Category: EV vehicles

  • CATL Launches Super Hybrid Battery: 173 Miles in 10 Minutes

    CATL Launches Super Hybrid Battery: 173 Miles in 10 Minutes

    The well-known electric vehicle battery giant, CATL, has introduced its new ‘Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery’. This innovative battery is set to redefine standards for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), boasting an impressive industry-first claimed all-electric range of 400 km. For those who keep track of hybrid advancements, this is a significant achievement.

    Addressing PHEV Limitations

    Traditionally, PHEVs have struggled with drawbacks that prevent them from matching the full electric vehicle experience. Many hybrid users find it rather frustrating that driving solely on electric power for long distances often leads to frequent charging breaks, making them reliant on internal combustion engines (ICE). With its claimed range of 250 miles (400 km), CATL seems ready to tackle this challenge directly.

    Quick Charging Capabilities

    Additionally, the Freevoy battery can gain up to 174 miles (280 km) of range with just a swift 10-minute charge. If CATL’s assertions prove accurate, this would significantly alleviate the range anxiety that has long plagued both PHEVs and EVs. With fast charging available, the Freevoy is in a prime position to compete with electric-only vehicles not only in terms of range but also charging ease, while still providing the safety net of an onboard gasoline engine in emergencies.

    Innovative Technology Behind Freevoy

    To achieve the capabilities of the Freevoy, CATL has merged various technological advancements. Notably, a breakthrough can be seen in its cathode, where a high-voltage electrolyte and a nano-protective coating work together to limit side interactions, protecting the active materials and enhancing stability. The cathode is further improved with the inclusion of high-energy, excited-state particles, which promotes a swift and steady flow of lithium ions through the material.

    Performance in Cold Weather

    Moreover, for those living in chillier regions where electric vehicles typically face challenges, Freevoy employs CATL’s sodium-ion technology. This technology merges sodium-ion and lithium-ion cells to maximize performance, allowing the battery to operate at temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius. This ensures not only that the battery preserves its range but also that it charges reliably in cold weather, alongside accurate state of charge (SOC) calibration, which has been a common headache for both electric and hybrid vehicles.

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  • Model Y Window Tinting Service from $150 – Tesla Film Warranty

    Model Y Window Tinting Service from $150 – Tesla Film Warranty

    Tesla has recently introduced a window tinting service that covers both front and rear windows, with the option of adding a sunroof. Prices for this service range from $150 to over $1,200.

    Partnership with Xpel

    This tinting service is offered in collaboration with Xpel, which means that if the glass breaks while under Tesla’s basic vehicle warranty, the company will take care of reinstalling the tint film. For those looking to tint the front windows of a Model Y, the base price starts at $150 for a basic film. However, if you want to go all out, you can choose the premium film for a complete tinting job covering the Model Y’s windows and sunroof, which can cost as much as $1,275.

    Pricing Breakdown

    For a more budget-friendly option, you can opt for a simple tint on the front driver and passenger windows of the Model Y using Xpel’s midrange Premium XR film. This film blocks 99% of UV rays and reflects 85% of infrared heat, costing $225. This price is only slightly higher than the cheapest tint option, which rejects only 35% of the infrared heat and is merely a colored film. The highest-end Prime XR Plus film for the front windows of the Model Y is priced at a reasonable $275 and provides a dual-layer Nano Ceramic coating that achieves 96% heat rejection.

    Full Tinting Packages

    If you’re looking to tint all side and rear windows of the Model Y with the Premium XR Plus film, the total cost would be $700, and the same pricing applies to the Cybertruck. Interestingly, window tinting for the Tesla Model 3 is priced higher at $850, despite being under the same partnership.

    The process for getting your windows tinted through Tesla involves placing a service request when ordering. Your stored card in the app will be charged, and then a nearby Xpel products dealer will reach out to set up an appointment for the tinting. Tesla only steps in if any windows break under warranty, ensuring the tinting film is reinstalled, which is a significant advantage of using this service. However, local shops with extensive Tesla tinting experience might not be part of the program if they lack certain products like the Xpel Clear Paint Protection Film.

    Windshield Tinting Considerations

    Owners of Tesla vehicles must negotiate the terms for windshield tinting directly with the chosen shop, as Tesla does not take responsibility for it. Payments for windshield tinting and any necessary removals when returning a leased vehicle must be handled with the Xpel dealer directly.

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  • Robotaxi Remains Tesla’s Cheapest Car Amid Model 3, Y Price Cuts

    Robotaxi Remains Tesla’s Cheapest Car Amid Model 3, Y Price Cuts

    Tesla has decided to abandon the idea of the Model 2, which was intended to be its most budget-friendly vehicle, with a starting price of around $25,000 after incentives.

    Instead of launching this vehicle in 2026 as earlier speculated, Tesla will now focus on introducing the fully autonomous Robotaxi, which will fall within that same price bracket.

    Elon Musk’s Insights

    During the Q3 earnings call, Elon Musk stated that offering a Model 2 would be “pointless” since the company is moving forward with the autonomous Robotaxi, which he mentioned would be priced below $30,000. However, it isn’t clear if this figure refers to the price before or after incentives. Musk mentioned, “it’ll cost on the order of roughly $25,000, so it is a $25,000 car,” implying it might be after federal tax credits and other incentives.

    Earlier in the call, he indicated that the Robotaxi’s price would be “with incentive sub-30k, which is kind of a key threshold.” This means that a $25,000 price point fits well within that range, making both statements appear to align with each other.

    Comparison to Current Models

    Moreover, Tesla currently has a vehicle that is somewhat under $30,000; the base Model 3 RWD is priced at $29,990 after “estimated incentives of $7,500 and 5-year gas savings of $5,000.” Since similar incentives will apply to the Robotaxi, Tesla would need to price it significantly lower than the Model 3, making the $25,000 price tag more reasonable. Given that the Robotaxi will feature only two seats and a compact 40 kWh battery offering a 200-mile range, its production costs are expected to be less than those of a Model 3, making a post-incentive price of $25,000 quite feasible.

    Elon also mentioned that the manufacturing speed of the Robotaxi/Cybercab will surpass anything currently available, which will further help to cut down its per-unit costs:

    “It’s especially not just a revolutionary vehicle design, but a revolution in vehicle manufacturing that is also coming with the Cybercab. The cycle time, like, the, the units per hour of the Cybercab line is – like, this is just really something special. I mean, this is probably a half order of magnitude better than other car manufacturing lines. Like not in the same league is what I’m saying.”

    Future Strategies

    This is why, rather than introducing an inexpensive Model 2, Tesla will aim to reduce the prices of its popular vehicles such as the Model Y and Model 3. The anticipated $25,000-$30,000 price range will be filled by the Robotaxi.

    Lars Moravy, Tesla’s engineering head, also expressed that the company’s “mission has always been to lower the cost of our vehicles to increase the adoption of sustainable energy and transport,” emphasizing that “part of that is lowering the cost for current vehicles.”

    To achieve this, Tesla aims to produce the most affordable EV batteries in the US next year, which could lead to lower prices for the Model 3 and Model Y. Reports indicate that Tesla is working on four different 4680 battery designs using a cost-saving dry cathode method for the Cybertruck, Model Y, Model 3, and ultimately, the Robotaxi, ensuring they remain competitive in pricing.

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  • Elon Musk’s Government Role Could Speed Up Unsupervised FSD Rollout

    Elon Musk’s Government Role Could Speed Up Unsupervised FSD Rollout

    Elon Musk is gearing up to advocate for national regulations on autonomous vehicles if he secures the position he has been promised within a newly established government efficiency commission.

    During a recent earnings call, the Tesla CEO addressed inquiries regarding his assertion that the company plans to launch unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology next year, although only in two states. Elon hinted at this upcoming FSD rollout when he introduced the driverless Robotaxi, which he stated would be priced below $30,000 by 2026.

    Upcoming FSD Developments

    Before that rollout, however, owners of the Model 3 and Model Y—especially those with HW4—might have the chance to experience real unsupervised self-driving in Texas and California. Tesla’s reasoning for targeting these two states for an unsupervised FSD launch in 2025 is quite distinct.

    Texas was chosen by Tesla due to its more flexible regulatory stance, while California, despite its complex regulations, already has a framework for autonomous vehicle permits through companies like Waymo. As Tesla’s Lars Moravy points out:

    "All of our vehicles currently produced and capable of autonomy comply with all regulations; even the Cybertruck conforms to these rules. Our challenge is not the vehicle itself but the state-level regulations controlling autonomous vehicle deployment. Some states, like Texas, are relatively straightforward. Others, such as California, might require more time. Some haven’t established any regulations yet, so we will navigate this on a state-by-state basis."

    Plans for Expansion

    After launching unsupervised FSD in these initial states, Tesla intends to seek approval in additional states by the close of 2025. According to Tesla, states began exploring these regulations back in 2017, but progress has since "stalled." This means Tesla will have to engage with each individual state to promote the adoption of autonomous vehicles.

    Musk believes that the introduction of unsupervised FSD could happen much quicker if regulations are enacted at the federal level. This is what he plans to focus on if he is appointed to lead the government efficiency role after the elections.

    "There ought to be a national approval system for autonomous vehicles. That’s how the FMVSS operates. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) is federal. It’s crucial to have a national approval. The government efficiency department should help facilitate this. And this is for everyone, not just Tesla. In the U.S., some matters, like insurance, are regulated state by state, which is incredibly cumbersome across 50 states. I believe we need a natural approval process for autonomous technologies."

    What Musk means by the department of government efficiency is the federal commission that a new presidential administration might establish.

    Elon has already shown interest in advising this efficiency commission, even if in an unofficial capacity. Transitioning regulations for autonomous vehicles to the federal level could be a key initiative he aims to promote there.

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  • Ford CEO loves his Xiaomi SU7 and doesn’t want to part with it

    Ford CEO loves his Xiaomi SU7 and doesn’t want to part with it

    In a surprising twist, CEO Jim Farley of Ford Motor Company recently disclosed on the Everything Electric Show podcast that he has been driving a Xiaomi SU7 for the past six months, rather than a Ford vehicle. This electric sedan comes from the Chinese tech powerhouse Xiaomi.

    Unexpected Choices

    Farley, who is typically focused on Ford’s electrification efforts, usually prefers not to talk about rival companies. However, his time spent with the SU7 led him to share his impressions. “We flew one from Shanghai to Chicago and I’ve been driving it for six months now, and I don’t want to give it up,” he commented during the podcast.

    Impressive Sales

    “It’s fantastic. They sell 10,000, 20,000 a month. They’re sold out for six months,” Farley mentioned, highlighting Xiaomi’s remarkable sales performance with the SU7 earlier in the discussion.

    Xiaomi’s Bold Move

    The SU7 marks Xiaomi’s first foray into the automotive world! The firm, primarily recognized for its success in smartphones and electronics, made its entry into the electric vehicle market back in 2021. The SU7, their initial model, launched this year, is a full-size sedan with a competitive price tag around $30,000. Despite being affordable, the vehicle is equipped with impressive features such as air suspension, adaptive dampers, and active aerodynamics—each enhancing the driving experience.

    Moreover, Xiaomi’s in-house Level 2 and NoA (navigate on autopilot) system provides added convenience, although its certification is presently limited to just 100 cities in China.

    Phenomenal Demand

    The SU7 has gained phenomenal popularity in China. Remarkably, the entire 2024 production was sold out on its first day, with Xiaomi asserting they pre-sold 100,000 units even before the first car left the factory.

    While testing rival cars is common in the car industry, Farley’s enthusiastic endorsement of the SU7 is significant, especially as he usually avoids discussing competitors. This may indicate a potential change in Ford’s approach as they adjust to the increasingly competitive EV landscape that is being shaped by assertive Chinese firms like BYD.

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  • Tesla Offers Free HW4 Upgrade if HW3 Can’t Run FSD Unsupervised

    Tesla Offers Free HW4 Upgrade if HW3 Can’t Run FSD Unsupervised

    According to Elon Musk, the FSD Hardware 3.0 kits can actually be upgraded to the more powerful Hardware 4.0 set of processing power.

    Upgrade Possibilities

    In fact, Tesla will need to do this if it finds it can’t get the HW3 computers to operate the unsupervised FSD edition that is set to release next year. During the Q3 earnings call, Elon Musk announced that older Tesla vehicles equipped with HW3 kits would receive free HW4 retrofits if they can’t run the expected unsupervised FSD that will come with the v13 update.

    Details of the FSD Release

    Elon made this remark shortly after Tesla’s new AI chief, Ashok Elluswamy, explained that FSD 13 and its unsupervised version would initially be available for newer vehicles using HW4, and then "backwarded" to HW3 cars. The rationale behind this approach is that the computers in Hardware 4.0 are significantly more capable of handling the complex AI calculations necessary for the FSD’s functionality.

    Hardware 4 indeed has multiple times the capability of Hardware 3. It’s much simpler to work with, and trying to make things work on Hardware 3 is a lot more challenging. There is also a risk that Hardware 3 may not meet the safety standards required for unsupervised FSD. If that becomes a reality, we will upgrade those who purchased Hardware 3 FSD for free, as the system has been designed to be upgradable.

    Future FSD Versions

    Tesla appears to have already considered this possibility, and Elon believes that simply replacing the HW3 computer with the more advanced HW4 unit could allow unsupervised FSD to operate on older vehicles. The cameras, he mentioned, are "capable" enough, meaning there’s no need for replacements.

    Tesla has previously done something similar with the current FSD v12.5, launching it for HW4 vehicles first and then adapting the code for HW3 cars. However, the unsupervised FSD version is expected to have stricter safety requirements. If the older computers can’t handle it, "we’ll make sure we take care of those who have bought FSD on Hardware 3," Elon assured.

    Final Thoughts

    Past teardowns of Hardware 4.0 suggested that retrofitting it to Hardware 3.0 vehicles isn’t straightforward, but if Tesla only needs to swap out the computer to enable future FSD versions for older cars, this might be as simple as a quick service center visit.

    It’s worth noting that unsupervised FSD is only set to launch in Texas and California next year, and then will expand state by state based on regulatory approvals. This gives Tesla ample time to ensure HW3 vehicle owners are taken care of.

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  • Tesla to Launch Affordable EV Battery with 4680 Cell Technology

    Tesla to Launch Affordable EV Battery with 4680 Cell Technology

    Tesla is set to outfit all of its top-selling cars in the US with unique 4680 battery cells produced in its own facilities. The company is now optimistic about its ability to create the most affordable EV batteries in the country.

    Future Battery Variants

    There are plans for four distinct types of 4680 battery packs, similar to the ones being manufactured for the Cybertruck, which are expected to be ready for production by 2025. The additional versions will be specifically designed for a 40 kWh battery that will support the 200-mile range of the soon-to-be-released Robotaxi, along with the popular Model 3 and Model Y, which Tesla sells in high volumes.

    Production Challenges

    Earlier this year, the mass production of 4680 batteries at Tesla was not going as smoothly as anticipated. In fact, Elon Musk had to let go of the head of Tesla’s battery division and the individual in charge of expanding 4680 production at Giga Texas because their approach was too slow. During the annual shareholder meeting, Musk even remarked that should Tesla fail to reduce the production costs of the 4680 battery to match those of its suppliers by the year’s end, it would consider obtaining them from Panasonic or LG instead.

    New Leadership and Breakthroughs

    Tesla has since appointed Bonne Eggleston as the new leader of the 4680 battery development team, who set ambitious production targets right from the start. Just a few months later, Tesla made a significant breakthrough with the 4680 battery and showcased its first Cybertruck equipped with factory cells created using the least expensive dry cathode technique.

    Now, Tesla is prepared to mass-produce dry cathode batteries by 2025 and may achieve its previously stated goal of a 50% reduction in costs, which was highlighted on Battery Day in 2020. Elon Musk mentioned during the Q3 earnings call that the Tesla-manufactured 4680 cells will likely become part of the lowest-priced battery packs ever made in the US, especially when factoring in import duties on supplier cells and the federal incentive of $45 per kWh for domestically produced batteries.

    This could enable Tesla to potentially bring vehicle prices below the $30,000 threshold, Musk noted, although he clarified that Tesla will continue to order a significant amount from its suppliers as its vehicle and energy storage divisions expand.

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  • Tesla Pursues Robotaxi Launch with FSD Regulatory Approval

    Tesla Pursues Robotaxi Launch with FSD Regulatory Approval

    After receiving certification from Chinese officials as a safe handler of personal data, Tesla has been given the green light to set up data centers and offer online processing along with content distribution networks. This is crucial to meet the Chinese government’s demand that all data collected from citizens, including information from the future Full Self-Driving service analytics, remains within the country and is kept secure.

    Pilot Testing in China

    Currently, Tesla is conducting pilot Full Self-Driving (FSD) tests with Model Y cars in China. They must submit their findings to regulators in order to persuade them to approve FSD for use in the largest car market in the world. The Chinese government aims to demonstrate that it welcomes such services from foreign firms, and local officials have stated that Tesla’s driver-assistance features will enhance the autonomous driving landscape in the country, encouraging collaboration among companies and increasing public acceptance.

    Competition and Local Developments

    Local competitors like Xpeng have also expressed that the introduction of Tesla’s FSD in China would be beneficial for everyone involved. However, Xpeng has a significant advantage, as it will be the first domestic company to receive approval for a self-driving feature in major cities this quarter, due to its new P7+ sedan. In contrast, Tesla’s FSD approval in China is expected to occur no sooner than next year.

    Despite the challenges, Tesla is making efforts to meet all regulatory demands in China and in the United States, where they are eager to roll out unsupervised FSD next year in both Texas and California, and aim to obtain a Robotaxi permit by 2026.

    Testing Partnership with Palo Alto

    Tesla is now seeking permission from the Palo Alto local government to use its streets as a test area for the Robotaxi launch. Meghan Horrigan-Taylor, a spokesperson for the city, reported that discussions are underway regarding a partnership for testing Robotaxi services with Tesla.

    Tesla’s decision to approach regulators makes sense, especially since it opened its new global engineering and AI headquarters in Palo Alto last year. A permit to test driverless Robotaxis on city streets would be quite convenient for them.

    Moreover, the city stands to gain, as its Palo Alto Link service, which offers low-cost or free rides to residents, is currently facing financial difficulties. During the Robotaxi reveal, Elon Musk mentioned that rides could cost as little as $0.30 per mile, factoring in all expenses, making a test fleet of Robotaxis appealing for the Palo Alto city council.

    Regulatory Hurdles Ahead

    However, the city’s spokesperson reminded that the ultimate decision rests with the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Department of Motor Vehicles, which will evaluate the safety and readiness of autonomous vehicles for public roads. Therefore, Tesla will still need to convince regulators to make its Robotaxi operation legal on the streets of Palo Alto.

    China Daily, Palo Alto.

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  • Police Departments Share Mixed Views on EVs as Patrol Cars

    Police Departments Share Mixed Views on EVs as Patrol Cars

    Over the past year, three police departments that switched to electric police vehicles have shared their mixed experiences with these purchases. While Teslas performed poorly in actual patrol situations, Fords showed better results. The insights gained from these departments can assist others in avoiding the purchase of EVs that are not ideal for police duties.

    Specialized Vehicle Needs

    Police cars are typically modified versions of SUVs and sedans provided by manufacturers, but some are just regular vehicles that have been adapted. These cars come with tough tires, high-capacity batteries, additional lights, enhanced cooling systems, stronger shocks, and robust engines, all aimed at helping officers chase down suspects in any conditions. They are also equipped with police terminals, cameras, barriers for rear seats, waterproof seating, gun mounts, and sometimes even bulletproof features, all of which add weight and limit the space inside for officers who carry body armor and gear, along with transporting suspects.

    Challenges with Tesla Models

    Two departments that incorporated Teslas encountered multiple issues when using them as patrol cars. The Ukiah Police Department, located in Northern California, reported that their Tesla Model 3s had notable downsides. One major problem was the small rear seats, which could only accommodate one prisoner. Additionally, the front seats were cramped, making it hard for officers to exit the vehicle comfortably. They also faced long charging times, which could lead to hours of waiting at charging stations during long prisoner transports. Each modified Tesla 3 ended up costing around $150,000.

    The Menlo Park Police Department, situated a few hours south of Ukiah, noticed similar issues with their Tesla Model Ys. A key disadvantage was the inefficiency stemming from the vehicle’s software. Officers reported that the Teslas would unexpectedly stop while pulling over cars, due to the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that could not be turned off. This posed challenges during chases. Additionally, the vehicle would automatically lock its doors when the officer with the key walked away, wasting critical time if they needed to return quickly. The touch controls also required multiple taps to turn off lights, which hindered stealthy operations.

    Ford’s Different Experience

    The Fort Bragg Police Department, located an hour north of Ukiah, opted for the Ford F-150 Lightning EV. They faced issues primarily due to the officers’ unfamiliarity with EV charging. This led to a situation where officers were late to an event because they chose a slow Level 1 charging station instead of looking for faster Level 2 or higher options. A 600-mile test using quicker charging stations still required 1.5 hours of wait time for battery recharges.

    Another drawback involved limited range in hilly areas. A couple of trips to the local jail, which is 55 miles away, utilized 80% of the battery. The range of EVs can also decrease significantly in cold weather. Lastly, the department faced challenges finding transformers necessary for installing fast chargers at their station. They reported that the required transformer is delayed by a year due to supply chain problems, forcing them to rely on Level 1 charging.

    Police departments need to think carefully about whether the charging infrastructure, range, or features of pricier EVs fit their requirements, especially when considering additional armor. Aspiring officers wanting to catch criminals can prepare for their police exam by looking for study guides on platforms like Amazon.

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  • Tesla Launches New Wireless Portable Charger in More Countries

    Tesla Launches New Wireless Portable Charger in More Countries

    Tesla is expanding the availability of its new Wireless Portable Charger to additional nations. Initially, the accessory was seen in the United States and Canada. Now, the product has listings in various EU countries, such as the Netherlands, France, and Spain.

    Charging Capabilities

    This Wireless Portable Charger lets users charge two Qi-compatible devices at the same time. The front pad has an output of up to 7.5W and features a magnet to keep your device secure, even if the top part is tilted upward. Beneath this first pad is a second pad, which has an Alcantara finish. It’s important to note that the total maximum output is 5V/3A. Along with the charging pads, there’s a built-in USB-C charging cable that can be found on the right side of the device.

    Power Bank Features

    With a capacity of 5000mAh and 19.3Wh, the power bank can be recharged using the USB-C cable or wirelessly from a Tesla electric vehicle’s charging pad. The accessory is designed to be lightweight and is available in three color options: black, rose gold, and white. The Tesla Wireless Portable Charger is priced at $95/CA$130/€99. It remains uncertain if or when this device will be available in the UK.

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