Category: EV vehicles

  • Recycling Tesla Car Batteries for Autonomous Transport Robots

    Recycling Tesla Car Batteries for Autonomous Transport Robots

    Key Takeaways

    1. Daedong Robotics has launched the RT100, an agricultural robot powered by repurposed Tesla vehicle batteries, highlighting innovative recycling practices.
    2. Poen specializes in upcycling EV batteries by testing and remanufacturing decommissioned Tesla battery cells into new packs for the RT100.
    3. The RT100 can follow farmers, assist in harvesting, and navigate uneven terrain with a load capacity of 300 kg and a speed of 5 mph.
    4. AI functionality allows the RT100 to respond to voice commands through the Daedong app, enhancing its usability in agricultural tasks.
    5. Companies like Redwood Materials demonstrate that over 95% of valuable materials from EV batteries can be recycled, promoting sustainability in energy solutions.


    Decommissioned batteries from older Tesla vehicles are now being repurposed to power autonomous transport robots used in agriculture.

    Innovations in Agricultural Robotics

    Daedong Robotics, known for its automated lawnmowers akin to the well-known Segway Navimow in the United States, has launched the RT100. This compact robot is designed for agricultural tasks and is powered by used battery cells sourced from Tesla cars. This initiative not only showcases recycling practices but also highlights the potential for reusing electric vehicle batteries.

    Collaboration for Sustainable Energy

    The RT100 features replaceable battery modules supplied by Poen, a company specializing in upcycling EV batteries. Poen tests individual cylindrical LG cells from decommissioned Tesla packs and disassembles those that still have enough capacity. They repair and remanufacture these cells into new battery packs, providing an economical power source for Daedong’s agricultural robots.

    Smart Functionality in the Field

    The RT100 follows farmers around, adjusting its loading bed to assist in collecting harvested fruit, then transports the produce to unload before heading back. With a 4×4 drivetrain, it is capable of navigating uneven ground and can easily maneuver in tight orchard spaces.

    The RT100 has a maximum load capacity of approximately 300 kg, or 662 pounds, and can reach speeds of five miles per hour. Additionally, it features AI functionality that allows it to respond to voice commands from its operator through the dedicated Daedong app.

    Recycling for a Greener Future

    According to Redwood Materials, a leading force in battery recycling and led by Tesla co-founder JB Straubel, more than 95% of valuable materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt can be recovered after an electric vehicle battery pack’s life has ended.

    Like the collaborative efforts of Daedong and Poen, Redwood is also involved in EV battery upcycling initiatives. They are working on projects such as creating an energy storage system for local grids using old EV battery cells, demonstrating the practicality of these recycling efforts.

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  • Tesla Launches in New Country to Boost Sales Amid Challenges

    Tesla Launches in New Country to Boost Sales Amid Challenges

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is planning to open its first showroom in Mumbai, with potential deliveries starting in August.
    2. The company faces significant challenges due to high import taxes (70%) on cars manufactured abroad, which could raise prices for Indian consumers.
    3. Previous discussions about building a local factory in India did not progress, increasing reliance on exports.
    4. Tesla is exploring the Indian market without full commitment, assessing potential demand before long-term investment.
    5. India’s growing awareness of environmental issues and advancements in electric vehicle technology could influence Tesla’s success in the market.


    For a number of months, Tesla has been seeing a steady drop in sales, and the company led by Elon Musk is on the lookout for new markets globally. India, home to more than one billion people, is a promising market, if the people there show interest in Tesla’s vehicles.

    Tesla’s Plans for India

    Bloomberg News has reported that the electric and self-driving car maker is planning to open its first showroom in Mumbai, with deliveries potentially starting as soon as August. Additionally, Tesla announced this initiative on social media, particularly on X, where they created an Indian account and shared a photo of the Mumbai skyline with the text: “Coming soon.”

    Challenges Ahead

    However, entering this market poses significant challenges for the American firm. It’s important to note that the pricing dynamics are quite different, influenced by lower wages and wealth levels in India compared to the US. To complicate matters, Tesla will need to export cars that are already manufactured, facing a hefty 70% import tax, as reported by Reuters. This could lead to Tesla’s prices soaring, making them less accessible for many Indians.

    Future Considerations

    Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that Tesla had previously initiated talks with Indian officials about constructing a factory locally. Unfortunately, those discussions did not progress. Establishing a factory in India would have helped mitigate several challenges, like the import taxes that will now apply.

    Consequently, many uncertainties linger regarding this situation. It’s plausible that Tesla intends to explore the Indian market before committing to a long-term operation. Additionally, India is currently witnessing rapid advancements in this sector along with an increasing awareness of environmental concerns. Therefore, it will be essential to keep a close eye on the outcomes of this venture to determine if it succeeds, helping the company to flourish, or if it ends up being another setback that could jeopardize its future.

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  • Xiaomi Reaches 300,000 Cars in Just 15 Months of Production

    Xiaomi Reaches 300,000 Cars in Just 15 Months of Production

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has delivered over 300,000 cars in about 15 months since launching the SU7.
    2. The shipping time for the last 200,000 vehicles (232 days) was similar to the first 100,000 (230 days).
    3. Xiaomi currently offers two models: the SU7 sedan and the YU7 SUV, with significant pre-orders for the YU7.
    4. Plans to expand into Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) are in the works.
    5. Xiaomi aims to enter the European market, having achieved all automotive success in China so far.


    Xiaomi has been active in the Automotive Division since April 2024, and they are now stating that they have delivered over 300,000 cars in the approximately 15 months since the SU7 was introduced.

    Shipping Timeline

    Interestingly, the time it took to ship the last roughly 200,000 vehicles is about the same as the time it took to reach the first 100,000. It took 232 days for the former, while the latter was achieved in 230 days.

    Xiaomi credits this rapid growth to the improvement of its car business infrastructure, which has apparently “exploded” to meet the high demand for its vehicles.

    Current Models

    At this moment, Xiaomi offers only two models: the SU7 sedan and the YU7 SUV.

    Both of these vehicles come in various versions, with the SU7 Ultra being the most well-known. This performance model is so popular that it can now be selected in Gran Turismo 7.

    In addition, Xiaomi claims to have received at least 240,000 pre-orders for the YU7.

    There are also reports of an Ultra version of the YU7, as well as a new, larger SUV model.

    Future Plans

    So far, all of Xiaomi’s cars have been electric vehicles (EVs), but they supposedly have plans to expand into Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) soon.

    Lastly, all of Xiaomi’s automotive achievements have taken place in China, but it looks like they are aiming to enter the European market in the near future.

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  • PM2.5 Pollution from EV Charging May Raise Lung and Heart Risks

    PM2.5 Pollution from EV Charging May Raise Lung and Heart Risks

    Key Takeaways

    1. PM2.5 particles are smaller than 2.5 micrometers and can penetrate deeper into the body, making them more harmful than PM10 particles.
    2. Children living in high PM2.5 areas experience slower lung development, leading to smaller lungs by age 18.
    3. PM2.5 is linked to approximately 2,800 hospital admissions for heart and lung diseases and about 6,700 emergency visits for asthma each year in California.
    4. Research from UCLA found that PM2.5 levels at fast-charging EV stations were significantly higher than in urban areas without these stations.
    5. Power cabinets at level 3 EV chargers are a major source of PM2.5 emissions, with levels exceeding 300 micrograms per cubic meter, unlike level 1 and level 2 chargers that produce lower emissions.


    PM2.5 is a term that describes tiny particles that are 2.5 micrometers or smaller in size. While both PM2.5 and PM10 can harm health, PM2.5 is considered more dangerous because it can go deeper into the body.

    Impact on Children’s Health

    A study from the California Air Resources Board showed that kids who live in high PM2.5 areas have slower lung development. By the time they reach 18, their lungs are smaller than those of kids from areas with lower PM2.5 levels. Furthermore, PM2.5 is linked to around 2,800 hospital admissions for heart and lung diseases and approximately 6,700 emergency visits for asthma annually in California. There are also other health issues connected to PM2.5.

    Findings from UCLA Researchers

    A recent investigation by researchers at UCLA analyzed daily PM2.5 levels at fast-charging EV stations, finding concentrations between 7.2 and 39 micrograms per cubic meter. These figures are considerably higher than those recorded in urban areas without these charging stations, which were between 3.6 and 12.4 micrograms per cubic meter.

    To make their study reliable, the researchers checked air quality at urban locations like gas stations, not only in residential neighborhoods. They evaluated air quality at 50 EV charging stations across 47 cities in Los Angeles County.

    Source of Emissions

    The researchers discovered that PM2.5 levels near power cabinets reached over 300 micrograms per cubic meter at times. This indicates that power cabinets, which convert alternating current to direct current in level 3 chargers, are a main source of emissions. In contrast, level 1 and level 2 EV chargers use AC power and do not require power cabinets, resulting in lower PM2.5 emissions.

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  • Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in Canada by CA$20,000, reducing it from CA$84,990 to CA$64,990.
    2. Delivery times for the Model Y have increased, with customers facing waits from a few weeks to September-October.
    3. The price drop and delivery delays may be influenced by a 25% tariff imposed on US goods by Canada.
    4. Tesla plans to import Model Y units from its Berlin Gigafactory to avoid high import tariffs and regain market share.
    5. European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, while vehicles from Tesla’s Giga Shanghai factory incur a 100% tariff.


    Tesla has made a significant change to the price of the Model Y in Canada, slashing it by a remarkable CA$20,000. This reduction brings the price down from CA$84,990 (which is about 62,025 US dollars) to CA$64,990. In the US, the same Model Y Long Range RWD model has a starting price of $48,990, which is more than 20% lower than the Canadian price.

    Delivery Delays

    Alongside this major price cut, there’s been a noticeable increase in delivery times. Customers now face a wait that stretches from a few weeks to the September-October timeframe. To help ease the waiting period, Tesla has also introduced a new color option for the Model Y called Diamond Black, which was previously only available in the US.

    Tariffs Impacting Prices

    The significant price drop and the extended delivery time suggest that tariffs might be influencing these changes. Canada imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on US goods following similar actions taken by the Trump administration. This tariff had previously caused Tesla to raise its prices in Canada back in May.

    Since then, Tesla has been managing to sell vehicles at prices prior to the tariffs, but that advantage is fading fast. The combination of a steep 25% price hike due to tariffs and Elon Musk’s controversial political stance in Canada has led to a sharp decline in sales in the region.

    Importing from Europe

    To regain some market share, Tesla is expected to start importing Model Y units from a factory that will only incur transportation fees, avoiding high import tariffs. The Berlin Gigafactory, which produces only Model Ys, appears to be the best option to navigate around the tariff issues in Canada.

    Interestingly, European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, thanks to the CETA trade agreement signed between Canada and the EU. In contrast, vehicles imported from the Giga Shanghai factory now face a 100% tariff, while those from Giga Texas or Fremont have a 25% tariff due to reciprocal trade measures.

    The Trump administration has announced plans to escalate tariffs to 35%, with an additional 35% if Canada retaliates, which would make importing from the US even more impractical.

    This situation explains Tesla’s strategy to shift imports from Europe to bypass the newly established tariff barriers, resulting in longer wait times for Canadian customers awaiting their new Model Y as the company works to stabilize inventory levels and reduce delivery delays.

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  • Hyundai Ioniq 6 N vs Model 3 Performance: V8 Sounds, Slower Speed

    Hyundai Ioniq 6 N vs Model 3 Performance: V8 Sounds, Slower Speed

    Key Takeaways

    Performance Comparison: The Ioniq 6 N has 650 HP but is slower (0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds) and likely has a shorter range than Tesla’s Model 3 Performance (501 HP, 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds).

    Charging Speed and Size: The Ioniq 6 N offers faster charging (10% to 80% in 18 minutes with 350+ kW charger) despite being larger and heavier than the Model 3 Performance.

    Unique Features: The Ioniq 6 N includes Active Sound and e-Shift technologies, allowing drivers to choose engine sounds and has improved handling with new stroke sensing dampers.

    Pricing Information: The US price is not yet announced, but the Ioniq 6 N is expected to cost around £65,000 in the UK with a launch anticipated in early 2026.

    Estimated Range: The Ioniq 6 N is expected to have an estimated range of about 291 miles based on local standards.


    After the previous model won EV of the year in 2024, Hyundai has unveiled the impressive Ioniq 6 N sports sedan, ready to compete against the Tesla Model 3 Performance.

    Performance Comparison

    The Ioniq 6 N boasts 650 HP, but it is slower and likely has a shorter range on a single charge, along with a higher cost compared to Tesla’s 501 HP Performance sedan. The new dual-motor Ioniq 6 N can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, which is a tad slower than the Model 3 Performance’s 2.9 seconds, even with its more powerful engine and the larger 84 kWh battery.

    Charging Speed and Size

    Despite being larger and heavier than the Model 3 Performance, the sporty Hyundai Ioniq 6 N offers much quicker charging capabilities. With an appropriate 350+ kW charger, like Tesla’s V4 Superchargers, it can charge from 10% to 80% in merely 18 minutes. Hyundai’s EVs have shown to have a better charging curve when compared to Tesla’s vehicles, even those built on an 800V architecture, like the Cybertruck.

    Unique Features

    One of the most exciting aspects of the Ioniq 6 N is its blend of Active Sound and e-Shift technologies, designed to mimic the experience of driving a real internal combustion engine racer. Drivers can pick from various sounds, including a traditional V8 rumble with the Ignition option, Evolution’s EV heritage tones, or the futuristic sounds of the Lightspeed selection.

    Hyundai claims they have revamped the chassis and suspension to improve handling, introducing new stroke sensing dampers that work well for both easy commutes and thrilling racetrack adventures.

    Pricing Information

    While the price of the Ioniq 6 N in the US is still under wraps, it is anticipated to cost around £65,000 in the UK upon its launch, expected in early 2026, with an estimated range of about 291 miles on local standards.

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  • Xiaomi YU7 Ultra with Camo Wrap and Performance Build Revealed

    Xiaomi YU7 Ultra with Camo Wrap and Performance Build Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is set to launch the YU7 Ultra, a new version of its electric SUV, following the success of the SU7 Ultra supercar.
    2. The YU7 Ultra has been spotted with design features similar to the first YU7, including larger air intakes and flared wheel arches.
    3. The YU7 Ultra may produce up to 1,548 horsepower and 1,770 Nm of torque, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.5 seconds.
    4. The vehicle is expected to use the same platform as the SU7 Ultra, potentially featuring a 93.7 kWh battery.
    5. Xiaomi is currently facing production challenges with the standard YU7 and is rumored to be developing a larger model, the YU9, to expand its SUV lineup.


    Xiaomi has made waves in the supercar world with the Ultra edition of its SU7, and now, it seems like the company is set to shake things up in the SUV segment too, with a new version of the YU7 on the horizon.

    Sightings of the YU7 Ultra

    According to ChinaEVHome, the upcoming model has been spotted in the wild, although it was obscured by anti-leak camouflage during the sighting. Despite this, it is still clear that the vehicle shares similarities with Xiaomi’s first electric SUV, but with some noticeable differences, including larger air intakes and possibly the same flared wheel arches seen in the SU7 Ultra, as noted by ChinaEVHome.

    Power and Performance

    The “YU7 Ultra” is expected to utilize the same platform as its counterpart in the SU7 series, which could enable it to produce an impressive output of up to 1,548 horsepower (hp) and torque reaching 1,770 newton-meters (Nm). The vehicle’s acceleration is projected to be astonishing, with a 0-100 kilometers per hour (km/h) time of just 2.5 seconds, particularly if it features the same 93.7 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery as the SU7 Ultra.

    Production Challenges

    In the meantime, Xiaomi appears to be struggling to keep up with orders for the standard version of the YU7. There are also rumors about a larger model, dubbed the “YU9,” which is expected to launch in the near future. This suggests that Xiaomi is looking to expand its offerings in the SUV market, even as it grapples with the challenges of fulfilling current demand.

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  • Tesla Semi Achieves Diesel Truck Performance at 1.55 kWh/mile

    Tesla Semi Achieves Diesel Truck Performance at 1.55 kWh/mile

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tesla Semi averaged 1.55 kWh per mile during road testing on challenging freight routes, including the steep Donner mountain pass.
    2. The Tesla Semi is reported to be three times more powerful than conventional diesel trucks, enabling it to perform well on steep inclines.
    3. Drivers expressed high satisfaction with the Tesla Semi’s cabin comfort, safety features, visibility, and ease of operation.
    4. Tesla is building over 40 charging stations along key freight routes to support the Tesla Semi’s operation.
    5. The latest V4 Superchargers can charge the Semi at speeds exceeding 1 MW, improving the fast-charging network for electric trucks.


    The Tesla Semi electric truck has been evaluated as a fleet vehicle on regular freight routes and has done exceptionally well. The transportation firm ArcBest reported that during three weeks of road testing, the Class 8 electric truck averaged an energy consumption of 1.55 kWh per mile, with routes specifically chosen to include various tough terrains.

    Performance on Challenging Routes

    Among these routes was the notorious Donner mountain pass, known for its steep incline, where the Tesla Semi matched the performance of diesel trucks. This isn’t the Tesla Semi’s first time tackling the Donner Pass; it has previously been seen overtaking diesel vehicles in that area.

    The incline in this mountain pass, which exceeds 7,000 feet in elevation, begins at a 7% grade, and diesel trucks generally struggle to ascend at speeds above 50 mph. Because of this, right-hand lanes have been created for slower trucks in the steeper sections.

    Engine Specs and Power

    Typically, a semi-truck is equipped with a 6-cylinder engine producing around 600 HP and generating 1,850 pounds of torque. In contrast, Tesla asserts that its Semi is three times more powerful than conventional diesel trucks, making it feasible to overtake other vehicles even on long, steep inclines like those found at Donner Pass.

    The freight company put Tesla’s Semi through a test over 4,494 miles, averaging 321 miles a day and using 1.55 kWh of battery per mile. However, for Tesla’s electric truck to be viable for fleet use, according to the company’s president, “it must meet or exceed the performance and total cost of ownership targets of our most efficient diesel units.”

    Driver Satisfaction and Infrastructure Concerns

    It did meet those criteria, and drivers expressed satisfaction with the comfort of the cabin, safety features, visibility, and ease of operation. The only concern that arose during the Tesla Semi trial was regarding the charging infrastructure.

    Currently, Tesla is in the process of constructing over 40 Semi charging stations along important freight routes in the United States. The introduction of its V4 Superchargers will enhance the fast-charging network. The latest generation of Tesla Superchargers is capable of charging at speeds exceeding 1 MW, which is suitable for the Semi, and its design allows for quicker adoption due to its efficient footprint.

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  • 2021 Rimac Nevera: Fastest Accelerating Car, Tesla Roadster Alert

    2021 Rimac Nevera: Fastest Accelerating Car, Tesla Roadster Alert

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Rimac Nevera R accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 1.66 seconds, making it the fastest car in the world.
    2. The Nevera R has broken 24 speed records, confirming its status as the quickest electric car and fastest accelerating car in production.
    3. It achieved a remarkable 0-249-0 mph time of 25.79 seconds, surpassing the previous record by two seconds.
    4. The car is powered by four electric motors producing a total of 2,107 horsepower, with advanced torque vectoring for optimal performance.
    5. Priced at $2.7 million, only 40 units of the Rimac Nevera R will be produced.


    The Rimac Nevera R electric machine has achieved an astonishing 0-60 mph time of just 1.66 seconds, making it the fastest car on the planet.

    While Elon Musk asserts that the Tesla Roadster 2 will reach sub-second acceleration, the CEO of Rimac remains doubtful, suggesting that such a feat might be impossible without the use of boosters.

    Record-Breaking Successor

    The new Rimac Nevera R, which takes over from the previous Nevera model known for its impressive speed records, has now set a new benchmark by breaking 24 speed records. It is now recognized as the fastest accelerating car in production and the quickest electric car in top speed.

    One of the standout achievements is the 0-249-0 MPH time of only 25.79 seconds, surpassing the former record by two seconds. This remarkable feat showcases the car’s unparalleled capabilities.

    Power and Performance

    The Rimac Nevera R is powered by four electric motors that generate a total of 2,107 horsepower. Its advanced torque vectoring system allocates power to each wheel 100 times per second, ensuring optimal traction and performance during exhilarating drives.

    Enhanced aerodynamics and a new wheel design have played a crucial role in achieving these world records, as Rimac utilized these tests to confirm the car’s performance before delivering it to customers. The Nevera R is priced at $2.7 million, with only 40 units being produced in total.

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  • Lifetime EV Emissions 4x Lower Than Diesel and Gas Cars

    Lifetime EV Emissions 4x Lower Than Diesel and Gas Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Electric cars produce 73% fewer greenhouse gases over their lifetime compared to diesel or gasoline vehicles.
    2. Emissions from electric vehicles are lower if charged using renewable energy sources.
    3. The life cycle emissions of mass electric vehicles in Europe are approximately 63 grams of CO2/km, significantly lower than gas and diesel cars at around 234-235 grams CO2/km.
    4. Electric vehicles have become greener faster than previous studies suggested, with lifetime emissions now 24% lower than four years ago.
    5. An electric vehicle must travel about 17,000 kilometers to emit less greenhouse gas than a gasoline vehicle, a threshold that has improved due to advancements in technology and energy sources.


    Electric cars are known to release 73% fewer greenhouse gases throughout their production and lifespan compared to diesel or gasoline vehicles, as per a recent study.

    Battery Production and Emissions

    This finding counters common misconceptions, as it encompasses both the manufacturing of batteries and the emissions associated with charging, taking into account the current and anticipated grid energy mix. If the charging is primarily powered by renewable sources, the emissions from electric vehicles (EVs) are even lower than those from traditional gas vehicles within the same category.

    Emissions Comparison

    The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) reports that mass electric vehicles sold this year in Europe will produce 63 grams of CO2 equivalent per kilometer over their entire life cycle, including production emissions. In contrast, both gas- and diesel-powered cars will have emissions around 234-235 grams of CO2/km.

    Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles emit 20% and 30% fewer greenhouse gases during their production and operational life, respectively, while the cars running on renewable hydrogen— a relatively rare category— have the lowest emissions. For this study, the ICCT considered the most common production and real-world usage scenarios.

    Life Cycle Emissions

    Failing to factor in anticipated changes in the electricity mix results in an overestimation of the life-cycle emissions for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and a slight increase in emissions for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Moreover, looking solely at a fraction of the average 20-year lifespan of passenger cars in the European Union leads to an overestimation of vehicle and battery production emissions allocated per vehicle kilometer for all types of powertrains, particularly affecting BEVs more than others. At the same time, not accounting for the difference between actual fuel and electricity consumption in real-world settings underestimates the usage phase, thus favoring gasoline, diesel, and natural gas internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in comparison to BEVs and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

    Surprising Findings

    One of the most surprising outcomes for the ICCT was how much greener electric vehicles have become compared to gas cars, achieving this change faster than what was indicated in the previous study, with lifetime emissions now being 24% lower compared to the analysis from four years ago.

    Electric cars do emit 40% more greenhouse gases during their manufacturing process, but the additional emissions, primarily due to battery assembly, are quickly compensated during usage.

    The Green Threshold

    Currently, an electric vehicle needs to travel 17,000 kilometers, or just over 10,500 miles, to surpass the cleanliness of a gasoline vehicle, and this difference continues to grow. Earlier studies had estimated that this green threshold was set at 5,000 miles more, but advancements in battery technology, EV manufacturing techniques, and grid energy mixes are consistently improving the situation.

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