LEC Team, Author at Learn Electric Cars

Tesla Model Y Facelift In China By Mid-2024, Other Markets To Follow

Tesla Model Y holds the distinction of being the highest-selling EV on the planet. The Tesla Model Y will receive a significant facelift by the middle of 2024 in China. It is rumoured to carry the codename ‘Project Juniper’. Note that the happenings in the Chinese market often translate to other international markets soon. In fact, the Model Y already received a minor update in the Chinese market earlier this year. In comparison, the upcoming facelift will bear relatively more substantial alterations. You might also like: Mercedes, BMW Exceed EPA Range in Real-World Test, Tesla Falls Short Tesla Model Y Facelift In order to prepare for the facelift, the second phase of Tesla’s Shanghai factory will halt production for a week around the first half of February. That is also the time of the Chinese New Year holiday season. During this time, the manufacturing facility will undergo partial upgrades to incorporate the changes needed to roll out the new Model Y. However, the final upgrades will be made closer to the commencement of the production at a relatively later stage. We already know that Model Y is the highest-selling EV in the world. It has held that title for a while now. Hence, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone that even in China, it accounts for close to 75% of total Tesla sales. That is a testament to the relevance of this model. This facelift is aimed at ensuring that the Model Y stays competitive amidst fierce rivals in the Chinese market including BYD, Xpeng and Nio. That also explains why Tesla is in the process of refreshing its entire lineup including the new Model 3 earlier this year under the codename ‘Project Highland’. You might also like: $25,000 Tesla Model 2 Imminent with Expansion of Giga Shanghai Specifics of Facelift While there are no concrete reports regarding the exact details of the changes, we can take some cues from the facelifted Model 3. This will include modifications to the interior, as well as exterior. Hence, we could expect slight design changes to the aesthetics, perhaps the alloys, in addition to some new features inside the cabin. Moreover, it could also get a larger M3P battery from CATL. The Model 3 also received a new blind spot monitor and an active hood for pedestrian protection. After the China launch, these updates will trickle down to the international markets too. We shall keep an eye out for further details in this case.

New EV Battery From Zeekr To Offer 500 kW Charging

27 Comments / Battery / By LEC Team

The unprecedented DC fast charging rate allows replenishing 500 km (310 miles) of range in just 15 minutes. The new EV battery from Zeekr is capable of offering lightning-fast 500 kW DC fast charging. They are calling it the ‘Golden Battery’. This is unequivocally much higher than the fastest charging speeds on offer today, which hover around 360 kW. The Chinese car marque’s new battery technology will support 800 V architecture and adopt LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate) cell chemistry to provide upto 500 kW speeds. You might also like: Edmunds Tests The Fastest Charging EV In Real-World Conditions New Zeekr EV Battery Charging Technology While 800 V architecture is offered by other carmakers like Porsche already, 500 kW DC charging speeds are unheard of. The key behind this technology lies in its innovative cell chemistry. Traditionally, LFP batteries have lower energy density in comparison to NMC (Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt) batteries. However, engineers at Zeekr used “newly-developed materials” and “simplified structural design” to construct the new battery pack. This has resulted in a higher volume utilization of the new battery pack at 83.7%. For reference, CATL’s NMC Qilin battery offers 72% volume utilization, as per Autocar. Hence, it is a clear advantage which addresses the energy density issue typically associated with battery packs with LFP chemistry. You might also like: How Inductive / Wireless Charging Can Transform The Future Of EVs? How Safe Is This Battery? At the moment, the Blade Battery by BYD is considered the safest, as per the standard tests. Similarly, this battery from Zeekr has undergone nail penetration test, submersion in saline water at 10% concentration for 48 hours test, 1000° C fire for an hour test, -45° temperature for 8 hours test, 3 km dragging in mud water and debris, getting run over by a 22-ton road roller and a free fall from a height of 10 m. After all this rigorous abuse, the battery was still working. This is a video showcasing these tests without any fire or smoke. Zeekr is owned by Geely. This means that the other car companies under Geely will also benefit from this battery. This includes the likes of Polestar, Lotus, Volvo and Smart. However, the first EV to get this battery will be the Zeekr 007 premium electric sedan. In fact, we might see it next month in some markets. You might also like: Mercedes, BMW Exceed EPA Range in Real-World Test, Tesla Falls Short Learn Electric Cars Says While this is yet another innovative technology, we know that there is no wide-scale infrastructure available which is needed to support such ultra-fast charging speeds. There are only a few charging stations across the world at the moment which can support 500 kW charging capabilities. Most of these are in China and the plans to increase such charging stations are already in place. Going forward, Ionity plans to install 7,000 350 kW chargers in Europe by 2025 and Electrify America will install 10,000 chargers (1,800 charging stations) by 2026 including many 350 kW chargers. Even with 350 kW DC fast chargers, the speeds would be around 15 minutes for 10-80%. As a result, the waiting times will come down drastically. Still, we understand that there is a long time to go before all this becomes the standard. Nevertheless, the signs are all positive.

Edmunds Tests The Fastest Charging EV In Real-World Conditions

28 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

In oder to standardize a method to test the charging speeds of popular electric cars, Edmunds conducted an independent real-world test. In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles, the need for speed isn’t just about the thrill of acceleration on the road. It’s also about how quickly an EV can recharge at public fast-charging stations. The faster the charging speed, the sooner you can hit the road again. This ensures that your journey remains as seamless as possible. Edmunds is a trusted name in automotive testing and reviews. It recently conducted practical tests to identify the fastest charging EV in real-world conditions. These shed light on a crucial aspect that often determines the practicality and convenience of electric vehicles. You might also like: How Inductive / Wireless Charging Can Transform The Future Of EVs? The Confusion in Charging Rates: Why Edmunds Stepped In The Diverse Language of Automakers One of the challenges faced by potential EV buyers is the diverse language used by automakers to express charging speeds. A quick visit to different automaker websites reveals a maze of claims. While one boasts a charging time from 10% to 80% in 35 minutes, another emphasizes adding 100 miles of range in just 20 minutes. These varied metrics make it nearly impossible for consumers to compare and understand which vehicles truly offer the fastest charging EV experience. Standardizing Charging Information Recognizing the confusion in the marketplace, Edmunds devised an independent and standardized test. Edmunds created a comprehensive evaluation by collaborating with the EV-testing specialist company P3 and combining their expertise with real-world testing data. The result is an easily comparable measurement expressed as miles per charging hour. It offers clarity in an otherwise convoluted landscape. Miles Per Charging Hour: A Game-Changing Metric The innovative approach taken by Edmunds involves measuring the miles gained per charging hour. A higher figure indicates that the vehicle requires less time for charging. This ensures that consumers can spend more time on the road and less time waiting. This metric combines the efficiency of the EV in electricity consumption per mile with the actual charging time. As a result, it provides a holistic view of the vehicle’s charging capabilities. You might also like: Hyundai IONIQ 6 vs Kia EV6 – Specs, Price Comparison The Top Performer: Hyundai Ioniq 6 After meticulous testing, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 emerged as the top performer in Edmunds’ evaluation. Under ideal conditions and using an appropriately powered charging station, this model showcased a remarkable potential of gaining 868 miles per charging hour. The achievement of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 in real-world conditions demonstrates its prowess as the fastest charging EV, setting a new standard for efficiency and speed. Impressive Contenders: Tesla, Porsche, Kia, and Mercedes-Benz Notably, several other EVs demonstrated impressive charging speeds of over 500 miles per hour. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 SUV, Kia’s EV6 and EV9 SUVs, Porsche’s Taycan sport sedan, and the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y all secured their positions as leaders in the fast-charging realm. Mercedes-Benz’s EQS sedan also stood out for its exceptional charging capabilities. The Laggard: Chevrolet Bolt EUV However, not all EVs fared equally well. The Chevrolet Bolt EUV lagged behind in Edmunds’ testing, with a potential charging speed of just 172 miles per charging hour. Despite its overall efficiency, the slower charging power of the Bolt EUV places it as a less-than-ideal choice for long-distance driving enthusiasts. Model Miles Per Charging Hour (mi/hr) Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited RWD 868 Kia EV6 Wind RWD 769 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited AWD 764 Porsche Taycan 4S 690 Kia EV6 GT Line 678 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Dual-Motor 673 Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ 593 Genesis Electrified G80 588 Porsche Taycan GTS 584 Tesla Model 3 Long Range 569 Miles Per Charging Hour for Top 10 EVs You might also like: Mercedes, BMW Exceed EPA Range in Real-World Test, Tesla Falls Short Learn Electric Cars Says Edmunds’ commitment to providing consumers with reliable and standardized information about EV charging speeds is a significant step forward in enhancing transparency in the electric vehicle market. The quest for the fastest charging EV is not merely about acceleration but about empowering consumers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. As the industry continues to evolve, Edmunds’ real-world tests serve as a beacon, guiding consumers through the fast lane of electric mobility. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 and its fellow speedsters are leading the charge. This is setting the stage for a future where fast charging is not just a capability but a standard expectation. Embrace the speed, and let the journey unfold at the pace of innovation.

2035 Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate Canada

Electric Vehicles Take Charge in Canada – 2035 Zero-Emission Mandate

25 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

As per the new mandate, all vehicles sold in Canada by 2035 are required to be ZEVs (Zero Electric Vehicles). The much-talked-about 2035 Zero-Emission Vehicle Mandate for Canada has surfaced. The Canadian government has set an ambitious goal: all new cars sold in the country must be zero-emission by 2035. This bold move aims to combat climate change and improve air quality, but it also presents significant challenges for the auto industry and Canadian drivers. You might also like: Mercedes, BMW Exceed EPA Range in Real-World Test, Tesla Falls Short 2035 Zero-Emission Vehicle Mandate Canada The 2035 mandate is part of a larger strategy to reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030. Transportation is a major source of emissions, accounting for about 25% of the country’s total. By transitioning to electric vehicles, the government hopes to make significant cuts in this sector. The plan outlines a gradual phase-out of gasoline-powered vehicles. Starting in 2026, 20% of new car sales must be zero-emission, increasing to 50% by 2030. By 2035, all new cars sold will have to be EVs or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. You might also like: Porsche Macan EV Specs and Interior Revealed – Gets AR HUD Challenges While the 2035 mandate is a positive step towards a cleaner future, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. One major concern is the affordability of EVs. Currently, EVs are typically more expensive than gasoline-powered cars. The government is offering incentives to make EVs more affordable, but more needs to be done to bridge the price gap. Another challenge is the lack of charging infrastructure. Canada has a long way to go before it has a nationwide network of charging stations that can support widespread EV adoption. The government is investing in charging infrastructure, but it will take time and significant resources to build out a sufficient network. The auto industry is also concerned about the transition to EVs. Many traditional carmakers are not as prepared for the shift as Tesla and other EV startups. This could lead to job losses in the auto sector as gasoline-powered car production declines. You might also like: How Inductive/Wireless Charging Can Transform The Future Of EVs? Learn Electric Cars Says Despite the challenges, the 2035 mandate is a necessary step to address climate change. EVs offer a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to gasoline-powered cars, and transitioning to them is essential for meeting Canada’s emissions targets. The government, the auto industry, and Canadian drivers all have a role to play in making the 2035 mandate a success. The government needs to continue investing in incentives and charging infrastructure. The auto industry needs to adapt and invest in EV production. And Canadian drivers need to consider making the switch to EVs, even if it means paying a bit more upfront. The road to a zero-emission future is not without its bumps, but the potential rewards are significant. By working together, we can make Canada a leader in the EV revolution and create a cleaner and healthier future for all.

How Inductive Charging Can Transform The Future Of EVs?

25 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

The future of EVs encompasses the integration of numerous innovative technologies within the swiftly advancing charging infrastructure. Inductive charging, or wireless charging, is a pivotal element in this evolution. With the rapidly expanding growth in the sales of EVs, charging stations have become ubiquitous. Now, imagine your electric car silently replenishing its battery as you seamlessly glide down the highway, or even topping up while parked at a red light. This futuristic scenario isn’t science fiction; it’s the promise of inductive charging, a technology poised to revolutionize the way we power our EVs. At the heart of inductive charging lies a scientific principle called electromagnetic induction. Picture a playground seesaw: push down on one side, and the other end rises. Similarly, when an alternating current is passed through a coil in the ground (known as the transmitter), it generates a magnetic field. This invisible force, in turn, induces a current in another coil (the receiver) mounted on the underside of the EV. This induced current then flows back to the battery, charging it wirelessly. You might also like: Fiat 500e To Be First Stellantis EV To Get Battery-Swapping Technology Types of Inductive Charging in EVs You might also like: Induction vs Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor – Pros & Cons Advantages of Inductive Charging in EVs Challenges of Inductive Charging in EVs You might also like: Toyota to Launch Solid-State Battery by 2027 – Here’s The Problem Learn Electric Cars Says Despite these challenges, the potential of inductive charging is undeniable. With continued research and development, advancements in materials, infrastructure, and standardization can pave the way for a future where EVs seamlessly integrate into our transportation landscape, powered by the invisible flow of energy under our feet. Imagine a world where electric vehicles glide silently across charged highways, a testament to human ingenuity and a step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future The race is on to unlock the full potential of inductive charging, and the benefits it promises are worth the pursuit. This transformative technology is not just about convenience; it’s about reimagining the way we power our vehicles, our cities, and ultimately, our future. So, let’s plug into the possibilities of inductive charging and accelerate towards a brighter, electrified tomorrow.

Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 4MATIC EPA Range Test

Mercedes, BMW Exceed EPA Range in Real-World Test, Tesla Falls Short

32 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

The real-world EPA range test by Consumer Reports of 22 EVs reveals surprising observations. As per the latest survey by Consumer Reports, Mercedes and BMW were able to surpass their EPA estimated range numbers. However, Tesla, Ford and Lucid underperformed severely. It goes without saying that the manufacturer-suggested range stats can only serve as guidelines and indicators. Depending on countless factors, including driving mannerisms, temperature, HVAC, terrain, etc., these figures could fluctuate quite a bit. Interestingly, however, the potential EV buyers would be glad to know that at times, the real-world range could even be higher than the advertised EPA range. That is exactly what transpired in this survey. On the other hand, as expected, almost half of the 22 EVs fell short of their indicated range. You might also like: Porsche Macan EV Specs and Interior Revealed – Gets AR HUD Real-World EPA Range Test – Criteria While comparing the real-world performances of 22 prominent EV models, it was necessary to set some basic framework to have sensible competition. Therefore, all cars were set to Eco mode (if available), the climate control was set to 72° F (22° C), cruise control was deployed, EVs had standard tires from the factory, regenerative braking was set to lowest, the odometers read between 2,000 (3,219 km) and 15,000 miles (24,140 km), EVs were fully charged and driven at a constant 70 mph (112 km/h). You might also like: Everything To Know About Toyota bZ5x Three-Row Electric SUV Results First, let’s talk about the performances of EVs which surpassed their range promises. Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 4MATIC was able to offer 332 miles (534 km) versus the EPA-claimed 260 miles (418 km). That is a massive difference of 72 miles (116 km). The Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC was able to 40 miles (64 km) more than what the carmaker promised. This means 380 miles (612 km) instead of 340 miles (547 km). Similarly, the BMW i4 M50 and BMW iX xDrive50 were able to demonstrate 47 miles (76 km) and 46 miles (74 km) more than their suggested 271 miles (435 km) and 324 miles (521 km), respectively. EV Model EPA Range Real-World Range Difference Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 4MATIC 260 mi 332 mi +72 mi Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC 340 mi 380 mi +40 mi BMW i4 M50 271 mi 318 mi +47 mi BMW iX xDrive50 324 mi 370 mi +46 mi Ford Mustang Mache-E Premium AWD Extended Range 270 mi 299 mi +29 mi Real-World Range Test Results On the other end of the spectrum, some big names failed to impress. This includes the likes of Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat Extended Range, Lucid Air Touring and Tesla Model S Long Range which gave 50 miles (80 km), 40 miles (64 km) and 39 miles (62 km) less than their indicated 320 miles (515 km), 384 miles (618 km) and 405 miles (652 km), respectively. All other electric cars from Rivian, VW, Subaru, Nissan, Lexus, Kia, Hyundai, Genesis and Audi were within 20 miles (32 km) of their EPA-estimated range numbers. EV Model EPA Range Real-World Range Difference Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat Extended Range 320 mi 270 mi -50 mi Lucid Air Touring 384 mi 344 mi -40 mi Tesla Model S Long Range 405 mi 366 mi -39 mi Lexus RZ 450e Premium 220 mi 202 mi -18 mi Kia Niro EV Wind 253 mi 239 mi -14 mi Real-World Range Test Results You might also like: $25,000 Tesla Model 2 Imminent with Expansion of Giga Shanghai Learn Electric Cars Says The EPA range takes into account a combined simulated city and highway driving and denotes a single range figure. This is unlike ICE cars which have separate city and highway stats. Now, it is understandable that no car will ever give the exact same number as promised by the carmaker due to so many variables involved. Still, this report presents a rather encouraging scenario where EVs could even give more than their advertised range numbers if driven in a certain way and the conditions are conducive. Those extra miles on a highway could be the difference between electric car owners getting home safely and being stranded on the highway. Nevertheless, we would always advise to never test the complete range of your EV and plan the trip in advance. Otherwise, you will need to bring your EV on the back of the flatbed, like on this test. Yes, each EV was driven until it stopped.

Problems with Tesla EV Charging Stations

Tesla Recalls 2 Million Cars After Autopilot Failure Investigation

31 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Elon Musk has been a huge proponent of the Autopilot autonomous driving technology in Tesla EVs for a while now. In shocking news, Tesla recalls 2 million cars following an investigation by NHTSA regarding Autopilot failure. Autopilot remains one of the top talking points with regard to the future of EVs, especially at Tesla. Elon Musk is a tech aficionado and his vision for fully self-driving cars is unequivocal. The American EV giant is constantly working toward achieving this ambitious target. But since the technology is prone to misuse, abuse and failures, there have been thousands of accidents involving Tesla Autopilot. You might also like: $25,000 Tesla Model 2 Imminent with Expansion of Giga Shanghai Tesla Recalls 2 Million Cars Over Autopilot Failure The U.S. safety regulator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), investigated around 1,000 crashes involving the Tesla Autopilot function. It believes that the system offers a false sense of security and can lead to misuse and abuse by drivers. This is especially true when the EV’s electronics struggle to navigate certain road conditions. In response, Tesla intends to roll out a software update over the air. The purpose of this update is to offer clearer warnings to drivers when the Autosteer function is active, encouraging them to stay focused on the road. In fact, in the letter to Tesla, NHTSA said, “In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature’s controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse [of the feature.]” It said that when drivers are not fully engaged and ready to take control of the car “there may be an increased risk of a crash.” You might also like: Toyota to Launch Solid-State Battery by 2027 – Here’s The Problem Process After Recall Following the recall, Teslas equipped with Autosteer will now conduct more frequent checks on the driver’s attention level. Should the software detect signs of inattention, proximity to traffic controls, or attempts to navigate off the highway beyond Autosteer’s capabilities, it may disengage the feature. This proactive measure is designed to ensure that drivers remain alert and prepared to resume control promptly. The NHTSA has been actively investigating accidents involving both Autopilot and Autosteer for a period exceeding two years. The recall announcement comes in the wake of an exhaustive investigation by The Washington Post, revealing serious accidents—some resulting in fatalities—where the Autopilot feature was improperly utilized. While Tesla’s manuals stress the use of Autosteer on highways with a fully attentive driver, real-world incidents cast doubt on the efficacy of both Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) features. Tesla has previously faced interventions from the NHTSA, including a February recall involving 363,000 U.S. vehicles due to traffic law violations related to FSD. You might also like: Porsche Macan EV Specs and Interior Revealed – Gets AR HUD Learn Electric Cars Says Now, we know that autonomous driving technology has been so much talked about in recent times. But we still are a fairly long time away from it becoming a reality. Companies like Tesla are working arduously toward achieving it. In the meantime, there is the reality of crashes which transpire due to technological failure, or perhaps, simply due to the drivers misusing it. While designing self-driving capabilities, the companies will need to keep in mind such scenarios as well and devise measures to overcome them. Therefore, it would be interesting to witness how carmakers, car owners and the government deal with it. We must not forget that appropriate policies will also need to be in place to create a framework around the application of this technology.

Stellantis Ample Battery Swapping Technology for Fiat 500e

Fiat 500e To Be First Stellantis EV To Get Battery-Swapping Technology

34 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

In the context of the automotive industry’s endeavours to address challenges associated with widespread electric vehicle adoption, battery swapping may present itself as a viable solution. In the latest press release by Stellantis, the Fiat 500e will be the first EV from the conglomerate to get the battery-swapping technology. The Fiat 500e is the highest-selling electric vehicle within Stellantis. The conglomerate announced its partnership with Ample to leverage the latter’s modular battery-swapping technology. The program is slated to commence in Europe in 2024 with Free2move’s car-sharing fleet. You might also like: Potential and Challenges of Electric Vehicle Battery Swapping Fiat 500e To Be First Stellantis EV With Battery-Swapping Tech As per this binding agreement, this technology will ensure a fully charged electric car battery in less than 5 minutes. This technological advancement possesses the capability to mitigate customer infrastructure challenges. These include issues related to charging time, range anxiety, and battery wear. The program will commence in Madrid, Spain in 2024 in a fleet of 100 Fiat 500e EVs. These EVs will be part of the Free2move car-sharing service. On this occasion, Ricardo Stamatti, Stellantis Senior Vice President, Charging & Energy Business Unit, said, “The partnership with Ample is another example of how Stellantis is exploring all avenues that enable freedom of mobility for our electric vehicle customers. In addition to other projects we are focused on, Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping solution has the opportunity to offer our customers greater energy efficiency, outstanding performance and lower range anxiety. We are looking forward to executing the initial program with our stellar Fiat 500e.” Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping solution aims for swift and cost-efficient operation, reducing downtime and associated financial repercussions for electric vehicles. By offering Ample’s battery technology through a subscription service, customers not only lower the initial vehicle cost but also enjoy continuous access to the latest battery advancements, enhancing the electric vehicle’s range and lifespan. You might also like: $25,000 Tesla Model 2 Imminent with Expansion of Giga Shanghai Carbon Net Zeo Plans of Stellantis As outlined in the Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, Stellantis has declared its intent to achieve a 100% sales mix of passenger car battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in Europe and a 50% mix of BEVs for passenger cars and light-duty trucks in the United States by 2030. In pursuit of these sales objectives, the company is actively securing around 400 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery capacity. Stellantis is progressing towards attaining carbon neutrality across all scopes by 2038. The remaining emissions will be offset by single-digit percentage compensation measures. You might also like: Porsche Macan EV Specs and Interior Revealed – Gets AR HUD Learn Electric Cars Says Despite the hurdles, certain regions and businesses are proactively exploring and investing in battery-swapping solutions as part of a comprehensive strategy to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles and tackle limitations in charging infrastructure. Successfully addressing these challenges necessitates collaborative efforts among automakers, infrastructure providers, and policymakers to establish standardized and efficient systems.

Porsche Macan EV Specs and Interior Revealed – Gets AR HUD

27 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Porsche has partially taken the wraps off its premium mid-size performance electric SUV. The specs and interior layout of the upcoming Porsche Macan EV are finally revealed. The spy shots of the heavily camouflaged Macan EV have been floating around online for a while now. But the German performance-car marque has finally showcased the electric SUV to a select few prominent media houses from across the globe. You might also like: Everything To Know About Toyota bZ5x Three-Row Electric SUV Porsche Macan EV Specs The biggest pull for the potential buyers is the sheer performance kit on offer. This ranges from mechanical and electronic equipment on offer. To start things off, the Macan EV will boast a colossal 100 kWh battery pack with 12 modules with prismatic cells. It will be underpinned by Porsche and Audi’s PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture which supports 800 V charging capabilities. It will enable the EV to be charged at 270 kW which translates to around 22 mins to juice up the battery from 10% to 80%. The premium mid-size electric SUV will sport 2 electric motors for an all-wheel-drive system in its most aggressive settings. In fact, the total output stands at an impressive 612 hp and 1,000 Nm of peak power and torque. What’s new over the Taycan is the PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) with a larger capacity water-cooling jacket. This ensures that the motors remain stable to deliver maximum power for long durations. To ensure access to wider customers, there will also be a rear-wheel-drive version. Furthermore, the Macan EV will even get rear-axle steering, a first for the SUV. In fact, at the front, the suspension duties will be carried on by a double wishbone setup, while at the rear, it has a multi-link configuration. The buyers will get the option to choose between air springs and steel springs. Moreover, the top trim will also get the Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus and an electronically controlled differential lock on the rear axle. This will enable a 48:52 weight distribution (rear-biased). Specs Porsche Macan EV Battery 100 kWh Electric Motors 1 & 2 (RWD & AWD) Power 612 hp Torque 1,000 Nm Architecture PPE 270 kW DC Fast Charging 22 mins (10-80%) Specs You might also like: $25,000 Tesla Model 2 Imminent with Expansion of Giga Shanghai Interior and Tech Features The biggest talking point inside the cabin of the Macan EV will be the digital estate on offer. The tech-savvy owners would relish the availability of a 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster, a high-resolution 10.9-inch infotainment display and an optional 10.9-inch display for the passenger. Not only that, the driver can also utilize the colossal HUD (Heads-up Display) which will have graphics using Augmented Reality. These visuals will be colourful and the projection will be displayed on the windscreen with an overlay over the real-world scenes. To put things in perspective, this system will essentially translate into a display corresponding to an 87-inch display with the image appearing to be at a distance of 10 m. This will be possible by incorporating real-world data from the surrounding environment and meshing it with the AR. In addition, the electric SUV comes with 56-LED ambient lighting which changes colour around the driver’s instrument panel to warn about open doors or when charging is taking place. You might also like: Next-Gen Chevrolet Bolt To Be EUV Only – Will Get Ultium Tech Learn Electric Cars Says The mid-size electric SUV from Porsche definitely promises a lot. In fact, with the success of the Taycan, potential customers are opening up to the idea of EVs even in the performance category. In all fairness, it makes more sense to electrify vehicles in this segment. One gets the inherent advantage of instant torque with electric powertrains. The heavy battery lying closer to the ground ensures a low centre of gravity. This results in great handling and stability even at high speeds. Finally, people don’t always take such performance cars on long runs with family. Hence, the range is not that big an issue either. We shall see how customers react to the Porsche Macan EV. The launch is expected within a couple of months.

Toyota bZ5x Three-Row Electric SUV Rendering

Everything To Know About Toyota bZ5x Three-Row Electric SUV

26 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Toyota is definitely late to the electric party but it has announced some ambitious plans of launching 30 new EV models by 2030. Among the 30 EVs by 2030, Toyota bZ5x will be a three-row electric SUV. Interestingly, it will be the first Toyota EV to be manufactured in the USA at its Kentucky plant. As per various reports online, the production will commence in 2025. Toyota’s Kentucky production facility currently makes Camry and RAV4 hybrid SUV. To utilize the entire ecosystem, the batteries will be produced at Toyota’s new factory in North Carolina. Recently, this factory received an $8 Billion investment with the target of quadrupling its capacity. This investment will allow 10 battery lines to be operational. Hence, the foundation is strong. You might also like: $25,000 Tesla Model 2 Imminent with Expansion of Giga Shanghai Toyota bZ5x Three-Row Electric SUV The ‘bZ’ represents Toyota’s nomenclature to signify ‘Beyond Zero’. This incorporates electrification plans. The bZ5x will be the larger sibling of the popular bZ4x. The latter has been selling in decent numbers. Hence, the bZ5x will only try to expand on the practicality front to cater to a wider audience who wish to travel with their family members or large luggage. Specs While there are not too many details from Toyota about the three-row EV just yet, we expect it to come in an all-wheel-drive configuration as standard. This would stem from a dual-motor setup. It will be underpinned by the e-TNGA platform. Apart from that, the large electric SUV could measure around 197 inches (approximately 5,000 mm). That is in line with the Toyota Highlander and would rival Kia EV9. Design As far as the exterior styling goes, the bZ5x will draw inspiration from the bZ Large SUV concept which was previewed back in December 2021. Based on that, a digital rendition has emerged. This includes a sturdy stance with a sloping bonnet, sleek LED light bar running the width of the front fascia, slim LED headlamps, a massive sealed-off grille section, active air intakes on the extreme edges of the bumper for better aerodynamics and tire cooling, and a sturdy skid plate area to accentuate its SUV traits. Moving down the sides reveals a modern touch with rugged body claddings on door panels, a characteristic shoulder line, prominent wheel arches filled with elegant alloy wheels, a sloping roofline, black side pillars, flush-fitting door handles, and more. The rear profile could feature wraparound LED taillamps and a sporty tail section. All in all, the Toyota bZ5x will carry a modern and striking appeal. You might also like: Next-Gen Chevrolet Bolt To Be EUV Only – Will Get Ultium Tech Learn Electric Cars Says Toyota has been all over the place with its approach towards eco-friendly mobility. For the longest time, it has been experimenting with hydrogen cars, albeit with limited success. It was among the first mass-market hybrid carmakers in the world over 2 decades ago. However, it had been reluctant to go all-electric and embrace BEVs. Finally, it has been speeding up the process with huge investments in manufacturing EVs, as well as developing battery technology. It recently partnered with Idemitsu to develop its in-house solid-state battery. However, it will equip its electric cars with that battery by 2027. That is a long time in the future. Until then, let us keep an eye out for the latest development in Toyota’s transition toward EVs.

LEC Team

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