Category: EV vehicles

November 15, 2024
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
Tags: Full Self-Driving, Model 3, Tesla
November 15, 2024
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
Tags: Inflation Reduction Act, Model Y, Tesla
November 15, 2024
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
Tags: Cybertruck, Model Y Juniper, Tesla V4 Supercharger
November 15, 2024
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/),,
Tags: electric scooter, Lightfoot, Otherlab
November 15, 2024
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
Tags: Luxury Sedan, SU7, Xiaomi
November 14, 2024
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
Tags: Klarna, Model 3, Tesla
November 14, 2024
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
Tags: Cummins, H2Rescue, hydrogen fuel cell
November 13, 2024
BYD Set to Launch Passenger Cars in South Korea Next Year
Next year could pose some difficulties for Tesla and Hyundai in South Korea, largely due to BYD’s recent announcement about entering the local passenger vehicle market. BYD has been active in South Korea since 2016, but primarily in commercial vehicles like buses and forklifts. For those who aren’t aware of this brand and why it might concern Tesla or Hyundai, it’s important to note that the Chinese electric vehicle company has secured an order for at least 100,000 electric vehicles from Uber. Additionally, the upcoming 2025 refresh of the BYD Seal AWD is set to give Tesla’s similarly priced models a run for their money in terms of value.
New Market Entry
As reported by KED Global, BYD is set to launch in the South Korean passenger car market next year with premium models. The company aims to be the first Chinese car brand to win over Korean consumers, a feat that has eluded its Chinese competitors in the past due to their inability to meet the high standards of Korean drivers.
Lessons from the Past
Previous electric vehicle models that struggled in South Korea, like the BAIC Motor Corp. KENBO 600, faced significant safety and quality problems that hindered their acceptance in the market. However, the BYD Seal midsize sedan and the Atto 3 compact SUV come equipped with features that could help them avoid the same pitfalls.
The Seal offers over 500 km on a single charge and is projected to be priced below $30,000 in South Korea. In contrast, the Atto 3 boasts a range exceeding 400 km at a similar price point. If these models succeed, BYD is considering introducing additional high-end electric vehicles, including the luxury Denza brand and the HAN series, according to sources familiar with the company’s plans, as reported by KED Global.
Source: Link
Tags: BYD, Hyundai, Tesla
November 13, 2024
Tesla Offers Inventory Cybertrucks for Immediate Purchase
Tesla has a variety of Cybertrucks available in its inventory for the first time, signaling what might be an early conclusion to the two-million reservations that were once valued higher than BMW.
Easy Access to Cybertrucks
Now, anyone interested in a Cybertruck can purchase one for under $80,000, with delivery possible in about a week. For those who can’t wait, select locations offer immediate access to vehicles from the inventory lot.
Current Inventory Details
The available Cybertrucks consist solely of the Foundation Series AWD and tri-motor Cyberbeast models. This could mean that these are either canceled orders or extra stock that Tesla is trying to move, especially since customers can now choose lower-priced models.
The cheaper models do not include all the features of the Foundation Series, which retails for $100,000 and comes with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) package, an additional $8,000. Plus, the Foundation Series has more premium interior details that add up in value.
Market Implications
Despite the Cybertruck’s unexpected popularity as an electric pickup, making it the third best-selling electric vehicle in the US, the sudden decrease in the reservations list with millions of preorders could indicate challenges for this segment in the future.
If anyone wishes to purchase a Foundation Series Cybertruck without being an early supporter on the reservations list, they can now buy it directly from Tesla’s inventory.
Source: Link
Tags: Cybertruck, Foundation Series, Tesla
November 13, 2024
Tesla Model 3 Passes Truck Crash Test with Top Performance
Tesla vehicles have consistently received top marks in crash tests conducted by various international transportation safety organizations.
This impressive performance can be attributed to the low center of gravity created by the heavy battery situated at the bottom of these electric cars, as well as smart chassis design aimed at absorbing as much kinetic energy from a collision as possible before it impacts the cabin where drivers and passengers sit.
Recent Crash Test Results
The latest testament to Tesla’s remarkable safety features comes from the challenging trailer crash test administered by the Chinese DCAR Institute for Collision Safety.
This isn’t the infamous Devil’s Drill Card test, where a car crashes into a stationary semi-truck, sliding underneath it while another vehicle hits it from behind. However, it is still one of the toughest crash assessments one can encounter for any automobile.
In the trailer drill test, the Model 3 excelled, becoming the only car out of around 30 to pass with outstanding results. The Model 3 managed to slide under the truck, barely touching the A-pillar before bouncing back, while many other vehicles suffered deformation up to the C-pillars.
Other Vehicles in the Test
Interestingly, Xiaomi’s first attempt at an electric vehicle, the SU7, also performed well, directing the energy away from the crash test dummies. However, the testers pointed out that panoramic glass roofs do not provide much help in such impact scenarios.
According to Tesla’s chief engineer Lars Moravy, the Model 3’s chassis is designed with flexibility in mind to gradually absorb kinetic energy during a collision, with the highest levels of force occurring just before reaching the cabin.
Ultimately, the testers concluded that the passengers in the Model 3 would likely have survived a potentially fatal scenario, such as rear-ending a truck.
Source: Link,Link
Tags: crash test, Tesla Model 3, Vehicle Safety