance vs. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: Ultimate Electric Crossover Drag Race

Electric Crossover Showdown: Tesla Takes on Hyundai

The Tesla Model Y Performance has long stood as a favorite for enthusiasts seeking a swift, sporty electric crossover. Yet, as the electric vehicle (EV) landscape evolves, Tesla finds itself facing stiff competition from global automakers eager to showcase their prowess. Hyundai steps into the spotlight with its Ioniq 5 N, a track-ready EV complete with simulated gears, engine sounds, and even a drift mode, challenging Tesla’s dominance in high-performance electric crossovers.

Drag Race Dynamics: Comparing Two Electric Titans

Electric vehicles are renowned for their instant torque and thrilling acceleration. The Tesla Model Y Performance delivers with its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, boasting 530 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N ramps up the competition with 641 horsepower, available through a special boost function, propelling it from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 3.4 seconds. Despite being heavier and more expensive than the Tesla, the Ioniq 5 N’s performance in a straight-line sprint offers a compelling showcase of Hyundai’s advancements in EV technology.

Cost vs. Performance: Is Hyundai Worth the Premium?

In a detailed drag race analysis by Supercharged BG, a Bulgarian YouTube channel, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N edged out the Tesla with a quarter-mile time of 11.28 seconds at 117 mph, compared to the Model Y’s 12.13 seconds at 112 mph. This performance comes at a cost, however, with the Ioniq 5 N priced significantly higher than the Model Y, even before factoring in potential tax credits available to Tesla buyers. While the Hyundai offers additional features like drift mode, prospective buyers must consider whether these extras justify the $22,000 premium. This comparison not only highlights the raw speed and innovation within the EV market but also underscores the broader economic considerations facing consumers in the rapidly growing sector.

Peugeot E-3008 sets new standards for electric SUV design

This is the new Peugeot E-3008, an all-electric ‘fastback SUV’ that gives the French manufacturer one of the largest fleets of distinct pure EV models of any manufacturer. Following in the aesthetic footsteps of the larger Peugeot 408, and foreshadowing the even larger Peugeot E-5008, this new model joins the swollen ranks of compact SUVs that now seem to make up the majority of European car sales.

First things first. Somehow, Peugeot has managed to eke a claimed 422-mile range for this machine, an impressive achievement for any contemporary electric car, let alone a mass market, non-luxury name. In the Stellantis pantheon of brands, Peugeot sits squarely in the middle, leaving luxury to Maserati, sports to Alfa Romeo and quirky mass market design to former sister company Citroën.

Peugeot E-3008 front grill

(Image credit: Peugeot)

Visually, the compact – or ‘urban’ – SUV is one of the toughest typologies to whittle into a piece of well-proportioned design. Peugeot has had a decent stab at it, with the E-3008’s rakish rear screen and the way body panels fold and crease and dive beneath elements like the rear lights.

In fact, there are a plenty of visual tricks going on to keep the E-3008 evenly balanced, such as the blacked-out C-pillar, the dark sill detailing that compresses the height of the side elevations, and the multi-layered front end with its mildly triskaphobia-triggering grille. In the ‘Obsession Blue’ paintwork, seen here, we detected a hint of Gallic 1980s elegance.

Inside the Peugeot E-3008

Peugeot E-3008 dashboard and steering wheel

(Image credit: Peugeot)

Inside, it’s a different story. For the past few years, Peugeot has been pushing what it calls the Panoramic i-Cockpit. This approach to cabin architecture places the main digital 21-inch display screen above the main body of the dash, a ribbon of information that can be irritatingly bisected by the small steering wheel. A separate touchscreen deals with key functions and favourites, while the gear and drive selector are set in the swooping asymmetric centre.

The trick is to lower the wheel to just above your legs to get an uninterrupted view of the dash, an unconventional driving position that sets the Peugeot apart from its peers and encourages you to drive with a different mindset. It’s less car-like and more futuristic, an impression aided by the punchy electric motor.

Peugeot E-3008 front interior

(Image credit: Peugeot)

The Electric 230 Long range Single Motor model, with its 98kWh battery, is the only specification that’ll get you that headline range (on a warm day with a following wind), but both the Electric 210 (with a single motor at 73kWh battery) and the Electric 320 (with twin motors, all-wheel drive and 73kWh) offer a very respectable 326 miles. All models come with steering wheel paddles to swap between three levels of regenerative braking. Fast charging up to 160kW is available for swift top-ups where available.

Peugeot E-3008 boot space with back seats down

(Image credit: Peugeot)

Although a petrol-hybrid model will be offered later in the year, Peugeot is issuing a strong signal of intent by releasing the EV model first. It’s a very easy car to live with, relatively compact at just over 4.5m in length, with a cavernous interior aided by fold-flat rear seats.

Peugeots have traditionally been dynamically refined, and the E-3008 is no different, with well-weighted steering that doesn’t feel too light and feathery. The interior is different but not distracting, and the palette and detailing throughout have been pared back to reduce the number of parts and materials required (over 500kg of the car’s mass is made up of ‘green’ materials, including recycled plastic).

Peugeot E-3008 side view with trees and contemporary building behind

(Image credit: Peugeot)

Although the E-3008 isn’t the affordable EV of everyone’s dreams – it represents a serious hike in prices from the brand’s usual range – it does its thing differently, with confidence and without compromise. The impressive range is the icing on a well-made cake.

Peugeot E-3008 rear light detail

(Image credit: Peugeot)

Peugeot E-3008, from £45,850, Peugeot.co.uk, @PeugeotUK

Critics Slam Chinese Electric Car Tariffs as ‘Bad Policy’ and ‘Not Enough’

It’s no surprise that Chinese electric vehicles undercut the price points of North American alternatives. To stave off the prospect of cheap EVs upsetting the car market here in the United States, the Biden Administration introduced substantial tariffs. However, critics say the tariffs could be anywhere from “poor leadership” to simply “not enough” to prevent cheap Chinese electric cars from challenging American alternatives.

Even with record-breaking restrictions, critics think the latest Chinese electric car tariffs are ineffective

Earlier this week, U.S. President Joe Biden and his administration levied 100% tariffs on Chinese electric cars among other imported goods. While the president asserts that the move is “intended to protect US jobs” from “unfair policies.” However, not everyone believes the move will be as beneficial as intended.

According to The Economist, the global trade system has benefited from a commendable decrease in worldwide tariffs. As such, the global GDP has increased threefold and then some. Tragically, critics state that President Biden’s latest tariffs have the potential to damage that growth.

Still, tariffs aren’t the only recent development with protecting North American-built EVs in mind. The U.S. Department of Energy restricts clean vehicle tax credit eligibility to vehicles with final manufacturing in North America. Not only does that restrict Chinese electric cars, but it also leaves European EVs out of the mix.

A yellow BYD Seagull shows off its small hatchback construction.
BYD Seagull | BYD

Shocking as it may seem, a 100% tariff may not be enough to block the importation of low-cost Chinese electric car models like the BYD Seagull, per CNBC. After all, the Seagull sells for the U.S. dollar equivalent of around $12,000 in the Chinese domestic market. Conversely, the most affordable EVs in the United States are around the $30,000 mark. For instance, the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV, one of the most affordable new EV options for American buyers, starts at $27,495.

Moreover, the tariffs don’t name Chinese imports in neighboring countries like Mexico. Consequently, we may see cheap EVs from Southeast Asia make their way into the United States via unconventional means.

Hyundai Unveils Ioniq 7: A Robust Addition to Its Electric Vehicle Lineup

Design and Development

Hyundai’s latest electric marvel, the Ioniq 7, closely mirrors the Concept SEVEN introduced in 2021 and marks the company’s first venture into the three-row SUV segment. Poised for its debut at the upcoming Busan Auto Show in Korea, the Ioniq 7 shares its core components with the Kia EV9, featuring a design that combines practicality with cutting-edge aesthetics. Notably, this model is built on Hyundai’s innovative E-GMP platform, which is pivotal in advancing their electric fleet.

 Hyundai Ioniq 7 SUV Drops Some Camo Ahead Of June Debut

Revealing the Details

Recent sightings of the Ioniq 7 in Korea, captured with minimal disguise, offer a clearer glimpse into its refined design elements that differentiate it from its cousin, the Kia EV9. The vehicle sports a streamlined look with distinctive split headlights and flush door handles that emphasize its sleek profile. Additionally, the Ioniq 7 incorporates unique design touches like black and silver wheels and functional roof rails, enhancing both its functionality and style.

Performance Specifications and Expectations

Anticipation is high for the Ioniq 7’s performance capabilities, which are expected to align closely with those of the Kia EV9. Potential buyers can look forward to a variety of powertrain options, including a base rear-wheel drive setup and a more robust all-wheel drive variant. Hyundai is also poised to offer two battery sizes to suit different user needs, ensuring the Ioniq 7 is not only a significant expansion of their electric vehicle lineup but also a versatile choice for modern consumers.

Honda Details $65 Billion Plan To Become An EV Powerhouse

“EVs are the most effective solution,” Honda says in a major strategy shift. Can the Japanese automaker deliver?

As we approach the middle of 2024, we find ourselves at a time when automakers are unfortunately waffling on once-aggressive commitments to going all-electric. Volkswagen is getting cold feet, Mercedes-Benz is having a more challenging time breaking up with the V8 than it thought it would, and General Motors and Ford are all about “the freedom of choice” these days. Meanwhile, they all have to keep their EV investments going out of fear they’ll miss some eventual takeoff point.

At least right now, Honda—way behind in the EV race, like much of the rest of the Japanese auto industry—is clear about where things are going in the long term. And now, we have more details about its plan to get there.

That kicks off this Thursday edition of Critical Materials, where we look at the future of the auto industry and how we’re getting there. Also on tap today: China’s automakers still aren’t messing around, and they’re clapping back at new U.S. tariffs as well.

30%: Honda’s Big EV Plans, Detailed

Honda EV Plans

Last week at Honda’s annual financial meeting, we learned about Honda’s plans for future electric vehicle development—plans that involve taking things more vertically integrated, increasing R&D spending and more hybrid cars along the way. Earlier today in Japan, CEO Toshiro Mibe offered quite a few more details on what’s next, including $65 billion through 2031 “when the period of full-fledged popularization of EVs is expected to start.”

You can read the entire plan here. Note that this $65 billion is twice Honda’s earlier commitment to electrification. And I do appreciate Honda’s clarity around where the industry is going, which stands in stark contrast to the “multi-pathway” approach Toyota and others are taking:

The environment surrounding automobile electrification is undergoing dramatic changes, and in some regions, the sense of a slowdown in EV market growth is gaining attention.

[…] On the other hand, Honda has not changed its belief that EVs are the most effective solution in the area of small mobility products such as motorcycles and automobiles. Looking at the trend from a longer-term perspective, Honda is confident that the EV shift will continue to proceed steadily. Without getting too caught up in the current changes in the situation, Honda must look ahead to the period of EV popularization, which will begin in the second half of the 2020s and build a strong EV brand and a strong EV business from a medium- to long-term perspective.

The plan is to make “attractive EVs only Honda can offer,” while establishing a robust supply chain and production apparatus and targeting 5% profit margins on electric cars by 2030.

Honda Saloon Concept

As it’s said before, Honda plans to launch “a model very similar” to the 0 Series Saloon Concept we saw at CES by 2026 in North America. But now, it offers more on what’s coming: EVs that are “thin, light and wise.” Neat! Among those claims:

In addition to lighter body frames, the new EV series models will adopt an all-new power unit, which was made lighter and thinner by applying Honda’s original technologies amassed through the development of F1 machines and HEV models. This will enable Honda to reduce the overall vehicle weight by approximately 100kg (220 pounds) compared to initial Honda EVs.

Not mentioned at all in this plan, by the way: General Motors. I suspect the GM Ultium-based Honda Prologue won’t last more than a couple of years, so enjoy it while you can.

I do recommend you read up on Honda’s plans, if you’re interested. It remains one of the best engineering-focused car companies on earth, and it would be great to see what it can do when it gets serious about EVs.

But as I said up top, we’ve heard such claims before. Saying something and actually getting it done are very different propositions in the auto industry. Here’s hoping Honda too doesn’t find some way to backtrack from this after going through such pains to look good for investors.

60%: ‘One Model Per Year’ Of Affordable EVs From Nio’s Subbrand

Onvo-L60

You’ll read more today about Chinese automaker Nio’s new sub-brand, Onvo. Let’s just say it’s targeting Tesla more directly than you’d expect. Like, really directly.

Anyway, Nio is a rising Chinese player perhaps most famous for its battery-swapping technology. But it does a lot more than that. And according to Reuters, this new Onvo brand helps it go downmarket while cranking out even more new models all of the time:

Chinese electric vehicle maker Nio, opens new tab said on Thursday it would launch one new model per year under its lower-priced Onvo brand and price them similarly to gasoline vehicles, as the firm expands its lineups to family cars in the country’s overcrowded auto market.

Nio said on Thursday it would have a second Onvo model targeting larger families coming up next and expected the newly launched brand to positively contribute to its overall profitability when monthly sales reach 20,000 units. “China has 110 auto brands… and it’s now already consolidated to 20-30 active players,” Nio Chief Executive William Li said. “The consolidation will continue but will not be very severe.”

Still, Nio itself isn’t profitable, even if its sales account for around 3% of China’s overall EV market by volume, according to Reuters. This, even as it’s launching another affordable EV sub-brand in addition to Onvo. Couple that with the oversaturated EV market in China and overcapacity in its factories and it’s no wonder those automakers are eager to expand.

90%: China To U.S.: ‘What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger’

Zeekr NYC

So how is China reacting to the new 100% tariffs on its EVs sold in the United States? Well, BYD’s CEO Stella Li said that when it comes to North America, the automaker is focused on Mexico right now and still has “no plans” for the U.S. Sure!

But Beijing and its associated media outlets are firing back and accusing the U.S. of hypocrisy. Here’s Reuters again:

In response to the tariffs, Chinese state media have shot back, accusing the United States of subverting its own free trade principles and taking action that threatens climate goals and will push up costs for American consumers.

In essence, the argument goes, you are hurting yourself.

[…] “What does not kill you makes you stronger,” Xinhua said in a commentary on the U.S. tariffs. “It seems the famous quote applies to China’s technology companies.”

Beijing knew this round of tariffs was coming. In recent visits to China, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and others had drove home a message that China’s industrial capacity to make more EVs, solar panels and batteries than its economy can absorb was a risk to American jobs and business.

Chinese officials and state media have rejected that argument, saying the country’s EV makers dominate because of innovation and supply chain advantages, not subsidies.

One thing is certain: the Automotive Cold War is just getting underway now.

100%: Do You Have Faith In Honda’s Promises Here?

Honda 0 logo

I’d truly like to believe Honda’s serious about what it says here. But we’ve been burned by big promises in the EV world before. Then again, Honda is not Toyota, and it’s out here affirming that the industry is going all-electric over time. What’s your read on this new strategy?

Biden’s Approach to Chinese EV Tariffs: A Strategic Gamble with Potential

Overview of the New Tariff Strategy

President Biden’s new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) mark a significant shift from previous U.S. policies. While former President Trump’s tariffs aimed broadly at various Chinese products failed to deliver the expected economic benefits, Biden’s targeted tariffs on EVs are part of a larger strategy to bolster the U.S. automotive industry against cheap imports. This move is seen as an attempt to protect American jobs and ensure the competitiveness of U.S. industries in the global market.

Economic and Strategic Implications

The rationale behind these tariffs is to prevent the U.S. market from being overwhelmed by less expensive, subsidized Chinese EVs, which could potentially undercut American manufacturers. These tariffs are complemented by substantial domestic incentives for EV production under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to foster innovation and investment within the U.S. This dual approach of tariffs and incentives is designed to create a more level playing field for American companies and stimulate job creation in the automotive sector.

Potential Outcomes and Challenges

While these measures could temporarily shield U.S. manufacturers from international competition, allowing them to strengthen and expand, there are risks involved. Tariffs might lead to retaliatory measures, as seen during the Trump administration, which could harm other sectors of the economy. Additionally, if U.S. manufacturers fail to innovate and reduce costs, the strategy might only offer short-term relief, leading to higher prices for consumers without a corresponding increase in quality or innovation. The success of Biden’s tariffs will largely depend on the ability of American manufacturers to capitalize on this opportunity to enhance their competitiveness on the global stage.