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Tesla Recalls 2 Million Cars After Autopilot Failure Investigation

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

28 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

25 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.

$25,000 Tesla Model 2 Imminent with Expansion of Giga Shanghai

32 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Currently, Tesla makes Model 3 and Model Y at the Giga Shanghai in China. The much anticipated $25,000 Tesla Model 2 will roll out from the Giga Shanghai, China. In fact, Tesla has already been in the process of expanding its Giga factory in China since 2021. It was called Phase 3. However, the work was suspended in 2022. In fact, it commenced work on a new energy storage facility in Shanghai with an annual output of 40 GWh. Finally, the Giga factory expansion process has been resumed. You might also like: Next-Gen Chevrolet Bolt To Be EUV Only – Will Get Ultium Tech Tesla Model 2 At Giga Shanghai As per the latest report from Carscoops, the work on Phase 3 at the Giga factory in Shanghai is finally underway. Interestingly, it currently has a capacity of producing 1.1 million vehicles in a year. From January to November this year (2023), 853,603 Tesla EVs have rolled out of this plant. This amounts to a commendable 1 car every 37 seconds. In comparison, Tesla’s Texas Giga factory manufactures 1 EV per 76 seconds. That is a testament to the efficiency of the Chinese plant. But with this expansion project complete, the Giga Shanghai will be able to make 2 million EVs annually. Tesla Model 2 The prime attraction of the Model 2 will be its price tag. As EVs become more mainstream in many parts of the world, price plays a crucial role, in addition to the charging infrastructure. Tesla is currently in the process of global expansion. This is particularly true for many emerging markets. In fact, it is actively in talks with the Indian Government to establish its next giga factory in India. New manufacturing facilities and low-budget EVs point toward a single target – propel mass adoption. You might also like: Toyota to Launch Solid-State Battery by 2027 – Here’s The Problem This report also mentions that the American EV giant will use CATL batteries initially in the Model 2. After some time, it will shift to its own cells which it will develop at its new plant. It also suggests that the Model 2 will draw inspiration from Cybertruck, which was recently launched. Furthermore, there will be a private customer-focused avatar, as well as a robotaxi version based on the Model 2. Let us keep an eye out for further developments in this regard. Image Source

Next-Gen Chevrolet Bolt To Be EUV Only – Will Get Ultium Tech

26 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The highest-selling electric Bolt twins from Chevrolet will finally part as only the EUV guise will make it when the EV gets updated next. As per a report by Insideevs, the next-gen Chevrolet Bolt will come solely in the EUV version. Currently, there are two models on sale – Bolt and Bolt EUV. As the name indicates, the latter is a crossover version of the former. Since the trend and popularity of crossovers and SUVs are at an all-time high all across the globe, it will take the legacy of the highest-selling EV from Chevy forward. Note that the Bolt EUV won’t just be an aesthetic update but a rather comprehensive one. You might also like: Toyota to Launch Solid-State Battery by 2027 – Here’s The Problem You might also like: Lotus Launches EV Charging Solutions, Can Charge 4 EVs Together Next-Gen Chevrolet Bolt EUV In an interview with Insideevs, GM officials confirmed that the next-generation Bolt will be EUV-only, citing the overwhelming popularity of the crossover model over the smaller Bolt EV. This year from January to September, the American auto giant sold 49,494 units of the Bolt twins combined. The breakdown between the two is not available. Nonetheless, this marks a significant 125% rise in comparison to the same timeframe in 2022. That is a testament to the demand for the EV pair. Part of the reason for this massive boom was the further reduction in the price tag owing to the electric tax benefits as per the new Inflation Reduction Act. As a result, customers were able to get the EVs in the vicinity of an enticing $20,000. This is mighty attractive, especially for an EV which delivers a range of around 259 miles EPA on a single charge. You might also like: How EVs Perform 360-Degree Turns On The Spot? New Technology Note that the original Chevrolet Bolt EV was launched way back in 2016. There is a huge advancement in technology, battery management and competition since then. That is the reason why Chevrolet will also thoroughly update the next-gen Bolt EUV. This will include a brand-new Ultium battery. This battery will use low-cost LFP chemistry. That will ensure that the most attractive aspect of Bolt EVs’ success, cost, remains intact. This will also provide faster charging rates (the current model offers just 55 kW DC fast charging capabilities), more advanced active safety features, and much more. Obviously, the aesthetics and creature comfort features will surely get a boost. The launch is slated for 2025. We shall keep an eye out for more revelations in this regard.

Could Dongfeng M-Hero 917 Be Perfect Rival to Hummer EV?

30 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Chinese EV markers are coming up with exciting models in the electric realm and the Dongfeng M-Hero 917 could be the one to watch out for. China’s automotive landscape has witnessed the grand arrival of the Dongfeng M-Hero 917. It is a formidable off-road vehicle with an electric heart. This high-end SUV offers both Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) powertrain options. The EV offers staggering peak power of 1,088 hp and a range that goes up to 1,032 km (CLTC). In this blog, we’ll delve deeper into its design features, specifications, and what makes it stand out. You might also like: How to Prevent Effects of Extreme Hot & Cold Weather on EV Batteries? Dongfeng M-Hero 917 Design Exterior The M-Hero 917’s exterior design exudes ruggedness and power. It boasts massive bumpers, substantial ground clearance, short overhangs, a high bonnet line, and sharp LED lights. Measuring 4,987 / 2,080 / 1,935 mm (LxWxH) with a wheelbase of 2,950 mm, the 917 is larger than life. It iss 70 mm longer, 149 mm wider, and 34 mm lower than the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Despite its mammoth size, the M-Hero 917 accommodates just five seats, emphasizing its focus on performance and adventure. Tech-Savvy Interior Inside, the M-Hero 917 surprises with its technological prowess. It boasts three screens: an LCD instrument panel, a driver’s touchscreen, and one for the front passenger. The centre console features a prominent gear shifter and a wireless phone charging pad. While this SUV is designed for off-roading, it also offers optional Alcantara-wrapped seats, a decision that might raise eyebrows among purists. You might also like: Ownership Experience of EVs More Tricky Than ICE Cars – Study Dongfeng M-Hero 917 Specs The M-Hero 917 rests on Dongfeng’s new MORA platform and offers two distinct powertrain options. The BEV variant boasts four electric motors generating a mind-boggling 800 kW (1,088 hp). This enables a lightning-quick zero-to-hundred acceleration in just 4.2 seconds. These electric motors are powered by a colossal 140-kWh ternary (NMC) battery from CATL. However, due to the vehicle’s substantial curb weight (3,293 kg) and high power output, its maximum range on a single battery charge stands at 505 km (CLTC). This may be considered relatively low in today’s EV landscape. The EREV version of the M-Hero 917 comes with three electric motors delivering 600 kW (816 hp) and a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 197 hp. Interestingly, the internal combustion engine in the EREV acts as a generator. It charges the battery and provides power directly to the electric motor. This setup pairs with a 66 kWh ternary battery from CATL, results in an impressive mixed range of 1,032 km (CLTC). You might also like: How Are EREVs Different From BEVs, PHEVs or HEVs? Learn Electric Cars Says The M-Hero 917 is a standout addition to the off-road vehicle market in China. While its price tag of 637,700 Yuan (approximately 87,500 USD) for the EREV version and 697,700 Yuan (approximately 95,730 USD) for the BEV version places it firmly in the premium category, it offers exceptional performance and a unique blend of technology and capability. It’s worth noting that the M-Hero 917 and the BYD YangWang U8, although both high-performance SUVs, cater to different niches in the market, with the YangWang U8 being larger and accommodating a third row of seats. Dongfeng has ambitious plans for the M-Hero 917, aiming to sell 1,500 units in the coming year, with annual sales projections reaching 4,000 units. As electric and extended-range electric vehicles gain popularity worldwide, the M-Hero 917 is poised to capture the imaginations of adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts alike.

Munro MK_1 is an Electric SUV with Traces of Land Rover Defender

28 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The electric era of rugged off-roading SUVs has commenced as we are getting new-age capable EVs. The Munro MK_1 is an electric SUV that would instantly remind you of the original Land Rover Defender. The latter is one of the most iconic SUVs ever built. Munro is a Scottish carmaker. The MK_1 has been designed, engineered and built in Scotland. It is a sturdy EV that focuses purely on hardcore off-roading abilities. In addition, its silhouette resembles the OG Defender from back in the day. You might also like: Volvo EX30 SUV Revealed As One of The Most Powerful Volvos Ever You might also like: Avatr 11 Electric Crossover SUV Can Do 100 km/h in Under 4 secs Munro MK_1 Electric SUV – Specs It is offered in three trims – Utility, Range and Performance. All these have a dual-motor 4×4 setup as standard. The Utility has a 56.3 kWh (usable) battery and 204 km (127 mi) range, while the Range and Performance have a 75.8 kWh (usable) battery and 275 km (171 mi) range. These batteries have Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide cell chemistry and locking front and rear differentials. The max power and torque figures range from 295 hp – 375 hp and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) – 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) respectively. The acceleration from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) takes 4.9 secs in the top variant. The maximum payload is 1,000 kg for all trims and the maximum towing capacity is 2,500 kg (Utility) and 3,500 kg (Range and Performance). Its bigger battery takes 36 mins to charge from 15-80% via 100 kW DC charger. The approach, ramp and departure angles are 84°, 148° and 51° respectively and the ground clearance is a colossal 480 mm (18.9 in). It has steel wheels with standard all-terrain tyres and a water-wading capacity of 800 mm. Munro MK_1 Electric SUV Specs Battery (usable) 56.3 & 75.8 kWh Drivetrain 4×4 Range 127 mi – 171 mi Range 204 km – 275 km Power 295 hp – 375 hp Torque 600 Nm – 700 Nm DC Rapid Charging 36 mins (15-80%) Acceleration (0-96 km/h) 4.9 secs – 7.6 secs Specs You might also like: How Larger Tires Affect EV Range and Performance Off-Roading and Storage The Munro MK_1 has a cavernous 1,600 litres (56.5 cu ft) loading compartment which can essentially carry just about everything you would need on long off-roading excursions. Parameters Dimensions Approach Angle 84° Ramp (Break-over) Angle 148° Departure Angle 51° Ground Clearance 480 mm (18.9 in) Water Wading 800 mm Boot Volume 1,600 litres (56.5 cu ft) Off-Roading and Storage You might also like: Are Repair Costs of Electric Cars Lower Than Petrol & Diesel Cars? Munro MK_1 Electric SUV – Features and Price Since the sole focus of the Munro MK_1 is utility, there are absolutely basic features including heated seats, heated windscreen, climate control with heat pump, LED cabin lights, household power outlets, USB-C ports, dust and waterproof switchgear, aluminium plates for the dashboard and parts of doors which are durable and easy to replace. You might also like: Top 5 Tips To Save / Earn Money From EV Charging The deliveries will commence next year (2024) and the prices for the three variants are £59,994, £71,994 and £83,994 respectively. That prices are inclusive of VAT and the bookings can be made for a £1,000 token amount.

Ford GM Rivian To Use Tesla Supercharger Network

After Ford & GM, Rivian Agrees to Use Tesla’s Supercharger Network

23 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Tesla is building a coalition that is joined by Ford, GM and now, Rivian, to make NACS (North American Charging Standard) the norm. The Rivian EV owners will now be able to use Tesla Supercharger in addition to Ford and GM EV owners. A coalition is being formed to make NACS the norm across North America. This seemingly innocuous cooperation might have far-fledged consequences as CCS-type charging is being pushed by the government. But top players like Tesla, Ford, GM and Rivian will start allowing their EV owners to use the former’s Supercharging network, leaving the CCS charging useless. You might also like: How to Maximize EV Driving Range – Tips & Strategies Rivian, Ford, GM to Use Tesla Supercharger Rivian, the American EV adventure vehicle startup, has announced that starting in 2024, owners of R1T and R1S vehicles will be able to use Tesla’s Supercharger network of DC fast chargers in the United States and Canada, with the help of an adaptor. By 2025, both the R1T pickup and R1S SUV will come factory-equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector, eliminating the need for an adaptor. Going forward, the future EVs from Rivian based on the R2 platform will also have this connector from the factory. Ford and GM have earlier jumped on this NACS bandwagon making this coalition incredibly strong. Tesla has agreed to lend 12,000+ Superchargers to these carmakers. Note that it operates even more Superchargers but it will keep them exclusively for the Tesla EV owners. This will aid the overall EV infrastructure as more EV owners will have access to a fast-charging network. This would invariably lead to reduced range anxiety and increased peace of mind. You might also like: Top 5 Tips To Save / Earn Money From EV Charging Will Hyundai Also Join? Hyundai Motor Company hosted its 2023 CEO Investor Day in Seoul, South Korea on June 20, 2023. Hyundai already offers its EVs with high charging voltage capacity (400 V- 800 V). However, Tesla currently supports only up to 400 V. But we know that Tesla will increase this going forward and its own EVs will also be able to support higher voltage. On Investor Day, Hyundai’s CEO and President Jaehoon Chang said, “the company would consider joining the alliance of automakers shifting to Tesla’s standard, but that it would have to determine that was in the interest of its customers.” According to Reuters, “Chang said Hyundai would consult with Tesla to see whether it could make adjustments to its charging system for Hyundai customers so they could charge faster.” You might also like: 5 New EV Battery Technologies – Aluminium-ion to Niobium Learn Electric Cars Says While we understand that there is an entire political side to this saga where a huge tussle is going on between the government and carmakers, we shall discuss the impact this is likely to have on the customers. The lack of charging infrastructure continues to be one of the biggest issues preventing the mass adoption of EVs. With a coalition like this, things will only get better for the EV owners. Hence, we would appreciate this step as more electric car buyers will have access to a wider charging network, ultimately leading to the reduced range anxiety.

NIO Offers $4,200 Discount on EVs to Boost Sales

34 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The premium Chinese electric car marque is hoping to fend off competition in the domestic market by offering attractive price-cuts. Chinese premium EV giant NIO offers discount of upto 30,000 Yuan ($4,200) to boost the sales of its EVs. It manufactures high-end electric cars to rival the products from prominent legacy luxury carmakers. However, it offers a lot more for the same price than these established names in the global automotive world. This formula has worked well for NIO for a long time. But the months of April and May were not great in terms of sales, forcing the EV giant to take appropriate measures to generate demand. You might also like: Nio EC7 Has a CLTC Range of 920 km – Specs & More NIO Offers Discount on EVs The Chinese market is the most competitive and fast-expanding automobile market in the world with respect to electric vehicles. New players are emerging left and right with massive support from the government in the form of subsidies. That is how NIO came into existence in 2014. Within just 8 years, it has become an eminent player in China and is already serving some key European markets. You might also like: Nio ET7 is the Premium Sedan of the Luxury Electric Car Segment For the month of May, it recorded a drop of 8% in monthly sales. Moreover, the profit margins have gone down to 5.1% in Q1 2023 (down from 18.1% in Q1 2022). This is particularly alarming because the overall market has been quite positive and most other carmakers have posted healthy results. To address this, CEO William Li said that these price-cuts have been discussed internally for quite a while after taking advice and suggestion from users. You might also like: Zeekr X Arriving in Europe Later This Year – Details NIO Stops Free Battery Swapping Service In a desperate bid to increase the depleting profit margins, the free battery swapping service of NIO will no longer be available with immediate effect. Instead, the EV owners will have to buy it separately for a one-time fee. Customers buying a NIO EV before July 31, 2023, can pay an additional 30,000 Yuan ($4,200) to get: You might also like: 5 Upcoming VW Electric Cars to Debut in 2023 – From New ID.3 to ID.7 Learn Electric Cars Says The EV market is growing at an exponential pace and the Chinese market is at the heart of it. The environment to support EV start-ups is conducive resulting in a stark rise in competition. We see the top players struggling to post consistent sales. As a result, many of them are going down the tried and tested route of offering discounts to boost sales. We will have to wait and see how long this formula will work. Also, NIO is pinning a lot of hopes on its second-gen ES6 that was launched last month. One thing is for sure, the customers stand to benefit from these price wars.

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