Category: EV vehicles

  • Hyundai Ioniq 6 N vs Model 3 Performance: V8 Sounds, Slower Speed

    Hyundai Ioniq 6 N vs Model 3 Performance: V8 Sounds, Slower Speed

    Key Takeaways

    Performance Comparison: The Ioniq 6 N has 650 HP but is slower (0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds) and likely has a shorter range than Tesla’s Model 3 Performance (501 HP, 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds).

    Charging Speed and Size: The Ioniq 6 N offers faster charging (10% to 80% in 18 minutes with 350+ kW charger) despite being larger and heavier than the Model 3 Performance.

    Unique Features: The Ioniq 6 N includes Active Sound and e-Shift technologies, allowing drivers to choose engine sounds and has improved handling with new stroke sensing dampers.

    Pricing Information: The US price is not yet announced, but the Ioniq 6 N is expected to cost around £65,000 in the UK with a launch anticipated in early 2026.

    Estimated Range: The Ioniq 6 N is expected to have an estimated range of about 291 miles based on local standards.


    After the previous model won EV of the year in 2024, Hyundai has unveiled the impressive Ioniq 6 N sports sedan, ready to compete against the Tesla Model 3 Performance.

    Performance Comparison

    The Ioniq 6 N boasts 650 HP, but it is slower and likely has a shorter range on a single charge, along with a higher cost compared to Tesla’s 501 HP Performance sedan. The new dual-motor Ioniq 6 N can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, which is a tad slower than the Model 3 Performance’s 2.9 seconds, even with its more powerful engine and the larger 84 kWh battery.

    Charging Speed and Size

    Despite being larger and heavier than the Model 3 Performance, the sporty Hyundai Ioniq 6 N offers much quicker charging capabilities. With an appropriate 350+ kW charger, like Tesla’s V4 Superchargers, it can charge from 10% to 80% in merely 18 minutes. Hyundai’s EVs have shown to have a better charging curve when compared to Tesla’s vehicles, even those built on an 800V architecture, like the Cybertruck.

    Unique Features

    One of the most exciting aspects of the Ioniq 6 N is its blend of Active Sound and e-Shift technologies, designed to mimic the experience of driving a real internal combustion engine racer. Drivers can pick from various sounds, including a traditional V8 rumble with the Ignition option, Evolution’s EV heritage tones, or the futuristic sounds of the Lightspeed selection.

    Hyundai claims they have revamped the chassis and suspension to improve handling, introducing new stroke sensing dampers that work well for both easy commutes and thrilling racetrack adventures.

    Pricing Information

    While the price of the Ioniq 6 N in the US is still under wraps, it is anticipated to cost around £65,000 in the UK upon its launch, expected in early 2026, with an estimated range of about 291 miles on local standards.

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  • Xiaomi YU7 Ultra with Camo Wrap and Performance Build Revealed

    Xiaomi YU7 Ultra with Camo Wrap and Performance Build Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is set to launch the YU7 Ultra, a new version of its electric SUV, following the success of the SU7 Ultra supercar.
    2. The YU7 Ultra has been spotted with design features similar to the first YU7, including larger air intakes and flared wheel arches.
    3. The YU7 Ultra may produce up to 1,548 horsepower and 1,770 Nm of torque, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.5 seconds.
    4. The vehicle is expected to use the same platform as the SU7 Ultra, potentially featuring a 93.7 kWh battery.
    5. Xiaomi is currently facing production challenges with the standard YU7 and is rumored to be developing a larger model, the YU9, to expand its SUV lineup.


    Xiaomi has made waves in the supercar world with the Ultra edition of its SU7, and now, it seems like the company is set to shake things up in the SUV segment too, with a new version of the YU7 on the horizon.

    Sightings of the YU7 Ultra

    According to ChinaEVHome, the upcoming model has been spotted in the wild, although it was obscured by anti-leak camouflage during the sighting. Despite this, it is still clear that the vehicle shares similarities with Xiaomi’s first electric SUV, but with some noticeable differences, including larger air intakes and possibly the same flared wheel arches seen in the SU7 Ultra, as noted by ChinaEVHome.

    Power and Performance

    The “YU7 Ultra” is expected to utilize the same platform as its counterpart in the SU7 series, which could enable it to produce an impressive output of up to 1,548 horsepower (hp) and torque reaching 1,770 newton-meters (Nm). The vehicle’s acceleration is projected to be astonishing, with a 0-100 kilometers per hour (km/h) time of just 2.5 seconds, particularly if it features the same 93.7 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery as the SU7 Ultra.

    Production Challenges

    In the meantime, Xiaomi appears to be struggling to keep up with orders for the standard version of the YU7. There are also rumors about a larger model, dubbed the “YU9,” which is expected to launch in the near future. This suggests that Xiaomi is looking to expand its offerings in the SUV market, even as it grapples with the challenges of fulfilling current demand.

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  • Tesla Semi Achieves Diesel Truck Performance at 1.55 kWh/mile

    Tesla Semi Achieves Diesel Truck Performance at 1.55 kWh/mile

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tesla Semi averaged 1.55 kWh per mile during road testing on challenging freight routes, including the steep Donner mountain pass.
    2. The Tesla Semi is reported to be three times more powerful than conventional diesel trucks, enabling it to perform well on steep inclines.
    3. Drivers expressed high satisfaction with the Tesla Semi’s cabin comfort, safety features, visibility, and ease of operation.
    4. Tesla is building over 40 charging stations along key freight routes to support the Tesla Semi’s operation.
    5. The latest V4 Superchargers can charge the Semi at speeds exceeding 1 MW, improving the fast-charging network for electric trucks.


    The Tesla Semi electric truck has been evaluated as a fleet vehicle on regular freight routes and has done exceptionally well. The transportation firm ArcBest reported that during three weeks of road testing, the Class 8 electric truck averaged an energy consumption of 1.55 kWh per mile, with routes specifically chosen to include various tough terrains.

    Performance on Challenging Routes

    Among these routes was the notorious Donner mountain pass, known for its steep incline, where the Tesla Semi matched the performance of diesel trucks. This isn’t the Tesla Semi’s first time tackling the Donner Pass; it has previously been seen overtaking diesel vehicles in that area.

    The incline in this mountain pass, which exceeds 7,000 feet in elevation, begins at a 7% grade, and diesel trucks generally struggle to ascend at speeds above 50 mph. Because of this, right-hand lanes have been created for slower trucks in the steeper sections.

    Engine Specs and Power

    Typically, a semi-truck is equipped with a 6-cylinder engine producing around 600 HP and generating 1,850 pounds of torque. In contrast, Tesla asserts that its Semi is three times more powerful than conventional diesel trucks, making it feasible to overtake other vehicles even on long, steep inclines like those found at Donner Pass.

    The freight company put Tesla’s Semi through a test over 4,494 miles, averaging 321 miles a day and using 1.55 kWh of battery per mile. However, for Tesla’s electric truck to be viable for fleet use, according to the company’s president, “it must meet or exceed the performance and total cost of ownership targets of our most efficient diesel units.”

    Driver Satisfaction and Infrastructure Concerns

    It did meet those criteria, and drivers expressed satisfaction with the comfort of the cabin, safety features, visibility, and ease of operation. The only concern that arose during the Tesla Semi trial was regarding the charging infrastructure.

    Currently, Tesla is in the process of constructing over 40 Semi charging stations along important freight routes in the United States. The introduction of its V4 Superchargers will enhance the fast-charging network. The latest generation of Tesla Superchargers is capable of charging at speeds exceeding 1 MW, which is suitable for the Semi, and its design allows for quicker adoption due to its efficient footprint.

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  • 2021 Rimac Nevera: Fastest Accelerating Car, Tesla Roadster Alert

    2021 Rimac Nevera: Fastest Accelerating Car, Tesla Roadster Alert

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Rimac Nevera R accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 1.66 seconds, making it the fastest car in the world.
    2. The Nevera R has broken 24 speed records, confirming its status as the quickest electric car and fastest accelerating car in production.
    3. It achieved a remarkable 0-249-0 mph time of 25.79 seconds, surpassing the previous record by two seconds.
    4. The car is powered by four electric motors producing a total of 2,107 horsepower, with advanced torque vectoring for optimal performance.
    5. Priced at $2.7 million, only 40 units of the Rimac Nevera R will be produced.


    The Rimac Nevera R electric machine has achieved an astonishing 0-60 mph time of just 1.66 seconds, making it the fastest car on the planet.

    While Elon Musk asserts that the Tesla Roadster 2 will reach sub-second acceleration, the CEO of Rimac remains doubtful, suggesting that such a feat might be impossible without the use of boosters.

    Record-Breaking Successor

    The new Rimac Nevera R, which takes over from the previous Nevera model known for its impressive speed records, has now set a new benchmark by breaking 24 speed records. It is now recognized as the fastest accelerating car in production and the quickest electric car in top speed.

    One of the standout achievements is the 0-249-0 MPH time of only 25.79 seconds, surpassing the former record by two seconds. This remarkable feat showcases the car’s unparalleled capabilities.

    Power and Performance

    The Rimac Nevera R is powered by four electric motors that generate a total of 2,107 horsepower. Its advanced torque vectoring system allocates power to each wheel 100 times per second, ensuring optimal traction and performance during exhilarating drives.

    Enhanced aerodynamics and a new wheel design have played a crucial role in achieving these world records, as Rimac utilized these tests to confirm the car’s performance before delivering it to customers. The Nevera R is priced at $2.7 million, with only 40 units being produced in total.

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  • Lifetime EV Emissions 4x Lower Than Diesel and Gas Cars

    Lifetime EV Emissions 4x Lower Than Diesel and Gas Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Electric cars produce 73% fewer greenhouse gases over their lifetime compared to diesel or gasoline vehicles.
    2. Emissions from electric vehicles are lower if charged using renewable energy sources.
    3. The life cycle emissions of mass electric vehicles in Europe are approximately 63 grams of CO2/km, significantly lower than gas and diesel cars at around 234-235 grams CO2/km.
    4. Electric vehicles have become greener faster than previous studies suggested, with lifetime emissions now 24% lower than four years ago.
    5. An electric vehicle must travel about 17,000 kilometers to emit less greenhouse gas than a gasoline vehicle, a threshold that has improved due to advancements in technology and energy sources.


    Electric cars are known to release 73% fewer greenhouse gases throughout their production and lifespan compared to diesel or gasoline vehicles, as per a recent study.

    Battery Production and Emissions

    This finding counters common misconceptions, as it encompasses both the manufacturing of batteries and the emissions associated with charging, taking into account the current and anticipated grid energy mix. If the charging is primarily powered by renewable sources, the emissions from electric vehicles (EVs) are even lower than those from traditional gas vehicles within the same category.

    Emissions Comparison

    The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) reports that mass electric vehicles sold this year in Europe will produce 63 grams of CO2 equivalent per kilometer over their entire life cycle, including production emissions. In contrast, both gas- and diesel-powered cars will have emissions around 234-235 grams of CO2/km.

    Hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles emit 20% and 30% fewer greenhouse gases during their production and operational life, respectively, while the cars running on renewable hydrogen— a relatively rare category— have the lowest emissions. For this study, the ICCT considered the most common production and real-world usage scenarios.

    Life Cycle Emissions

    Failing to factor in anticipated changes in the electricity mix results in an overestimation of the life-cycle emissions for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and a slight increase in emissions for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Moreover, looking solely at a fraction of the average 20-year lifespan of passenger cars in the European Union leads to an overestimation of vehicle and battery production emissions allocated per vehicle kilometer for all types of powertrains, particularly affecting BEVs more than others. At the same time, not accounting for the difference between actual fuel and electricity consumption in real-world settings underestimates the usage phase, thus favoring gasoline, diesel, and natural gas internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in comparison to BEVs and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

    Surprising Findings

    One of the most surprising outcomes for the ICCT was how much greener electric vehicles have become compared to gas cars, achieving this change faster than what was indicated in the previous study, with lifetime emissions now being 24% lower compared to the analysis from four years ago.

    Electric cars do emit 40% more greenhouse gases during their manufacturing process, but the additional emissions, primarily due to battery assembly, are quickly compensated during usage.

    The Green Threshold

    Currently, an electric vehicle needs to travel 17,000 kilometers, or just over 10,500 miles, to surpass the cleanliness of a gasoline vehicle, and this difference continues to grow. Earlier studies had estimated that this green threshold was set at 5,000 miles more, but advancements in battery technology, EV manufacturing techniques, and grid energy mixes are consistently improving the situation.

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  • Electric Car Sets Record with 740+ Miles on 112 kWh Charge

    Electric Car Sets Record with 740+ Miles on 112 kWh Charge

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lucid’s Air Grand Touring set a new world record by achieving over 513 miles on a single charge, officially recognized by Guinness World Records.

    2. The Air Grand Touring, with a 112 kWh battery, demonstrated exceptional efficiency, traveling nearly 750 miles in a real-world test, thanks in part to terrain advantages.

    3. Lucid’s powertrains are among the lightest and most energy-efficient, achieving a record consumption rate of 5 miles per kWh.

    4. In optimal conditions, the Air Grand Touring surpassed 6.68 miles per kWh, highlighting its advanced engineering and efficiency.

    5. Lucid’s accomplishment surpassed the previous world record by nearly 100 miles, reinforcing its reputation for premium electric vehicles.


    Lucid has become the first company to break the 500-mile range limit with its Air GT model, which achieved over 513 miles on just one charge of its 118 kWh battery.

    New Record Set

    Now, it has established a new real-world record for the longest range of an electric car on a single charge with its Air Grand Touring model. This accomplishment has been officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.

    Even thought the Air Grand Touring has a slightly smaller battery at 112 kWh, its extremely efficient drivetrain enabled it to travel almost 750 miles before the battery finally ran out.

    Utilizing Terrain to Achieve Distance

    Lucid took advantage of the elevation difference between the mountainous region of St. Moritz in Switzerland and Munich in Germany to achieve this remarkable mileage. The approximate 4,200-foot elevation change between the start and finish of the journey played a role, but the overall incline was not significant enough to heavily influence the impressive 749 miles (1,205 kilometers) range on a single charge.

    Lucid takes pride in creating some of the lightest and most energy-efficient electric vehicle powertrains, boasting a record of 5 miles per kWh in power consumption. Their latest models, like the Gravity SUV, come equipped with a NACS charging connector, allowing them to be charged directly with the Tesla 48A Wall Connector. The Air Grand Touring stands as Lucid’s longest-range vehicle, certified for 512 miles under the strict EPA testing standards.

    Efficiency in Ideal Conditions

    In optimal conditions, Lucid’s powertrain efficiency can exceed the 5 miles/kWh record. The Air Grand Touring achieved an astounding 6.68 miles per kWh with its 112 kWh battery pack while going slightly downhill during the journey. It would be fascinating to make the same trip in reverse to see how that might impact the overall range on a single charge.

    In this manner, Lucid surpassed the previous Guinness world record by nearly 100 miles, once again proving that it manufactures some of the most premium and well-engineered electric vehicles available, complete with a price tag to match.

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  • BYD to Cover Self-Parking System Damages Without Insurance Claim

    BYD to Cover Self-Parking System Damages Without Insurance Claim

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD takes full responsibility for damages caused by its Eye of God autonomous driving technology, eliminating the need for insurance claims.
    2. The Eye of God assisted driving system is included for free with most BYD vehicles, unlike Tesla’s paid Full Self-Driving feature.
    3. BYD’s new Level 4 self-parking feature is the first to receive certification, allowing passengers to relax while the car parks itself.
    4. BYD has the largest self-driving research team and uses extensive cloud data, with Eye of God already in over a million cars.
    5. BYD’s strategy of offering free autonomous driving technology aims to quickly gather data and improve its features, contrasting with Tesla’s paid model.


    Owners of BYD vehicles that come with the Eye of God autonomous driving technology can now reach out to the company’s customer service instead of having to make an insurance claim for damages that occur while using it.

    BYD’s Assurance

    BYD is stepping up and taking accountability for its new Level 4 self-parking feature, showing strong confidence in how it works. This means drivers won’t need to file insurance claims, and they won’t face higher premiums, which is usually what happens with insurance firms in China.

    “We take full responsibility for the safety and damages of all users of vehicles equipped with God’s Eye in smart parking situations,” stated the largest electric vehicle manufacturer. Their new automated parking feature is the first to earn a Level 4 autonomous driving certification, which allows passengers to relax while it parks, with the manufacturer liable for any accidents.

    Free Features for Customers

    Being the leading electric vehicle producer has advantages, as BYD includes the Eye of God assisted driving system at no extra cost with most of its cars, unlike Tesla, which demands payment for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature.

    BYD has built the largest self-driving research and development team in the market and utilizes a massive amount of cloud data, as God’s Eye is already in over a million of its cars and is offered for free. An extensive update for Eye of God is on the way, which will enhance its functions, from highway driving to the previously mentioned Level 4 autonomous parking.

    Competing Strategies

    Offering the self-driving system for free is a different approach from Tesla’s, which either requires an $8,000 payment for the software or a $99 monthly subscription. BYD is in a race to gather autonomous driving data quickly to keep up with Tesla and others, and providing Eye of God at no cost seems like a smart move to collect data and advance its features towards higher levels of autonomy swiftly.

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  • Anker Solix Electric Vehicle Charger Coming Soon

    Anker Solix Electric Vehicle Charger Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anker is developing a new EV charger called the Solix, model number A5191, with three versions supporting 7.4 kW, 11 kW, and 22 kW charging options.

    2. The Solix charger may feature connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth, allowing remote control via an Anker smartphone app.

    3. It will include a built-in light to show charging status and support a CEE-32A plug for compatibility.

    4. The charger may have RFID card support for identity verification and payment processing, though its target use (home or public) is unclear.

    5. The expected dimensions of the charger are approximately 35.6 × 20.8 × 11.9 cm (~14.0 x 8.2 x 4.7 inches), with no confirmed launch date or pricing information yet.


    Anker is said to be working on a new charger for electric vehicles called the Solix. The brand’s Solix line already features items like the F3000 portable power station, the Solarbank 3 Pro, and the C800 portable power station, which is currently priced at $399 on Amazon.

    New Model Insights

    A report from AnkerInsider on X.com reveals that the upcoming Solix EV charger will carry the model number A5191. Speculation indicates that there will be three different versions, supporting 7.4 kW, 11 kW, and 22 kW charging options. The charger may include connectivity features such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth, allowing users to control it remotely using the Anker smartphone app. Users might be able to set times for charging. There are also hints that the device will include swipe gesture controls for easier operation.

    Features and Compatibility

    The status of the Solix EV charger is expected to be shown through a built-in light, and it will work with a CEE-32A plug. Another feature mentioned is the support for RFID cards, which are commonly used for verifying identity and processing payments at public EV charging stations. It remains uncertain if this charger is designed for personal home use or if it will be aimed at businesses for public access.

    Dimensions and Launch Information

    The anticipated dimensions for the charger are around 35.6 × 20.8 × 11.9 cm (~14.0 x 8.2 x 4.7 inches). There is no information available yet on when the Anker Solix EV charger might be released or what its price will be.

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  • Xiaomi Registers First Electric Car in Germany Before EU Launch

    Xiaomi Registers First Electric Car in Germany Before EU Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is expanding its offerings in Europe beyond smartphones and gadgets, focusing on electric vehicles (EVs).
    2. The company has completed experimental car registration in Germany and plans to launch its EVs in 2027.
    3. Xiaomi’s president, William Lu, test-drove the SU7 Ultra in Munich, indicating readiness for the European market.
    4. The EV division aims to assess demand across Europe while prioritizing the Chinese market initially.
    5. Xiaomi’s EVs, like the YU7 SUV and SU7, have seen significant demand, with thousands of reservations and high monthly sales.


    Xiaomi is preparing to offer more than just smartphones and gadgets in Europe. The brand, which has started making electric vehicles, has now finished an experimental car registration in Germany, gearing up for a launch in 2027.

    Test Drive in Munich

    William Lu, the company’s president, shared a picture of the SU7 Ultra displaying a German license plate on Weibo. He mentioned that he took the electric sedan for a spin in Munich, Germany.

    The license plate reads “M SU7088E,” hinting at the model’s name.

    Plans for European Market

    Earlier this year, Lu indicated that Xiaomi EV, the electric vehicle division of the company, aims to export vehicles by 2027. He also mentioned his intention to travel across European nations to assess the demand for Chinese electric vehicles.

    Months later, Xiaomi’s founder and CEO, Lei Jun, confirmed the expansion strategy. However, Jun noted the company would prioritize the Chinese market before expanding internationally.

    Ambitious EV Goals

    Xiaomi has grand ambitions to grow its EV sector beyond China, following a remarkable entry into the e-mobility sector. The latest electric vehicle, the YU7 SUV, made waves in the automotive industry by receiving over 200,000 reservations just minutes after its debut in the domestic market.

    The SU7 has also exceeded expectations, with sales surpassing 20,000 units each month. Launched in March 2024, it positions itself as a rival to the Tesla Model 3. Its popularity means customers face a waiting time of as long as 41 weeks.

    Xiaomi currently runs one factory in Beijing, capable of producing 150,000 units per year, with plans for future expansion.

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  • Electric Slate Truck Price Rises by $7,500

    Electric Slate Truck Price Rises by $7,500

    Key Takeaways

    1. Slate Auto announced an electric pickup that can transform into a two-door SUV, initially priced under $20,000.
    2. Production of the Slate truck is scheduled for 2026, but the $7,500 federal EV tax credit will expire in September 2025.
    3. The company has updated its expected price to the mid-$20,000 range due to the loss of the tax credit.
    4. Slate Auto faces challenges in reducing costs, as the current battery size and range limitations hinder further cuts.
    5. Despite challenges, Slate Auto received over 100,000 reservations in two weeks, but conversion to actual sales is uncertain without the tax incentive.


    A few months back, there was a big media push from Jeff Bezos’ Slate Auto, which promised an electric pickup that could easily change into a two-door SUV. The standout feature was its price, which was advertised to be under $20,000. However, that now seems quite unlikely due to a new legislation.

    Production Timeline

    The Slate truck is set to begin production in 2026, but that timing is unfortunate since the $7,500 tax credit will end in September 2025. The spending bill was signed into law by President Donald Trump in early July, effectively putting a stop to a federal incentive that aided many Americans in purchasing electric vehicles and allowed companies like Tesla and Rivian to become worth billions.

    Changes in Pricing

    In response, Slate Auto quickly updated its website, removing any mention of the federal EV tax credit. The new wording states, “Expected Price: Mid-Twenties.”

    While the fresh EV maker has not yet revealed the actual price of its electric pickup, it was aiming for a basic model to keep the starting cost in the mid-$20,000 range, which was supposed to drop below $20,000 with the tax credit in place.

    Challenges Ahead

    Slate will face challenges in reducing costs further. For example, cutting down the battery size isn’t a viable option as the entry-level 52.7 kWh battery already offers a rather lackluster range of 150 miles. Plus, the charging speed isn’t very impressive, maxing out at 120 kW. There’s also no center display to remove to save on costs.

    Despite these challenges, the EV startup claims to have garnered over 100,000 reservations within just two weeks. However, only time will tell how many of these reservations will convert into actual deliveries without the federal EV tax credit in play.

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