Category: EV vehicles

February 14, 2024

BYD Seagull rebranded as BYD Dolphin Mini for South American launch

The BYD Seagull has made its way into the South American electric vehicle market under a new name, the Dolphin Mini. Despite the name change, the Dolphin Mini retains the same specifications as the Seagull. Priced at $20,000, the Dolphin Mini offers an affordable option for South American consumers. In comparison, the Seagull was launched in China in April 2023 with a price range of $10,200 to $12,500.

International Version of the Seagull

The BYD Dolphin Mini is the international version of the Seagull and has already arrived in several South American markets. Deliveries of the Dolphin Mini have begun in Uruguay, and sales are set to start in Brazil by the end of February. The Seagull proved to be a popular model in China, with over 280,000 units sold last year. This all-electric 5-door hatchback offers a base model with a 30.08kWh battery and a CLTC range of 305km. The top model features a 38.88kWh LFP battery that provides a CLTC range of 405km.

Impressive Features

Both variants of the BYD Seagull come equipped with a 55kW motor and a peak torque of 135Nm. With a top speed of 135km/h, the Seagull can accelerate from 0 to 50km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The car has dimensions of 3780 x 1715 x 1540mm and a wheelbase of 2500mm. It comfortably accommodates four passengers and features 165/65 R15 wheels.

Battery Options in Uruguay

The BYD Dolphin Mini has arrived in Uruguay with two battery options: 30kWh and 38kWh. The Dolphin Mini EV300 offers a NEDC range of 300km, while the Dolphin Mini EV400 provides a NEDC range of 380km.

Pricing and Availability

In Uruguay, the Dolphin Mini EV300 is priced at $21,990, while the Dolphin Mini EV400 is available for $23,990. In Brazil, the Dolphin Mini has already arrived at dealerships for testing, and reviews are already available for interested buyers. The starting price for the Dolphin Mini in Brazil is approximately $20,100, with the larger battery model retailing for $23,200. Additionally, the Dolphin Mini is expected to enter other markets, including Europe, in the coming months.

Tags: BYD Seal, Dolphin Mini, South America
February 13, 2024

Kia’s New Chapter Uncovered: Leaked Documents Reveal the EV8 Electric Sedan

Kia once turned heads with the Stinger, a car known for its sharp looks and fun drive. It was a bit of a standout because Albert Biermann, a big name in car design, helped make it. Sadly, the Stinger didn’t stay around for long, but Kia hasn’t slowed down it seems.

Kia Sets Its Sights on Electric

The car is expected to have a 370-mile (~595 km) range with nearly 600 hp.

Now, Kia’s eyes are set on something fresh and fully electric, rumored to be the EV8. This move is part of a bigger plan to push into electric cars, even as some other car makers take a step back. Kia, as part of the Hyundai Motor Group, is charging ahead, planning to bring electric cars that everyone can enjoy.

The EV8: A Game-Changer in the Electric Car Market

The EV8 is shaping up to be something special. Based on what’s been leaked, it’ll be built on a new, advanced platform for electric vehicles, suggesting Kia’s not playing it safe. The car’s expected to pack a huge battery, promising a range that beats many others on the road today. This could mean less worry about running out of charge and more enjoying the drive.

Power and Performance

Power is another big deal for the EV8. It might come with a choice of engines, but the top option could offer some solid speed, making it a strong follow-up to the Stinger and a tough competitor for other sporty electric cars. Kia’s push into electric cars, with the EV8 leading the way, shows it’s serious about the future. The EV8 might just be the start of a new, exciting chapter for Kia and its drivers.

Tags: Electric Sedan, EV8, KIA
February 12, 2024

Introducing Xiaomi SU7: Driver-focused design revealed with physical buttons

Xiaomi’s highly anticipated electric sedan, the SU7, is inching closer to its launch and exciting new details about its interior have been unveiled. While the exterior design of the car was revealed in December, the interior has remained a mystery until now.

Xiaomi focuses on tactile experience

According to the latest official interior images, Xiaomi has departed from the minimalist interior designs favored by tech companies entering the automotive space. Instead, they have opted for a driver-centric design that combines physical buttons with sleek technology. This shift seems to be in response to user feedback, as many electric vehicle (EV) owners have expressed frustration over the lack of tactile controls in their vehicles.

The interior of the SU7 boasts a flat-bottomed steering wheel, tactile switches, a horizontal center touchscreen, and a center console. However, the standout feature is a row of toggle switches conveniently positioned under the driver’s right hand. These switches allow for easy control of essential functions such as air conditioning, ride height, and even the rear wing spoiler. This reintroduction of physical interaction amidst a sea of touchscreens is a welcome change for users.

A blend of functionality and aesthetics

The SU7’s interior not only focuses on buttons and driver engagement but also features a floating dashboard design that seamlessly integrates the head-up display, instrument panel, and air outlets. This design creates a sense of spaciousness within the cabin. Additionally, a docking unit allows for the incorporation of even more physical buttons. The driver-focused design also includes sports seats that offer a low seating position and excellent forward visibility.

Impressive performance and commitment

Xiaomi is clearly aiming high with the SU7, promising exceptional winter range and efficiency. The company’s in-house developed heat pump plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. Winter testing videos showcase the SU7 effortlessly navigating snowy and icy roads in frigid temperatures as low as -33°C.

With deliveries set to begin in the first half of 2024, and a rumored price tag of around 300,000 yuan ($42,000), the Xiaomi SU7 is shaping up to be a formidable player in the Chinese electric car market.

Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun recognizes the immense potential of the electric car sector and has shifted his focus to prioritize Xiaomi’s expansion into this market. While Xiaomi will continue producing smartphones and other tech products, Lei Jun’s recent actions indicate a strong commitment to establishing Xiaomi as a key player in the electric vehicle industry.

Tags: driver-centric design, SU7 EV, Xiaomi
February 10, 2024

Ex-Apple Engineer Given Sentence for Theft of Self-Driving Car Secrets

A former engineer at Apple, Xiaolang Zhang, finds himself on the wrong side of the law, having been handed a six-month prison sentence for his role in pilfering secrets from the tech giant’s vaults. This unfolds as Zhang admits to swiping details on the development of Apple’s self-driving vehicle project, an endeavor that people have been talking about for years.

Xiaolang Zhang’s Conviction

Zhang’s journey from trusted employee to convicted felon began with his arrest at San Jose International Airport in 2018, moments before he could escape to China. Initially, he fought the charges, pleading not guilty. However, in a dramatic turn of events in 2022, Zhang confessed to the theft of trade secrets, leading to his current predicament. Beyond his prison term, Zhang faces a three-year leash of supervised release and a hefty restitution bill of $146,984.

Involvement in Project Titan

His tenure at Apple was marked by his involvement in Project Titan, Apple’s mysterious and much-discussed foray into autonomous vehicles. According to allegations, Zhang’s acts of espionage included transferring a detailed 25-page document with engineering blueprints to personal devices and pilfering hardware, illustrating a breach of trust as profound as it was audacious.

Zhang’s Resignation and Investigation

Following a paternity leave and a trip to China, Zhang resigned, revealing plans to join XPeng Motors, a move that raised eyebrows given the company’s competing interests in autonomous driving. This revelation set off alarm bells, leading to an investigation that caught Zhang red-handed, engaging in activities that betrayed confidence.

Tags: Apple, Self-Driving Car
February 9, 2024

In January 2024, Tesla only managed to sell a single unit of its complete EV range in South Korea, as per reports.

In January 2024, Tesla recorded just a single EV sale in South Korea. The company sold just a single unit of the Model Y SUV, highlighting growing concerns in Korea relating to EVs manufactured in China. There are also pricing challenges and a lack of charging infrastructure negatively affecting demand in Korea.

Worst-Ever Sales Performance

Since July 2022, the sale of a single Tesla EV last month in Korea is the worst-ever sales performance by the American company. It is noted that the data put together by researcher Carisyou and the Korean Trade Ministry indicate an 80% decline in the number of new EV registrations in January when compared with December 2023. Higher interest rates and inflation are believed to be among the factors dampening consumer demand for EVs in the country. There are also issues relating to EV fires due to battery overheating, as well as a dearth of fast chargers in Korean cities. The China-made Tesla Model Y was one of the top-selling brands in 2023.

Perceived Links to China

While overall demand for EVs is on a decline in Korea generally, the dip in sales by Tesla could also be affected by its perceived links to China. A recent survey indicates that most Koreans who wanted to buy Tesla cars have bought one, but some people recently started disliking Tesla after finding that some of the models were manufactured in China. Korean consumers are concerned about the quality of manufacturing in China, the survey indicated. The low January sales could also be connected to the seasonal behavior of the Korean consumer. January is not the best time to buy EVs as consumers await the government’s announcement of subsidies. A Tesla spokesperson in Korea also stated that consumers delayed EV purchases before the confirmation of subsidies.

Pricing Challenges

The cost of the Model Y was fixed at 56.99 million won ($43,000) in July 2023 and this made it qualify for a full government subsidy. However, a recent announcement by the regulator has further lowered the threshold for government subsidies to EVs priced below 55 million won, which will result in up to a 50% decline in allowable subsidy for the Model Y. It is unclear whether there will be a reaction by Tesla to the new subsidy regime but the company remains upbeat that demand in Korea will pick up.

Tags: South Korea, Tesla
February 9, 2024

Investment in Indian River Startup Boosts Yamaha’s Electric Ambitions

Yamaha Invests in Indian Electric Vehicle Startup River

Yamaha, a giant in the motorcycle industry, has recently made another move to cement its presence in India, one of the world’s largest two-wheeler markets. This move comes with an investment in the electric vehicle startup River, known for its innovative approach to electric scooters. With a booming population and congested city streets, India’s shift towards electric mobility isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessary evolution.

Yamaha Takes Notice of River’s Electric Scooter

River, an emerging name in the electric two-wheeler segment, has caught the eye of Yamaha with its promising electric scooter model, the Indie. Dubbed the “SUV of Scooters,” the Indie stands out with its unique, rugged design and practical features. Its boxy shape and ample storage capacity, including a 55-liter under-saddle compartment and additional luggage racks, make it a standout choice for urban commuters.

Powerful Performance and Sustainable Transportation

At the heart of the Indie is a powerful 6.7-kilowatt electric motor, delivering a top speed of 56 mph and a range of 75 miles on a single charge. These specifications not only promise an efficient urban commute but also align with the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.

Yamaha’s Commitment to Electric Mobility in India

Yamaha’s investment in River as part of its Series B funding round is a clear indicator of its commitment to the electric vehicle market, especially in India. This partnership not only aims to boost Yamaha’s footprint in the electric mobility space but also supports India’s electrification efforts and its push for domestic production. Moreover, Yamaha’s vision for carbon neutrality by 2050 mirrors the broader industry’s goal towards sustainable development. By backing innovative startups like River, Yamaha is not just investing in products but in a greener future.

Tags: India, River, Yamaha
February 8, 2024

Announcement: Ola Electric S1 X Unveils Upgraded Version with Enhanced Battery and Extended Range

Ola Electric, a major player in the Indian electric two-wheeler market, has launched an upgraded version of its S1 X electric scooter with an extended range. The new S1 X is equipped with a bigger 4kWh battery, offering up to 190km of range on a single charge. Ola Electric is also introducing extended warranty programs for the battery of the new S1 X 4kWh.

Expanding Infrastructure

As Ola Electric continues to introduce new variants of the Ola S1 electric scooters, the company is also expanding its infrastructure. It plans to increase its service centers in India by 50% and aims to have more than 600 service centers by April 2024. Additionally, Ola Electric is improving its charging network, with 10,000 stations set to be available by June 2024.

Faster Charging Technology

Ola Electric has made advancements in charging technology, offering faster charging than home chargers. The new chargers can provide about 75% faster charging and deliver up to 31 miles of range in just 20 minutes of charging.

Pricing and Warranty

Ola Electric is offering its new fast chargers for home use at a price of Rs. 29,999 ($360). The company also provides a standard warranty program for its battery, covering up to 8 years or 80,000km. Customers have the option to extend the warranty to 100,000km for Rs. 4,999 ($60) or 125,000km for Rs. 12,999 ($157).

S1 X Specifications and Pricing

The Ola S1 X is available in multiple two-tone colorways and is expected to expand its market beyond India. The scooter has a top speed of 90km/h and comes with a 4kWh battery. It can accelerate from 0 to 40km/h in just 3.3 seconds. However, it lacks some premium features found in the top models of the S1 X lineup, such as the S1 X+. The new version of the S1 X is priced affordably at Rs. 109,999 ($1,325).

Tags: Ola Electric, S1 X
February 8, 2024

Record-breaking January Sales in China for Tesla

Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, has started off the year 2024 with a significant accomplishment in China, solidifying its position as a leader in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. In January, the company reported an 8% increase in wholesale shipments of its China-made Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, totaling 71,447 units. This growth not only represents a number but also demonstrates Tesla’s enduring appeal in the competitive Chinese market.

Tesla’s success in China can be attributed to its operations at the Tesla Giga Shanghai, the world’s largest all-electric car manufacturing plant. In 2023 alone, the plant produced nearly 950,000 vehicles, establishing itself as the core hub for Tesla’s activities in China. It caters to local demand and handles significant export volumes. Although the figures for January were lower compared to November and December 2023, Tesla achieved its best January on record.

The preliminary data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) emphasizes Tesla’s resilient market position. The introduction of the upgraded Model 3, known as Highland, and the enhancements made to the Model Y have kept consumer interest high. Notably, the Model Y emerged as the top-selling all-electric model in China for 2023, highlighting Tesla’s ability to innovate and lead in the market.

This sustained success is particularly important for Tesla, considering the temporary slowdown in production during the third quarter of 2023. The swift ramp-up to full production capacity for the updated Model 3 showcases Tesla’s efficiency and underscores the strategic significance of the Shanghai factory in its global operations.

This achievement further solidifies Tesla’s dominance in the EV sector and its commitment to meeting the growing demand for electric vehicles in China. With its continued success in the Chinese market, Tesla is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the global electric vehicle industry.

Tags: China sales, Tesla
February 8, 2024

Li Auto Employees Celebrate Big Rewards Following Exceeding 2023 Sales Goals

Li Auto, a rising star in China‘s electric vehicle (EV) market and a formidable competitor to Tesla, has made headlines by generously rewarding its employees for surpassing the company’s 2023 sales targets. Amidst the fiercely competitive EV landscape, Li Auto’s strategy of offering significantly larger bonuses than the industry average underscores its commitment to recognizing and incentivizing the hard work of nearly 20,000 staff members.

Bonuses will be as huge as four to eight months’ salary for employees

The Beijing-based automaker announced plans to distribute bonuses equivalent to four to eight months’ salary, a notable increase from the standard two months’ pay seen across the sector. This move not only highlights Li Auto’s exceptional performance in 2023 but also reflects a culture of appreciation and motivation that is central to the company’s ethos. CEO Li Xiang, sharing insights on Weibo, emphasized the shift from modest rewards following 2022’s missed targets to this year’s substantial bonuses, mirroring the company’s sales triumph.

Li Auto’s success story

Li Auto’s success story is marked by delivering 376,030 premium EVs to customers, marking a staggering 182% growth from the previous year and crushing the set goal of 300,000 vehicles. This achievement positioned Li Auto as a close second to Tesla in China’s premium EV market, showcasing the brand’s robust appeal among affluent drivers.

Product diversification and expansion

The company’s rise to fame is also attributed to its strategic product diversification. After years of relying on its sole model, the Li One, Li Auto expanded its portfolio in mid-2022 with the introduction of three luxury SUVs—the L7, L8, and L9. These models, featuring advanced technology like intelligent four-wheel-drive systems and expansive entertainment screens, quickly took over China’s middle class.

Future goals and competition

Looking ahead, Li Auto sets its sights even higher, aiming to deliver 800,000 units in 2024—a bold objective reflecting both ambition and confidence in the face of a decelerating market and cutthroat competition. Time will tell if Li Auto can compete against BYD and Tesla – until then, the company continues to grow.

Tags: Li Auto
February 8, 2024

Introducing the 2025 Porsche Taycan: Enhanced Charging, Extended Range, and Innovative Tech Features

Porsche Sets New Standards with the 2025 Taycan

Porsche is taking electric vehicle (EV) technology to new heights with the 2025 Taycan, pushing the boundaries of performance, charging speed, and driving dynamics. In a rapidly evolving EV landscape, Porsche is not content to rest on its laurels. The latest version of the Taycan, Porsche’s flagship EV, is a clear indication that the company is adapting to meet the demands of the EV market.

A Range of Models to Suit Every Driver

The 2025 Taycan is available in both sports sedan and Cross Turismo wagon body styles, offering a choice of four powertrain options and rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. This diverse range of models is designed to cater to the preferences of various drivers. The entry-level sedan starts at $101,395, while the top-tier Cross Turismo model is priced at $213,695. One notable feature of this year’s models is the introduction of a new 105kWh battery option under the Performance Battery Plus package, promising extended range and enhanced performance.

Lightning-Fast Charging Speeds

Charging speed is a crucial factor for any EV, and Porsche has made significant advancements with the Taycan. The vehicle can charge from 0 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes at 800-volt DC charging stations, putting it at the forefront of charging technology. This improvement is not just about speed; it’s about making electric driving more convenient and seamlessly integrating it into drivers’ lives.

Enhanced Efficiency and Performance

The 2025 Taycan achieves enhanced efficiency through several technical advancements. A new rear-axle motor, a modified pulse inverter, a more powerful battery, revised thermal management, and an upgraded recuperation system all contribute to a more efficient and dynamic driving experience. These improvements enable the Taycan to accelerate from zero to 60 mph even faster, with the Turbo S model accomplishing this feat in just 2.3 seconds, making it the quickest production car ever offered by Porsche.

Design and Technological Updates

Porsche’s innovation extends beyond performance and efficiency. The 2025 Taycan introduces design and technological updates, including new headlights and taillights, refreshed front fenders, and the option for a high-quality, leather-free interior. Additionally, Porsche is enhancing the digital experience inside the Taycan, with a deeper integration of Apple CarPlay and new video streaming capabilities on the vehicle’s displays.

Exciting Times Ahead

The 2025 Taycan represents Porsche’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology. With its impressive charging speed, enhanced efficiency, and cutting-edge design and technology, the Taycan is setting new standards in the EV market. Are you excited for the 2025 Taycan? Let us know in the comments below!

Tags: electric vehicles (EVs), Porsche, Taycan