Category: EV vehicles

  • Tesla Model Y Juniper 4680 Battery Hurdles: Musk’s Overpromises

    Tesla Model Y Juniper 4680 Battery Hurdles: Musk’s Overpromises

    While Tesla is heavily investing in perfecting its affordable 4680 batteries to make the most of current government subsidies, the leader of the largest battery manufacturer has doubts about the feasibility of these efforts.

    CATL’s Perspective on US Investments

    In a recent discussion, CATL’s Chairman Robin Zeng shared insights on the company’s plans for production in the US, mentioning that they are open to various investments beyond just technology licensing agreements with Tesla and Ford. The Nevada Gigafactory is set to begin producing batteries using CATL’s technology as early as next year. Although the specific type of batteries being produced remains uncertain, the most likely option appears to be LFP cells. Despite Giga Nevada having a planned capacity of 100 GWh for 4680 batteries, Zeng expresses skepticism about the feasibility of achieving affordable cylindrical cells.

    Concerns About Musk’s Promises

    Zeng commented on Elon Musk, stating, “He excels in areas like chips, software, hardware, and mechanics,” but he lacks understanding of the 4680’s “electrochemistry,” which he believes “will ultimately fail.” The main issue with Musk, according to CATL’s CEO, is his tendency to “overpromise.” He added, “Maybe something requires five years, but he claims it’s only two. I asked him about it, and he said he wanted to motivate people. He probably thinks it takes five years, but if you trust him when he says two, you might find yourself in trouble.” Zeng recounted how he explained to Musk the challenges of producing cylindrical 4680 batteries at half the cost of Tesla’s existing cells, a claim made on Battery Day back in 2020, which left Musk speechless.

    Tesla’s Optimism and Future Plans

    In the recent quarterly earnings call, Musk expressed optimism that Tesla would not just match the manufacturing costs of suppliers such as LG or Panasonic but would also produce the 4680 battery at the lowest cost in the US. He stated, “The team is making great progress with the 4680 cell lines. It is getting very competitive. When you consider the total cost of a battery pack in the US, net of incentives and tariffs, the 4680 is on track to be the most cost-effective option.” While they haven’t quite reached that point yet, Musk believes they are close, adding that they have many ideas to improve further. He emphasized that Tesla will continue to source many cells from suppliers while also ramping up vehicle and stationary storage production.

    The important phrase here is “with incentives,” as the government provides $35 per kWh for US-made battery capacity, which will likely benefit Tesla significantly.

    Expanding Manufacturing Capacity

    Musk’s confidence is further bolstered by Tesla’s success with the cost-effective dry cathode method and the recent launch of the first Cybertruck utilizing these cells. The company is now looking to boost its 4680 manufacturing capacity to produce battery packs for the Model Y, Model 3, and Robotaxi. For example, the upcoming Model Y Juniper facelift is expected to feature 4680 batteries in the US, as Tesla aims to keep costs low and maintain pricing similar to the current model. However, there’s a possibility that electric vehicle subsidies could be cut with a new Trump administration, which means that the challenges with the 4680 battery’s “electrochemistry” might not be the only hurdle in terms of production costs.

    Source: Link

  • Tesla Robotaxi Launch Possible with New Autonomous Vehicle Rules

    Tesla Robotaxi Launch Possible with New Autonomous Vehicle Rules

    Tesla’s shares have risen following news that Elon Musk’s initiative to deregulate autonomous vehicles could soon be realized with the change in the White House administration next quarter.

    Federal Policy Changes

    The Trump transition team is allegedly working on a national policy framework for autonomous vehicles that would allow them on public roads much more quickly and in greater numbers than what current state laws permit. This initiative might be led by Emil Michael, a former Uber executive, who is a candidate for the position of Transportation Secretary. The new rules from NHTSA are expected to be included in federal legislation, which would feature a bipartisan bill calling on Congress to relax regulations and promote the use of fully autonomous vehicles.

    Musk’s Vision

    During Tesla’s Q3 earnings call, Elon Musk shared his reasoning for supporting the Trump campaign and taking on a significant role in the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    He stated that there should be a national approval process for autonomous vehicles, explaining that this is how the FMVSS has functioned. "Federal Motor Vehicle regulations are federal," he said. "We need a national approval system. There’s a department of government efficiency, and I’ll do my best to assist in making that a reality. This is for everyone, not just Tesla. Some aspects in the U.S. are handled state by state, like insurance, and it’s really tough to manage that across all 50 states. A streamlined approval process for autonomy is necessary."

    The Robotaxi Innovation

    The Robotaxi is an entirely autonomous electric vehicle designed for two passengers, lacking pedals or a steering wheel. It can travel about 200 miles on a single charge, however, it cannot be recharged at home using a Tesla wall connector or at a Supercharger, as it is the first Tesla model to feature induction charging capabilities.

    Tesla has chosen not to pursue a more traditional $25,000 electric car, known as the Model 2, instead opting to stake its future on affordable autonomous vehicles like the Robotaxi. If Musk’s efforts to push for deregulation succeed and become law, this strategy could prove to be a wise investment for the company.

    Source: Link

  • Tesla Model Y Owners Face $2.40 Charging Tax at Wisconsin Superchargers

    Tesla Model Y Owners Face $2.40 Charging Tax at Wisconsin Superchargers

    Wisconsin has rolled out a new tax on electric vehicle charging, imposing a fee of three cents per kWh for any power delivered through Level 3 chargers up to 250 kW, as well as Level 1 and Level 2 chargers installed after March 22.

    Cost Impact on Tesla Owners

    For owners of the Tesla Model Y in Wisconsin, this change means an additional cost of about $2.40 for a complete charging session at these stations. The 2023 Wisconsin Act 121 states that the registration and excise tax applies no matter if the charging station is publicly accessible or if consumers are charged for the electricity.

    Tax Affects All EV Owners

    This new fee will also impact those who own older models like the Model S or X, who previously enjoyed free Supercharging for life. On top of this, there’s already a considerable $175 “combined electric surcharge fee,” acting as an annual road tax for electric vehicle owners in the state.

    Starting January 1, 2025, all owners or operators of EV charging stations must register online with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue before they can begin delivering electricity that is subject to the excise tax. Home charging stations, such as the Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector, won’t be affected by this new tax unless they are installed in public areas like hotels.

    Reason Behind the Tax

    David Casey, the Secretary Designee of the Department of Revenue, has stated that the additional EV charging tax is necessary for road upkeep. He insists that the excise tax is a vital funding source for preserving Wisconsin’s roads and infrastructure. It aims to ensure ongoing financial support for repairs and construction as more drivers switch to electric vehicles, while also creating a fair system where all motorists contribute to road maintenance costs.

    After a lengthy period of leniency for electric vehicle owners, many states are now implementing specific annual road taxes. These EV taxes often surpass those for traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Revenue departments argue that electric cars are generally heavier and contribute to more wear and tear on local roads. Nonetheless, Wisconsin’s latest charge on EV charging sessions seems like a case of double taxation for road maintenance.

    Source: Link,Link

  • Tesla Offers Free Supercharging and FSD Promo to Boost Sales

    Tesla Offers Free Supercharging and FSD Promo to Boost Sales

    Tesla is offering complimentary Supercharging and Full Self-Driving (FSD) trials for anyone who buys a vehicle from its inventory by the year’s end.

    Customers who take delivery of a new inventory car between November 14 and December 31 will enjoy three months of free access to the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature, along with free Supercharging during the same timeframe.

    Restrictions on the Offer

    It’s important to note that this offer cannot be used later or transferred to different accounts or vehicles. Buyers who have already paid for the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature might be disappointed with this new promotion.

    Sadly, not all used vehicles in Tesla’s inventory qualify for the free Supercharging and FSD trials, and business account orders are also excluded.

    Promotional Efforts and Sales Boost

    Tesla has rolled out numerous promotions to boost its shipment figures in the final quarter of the year, making it challenging to track them all. However, these efforts could lead to record deliveries right before the anticipated release of the Model Y Juniper.

    The most sought-after offer among the current Model 3 and Model Y deals is the 0% APR financing, which no longer requires customers to buy FSD as a condition, a change made at the start of the month.

    Long-Term Strategies

    Additionally, Tesla has introduced free FSD transfers, a benefit that seems to be becoming a regular offering. This has been in place for four straight quarters, even though Elon Musk has indicated that it’s a temporary promotion, emphasizing the need for Tesla to “make money somehow.”

    Tesla is also keen on providing free FSD trials, as it aims to attract customers towards buying or subscribing to the service. Furthermore, the company needs to log many miles driven with FSD to show regulators its strong safety track record, especially as it prepares for the launch of the Cybercab/Robotaxi ride-sharing service.

    New Inventory Highlights

    For the first time, Tesla has Cybertrucks available in its inventory, but only the free Supercharging offer will be of value to future owners. All these are Foundation Series units, which come with FSD included at no additional cost.

    Source: Link

  • Tesla’s New Plan Threatens Model Y Juniper Tax Credit

    Tesla’s New Plan Threatens Model Y Juniper Tax Credit

    Tesla dominates the electric vehicle market in the US, accounting for nearly half of all sales. The government allocates approximately $200 million each month in subsidies, which can reach up to $7,500 in tax credits for the Model Y. This model is also set to receive a facelift, known as the Juniper, which is anticipated to launch next quarter.

    Immediate Price Cuts

    Moreover, the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has made tax credits available at the point of sale, providing an instant price cut. As a result, Tesla’s most popular vehicle now starts at a compelling price of $37,490.

    Tesla has also taken steps to ensure that its best-selling Model 3 and Model Y remain eligible for subsidies. The company removed some base rear-wheel-drive variants that were equipped with Chinese LFP batteries and did not qualify, leaving only long-range models that use Panasonic or LG batteries.

    Potential Changes Ahead

    However, the tax credit benefits for the Model Y might be at risk. Insider sources suggest that Trump’s energy transition team is planning to eliminate EV subsidies included in the IRA as a means to fund the extension of corporate tax cuts. This team, led by oil executive Harold Hamm and Trump’s pick for Interior Secretary, Doug Burgum, aims to cut government support for established renewable energy sectors like wind and solar, along with the favored $7,500 electric vehicle tax break.

    In conjunction with this, Hamm intends to ease regulations on oil and gas drilling and remove the ban on LNG exports. Nonetheless, tax credits for emerging technologies, such as carbon capture and storage—which benefit Hamm’s Continental Technologies—are likely to remain.

    Musk’s Perspective

    Elon Musk has stated that Tesla can manage without tax credits. While the removal of these incentives might have some short-term effects, he believes it could “devastate” other electric vehicle manufacturers:

    “I think it would be devastating for our competitors and for Tesla slightly… But long term, this probably actually helps Tesla.”

    Now, Musk may get to see if this holds true under the new administration. Reports indicate that Trump’s energy policy team has met with Tesla representatives, who conveyed that they wouldn’t oppose the elimination of the Model 3 or Model Y tax credit subsidy.

    This might seem illogical at first glance, but Tesla has a lower production cost than both leading EV companies and traditional automakers. On average, Tesla’s vehicles cost less than $30,000 to produce, while Ford and GM incur an additional $17,000 per vehicle, often selling at a loss. Even conventional internal combustion engine vehicles have an average manufacturing cost of $40,000, allowing Tesla to keep prices low for a longer duration than legacy automakers can sustain their electric vehicle operations.

    In conclusion, the potential removal of tax credits for the Model Y and Model 3 could actually be a positive outcome for Tesla, potentially increasing its market share in what might become a smaller overall market.

    It’s uncertain how Trump’s energy team will address EV battery subsidies. Currently, the government offers $35 per kWh of US-made battery capacity, which helps Tesla keep its 4680 battery’s costs competitive against suppliers like Panasonic and LG.

    If this subsidy gets eliminated, Tesla’s innovative dry cathode mass production technique may not achieve the anticipated 50% cost reduction for 4680 cells that was discussed during Tesla’s Battery Day event.

    This could threaten Tesla’s ambitions to incorporate affordable 4680 batteries into all its US-made products, including the Cybertruck, Model Y Juniper, and the forthcoming Robotaxi, which are all intended to take advantage of the IRA’s tax credit offerings.

    Source: Link,Link

  • Tesla’s V4 Supercharger: 30% Faster Charging for Cybertruck & Model Y

    Tesla’s V4 Supercharger: 30% Faster Charging for Cybertruck & Model Y

    Tesla is set to introduce its speedy V4 power supply cabinets to the taller Supercharger stations it has been setting up since last spring.

    New Charging Capabilities

    With the V4 cabinets currently awaiting regulatory approvals, they are expected to arrive at charging locations next quarter. These updated Superchargers will have a maximum output of 500 kW per post. This means that owners of the Cybertruck, which features an 800V system, will see a 30% increase in charging speed compared to the current setup. This aligns with Tesla’s goal of allowing the pickup to recharge in under 20 minutes. The upcoming Model Y Juniper refresh, the second vehicle to feature an 800V powertrain, will benefit similarly.

    Impact on Current Models

    However, existing Model 3 and Model Y drivers won’t see much change, as these vehicles still utilize Tesla’s older 400V platform. When the Model Y Juniper facelift launches next quarter, it might coincide with the introduction of the first V4 cabinets, enabling the vehicle to gain over 250 miles of range in about 15 minutes.

    Tesla’s new V4 Supercharger cabinets aren’t just more powerful; they also have several notable improvements regarding costs and installation speed. Each cabinet now supports eight Supercharger posts instead of four, eliminating the need for a DC bus between them. This results in requiring fewer power cabinets at each Supercharger station, which means quicker and cheaper setups and improved uptime for the chargers.

    Innovative Design Features

    Tesla emphasizes that the new 500 kW cabinets are crafted with the latest and most dependable electronics, boasting three times the power density of the existing 250 kW V3 cabinets in the same space. Nevertheless, having fewer cabinets per station does come with some challenges. Max de Zegher from Tesla noted that while the V4 cabinets can provide up to 1.2 MW of power, typically only a fraction of that is needed to “deliver maximum power to cars 99% of the time.” The power would be shared across eight posts, resulting in a peak charging rate of about 125 kW per stall.

    In peak situations when all posts are occupied, charging would still be significantly quicker than the current options.

    Competing with Other Brands

    It’s worth mentioning that Tesla has now matched the offerings from Chinese brands like Nio and Xpeng, who have been rolling out fast chargers capable of up to 800 kW for some time, primarily because many of their EVs operate on an 800V architecture.

    The next step for Tesla is to launch more 800V vehicles, with the Cybertruck and the forthcoming Model Y Juniper refresh poised to make a substantial impact in that area.

    Source: Link

  • Otherlab Launches Lightfoot Solar-Powered Electric Scooter

    Otherlab Launches Lightfoot Solar-Powered Electric Scooter

    Otherlab has introduced the Lightfoot electric scooter, which is designed to offer daily transportation with zero emissions thanks to its built-in solar panels for recharging.

    Performance Features

    Equipped with two 750 W brushless DC motors that deliver 90 Nm of torque, this scooter can reach a maximum speed of 19.9 MPH (30.6 KPH), which is within legal limits. The scooter is powered by a 48V 25Ah lithium battery, enabling it to cover a distance of up to 37 miles (60 km). The addition of two 120-watt solar panels contributes another 3 miles (4.8 km) of distance per hour, or about 18 miles (28 km) each day. Riders can control the speed using a twist throttle on the right side, while braking is managed with dual-brake levers.

    Design and Dimensions

    In terms of size, the Lightfoot measures 63 x 17.75 x 38.25 inches (1.6 x 0.5 x 1 m) and has a weight of 137 lbs. (62 kg). The scooter’s seat height is 35 inches, which accommodates riders ranging from 5 feet 2 inches to 6 feet 2 inches (157.5 to 188 cm). It features 10-inch wheels, and its aluminum frame can support a combined weight of up to 282 lbs. (128 kg) for both riders and cargo. Additionally, the scooter includes a lockable internal cargo bay with a volume of 1.597 cu. ft. (45.2 l), capable of holding items up to 33 lbs. (15 kg).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Lightfoot solar-powered scooter is priced at an MSRP of $4,995, with deliveries planned to start in January 2025. Interested buyers can make preorders now on the Otherlab Rolling Sunshine website. For those on a budget, there are more affordable e-scooter options available on Amazon.

    Source: Link,Link,http://rollingsunshine.com/),,


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  • Xiaomi SU7 Production Hits 100,000 Cars Ahead of Schedule

    Xiaomi SU7 Production Hits 100,000 Cars Ahead of Schedule

    Lei Jun has mentioned that producing 100,000 units of the SU7 by the end of 2024 would be a sign of success since the first electric vehicle (EV) launch by Xiaomi. Now, in the middle of November 2024, he has confirmed that the vehicle has surpassed this impressive milestone much earlier than expected.

    Growing Demand for SU7

    The SU7, which offers Pro and Max versions as well, is evidently popular in China, where the brand’s recognition likely plays a significant role in its success.

    Xiaomi promotes the SU7 as a "luxury C-class technology sedan," highlighting its exceptional design that allows it to accelerate from 0 to 200 kilometers per hour (or approximately 124 miles per hour) in just 10.67 seconds.

    High-Tech Features

    Additionally, the vehicle can be outfitted with a 3K dashboard display and a 56-inch heads-up display. It is designed to work seamlessly with over 1,000 of Xiaomi’s smart home devices and is available in a variety of colors.

    The SU7 now also features a high-end Ultra variant aimed at enhancing its appeal and boosting revenue, starting at a price of 814,900 yuan (around $112,700). Meanwhile, Xiaomi predicts it can deliver an extra 20,000 units of the series by the end of this year.

    Source: Link


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  • Tesla Offers 0% APR Financing on Home Chargers and Cybertruck Gear

    Tesla Offers 0% APR Financing on Home Chargers and Cybertruck Gear

    After launching its Model 3 and Model Y with 0% APR financing, Tesla is expanding that offer to its accessory and parts shop as well.

    New Financing Options

    The Tesla Shop has partnered with Klarna to allow customers to make four equal monthly payments without any interest on almost all products available in the store. This means you can purchase Tesla’s $550 universal home charger for just $137.50 each month, or get the newly available Cybertruck wiper blade for $18.75 monthly.

    Replacement Parts for Cybertruck Owners

    The Gigawiper is a distinct feature of the Cybertruck that many owners found difficult to replace without going through Tesla’s service centers. However, as Cybertrucks become more common on roads and a year has passed since their debut, Tesla has added replacement Gigawipers to its store.

    Klarna’s payment options are widely recognized across many online retailers, and the fintech company is so prominent that it is looking to file for an IPO in the US soon.

    Interest Rates and Payment Plans

    If you prefer to extend your payment beyond the four installments, be prepared for a hefty interest charge, as Klarna needs to profit somehow. However, as long as you stick to the four-month plan, you won’t incur any interest.

    For pricier items in the Tesla Shop, like the $5,000 Model Y Clear Paint Protection Film, Klarna will apply an interest rate based on your credit score from the start, since these loans aren’t available for the four equal payment method.

    Source: Link


  • Zero-Emissions Hydrogen Truck Sets World Record for Distance

    Accelera, part of Cummins based in the U.S., has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new Guinness World Record for the furthest distance covered by a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) heavy-duty truck without needing to refuel. This milestone was reached with their H2Rescue truck, a Kenworth T370 prototype that has been specially designed for emergency response operations.

    Impressive Distance Achieved

    The truck managed to travel an astonishing 1,806 miles (2,900 kilometers), which is about the same distance as traveling from Berlin, Germany, to Porto, Portugal. Throughout this journey, it utilized 168 kilograms of hydrogen from an initial fill of 175 kilograms, all while emitting zero carbon dioxide (CO2). In contrast, a diesel truck would have released an estimated 664 pounds (300 kilograms) of CO2 during the same trip.

    Real-World Testing Conditions

    Equipped with a fuel cell engine and a 250-kilowatt (kW) traction motor, the H2Rescue truck underwent testing in real-life scenarios, including busy rush hour traffic. During the journey, the truck maintained speeds ranging from 80 to 88 kilometers per hour and faced temperature variations from 15°C to 26°C.

    Collaborative Efforts for Innovation

    The development of the H2Rescue truck involved a partnership between Accelera, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the U.S. Department of Defense. This collaboration underscores the increasing potential of hydrogen fuel cells in heavy-duty transportation and emergency response fields.

    Challenges Ahead for Hydrogen Fuel

    Even with this noteworthy accomplishment, hydrogen as an alternative fuel still encounters obstacles, especially concerning cost. Presently, hydrogen fuel for FCEVs is priced between EUR 7 and EUR 8 per kilogram, influenced by factors like production site, energy source, and intended use, according to data from Independent Commodity Intelligence Services (ICIS) from 2023. However, experts are optimistic that prices may fall to around EUR 4 per kilogram in the future, making hydrogen a more viable option compared to traditional diesel fuels.

    Source: Link,Link