Category: EV vehicles

  • Tesla Model S Excels in Range Test, Model 3 Falls Short

    Tesla Model S Excels in Range Test, Model 3 Falls Short

    Despite the advancements in Electric Vehicles (EVs), range anxiety continues to be a significant concern for many potential buyers. This fear often leads to hesitation, even when most modern EVs offer impressive range capabilities.

    The Range Test

    The automotive YouTube channel What Car recently tested 12 of the leading EVs from well-known manufacturers to see how far they could go before needing a charge. They compared these results to the official WLTP figures provided by the car makers.

    The EVs included in this range test were the Tesla Model 3 RWD, Polestar 2, Renault Scenic, Kia EV9, Audi Q6 e-tron, BMW i5, Cupra Born, Volvo EX30, Hyundai Kona, Peugeot e-308 SW, Mini Cooper, and an older Tesla Model S from 2015 that has driven over 250,000 miles.

    Testing Conditions

    The testing was designed to reflect real driving conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic, highway driving, and some high-speed maneuvers. Unlike a previous test conducted in winter, this one took place in summer, taking advantage of favorable weather and temperature to maximize the electric range.

    Surprising Results

    The results were intriguing, with some unexpected outcomes based on the performance of the different EVs. Despite having the largest battery at 99.8 kWh, the Kia EV9 secured only third place by traveling 314 miles before running out of charge. The Renault Scenic followed closely behind in second place, reaching 322 miles with an efficiency of 3.7 miles/kWh.

    The Polestar 2 emerged as the leader of the range test, achieving an impressive 333 miles thanks to its efficiency of 4.2 miles/kWh. However, it was not the most efficient vehicle in the test; that title went to the Model 3, which managed only 255 miles—about 19.7% lower than its WLTP estimate—yet boasted a commendable efficiency of 4.4 miles/kWh.

    Notably, the nearly decade-old Model S 90D, which has over 260,000 miles on the odometer, still managed a respectable range of 213 miles despite its age and battery wear. This aligns with previous findings indicating that even after extensive use, EVs remain practical for daily driving with adequate range.

    What Car? via YouTube

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  • Sony PlayStation EV Afeela to Feature Tesla NACS Charging Port

    Sony PlayStation EV Afeela to Feature Tesla NACS Charging Port

    Sony has teamed up with Honda to introduce its first electric vehicle (EV), the Afeela sedan, which is set to hit the market in the US and other areas by 2025.

    Partnership Details

    The Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) collaboration has revealed that the Afeela brand’s inaugural EV will come equipped with Tesla’s NACS connector straight from the factory. This feature will allow the vehicle to utilize Supercharger networks available in the US and Japan, which are the initial markets for the car.

    Max de Zegher, Tesla’s Director of Charging, expressed his enthusiasm for this development, noting that in Japan, 90% of chargers with 150 kW capacity and above are Superchargers. Therefore, it makes sense for SHM to be the first car manufacturer to adopt NACS ports in the country.

    Market Transition

    In the US, several Japanese automakers have also announced plans to transition to NACS, with the latest being Honda as it embarks on its journey as an independent EV manufacturer. Other brands making the switch include Toyota, Nissan, and Lexus.

    Preorders for the Afeela sedan are expected to begin in the first half of the year, with sales launching later in 2025. Initial deliveries in the US are projected to occur in early 2026.

    Unique Features

    During the CES 2024 expo in January, SHM’s COO showcased the vehicle using a PS5 DualSense controller, hinting at an extensive integration with the PlayStation 5 ecosystem for buyers of this performance-oriented electric sedan.

    Izumi Kawanishi from Sony stated, “Sony has content, services, and entertainment technologies that move people. We are adapting these assets to mobility, and this is our strength against Tesla since Tesla is not providing any content services.”

    In addition to its PlayStation integration, Sony has partnered with Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, to utilize Unreal Engine for mixed-reality rendering while the vehicle is in AI-assisted autonomous driving mode. The Afeela EV will feature an impressive array of 45 cameras and sensors, including interior sensors, Time-of-Flight (ToF) depth sensing units, and a LiDAR system.

    Innovative Communication

    Alongside its entertainment features, Sony’s vehicle will include a Media Bar located at the edge of the hood, which will allow the car to communicate with people nearby through light, enhancing interactive communication between the vehicle and its surroundings.

    Final specifications and pricing for the Afeela sedan, developed in collaboration with Honda, have yet to be disclosed by Sony.

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  • 6 MW Fast EV Charger for Diesel Mining Truck Battery Upgrades

    6 MW Fast EV Charger for Diesel Mining Truck Battery Upgrades

    The fastest electric vehicle charger in the world has been revealed, capable of charging an enormous 1.9 MWh battery found in electrified mining trucks in just 30 minutes.

    Charger Specifications

    This charger produces an impressive 6 megawatts (MW) of power and has been created by Fortescue, a major player in the mining sector, as part of its Real Zero Climate Transition Plan. Fortescue has allocated $2.8 billion to transition its dozers, excavators, and large haul trucks from diesel fuel to electric power.

    Fortescue is converting its fleet of 240-ton Liebherr T 264 haul trucks to autonomous battery-electric versions by replacing their Cummins QSK 60 engines with massive 1.9 MWh battery packs. According to Andrew Forrest, the Executive Chairman of Fortescue, "Fortescue Zero developed this battery technology and jointly developed the Automated Haulage Solution, leading the way to provide green innovative solutions to eliminate emissions from heavy industry."

    Environmental Impact

    Currently, diesel-powered mining trucks produce around 192 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. The mining industry is a key target for electrification to achieve climate targets and meet regulatory standards. So far, the most powerful commercial EV chargers have reached a maximum output of 3.75 MW, in line with the newly introduced Megawatt Charging System (MCS) standard for commercial vehicles.

    Fortescue’s 6 MW solution is essential for the autonomous electric T 264 haul trucks, which weigh 240 tons and use 1.9 MWh batteries, as conventional chargers would not suffice. The new charging technology is expected to be operational by 2026.

    Comparison with Other Chargers

    In comparison, the Tesla Semi Megachargers deployed by Pepsi provide 750 kW of power, while Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) supports up to 1 MW. For passenger electric vehicles, the fastest announced charger to date is XPeng’s 800 kW S5 piles, which can deliver 187 miles of range in just 5 minutes. It remains uncertain how Fortescue’s 6 MW chargers will be designed and how they will manage cooling to achieve this unprecedented output.

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  • Tesla Robotaxi Reveal Set for October 10, Invitations Sent to Shareholders

    Tesla Robotaxi Reveal Set for October 10, Invitations Sent to Shareholders

    It was originally anticipated that Tesla would reveal its previously leaked Robotaxi in August of this year. However, CEO Elon Musk decided to delay the event, mentioning changes to the vehicle’s front design and the need for extra time for final feature enhancements. Although Tesla had confirmed the Robotaxi event for October 10, expected to take place at the Warner Bros. studio in Los Angeles, CA, invitations had not yet been sent to shareholders, leaving room for further delays.

    Invitations and Expectations

    Today, several Tesla shareholders shared their invitations to the "We, Robot" event on the social media platform X. The anticipation is that Tesla will utilize the Warner Bros. film set for the Robotaxi unveiling. This choice would allow them to provide demo rides to attendees without facing legal issues related to public road testing. There is also speculation that FSD 13 might be announced and launched during this event. This new version is expected to bring features like automated reverse parking and significantly cut down the number of interventions needed for every mile driven on FSD.

    Future of FSD

    It’s important to note that FSD 13 is still anticipated to be a supervised version of Tesla’s automated driving system. This raises questions about how the company plans to achieve full autonomy with the Robotaxi. Earlier this month, the Robotaxi was spotted on the Warner Bros. lot, showcasing a new front bumper design and an unusual appearance that could either be a disguise or a cover for advanced self-driving technology and sensors. The location of this sighting further indicates that the vehicle will be showcased on the film set instead of on public streets.

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  • Huawei’s Juniper to Compete with Tesla Model Y at a Loss

    Huawei’s Juniper to Compete with Tesla Model Y at a Loss

    As the release of the Model Y Juniper refresh approaches, various electric vehicle manufacturers are rushing to introduce their own competitors to Tesla’s most popular model.

    Rising Electric SUVs

    Recently, several electric SUVs in the Model Y category have been announced, including the impressive Onvo L60, which boasts better specifications than Tesla’s offering at a significantly lower price. Onvo is a new midrange brand from the well-known EV producer NIO, recognized for its top-quality electric vehicles. However, other brands with less experience in manufacturing are struggling to keep up with Tesla’s updates.

    Huawei’s New Entry

    One such brand is Huawei, a major player in telecommunications and consumer electronics, but still relatively new to the electric vehicle sector. Its sub-brand, Luxeed, which is developed in collaboration with Chery—one of China’s largest automakers—has just unveiled its own competitor to the Model Y Juniper called the R7. This stylish SUV has some advantages over the aging Model Y, including an 800V powertrain. However, the upcoming Juniper facelift will also feature an 800V architecture, along with numerous enhancements in both performance and design.

    Specifications and Pricing

    The Luxeed R7’s specifications, however, are not particularly impressive; it offers either an 82 kWh or a 100 kWh long-range battery, with only the top variant equipped with a dual-motor setup for all-wheel drive. Acceleration figures are comparable to Tesla’s or even slower. While the larger batteries provide a slightly longer range than the current Model Y, this edge might be diminished by the time the Juniper is launched in Q1. The R7 includes appealing features like a mini fridge in the center console and heated, ventilated massage seats, but similar offerings are available in NIO’s Onvo L60.

    Huawei is also relying on its software expertise to ensure a seamless self-driving experience, equipping the Luxeed R7 with its Qiankun ADS 3.0 driver-assist system, which includes LiDAR and is AI-driven like Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system, approved for both highway and city use.

    Market Challenges

    Despite these features, Huawei has struggled to price the Luxeed R7 lower than the Model Y. It starts at approximately $36,940, which is slightly more expensive than Tesla’s base model. Huawei’s CEO, Richard Yu, acknowledged that the company would still incur losses of around 30,000 RMB (about $4,267) on each R7 sold. He remains optimistic that increased production could lead to profitability.

    This situation is common for many new entrants in the industry, except for Xiaomi, which has leveraged its experience in consumer electronics manufacturing to quickly ramp up production of its first SU7 electric vehicle. Xiaomi’s EV business is now profitable, even with a competitive package in terms of specifications. The company is also developing its own direct competitor to the Model Y Juniper, which is expected to launch next year, coinciding with Tesla’s facelift.

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  • High-Mileage Model Y Battery Degradation Shows Tesla Longevity

    High-Mileage Model Y Battery Degradation Shows Tesla Longevity

    According to Tesla, its electric vehicle batteries typically lose about 12%-15% of their original capacity by the time they reach 200,000 miles, varying by model. The Model Y, Tesla’s most popular vehicle, was introduced in 2020, and there are now examples that have surpassed the 200,000-mile mark.

    High Mileage Model Ys

    Some Model Ys have exceeded 210,000 miles, while others are approaching the 200,000-mile threshold with the average battery degradation Tesla mentions. Interestingly, some owners report extensive usage and rely solely on Superchargers for charging. One owner with a 180,000-mile Model Y has experienced only 12% battery degradation and charges the vehicle rapidly two times a day without a noticeable increase in battery capacity loss.

    Charging Habits and Battery Degradation

    A recent study has shown that the battery capacity loss from frequent Supercharger use versus slow charging from home wall chargers is statistically negligible. Research from Recurrent indicates that Tesla owners who frequently use Superchargers—around 90% of the time—show similar battery degradation rates as those who use them less often. The high-mileage examples of Model Ys support these findings.

    Historical Context of Battery Performance

    It’s worth noting that Tesla’s official statistics on battery degradation likely do not include early Model S vehicles produced until fall 2015. These older models had a fuse door at the top of the battery pack that could allow moisture to damage them prematurely. While these vehicles contribute to the average EV battery failure rate, they do not affect the average degradation figures because they often did not reach 200,000 miles before the battery was replaced, typically under warranty.

    Nonetheless, some Model S units have been recorded with up to 430,000 miles on their original battery, showing a 28% degradation after eight years. This aligns closely with the capacity loss that Tesla predicts for every 200,000 miles of usage.

    Future Battery Performance

    As the Model 3 and Model Y utilize newer battery technology, the average capacity degradation for Tesla vehicles may improve over time. More Model Y units are expected to surpass the 200,000-mile mark, potentially leading to better overall battery performance statistics.

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  • New Iron-Based Cathode Could Cut EV Battery Costs by 40% in 5 Years

    New Iron-Based Cathode Could Cut EV Battery Costs by 40% in 5 Years

    The electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing significant growth, but a key challenge remains—cost. A significant portion of the expense arises from the batteries used in EVs, particularly lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), which account for about 50% of the overall vehicle price. These batteries are efficient and dependable, yet they are made from costly metals such as cobalt and nickel. Fortunately, a group of researchers led by Hailong Chen from Georgia Tech may have discovered a way to significantly reduce EV prices and lessen the environmental impact of battery manufacturing.

    New Cathode Material

    The team’s innovation focuses on a novel cathode material created from iron chloride (FeCl3), which is a far more affordable and sustainable option compared to conventional cathode materials. While traditional cathodes are expensive and depend on scarce resources, the researchers assert that FeCl3 costs only 1-2% of the price of these materials, all while providing comparable energy storage performance. Chen believes this advancement could drastically change both the EV market and large-scale energy storage solutions, significantly lowering costs.

    Impact on EV Pricing

    Utilizing FeCl3 could lead to a 30-40% reduction in the total cost of lithium-ion batteries. This reduction could help bridge the price gap between electric vehicles and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, addressing one of the primary reasons consumers hesitate to switch to electric powertrains.

    Georgia Tech via ScienceDaily

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  • Tesla Cybertruck Window Breaks After 12 Blows in Firefighter Test

    Tesla Cybertruck Window Breaks After 12 Blows in Firefighter Test

    The Tesla Cybertruck captured attention when it debuted at a Los Angeles event in 2019. Its unique, angular design was striking, but the real buzz came after a demonstration where the truck’s "armored glass" shattered unexpectedly when Elon Musk threw a steel ball at it. This moment quickly went viral, eclipsing other features of the truck. Nonetheless, pre-orders skyrocketed, and now, nearly five years later, another demonstration has showcased the strength of the Cybertruck’s windows.

    Firefighters Put the Glass to the Test

    In a recent training exercise, firefighters attempted to break the Cybertruck’s glass to assess its durability. The test revealed that it took three strikes for the first crack to appear and almost twelve strikes to completely shatter the window. This exercise highlighted the robustness of the Cybertruck’s reinforced glass—a significant aspect that Tesla emphasizes. For first responders, knowing how resilient these windows are is crucial, especially when they need to breach a vehicle’s glass in emergencies, like during accidents or rescue missions.

    Safety Considerations in Emergency Situations

    During the glass-breaking test, the firefighters did not use their full strength while striking the Cybertruck’s windows. Their main concern in real-life scenarios is ensuring the safety of anyone trapped inside the vehicle. When breaking glass in emergencies, responders must be cautious to prevent shards from flying inward, which could injure the occupants.

    Concerns About Escape in Emergencies

    However, the impressive durability of the Cybertruck’s windows does raise some questions. If the glass is excessively strong, it may hinder individuals inside from escaping during a critical situation, such as after an accident. While the security features are beneficial, there is a risk that the windows’ strength could delay rescue efforts or make it difficult for occupants to exit quickly. Future real-world tests may provide further insights into these concerns.

    Owen Sparks (@OwenSparks_ on X/Twitter)

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  • Model Y Fails Road Test: Examiners Consider Banning Teslas

    Model Y Fails Road Test: Examiners Consider Banning Teslas

    The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has highlighted key features of the Model Y, such as one-pedal driving and driver-assist capabilities, as the basis for failing a road test and denying a driving license.

    Road Test Issues

    A candidate, after completing a driving test in her parents’ Model Y, was set to take her driving license test the following day. She was informed that she failed due to excessive active driver-assist features in the vehicle. The examiners noted that she "didn’t touch the brake pedal enough," leading them to assume that the car was in Full Self-Driving (Supervised) mode.

    Despite clarifying that this specific Model Y did not have the Full Self-Driving option purchased, the examiners maintained that the brake pedal was not used in the manner they expected. Even after discussing how regenerative braking and one-pedal driving function in the Model Y, ADOT still argued that the rules do not apply to other vehicles, making the test invalid.

    Comparison to Other Vehicles

    One parent pointed out that driving tests conducted in automatic vehicles are still accepted for those driving manual transmissions. They argued that the absence of one-pedal driving in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles should not disqualify the test. In response, state officials indicated they are considering a ban on Teslas for driving license road tests altogether.

    In the end, ADOT opted to address the situation, issued the driving license, and stated they would explore how to integrate electric vehicles with one-pedal driving and driver-assist features into their testing procedures.

    Testing Practices in Different Regions

    In regions like Europe and Australia, a driving test in an automatic vehicle does not qualify one to operate a manual vehicle, necessitating the use of exam center cars for the test. Conversely, in the United States, road tests tend to be less stringent, as most DMV test centers permit candidates to take the exam in their own vehicles, which they will likely continue to drive afterward.

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  • Affordable Model Y Puddle Lights with High-Def Tesla Logo

    Affordable Model Y Puddle Lights with High-Def Tesla Logo

    After a successful introduction in China, Tesla has now brought an affordable and eye-catching accessory to the US: car door puddle lights.

    Affordable Pricing and Easy Installation

    These new Model 3 and Model Y Projection Lights are available for only $65, making them a competitive option compared to other Tesla accessories. Installing them is straightforward; just remove the current driver and passenger door lights and replace them with the new $65 lights.

    Although a 4-pack of similar Model Y projection lights is available for half the price on Amazon, they are not official Tesla products. The official puddle lights from Tesla project a high-definition logo onto the ground whenever the doors are opened.

    Unique Features of Tesla’s Puddle Lights

    According to Tesla, "Model Y Projection Lights project a high-definition Tesla wordmark onto the ground every time you open the door of your Model Y." This set includes two projection lights designed to replace the standard door lights of both the Model 3 and Model Y. The old lights can be easily removed with a flathead screwdriver, and the new puddle lights can be installed by connecting the existing cable.

    Tesla has also introduced an ambient light retrofit for the Model Y in China, which pairs well with the new Projection Lights accessory. This RGB retrofit, featuring 256 colors, costs $180 in China. However, it requires modifications to the textile dashboard of the updated 2023 Model Y, meaning the wood grain dashboard must be swapped out.

    Simple Replacement Process

    Fortunately, no such modifications are needed for the new official Model Y Projection Lights, as they simply replace the existing lights at the bottom of the driver and passenger doors.

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