Category: EV vehicles

January 21, 2025
Kia Delays Tesla Supercharger Access for EV6 and EV9
Kia has pushed back the availability of DC fast chargers for customers in North America. Last year, the company mentioned that owners of the EV6 and EV9 electric vehicles would soon have access to over 16,500 North American Charging Standard (NACS) DC fast chargers across the US, including Tesla’s Superchargers.
New Timeline for Charger Access
Originally, in a press release from September, Kia stated that US customers would start utilizing these chargers from January 15th. However, on January 14th, the company announced a delay without providing a reason. The updated press release now indicates that customers will gain access sometime in “the first quarter of 2025,” meaning the delay could last until as late as March 31st.
Adapters Still Pending
Additionally, some Kia owners are still waiting for their complimentary NACS adapters, which are scheduled to ship in early 2025. These adapters will be sent to any US customer who bought a 2024 Kia EV6, a 2024 Kia EV9, or a 2025 Kia EV9 from September 4th, 2024. If you purchased a Kia EV6 or EV9 before this date, you’ll have the option to buy an adapter from a Kia dealer at a later time; the specific date has not yet been revealed. The upcoming 2025 Kia EV6 and the revised version of the 2025 Kia EV9 will be equipped with a native NACS port.
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Tags: EV6, EV9, KIA
January 21, 2025
2025 Model Y Juniper May Lose Tax Credit Due to Trump Order
Speaking during his inauguration, President Trump stated his administration will end the “EV mandate,” confirming earlier speculations.
When he later signed the “Unleashing American Energy” executive order, it became evident that this could lead to an instant halt of the EV tax credit payments outlined in Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
Executive Order Details
Trump’s executive order discusses abolishing the EV mandate to create a fair competition between electric and gasoline vehicles. In Section 2 of the “Unleashing American Energy” executive order, it defines the energy policies that US government agencies must follow, including a part that addresses electric vehicles:
To abolish the “electric vehicle (EV) mandate” and enhance real consumer choice, which is vital for economic progress and innovation, by removing barriers to vehicle access; by assuring a uniform regulatory environment for vehicle choices; by ending, where suitable, state emissions waivers that restrict the sale of gasoline vehicles; and by evaluating the removal of biased subsidies and other flawed government-imposed market disruptions that favor EVs over alternative technologies, effectively forcing individuals, businesses, and government bodies to purchase them by making other vehicle types too expensive.
Implications for EV Subsidies
By merely stating that agencies should “consider” ending electric vehicle subsidies, it appears the current tax credit program might continue for now. However, in Section 7, titled “Terminating the Green New Deal,” Trump’s executive order clearly states that “all agencies shall immediately pause the disbursement of funds appropriated through the Inflation Reduction Act… including but not limited to funds for electric vehicle charging stations.”
It grants agency leaders 90 days to review the IRA program and suggest whether it aligns with the new energy policies of the Trump administration or if it should be cut. “No funds identified in this subsection shall be disbursed by a given agency until the Director of OMB and Assistant to the President for Economic Policy have determined that such disbursements are consistent with any review recommendations they have chosen to adopt,” the order emphasizes.
Future of EV Makers
Since the IRA was signed into law, it can’t be simply overturned by an executive order, meaning that any changes may still require a vote. However, the call for an immediate freeze on IRA-related payments could signal trouble for Tesla and other electric vehicle manufacturers.
For example, the 2025 Model Y orders in the US are anticipated to open this week. Even if Tesla continues to honor the tax credit rebate for early buyers of the updated model, it might lack access to the reimbursement funds, forcing it to decide if it will absorb the costs.
The 2025 Model Y Juniper is expected to be released in the US around March, similar to its launch in China and Europe. By the time potential buyers check out the reviews on the EPA range estimates after the first Juniper refresh, the tax credit might no longer be available.
Impact on Charging Infrastructure
The Trump administration is also eliminating subsidies for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, which could impede the pace of EV adoption in the US. Although the executive order reduces barriers to mining and refining materials for EV batteries domestically, Tesla may still qualify for subsidies for its lithium refinery or the 4680 battery that is likely to be used in the Model Y Juniper in the US.
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Tags: EV tax credit, Tesla Model Y, Trump Administration
January 21, 2025
“Rapid 1-Minute Charge: Durable LiS Solid-State Battery Development”
Solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries boast a significant energy density and consist of materials that are easy to find. Nevertheless, their stability over many charge cycles and the slow exchange of electrons have hindered their practical use so far.
New Electrolyte Breakthrough
Recently, a new electrolyte has been developed that speeds up the chemical reactions in these solid-state batteries, addressing their issues and offering performance that outshines existing battery technologies. This solid electrolyte is composed of boron, sulfur, lithium, phosphorus, and iodine, resembling glass. It lacks a crystalline structure, yet it maintains a solid form while exhibiting liquid-like properties.
Collaborative Research Efforts
Researchers from China and Germany, particularly from Peking University, the University of Giessen, and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, have demonstrated that this innovative battery can endure up to 25,000 charging cycles, depending on how fast it is charged. After this extensive use, the battery retains just under 80 percent of its capacity, which is quite typical.
In optimal conditions, the energy density can be nearly three times higher than that of conventional lithium-ion batteries. The study also highlights an impressive charging speed, suggesting that full charging can be achieved in less than 1 minute. More specifically, under certain conditions, a charging time of 24 seconds is feasible, while still achieving an energy density comparable to what current batteries offer.
Long-term Charge Cycles
On the flip side, to ensure the battery’s longevity, a complete charge cycle should ideally take 12 minutes. This means the solid-state battery could potentially be charged seven times a day for over a decade.
All these findings indicates that there remains a substantial amount of unexplored potential in battery research. However, it’s important to note that these results are based on lab experiments conducted on prototypes using experimental materials. It might take some time before this technology becomes available in a practical and, crucially, cost-effective manner.
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Tags: Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Peking University, Solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries
January 20, 2025
2025 Model Y Juniper US Release Date and Order Opening Soon
Tesla is reducing the prices of its Model Y vehicles in the US inventory, and this might be linked to the upcoming orders for the 2025 Juniper refresh in North America, which could start as early as this week. The launch of the Juniper in the US is expected to coincide with the launches in China and Europe, with the 2025 Model Y set to be released in March.
Upcoming Preorder Timeline
Insiders from the Austin Gigafactory, who accurately predicted the announcement week for the Model Y Juniper, have indicated that the preorder for North America will begin soon. Sources from Giga Texas, where the Model Y Juniper is set to be produced, suggest that Tesla will start taking orders “within ten days.” This points to potential release dates in the US being Friday, January 24, or Monday, January 27.
Launch Details
Instead of a formal announcement, Tesla simply made the ordering page available on its Chinese site on Friday, January 10. With the ten-day timeframe starting from January 18, US Model Y enthusiasts may see the Juniper launch by next Tuesday, with January 24 or the following Monday being likely dates for the new Model Y facelift’s debut in the US.
While this isn’t the actual release, it signifies the opening of 2025 Model Y Juniper orders on the US site, along with pricing and EPA range estimates. If US preorders start shortly after the Chinese launch, it suggests that Tesla aims for a simultaneous release across China, Europe, and the US, as rumored. The Berlin Gigafactory has already begun mass production.
No Delays Expected
This simultaneous launch indicates Tesla is not planning to delay the 2025 Model Y release in the US, unlike the Model 3 Highland launch. The Model 3 refresh was available in China by October 2023 but only arrived in the US three months later, citing a shortage of Hardware 4.0 autonomous driving kits and the need for crash tests as reasons.
Now that Tesla outfits all its new models with AI4 FSD hardware, the only possible delay for the Juniper release in the US might occur if Tesla introduces it with 4680 battery packs and cannot produce enough to meet the demand for both Cybertruck and Model Y Juniper orders.
With Tesla reducing Model Y inventory prices by up to $4,120, the company seems to be clearing out stock ahead of the Model Y Juniper release, anticipated for March, similar to China, pending regulatory approvals and EPA range testing.
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Tags: Model Y Juniper, price cut, Tesla
January 20, 2025
Canada Stops EV Incentives as Funding Runs Out
Automobile buyers and sellers in Canada are feeling the impact of the unexpected termination of the federal EV rebate program. As reported by Transport Canada, the Incentives for Zero Emissions Vehicles (iZEV) initiative is closing down because it has run out of allocated funds.
Details of the iZEV Program
The iZEV program provided EV purchasers with a $5,000 rebate when they bought or leased eligible vehicles. This program was distinct from provincial incentives and supported 546,000 vehicles throughout its duration.
Initially, Canada’s EV incentive plan was scheduled to continue until March 31, 2025. However, Transport Canada has indicated that the allocated funds were exhausted more quickly than anticipated, largely due to a rapid increase in EV adoption. As of now, there is no word on whether the program might be reinstated in the future.
Help from Automakers
In response to this surprising news, several EV manufacturers are stepping in to assist buyers. Companies like Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, and Nissan are providing a $5,000 discount, though this offer is only temporary.
Canada has set a goal that 20 percent of new passenger vehicle sales must be ZEVs by 2030, increasing to a full 100 percent by 2035. For perspective, approximately 1.86 million new cars were sold in the country in 2024.
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Tags: EV Rebate Program, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Nissan
January 19, 2025
Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices and Offers 5 Years Free Supercharging in Japan
Tesla is gearing up to launch the refreshed Model Y Juniper, not just in countries like China where it’s available for pre-order, but also worldwide.
Promotional Efforts for Model Y
The company has initiated a big promotional campaign to sell off existing Model Y stock before introducing the updated version in various locations including the US and Japan.
Price Cuts in the US
In the United States, the prices for inventory Model Y vehicles have been slashed by as much as $4,120 for the top-tier Performance model, with reductions ranging from $960 to $2,500 for other variants.
There are several Long Range Model Y AWD cars available at a discount of $2,500, bringing their price down to $47,490 before applying the $7,500 federal tax credit. This also applies to options like multi-coat paint and 20-inch Induction Wheels. To put it in perspective, this particular configuration would cost $51,990 if ordered out of inventory.
Performance Model Discounts
The Model Y Performance version, which accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, has a starting price of $53,490 with the Quicksilver paint. However, if bought from inventory, the price drops to $47,370.
Tesla has already begun selling the Juniper in China and has kicked off mass production in Europe, suggesting that an announcement regarding the 2025 Model Y pricing for the US is imminent.
With the federal tax credit factored in, the base trim of the inventory Model Y can now be snagged for as low as $37,490, making it an attractive offer even for those waiting for the Juniper update in the US.
Incentives in Japan
In Japan, Tesla has introduced another incentive to lure in Model Y customers ahead of the Juniper facelift. Buyers of inventory vehicles will receive free Supercharging for five years, with some conditions:
Customers who buy a new Model Y from stock can use Superchargers without charge for five years post-delivery. To qualify, new orders made after January 1, 2025, must be delivered by March 31, 2025. Those waiting for a vehicle ordered by December 31, 2024, won’t be eligible for this offer if they place a new order after January 1, 2025. This offer is tied to the Tesla account and isn’t transferable to other customers or vehicles. Additionally, used cars and those used for business (like taxis or delivery services) are not eligible. Idle fees incurred when a vehicle is left charging or during busy times also aren’t included in this benefit. Tesla reserves the right to modify or cancel this program at any time.
Similar Conditions for Other Models
These conditions mirror those that Tesla recently imposed on free lifetime Supercharging for orders of the Foundation Series Cybertruck or Model S in the US.
It seems Tesla is reviving the free Supercharging promotions as a tactic to boost quarterly sales figures, extending it even to the Model Y in select markets. Unfortunately, unlike past years, these free Supercharging offers are not transferable to another person or vehicle.
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Tags: Juniper refresh, Model Y, Tesla
January 18, 2025
Escalade IQ: Largest EV Battery; RAM 1500 Cancels 500-Mile Pickup
The new Escalade IQ is now available for order in the United States, claiming the title of the electric SUV with the longest range. Cadillac proudly markets this model as not just an electric vehicle (EV), but also as the one with the largest battery capacity.
Competition and Changes
Previously, the RAM 1500 REV held this title with its impressive 229 kWh battery promising a 500-mile EPA range, set for release in 2025. However, Stellantis has informed its suppliers that it will be cancelling this top-tier REV model. They are now instructed to focus on components for the 350-mile version, which will utilize a 168 kWh battery.
Shifting Landscape
This move means that the RAM 1500 REV becomes the second long-range pickup to be scrapped, following Tesla’s decision to cancel the 500-mile Cybertruck. Tesla has instead opted to offer a $16,000 range extender, planned for launch later this year, to provide those extra miles.
Cadillac’s New Offering
With the cancellation of the 500-mile RAM 1500, the recently launched Cadillac Escalade IQ now takes the crown as the electric passenger vehicle with the largest battery. This all-electric SUV boasts a massive 217 kWh battery that enables an EPA range of 460 miles, coming quite close to the sought-after 500-mile mark that neither Tesla nor Stellantis has achieved.
Starting at $130,000, the new Escalade IQ is hefty at 9,300 lbs without passengers, just under the threshold that would require a commercial driving license. This premium seven-seater from Cadillac surpasses the size of the Cybertruck and features rapid 350 kW charging, achieving 0-60 mph in just 5 seconds and generating up to 750 HP.
Luxurious Features
As expected from Cadillac, the Escalade is packed with luxurious design elements and comforts, including a 55-inch main display that spans from pillar to pillar and a 40-speaker audio system. To enhance the maneuverability of this large vehicle, Cadillac has outfitted the Escalade with rear-wheel steering, similar to what Tesla has done with the Cybertruck. The company claims that a suitable charger can add 100 miles of range in as little as 10 minutes.
While the Lucid Gravity SUV comes very close to the Escalade IQ’s range at 450 miles, it achieves this with a considerably smaller battery, comparable to the Cybertruck’s 123 kWh battery pack.
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Tags: Cybertruck, Escalade IQ, RAM 1500 REV
January 18, 2025
Canoo Bankruptcy: More EV Startups Fail in 2023
Electric vehicle startup Canoo has announced that it has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, ceasing all operations immediately. This event highlights the ongoing struggle within the EV industry, where several companies have faced similar fates. The bankruptcy filing was submitted to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court located in the District of Delaware, which means the company’s assets will now be liquidated with oversight from a court-appointed trustee.
Financial Details and Challenges
Canoo, which was founded seven years ago and created a unique modular electric van platform, revealed in its bankruptcy documents that it has assets valued at less than $50,000. In contrast, its liabilities range from $10 million to $50 million, owed to under 49 creditors. The company mentioned in a press release that it had “been in discussions with foreign sources of capital,” but these efforts were unsuccessful. Additionally, Canoo struggled to secure funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office, which has remained active during the final days of the Biden administration.
Warning Signs and Workforce Impact
Recent indicators of Canoo’s troubles included furloughs of its remaining employees and the closure of its factory in Oklahoma. By mid-November 2024, the company’s cash reserves had dropped to a mere $700,000, making it hard to sustain operations or deliver any vehicles to customers.
Canoo is now part of a growing list of failed EV startups that attempted to go public through the SPAC route. This includes other companies like Fisker, Lordstown Motors, Proterra, Lion Electric, and Arrival. Interestingly, Canoo acquired Arrival’s assets in 2024 shortly before its own downfall.
Company Background and Promises
Founded in 2017 by former leaders from the struggling EV maker Faraday Future, Canoo — originally called Evelozcity — initially showed promise with its innovative technology like a steer-by-wire system and a flexible electric vehicle platform. The company’s potential caught the attention of Apple, which was looking into investing in or purchasing Canoo to enhance its electric vehicle project.
In December 2020, Canoo went public via a merger with Hennessy Capital Acquisition Corp., raising around $600 million. However, after the merger, under the direction of Chairman and CEO Tony Aquila, the company made significant strategic changes, shifting focus from consumer sales to commercial fleets but struggled to find its footing in manufacturing.
Governance Issues and Financial Struggles
Even though Canoo secured tentative agreements with notable partners, such as a possible deal for 10,000 vehicles with Walmart and contracts with the United States Postal Service, Department of Defense, and NASA, it couldn’t produce significant vehicle numbers or generate meaningful revenue.
Concerns about the company’s governance under Aquila emerged. In 2023, regulatory filings indicated that Canoo spent twice its revenue on payments to Aquila’s firm for using corporate jets and leasing office space. Recently, Aquila’s firm provided essential loans to keep Canoo running, secured by liens on the equipment at its Oklahoma City facility.
Conclusion of Operations
The situation became dire as employees received layoff notices, consumer deposits were refunded, and even the billboard at its Justin, Texas, office was taken down. Canoo’s liquidation in Delaware Bankruptcy Court signifies the end of another chapter in the difficult journey of EV startups, emphasizing the challenges faced by newcomers in the highly competitive electric vehicle market.
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Tags: Canoo, Chapter 7 bankruptcy, electric vehicle
January 18, 2025
2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Facelift: New Police Vehicle in US
When the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper is set to hit the US market later this quarter, it will feature not only the basic RWD, AWD, and Performance models, but also a special version designed for police use.
New Patrol Car Retrofit
Unplugged Performance, known for its UP.FIT shop that transforms Teslas into fleet vehicles, has just revealed plans to offer a fully-equipped Model Y Juniper retrofit for patrol cars shortly after the refresh debuts in the US.
A week ago, Tesla made an announcement regarding the new 2025 Model Y, with a tentative release set for March. They are currently utilizing the Chinese New Year celebrations to enhance and rework the Model Y Juniper production lines at their Shanghai Gigafactory in preparation for mass production.
Production Updates
Prior to this, Tesla was churning out over 600 units of the updated design per day. Recently, there have been numerous reports of truckloads of Juniper models being shipped from Giga Shanghai, including the new Glacial Blue color option.
Alongside the US launch, Tesla is also rolling out the 2025 Model Y Juniper in Europe, having commenced mass production at Giga Berlin earlier this week. Past speculations suggested that the Model Y Juniper would be released simultaneously in China, Europe, and the US, so it’s only a matter of time before we see these updated models coming from the Gigafactories in Texas or Fremont, where the 4680 batteries for the US version of the Model Y refresh are likely being produced.
Law Enforcement Applications
Unplugged Performance boasts unmatched expertise in modifying Tesla vehicles for police use, meaning the Model Y Juniper tailored for law enforcement agencies across the United States could be available very soon after its US launch.
According to the UP.FIT shop, police departments have reported savings of around $15,000 per vehicle each year by operating their Tesla fleet instead of other options. Therefore, the Model Y Juniper might find its way into police car fleets shortly after it becomes available in the US.
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Tags: police vehicle retrofit, Tesla Model Y Juniper, Unplugged Performance
January 18, 2025
UK Police Confiscate Tesla Cybertruck Over Safety Issues
A Tesla Cybertruck has landed in the UK, but its time on the road was cut short. The vehicle was seized by UK police, who classified it as illegal and hazardous.
Driver’s Joyride Ends in Trouble
The Greater Manchester Police (GMP) shared on social media that the driver took the Cybertruck for a joyride in Whitefield. They raised alarms about the potential risks posed to other motorists and pedestrians if the Cybertruck were to get involved in an accident.
Demonstration Purposes Only
Tesla brought the Cybertruck to the UK solely for showcasing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. However, it has not been granted a certificate of conformity, meaning it can’t be used on public roads.
The Cybertruck was registered and insured in a different country, which is against the law. The UK driver has been “reported” and is facing consequences for operating a vehicle without proper insurance.
North American Market Focus
Currently, Tesla is marketing the Cybertruck in North America, where road safety regulations are somewhat alike. The electric vehicle manufacturer has yet to announce any intentions to sell the futuristic pickup truck outside of North America.
Interestingly, some enthusiasts have managed to acquire the steel truck outside of North America. Customs officials in Lithuania intercepted two units, while some Cybertrucks have been spotted with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, who has modified them with machine guns.
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Tags: Greater Manchester Police, illegal vehicle, Tesla Cybertruck