Lucid CEO Says Chinese Automakers Are Way Behind Tesla On EV Tech

Peter Rawlinson said that even though Chinese EVs should not be underestimated, they aren’t as advanced as Tesla.

Tesla is fighting a price war in China to maintain its position as a leading manufacturer of EVs in the People’s Republic. However, even though local automakers are catching up to Tesla in terms of sales and market share, they are still far behind in terms of technology.

This view is shared by Lucid CEO Peter Rawlinson, who recently said during the Financial Times Future of the Car Summit in London that even though Tesla’s Chinese rivals appear to have almost caught up to the American manufacturer, “if you look at the advance in core EV technology, they’re still years and years behind.” He added that “in terms of the elegance of their drivetrain technology, the batteries, the way things are integrated… it’s not even close.”

Comparing the BYD Seal to the Tesla Model 3 reveals the tech gap

The most famous Tesla-rivaling Chinese car has been the BYD Seal, which does a lot of things right, but if you compare it to its direct rival, the Model 3, it lacks the same level of polish and technological elegance.

Rawlinson warned that Chinese automakers (of which over 120 were manufacturing EVs in 2023) have advanced “immeasurably” in the last few years and should not be underestimated. According to Business Insider, he went on to say “We underestimated the Chinese ability to make good cars. They’re shockingly good. They’re a lot better than they’ve been. They’re just not quite there yet.”

Lucid is also trying to catch up to Tesla, and unlike many Tesla rivals (like Fisker), it has the necessary funding to not worry about going bankrupt. It recently cut the price of the cheapest version of its Air sedan (the Air Pure) to make it more competitive, and it’s also working to launch its first SUV, the Lucid Gravity. It is also known to be working on a midsize rival for the Tesla Model 3/Model Y priced under $50,000.

In China, Tesla lost the EV sales lead in the final quarter of 2023 when it was overtaken by local car-making giant BYD. Talented local models like the Seal, which is an electric sedan specifically designed to take on the very popular Model 3, show how much Chinese automakers have advanced, but they also show there’s still a technology gap.

Other Chinese EV manufacturers that are chasing Tesla’s success but aren’t quite there yet include Xpeng, Nio and Xiaomi. All either already offer models that directly rival Tesla’s or are in the process of developing them, but they have still yet to produce models that match or surpass the breadth of abilities of Tesla vehicles.

The Refreshed Tesla Model 3 Is Still The Go-To EV

The updated Model 3 “Highland” fixes many of its predecessor’s flaws and builds upon an already impressive package.

 

Tesla has reshaped the automotive landscape around the world and irreversibly accelerated the shift from combustion engine vehicles to EVs, and the Model 3 has played a big part in its success. Launched in 2017 as the manufacturer’s most affordable model, it quickly soared in popularity and became a favorite around the world. It sold almost 150,000 units in its first year, then doubled the figure in 2019, quickly outpacing sales of the larger Model S and Model X combined.

The original Model 3 had flaws, like the so-so interior quality, panels that were often misaligned, a somewhat bumpy ride and exterior design elements that polarize opinions. With the 2023 “Highland” update, though, Tesla has addressed these issues and made the Model 3 an even better car. The downside is that, in its quest for ultimate minimalism and cost-cutting, some new quirks have been created.

It is the best EV I’ve ever driven, though, and it’s the one I would buy today if I were in the market for an electric sedan. Here’s why.

(Full Disclosure: This test car was provided to me by Tesla Romania for an entire week so that I could review it properly. I picked it up from and returned it to the Tesla store in Bucharest and had access to free Supercharging during my loan.)

The Looks

The Tesla Model 3 has always been a good-looking car in my eyes, but it seems many people didn’t like the pre-facelift model’s front fascia. Tesla has reworked the Model 3’s design, and it’s far sleeker and more premium-looking from the outside. The headlights are now much slimmer, and the whole front fascia looks new. I think it looks great, but after chatting with other people about the design changes, some say they love it, while others say they prefer the pre-refresh front. Let us know in the comments which you like.

From the side, you can’t really tell the new and old Model 3s apart, although the new wheel designs will give it away. The standard 18-inch Photon wheels have an aero design and don’t look sporty at all, but my tester had the 19-inch Nova wheels, a $1,500 option, which make a big impact on how you perceive the car.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

The new slimmed-down rear lights and the revised bumper design have a similar effect to the front fascia changes. They make the car look a lot more modern and a bit sportier too, thanks to the prominent diffuser. That diffuser houses reflectors and a set of backup lights, which replace the trunk-mounted rear-hazard and brake lamps when the tailgate is open.

Overall, the facelift changes the Model 3 for the better, and it also improves its aerodynamics slightly, thus helping it eke out more range. My tester was finished in Stealth Grey, which is nice but a bit impersonal, and unlike in the US where it is free, here in Europe we have to pay €2,000 for it, the same price as Ultra Red. This is probably because European-market Model 3s are all built at Tesla’s plant in China.

The Interior Finally Feels Premium

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Tesla has always advertised the Model 3’s interior as being premium, but until the introduction of the Highland model, it didn’t deserve that descriptor. Hop inside the revised Model 3 and it instantly feels more plush than the old model. Assembly quality looks better, panels fit together better and premium touches like the wrap-around LED mood lighting strip and Alcantara door cards help with the premium feel. Everything feels softer and nicer to touch.

The focal point of the cabin is the big infotainment screen, which has also been improved. Its housing is the same size as before but with a thinner bezel, leaving you with more usable space on the screen. It doesn’t have any additional features or processing power, but it didn’t need them because it was already among the best infotainment systems in any car at any price.

Rear passengers also get a screen in the Model 3 Highland. It can be used to adjust the climate, watch YouTube or stream Netflix. Your kids are going to love it.


The front seats are comfortable, although the seat cushions could be a bit longer for over-six-footers. But even though my thighs felt like they could have used more support, I drove the Model 3 for a few hundred miles and found it very pleasant and easy on my back.

Rear occupants don’t have it quite as good, since the floor is quite high. It pushes your knees up, and there isn’t enough room to slide your feet under the front seat. However, the angle of the rear backrest is less vertical than before, and there’s plenty of knee room and headroom for adults in the back. The fold-down armrest helps improve comfort, and it also houses two deep cup holders.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

The Model 3 has more storage cubbies than pretty much any other sedan I can think of. Aside from the glovebox, which is on the small side, you get some huge compartments in the center console. The largest one is right in front of the dual wireless phone chargers, and it’s big enough to fit a couple of big water bottles with room to spare.

Lift the cushy and well-padded armrest and you find another big storage space for more of your belongings. The moving parts of the console feel nicely damped and premium, a welcome change. From the lids that cover the front storage compartment and the cupholders, which feel as good as in any modern BMW, to the action of the armrest when you lift it, everything feels nice and posh.

The Steering Wheel Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Tesla removed the indicator and wiper stalks from behind the steering wheel in the Highland. This prompted a complete redesign of the wheel, which looks and feels better than before while offering more functionality. The new wheel make the car feel more agile and maneuverable, and its flat-bottom design looks reasonably sporty.

After driving the Model 3 for a week, I got used to operating the wipers and the high beam through the steering wheel controls, but using the indicators still seemed strange. Other manufacturers have also moved indicator controls to the wheel, but all of them put the left turn signal on the left prong and the right turn signal on the right prong. Tesla Model 3 Long Range Tesla Model 3 Long Range

In the Model 3 Highland, they are both on the left prong, stacked one on top of the other. While I did get used to this, it was tricky to use them when the steering wheel was not in the dead-ahead position.

We have a lot of roundabouts in Romania, which require you to indicate left while you are in one and then indicate right to signal you want to take an exit. In the Model 3, I had to look down at the steering wheel to know which button to press, which was quite frustrating at times.

The Drive

Tesla Model 3 on Twisty Road

Tesla has softened the suspension of the Highland compared to the outgoing Model 3. This makes it way more comfortable and compliant, but it also introduces a lot of extra body motions into the equation. I didn’t notice this for the first couple of days that I had the car, but when I took it to a twisty road, it became apparent just how much more the refreshed Model 3 pitches, dives and rolls in corners.

This means you don’t have quite as much confidence to push it around bends, and it also seemed like it was set up more for understeer than tail-out fun. Being the Dual Motor variant, perhaps it could have used the same power slider as the Performance model, which allows you to adjust how much power each axle can put down, thus altering the car’s handling balance.

Tesla Model 3 on Twisty Road

With around 400 horsepower on tap, the two-motor Model 3 felt very quick, especially off the line. It does seem like Tesla has dulled down the initial surge of acceleration when setting off, and acceleration seems to build as you start picking up speed. But it certainly feels like a car that can hit 60 mph from a standstill in 4.2 seconds, as Tesla claims.

Tesla has dropped the top speed of this middle variant slightly, so it’s now 125 mph rather than 145 mph. Apparently, this has to do with the tire choice, which prioritizes comfort and low noise, but it limits the Model 3 at the top end. If you want a Model 3 that goes quicker than that, you will have to get the Performance variant, which shaves over a second off the sprint time and tops out at 163 mph.

The Range

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Here in Europe, Tesla advertises the Model 3 Long Range as being able to do 421 miles on the WLTP test cycle. The WLTP cycle typically produces range ratings that are considerably more optimistic than those validated on the EPA cycle. The WLPT figure drops to 390 miles with the 19-inch wheels. In America, the Model 3 Long Range gets an EPA range of 341 miles with the 18-inch wheels, or 305 miles with 19-inch wheels. Based on my observed efficiency, I think you could do 300 miles in any Long Range Model 3 without too much fuss.

It helps that the Model 3 is one of the most efficient electric vehicles around, stretching its available kilowatt-hours more than its rivals. During my time with the vehicle, when I had no regard for driving it economically and enjoyed countless acceleration runs, as well as a blast down a local twisty road, my tester still displayed an average of about 2.8 miles/kWh. I know it can do better than that, but that shows how good it is even in real-world usage.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

I’ve driven a few good EVs, including some with batteries bigger than the Model 3 Long Range’s 75-kWh (usable) battery, but I felt no range anxiety in the Model 3. It probably helps that adding range via Tesla’s proprietary Supercharger is easier than having to charge a different EV from a third-party charger. Even here on the outskirts of Europe, Superchargers worked quickly and flawlessly.

There were two Superchargers close to my house, both V3 stations, and I charged the car twice over the week. The first time, I didn’t set the Supercharger as my destination, and the vehicle didn’t pull more than 103 kW. The second time, I did tell the car that I was going to a Supercharger, so it preconditioned the battery. I saw a peak of 146 kW. That’s still far off the maximum 250 kW that the car and charger could do, but it was still quick enough.

The Gadgets

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

One of my favorite things about the Model 3 and Teslas, in general, is that you get all of the important gadgets and features for free. The car comes standard with heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, a heated back seat and three-zone climate control. The full-length panoramic roof is also standard, as are the electrically adjustable front seats and the power-opening trunk.

The only things you have to pay extra for are the white leather interior (which I wouldn’t get because it just seems difficult to keep clean), the larger wheels, a few of the exterior colors and the Autopilot/Full Self-Driving options. This is refreshing, as competitors like the BMW i4 offer a dizzying options list that can easily add thousands of dollars to the base price.

But while the car may be brimming with unique and well-executed tech features, it’s not perfect. It lacks ultrasonic parking sensors and it relies on cameras for that role. This works fairly well most of the time, but occasionally it sees obstacles that aren’t there or it completely misses some objects. I wouldn’t rely on this system the same way I do in other cars.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

There’s no questioning the quality and effectiveness of the Model 3’s ADAS systems, though. Even with the camera-only approach with no radar or lidar on the car, its adaptive cruise control does a phenomenal job of keeping the car in the center of the lane, keeping up with traffic and braking for emergencies.

Having tried the car in Europe where “Full Self-Driving” isn’t legal or availabe (yet), I was limited to trying Autopilot with the Autosteer function, and I found it to be very good. It was smooth and safe and it never made me feel uneasy behind the wheel. It’s one of the best ADAS systems I’ve ever used.

The Verdict

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Tesla made an already excellent EV even better. The refreshed Model 3 is truly great and offers unmatched tech, style and performance for the price. In Long Range All-Wheel Drive guise, it starts at $47,740 in the US, and with optional paint and the white interior, it goes just over $50,000 with everything but FSD. That is a great deal for such an accomplished and well-equipped car.

It may be six years old now, but the facelift does enough to allow the Model 3 to continue to be the go-to compact electric sedan wherever you are in the world. Even in China where it’s facing increasingly talented and keenly priced rivals like the BYD Seal, the Model 3 is still relevant for a simple reason: It’s a stunningly good all-rounder.

NIO undercuts Tesla Model Y with new $30,000 L60 EV, kicking off cheaper Onvo brand

Chinese EV maker NIO launched the first EV under its new mass-market Onvo brand Wednesday. The new Onvo L60 electric SUV will rival Tesla’s best-selling Model Y at a cheaper starting price. Starting at just $30,500 (219,900 yuan), can NIO’s new electric SUV compete with the Model Y?

Meet the NIO Onvo L60, the latest Tesla Model Y rival

NIO CEO William Li launched the new Onvo brand Wednesday, introducing its first vehicle, the L60 SUV. Li said the new EV will rival Toyota’s RAV4 and Tesla’s top-selling Model Y as a family car.

“Defining a new standard for family cars,” according to NIO, the L60 has a pre-sale price of just $30,500 (219,900 yuan).

NIO compared its new electric SUV to the Tesla Model Y, saying it has better energy consumption (12.1 kWh/100km vs. 12.5 kWh/100km) under the same CLTC conditions.

At 4,828 mm long, 1,930 mm wide, and 1,616 mm tall, the Onvo L60 will directly rival the Model Y (4,750 mm long X 1,921 mm wide X 1,624 mm tall).

Starting at 219,900 yuan ($30,500), NIO’s new mass-market electric SUV undercuts the Model Y, which starts at 249,900 yuan ($34,600) in China.

NIO-Onvo-TeslaNIO Onvo L60 electric SUV (Source: NIO)

The new mass-market electric SUV on the block

The electric SUV has three battery pack options. The base 60 kWh variant features 555 km (345 mi) CLTC range, while the 90 kWh and 150 kWh models offer up to 730 km (454 mi) and over 1,000 km (621 mi) CLTC range, respectively.

NIO Onvo L60 vs Tesla Model Y trims Range
(CLTC)
Starting Price
NIO Onvo L60 (60 kWh) 555 km (341 mi) 219,900 yuan ($30,500)
NIO Onvo L60 (90 kWh) 730 km (454 mi) TBD
NIO Onvo L60 (150 kWh) +1,000 km (+621 mi) TBD
Tesla Model Y RWD 554 km (344 mi) 249,900 yuan ($34,600)
Tesla Model Y AWD Long Range 688 km (427 mi) 290,900 yuan ($40,300)
Tesla Model Y AWD Performance 615 km (382 mi) 354,900 yuan ($49,100)
NIO Onvo L60 vs Tesla Model Y

In comparison, the base RWD Tesla Model Y gets up to 554 km (344 mi) CLTC range. The AWD Long Range Model Y (290,900 yuan) and AWD Performance trims (354,900 yuan) get up to 688 km and 615 km CLTC cruising range, respectively.

Although full details are yet to be released, the L60, equipped with NIO’s in-house 900V platform, is expected to feature ultra-fast charging capabilities.

NIO-Onvo-TeslaNIO Onvo L60 electric SUV (Source: NIO)

Onvo owners will have access to NIO’s expanding (+1,000) battery swap and public fast charging network (+25,000).

A Reuters report last week claimed NIO made a deal with BYD to source batteries for its new Onvo brand. Two sources said BYD will join CATL to supply a smaller battery pack for its new EV. Meanwhile, CALB will provide the 85 kWh battery pack.

NIO-Onvo-TeslaNIO Onvo L60 electric SUV launch event (Source: NIO)

However, when contacted by Reuters, NIO said the information was “inaccurate” without elaborating. Check back for more info soon as NIO’s new mass-market Onvo brand hits the market.

Electrek’s Take

NIO is the latest EV maker (or automaker) to launch a new Tesla Model Y competitor. As its best-selling EV, it’s no surprise to see the competition looking to snag a piece of the market.

BYD launched its Sea Lion 07 last week, its “smart mid-size electric SUV,” starting at just 189,800 ($26,250). As the first EV based on its new e-Platform 3.0 Evo, the base Standard model gets up to 550 km (341 mi) CLTC range. For 199,800 ($27,625), the Long Range variant gets up to 610 km (379 mi) range.

Nio Introduces the Onvo L60 SUV in China, Setting New Standards in the EV Market

Strategic Introduction of the Onvo L60 by Nio

Nio recently announced the launch of the Onvo L60, a cutting-edge electric vehicle poised to challenge the Tesla Model Y with its emphasis on family-friendly functionality and cost-effectiveness. Slated for a September release in China, the L60 is priced competitively at around £24,000, substantially undercutting its main rival. This pricing strategy aims to leverage the expanding Chinese electric vehicle market by offering an affordable yet sophisticated alternative.

Technical Innovations and Design of the Onvo L60

Emerging from Nio’s new brand initiative previously codenamed Alps, Onvo is geared towards captivating the upper-tier of the family-oriented market segment. The L60 is engineered with a 900V high-voltage system for rapid charging capabilities and comes equipped with BYD-supplied batteries that promise a range of 344 to 620 miles on a single charge, as per the generous CLTC standards. It also boasts an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 0.229Cd, thanks to its aerodynamically efficient design, enhancing its energy consumption efficiency to an impressive 5.1mpkWh.

Market Expansion and Future Prospects

Although there are no immediate plans to bring the Onvo brand to the UK, should the L60 be introduced, it is expected to be priced around £40,000 to maintain its competitive edge. The SUV includes advanced driver-assistance systems synonymous with Nio’s reputation for high-tech features and supports the company’s innovative battery-swap system, allowing a full battery exchange within three minutes at over 1,000 stations across China. This capability significantly minimizes downtime and enhances user convenience, setting a new benchmark in EV technology.


Broader Impact and Technological Forward-Thinking:

  • Consumer Engagement and Market Dynamics: Nio’s strategic pricing of the Onvo L60 is anticipated to attract a broad consumer base, appealing to those seeking affordability without compromising on advanced technological features.
  • Revolutionizing EV Charging: The integration of battery-swap stations for the L60 exemplifies Nio’s commitment to pioneering accessible charging solutions, potentially revolutionizing EV infrastructure and setting new industry standards.
  • Navigating Future Market Trends: With its eyes set on future markets and additional ventures like the potential Firefly brand for Europe, Nio is actively shaping the future landscape of the global automotive industry, driving innovations that cater to evolving consumer demands and environmental standards.

The introduction of the Onvo L60 represents a significant milestone for Nio as it continues to assert its dominance in the EV market, promising to deliver exceptional value, innovation, and efficiency to an increasingly eco-conscious consumer base.

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.

China’s Hongqi EHS7 Battery Swap SUV Seeks Sales Approval

Launch of the Hongqi EHS7 Battery Swap Edition

Hongqi’s latest move in the electric vehicle market, the EHS7 battery swap SUV, has officially applied for a sales license in China, as revealed in the recent announcements by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). This new variant retains the aesthetic of the original pure electric model but integrates advanced battery-swap technology, marking it as the first electric SUV from the Hongqi New Energy sub-brand.

Technical Specifications and Features

The battery swap version of the Hongqi EHS7 mirrors the dimensions of its predecessor, measuring 4925mm in length, 1950mm in width, and 1680mm in height, with a wheelbase extending to 3000mm. This model is equipped with a powerful rear electric motor producing up to 253 kW, complemented by durable lithium iron phosphate batteries supplied by BYD’s FinDreams, enabling a top speed of 200 km/h. Buyers can also choose from various customization options including different rim designs and dual-color exteriors.

Hongqi’s Broad Electric Vehicle Strategy

In 2024, Hongqi aims to significantly expand its lineup, introducing 16 new models including several pure electric and plug-in hybrids. This expansion is part of Hongqi’s strategy to boost sales figures, which saw a 29.5% increase in 2023, selling over 370,000 vehicles. The growth is notably driven by its New Energy sector, which itself grew by 135% last year, underscoring Hongqi’s commitment to electrification and a target of selling over 1.5 million vehicles annually.

Strategic Implications for the Auto Industry:

  • Innovation in Battery Technology: The introduction of battery-swap technology in SUVs like the EHS7 is a pivotal step in enhancing the convenience and appeal of electric vehicles, potentially setting new industry standards.
  • Market Expansion and Consumer Choice: With its aggressive rollout of new models, Hongqi is not only broadening its market presence but also offering consumers a wider array of choices, catering to different preferences and needs.
  • Sustainability Goals: As Hongqi pushes forward with its electrification goals, it contributes significantly to the automotive industry’s shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies.

This strategic move by Hongqi with the EHS7 battery swap SUV represents a significant evolution in their vehicle offerings and a strong commitment to leading in the electric vehicle sector, aligning with broader environmental objectives and market demands.

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.

2024 Electric Vehicle Charging Guide: Navigating Your Options

Home Charging for EVs: Convenience and Efficiency

Home charging remains the most straightforward and convenient method for powering electric vehicles. Utilizing a standard 120-volt outlet, known as Level 1 charging, is sufficient for overnight use despite the slower charge rate. For quicker refueling, upgrading to a 240-volt setup, referred to as Level 2 charging, is recommended. This enhancement not only shortens the charging duration to about six to eight hours but could also be cost-effective long-term due to various state-level incentives for installation.

Public Charging Enhancements and Accessibility

With the rise in EV adoption, the infrastructure for public charging stations has expanded significantly. These facilities are now more prevalent in shopping centers, urban districts, and along key travel corridors, offering both Level 2 and fast-charging Level 3 options. The faster Level 3 charging can boost an EV’s battery to 80% capacity in roughly 30 minutes. It’s essential for EV owners to ensure their vehicles are compatible with the charging stations’ connectors, with some requiring adapters, notably within proprietary networks like Tesla’s Supercharger.

Workplace Charging: A Growing Employee Perk

Charging facilities at workplaces are becoming increasingly common, which is a significant benefit for EV owners. Many corporations are now providing Level 2 charging stations, allowing employees to conveniently charge their vehicles throughout the workday. This amenity is on the rise as businesses recognize the importance of fostering sustainable practices and attracting environmentally conscious staff. Financial incentives offered by some states further encourage the installation of these facilities.


Maximizing EV Charging Efficiency: Tips and Tricks

  • Charging Level Insights: Knowing the distinctions among Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging can guide you in choosing the optimal charging strategy to suit your daily demands and vehicle specifications.
  • Cost-Effective Home Charging: If your electricity provider offers reduced rates during off-peak times, schedule your charging accordingly to enhance cost-efficiency.
  • Navigating Long-Distance Travel: For extended journeys, planning routes that include access to fast-charging stations is crucial. Utilizing apps like PlugShare ensures that you can find compatible stations and maintain seamless travel.

This guide aims to arm EV owners in Missouri and beyond with detailed knowledge of their charging options, helping them make informed decisions to optimize their vehicle use and integrate effectively into their lifestyle.

Unveiling the 2024 Subaru Solterra’s Reliability Challenges

 

Subaru’s Electric Endeavor Faces Reliability Hurdles

The 2024 Subaru lineup generally upholds the brand’s reputation for durability and robustness, yet the Subaru Solterra EV emerges as a notable exception. This model, marking Subaru’s initial foray into the electric vehicle market, has encountered significant reliability issues. Garnering a disappointing reliability score of 67 out of 100 from J.D. Power, the Solterra stands out for the wrong reasons in Subaru’s otherwise reliable range.

Analyzing the Solterra’s Performance Issues

Introduced in 2023 as a 2024 model, the Subaru Solterra’s low score reflects common cautionary advice against purchasing a vehicle in its debut year. My personal experience with the Solterra revealed admirable attributes such as its unique design and comfortable ride, yet it was marred by problems with the headlights, driving range, wireless charging, and its off-road capability feature, X-Mode. Such issues underscore the growing pains typical of new model introductions, particularly in the electric vehicle segment.

The 2024 Subaru Solterra splashing through a mud puddle
2024 Subaru Solterra | Subaru

Comparing the Solterra with Other Subaru Models

  • Contextualizing Solterra’s Score Within Subaru’s Portfolio: While the Solterra struggles, other Subaru models like the 2024 Crosstrek and Forester score significantly higher, with ratings of 83 and 84, respectively. This contrast highlights the Solterra’s challenges in maintaining the brand’s legacy of quality.
  • Subaru and Toyota’s Collaborative Efforts: The Solterra, developed alongside Toyota’s bZ4X, shares many features with its counterpart, which scored even lower at 64. The shared development path suggests both brands face hurdles in refining their electric vehicle offerings.
  • Future Outlook for Subaru and Toyota EVs: Despite the rocky start, Subaru and Toyota are committed to expanding their electric lineup. The lessons learned from the Solterra and bZ4X are crucial as they plan to introduce three more EV models, promising enhancements based on initial consumer feedback.

This comprehensive review aims to provide potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts with insights into the Subaru Solterra’s performance within the broader context of Subaru’s 2024 vehicle lineup. Understanding these nuances can guide consumers in making informed decisions, particularly when considering the long-term reliability of new electric vehicles.

I rode in Volvo’s new electric SUV and was not at all surprised by it

One hour east of Gothenburg, Sweden, the sun was shining on another blue sky spring day. The chamber of commerce weather was perfect for the full day of learning about and testing out the 2025 Volvo EX90 at Hällerd Proving Ground.

A small group of Volvo project managers and engineers gave us the lowdown on Volvo’s latest electric vehicle. The EX90 joins the company’s fleet as its flagship this year alongside its gasoline-powered XC90 counterpart. Though they are similar sized, the XC90 is a completely different vehicle.

Volvo knows a thing or two about EVs already. This new effort is one in a line of models that stretches from the 1976 Volvo Electric Prototype that sits in the new World of Volvo brand showcase center, to the C30 electric car from 2010 and into today with the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, both of which were part of my journey across the American West late last year, and the lauded EX30 small SUV.

When the EX90 debuted in November 2022, it was lauded for its funky animated headlights, well-appointed interior, and sleek exterior. Not much has changed since then, including the melanoma-like safety and driver assistance system-related technologies attached at the roofline above the windscreen.

Before we arrived in Sweden, Volvo warned us that we weren’t going to be able to drive the EX90, but that we would be able to experience it riding shotgun on numerous trails and tracks within the testing center.

Among the 17 to choose from, Volvo chose those tracks designated to test for handling, speed and stability, off-road prowess, and comfort as the ride destinations, clearly showing their priorities with the model’s development.

These tracks are not simply smooth paved surfaces. Each has a unique set of tests within it, from duplicating roadways in the U.S., Europe and Scandinavia that present their own set of challenges.

Have you ever ridden over a freeway in Los Angeles? That melodic thump-thump-thump that you could keep time with using a metronome has been replicated at Hällerd as something engineers need to take into consideration as they develop vehicles.

There’s sections of cobblestones, wavy pavement whoops like you’ll find on rural roads worldwide, and steeply banked surfaces with lanes marked so test drivers can track how well a vehicle stays in its lane using a variety of technology, only some of which has been employed in today’s vehicles.

2025 Volvo EX90
The Volvo EX90 electric SUV pictured parked in Sweden.

Buckled into the passenger seat, I spent my afternoon riding alongside Kenneth, a capable engineer who explained every bit of the test to me along the way, calling out speeds and the reasoning for each section of testing as it happened.

With the SUV set for comfort, we started at the handling circuit where whoops were hit at a little over 70 kilometers per hour (45-ish miles per hour) and the car’s weight was immediately apparent, despite the suspension doing everything it could to compensate. However, there was little axial movement.

The SUV’s sound deadening and stabilization efforts proved themselves over the cobbles and rougher sections of road but couldn’t do the heavy lifting as we picked up speed and headed into the corners.

There was no escaping the sheer heft of this SUV. That doesn’t mean that it was incompetent or unable to handle the pressure being placed on it by the driver. In fact, it stuck to the roadway with ease and proved quite nimble.

Switching to a sportier drive mode, the SUV’s dynamics tightened up, It was more easily able to turn into the corners at those higher speeds. However, the lack of seat bolstering became apparent at this point. While the SUV may have been tuned for sportier performance, its passengers were still in their comfort setting.

This made me wonder how it will do traversing the many, many roundabouts in Europe.

2025 Volvo EX90 Sweden Test Drive
A Volvo employee and Newsweek’s Eileen Falkenberg-Hull ride in a new Volvo EX90 at the automaker’s test track in Sweden.

Moving on to the off-road portion, Volvo’s engineers took the car up a hill and around a short trail to simulate what the SUV would be asked to do as Swedes leave the city and head to their summer cottage for a month, week, or weekend of relaxation. It’s perfectly well suited for that level of off-roading.

On the high-speed loop track, the Volvo did as it was designed to do, rapidly accelerating without passing on many G forces to the passengers, while proving stable and serene as we approached maximum speed and stayed there for a while.

It was also easy to keep in the lane at high speeds, even in steeply banked corners.

If there’s one thing that holds true about Volvos, it is that there’s little that is surprising about them. They’re notoriously good at doing their assigned tasks, especially modern ones.

So, it was unsurprising that nothing about the EX90 test drive surprised me. This Volvo is as competent and competitive as the rest of the Volvo lineup. I look forward to my turn behind the wheel in a few months.