Category: EV vehicles

  • Tesla’s Revenue Prospects to be Boosted as it Plans to Incorporate TSMC’s 3nm Chips by 2024

    Tesla’s Revenue Prospects to be Boosted as it Plans to Incorporate TSMC’s 3nm Chips by 2024

    Tesla has announced that it will be participating in TSMC’s 3nm NTO chip design finals in the coming year. This move aligns with TSMC’s plans to ramp up its 3nm chip production in 2024 to meet the increasing demand for advanced semiconductor solutions. The inclusion of Tesla as an N3P customer indicates the company’s intention to utilize TSMC’s cutting-edge technology for the production of next-generation Full Self-Driving (FSD) smart driving chips.

    TSMC’s N3P Process

    TSMC has ambitious plans for its N3P process, which is set to begin production in 2024. Compared to the N3E process, N3P aims to achieve a 5% improvement in performance, a 5% to 10% reduction in power consumption, and a significant 1.04 times increase in chip density. TSMC has highlighted that N3P’s performance, power, and area (PPA) metrics, along with its technological maturity, surpass Intel’s 18A process.

    Tesla’s Ongoing Collaboration with TSMC

    This collaboration between Tesla and TSMC is not new, as the electric vehicle manufacturer has previously placed multiple orders with the semiconductor company. These past ventures include the Dojo D1 chip, which utilized the 7nm process, and the HW 4.0 chip, featuring the 5nm process. The addition of Tesla to the N3P customer list signifies a strategic move for both companies.

    Impact on Tesla and TSMC

    Industry analysts predict that this partnership will elevate Tesla to become TSMC’s seventh-largest customer, injecting fresh momentum into TSMC’s revenue growth trajectory. As Tesla continues to lead the automotive industry in innovative technologies, its collaboration with TSMC underscores the crucial role that semiconductor advancements play in shaping the future of electric and autonomous vehicles.

    In conclusion, Tesla’s confirmation of its participation in TSMC’s 3nm NTO chip design finals for the upcoming year highlights the growing demand for advanced semiconductor solutions. The collaboration between the two companies signifies Tesla’s intent to leverage TSMC’s cutting-edge technology for the production of next-generation FSD smart driving chips. This partnership is expected to propel Tesla to become one of TSMC’s top customers, further solidifying its position as a leader in the automotive industry.

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  • China’s Nio ET9 Sedan Marks Striking Luxury EV Market Debut

    China’s Nio ET9 Sedan Marks Striking Luxury EV Market Debut

    Nio’s Audacious Step in the Premium Automobile Sector

    Nio’s Bold Strategy in the Luxury Car Market

    With a price tag hovering around 800,000 yuan (equivalent to $112,151), the introduction of the ET9 by Nio marks a significant leap in ambition and cost for the company. Scheduled for delivery in early 2025, this model directly competes with established luxury hybrid vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, signifying a clear challenge to existing industry norms. The launch of the ET9 underlines a transformative shift in the automotive realm, as Chinese enterprises increasingly dominate the forefront.

    Advanced Features of the ET9

    What distinguishes the ET9 is not solely its price but a vast array of cutting-edge features. Boasting high-performance automotive chips and an innovative suspension system, this model promises to deliver a harmonious blend of power and comfort to its users. The CEO of Nio, William Li, emphasized these technological strides at the Nio Day event, noting that the ET9 embodies the pinnacle of the company’s technological prowess.

    Chinese Auto Manufacturers Elevating their Position in the Value Chain

    This progression aligns with the overarching trend of Chinese automakers swiftly ascending the value chain within the electric vehicle (EV) domain. Intense competition between companies like Nio and its rival BYD against global industry giants is evident. Another noteworthy example is BYD’s Yangwang U8 luxury model, which showcases distinct features like tank turns and "crab walk" capabilities.

    Innovations in EV Technology and Production

    The ET9 from Nio will feature the Shenji autonomous driving chip, purporting to match the potency of four Nvidia Orin chips. Furthermore, the battery of the ET9 boasts an energy density significantly surpassing that of the average EV. These advancements not only enhance the luxury appeal of the vehicle but also underscore China’s expanding prowess in EV technology and manufacturing.

    Expanding Infrastructure to Foster a Comprehensive EV Ecosystem

    By planning additional battery-swap stations, Nio is expanding its infrastructure to address range anxiety for EV drivers, offering a convenient and effective solution. Moreover, the strategic partnerships forged by Nio emphasize the company’s dedication to nurturing a holistic EV ecosystem.

    In Conclusion

    In conclusion, the unveiling of Nio’s ET9 marks a daring foray into the luxury car market, epitomizing both opulence and technological innovation. With its state-of-the-art features and high-performance automotive chips, the ET9 competes head-on with established luxury hybrid models. This development mirrors the evolving landscape of Chinese automakers in the global EV industry, showcasing China’s expanding expertise in EV technology and manufacturing.

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  • JD.com and Tesla to Unveil Exclusive Partnership Announcement on December 31

    JD.com and Tesla to Unveil Exclusive Partnership Announcement on December 31

    In a strategic move that has left automotive enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation, JD.com and Tesla have officially announced a joint venture set to be unveiled on December 31st. The excitement was sparked when JD.com, the Chinese E-commerce giant, released a promotional poster, cryptically stating, “See you on December 31,” and tagged Tesla’s official Weibo account. Tesla responded in kind, further fueling speculation about a major revelation on the horizon.

    JD.com and Tesla Join Forces

    JD.com, one of China's largest online retailers, and Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, have joined forces to establish a new partnership. The details of this collaboration are set to be revealed on December 31st, generating great excitement among automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

    A Cryptic Poster Fuels Speculation

    The anticipation surrounding this joint venture reached new heights when JD.com released a promotional poster, featuring the enigmatic message, "See you on December 31," along with a tag to Tesla's official Weibo account. This move immediately ignited speculation about what the two companies have in store for their fans and customers.

    Tesla's Response Adds to the Excitement

    Responding to JD.com's teaser, Tesla reciprocated the enthusiasm, further fueling the speculation surrounding the upcoming announcement. The exchange between the two companies has only intensified the anticipation, leaving enthusiasts eagerly counting down the days until December 31st.

    While the exact nature of the joint venture remains a mystery, many are speculating that it could involve collaboration in the electric vehicle market or an innovative partnership to revolutionize the online car shopping experience. Both JD.com and Tesla have a reputation for pushing boundaries and embracing innovation, making this collaboration even more intriguing.

    Conclusion

    With the official announcement of a joint venture between JD.com and Tesla scheduled for December 31st, automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of this exciting partnership. The cryptic teaser from JD.com and Tesla's enthusiastic response have sparked intense speculation about what the two companies have in store. As the countdown continues, all eyes are on December 31st to see what innovative developments will emerge from this collaboration.

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  • Lucid Motors Readies to Rival Tesla with Affordable $50,000 Electric Vehicle

    Lucid Motors Readies to Rival Tesla with Affordable $50,000 Electric Vehicle

    Lucid Motors, the well-known manufacturer of premium electric vehicles, has announced its plans to enter the mid-sized electric car market with a $50,000 vehicle. This strategic move positions the California-based company as a direct competitor to Tesla, specifically targeting the market dominated by Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y.

    Transitioning from luxury to more affordable models is a common path for emerging car companies. Lucid, which initially focused on high-end electric vehicles such as the $80,000 Air sedan and the $249,000 Air Sapphire, is now shifting its attention to the more mainstream segment of everyday family cars. This shift is significant, especially considering the recent statement made by Lucid's CEO, Peter Rawlinson, about the company's intention to compete in the high-volume family car market.

    One advantage that Lucid brings to this new venture is its expertise in battery technology. Having started as a battery company, Lucid can leverage its knowledge to offer superior range in its upcoming models. This is a crucial factor for many electric vehicle buyers, as range anxiety remains a common concern.

    Furthermore, Lucid can learn from Tesla's experiences, particularly in terms of quality control. Early Tesla models, such as the Model 3 and Model Y, faced criticisms over minor quality issues. Lucid has the opportunity to address these issues from the start and set a new standard in electric vehicle build quality.

    However, entering this competitive market segment will not be without challenges for Lucid. Tesla and other established automakers already have a strong presence in the mid-sized electric car market. To truly stand out, Lucid will need to find the right balance between affordability, quality, and range.

    In conclusion, Lucid Motors is making a bold move by entering the mid-sized electric car market with a $50,000 vehicle. Leveraging its expertise in battery technology and learning from Tesla's experiences, Lucid has the potential to carve out a significant market share. However, the company will need to overcome the challenges posed by established competitors to establish itself as a prominent player in the segment.

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  • January 5 marks the global launch of Geely Galaxy E8

    January 5 marks the global launch of Geely Galaxy E8

    Geely Announces Global Launch Conference for Galaxy E8 Electric Sedan

    Automotive manufacturer Geely has officially announced the global launch conference for its highly anticipated medium and large pure electric sedan, the Galaxy E8. The event is scheduled for January 5, 2024, following the launch of pre-orders on December 16.

    Five Distinct Configurations

    The Galaxy E8 boasts five distinct configurations with tons of features:

    • 550km PRO
    • 550km MAX
    • 665km Starship Voyage Edition
    • 665km Starship Intelligent Driving Edition
    • 620km Starship Performance Edition

    With a pre-order price starting from 188,000 yuan, the vehicle is set to make a significant impact in the electric car market.

    Customization Options and Impressive Specifications

    As the flagship model of Geely Galaxy’s “Smart Pure Electric E Series,” the E8 is constructed on Geely Group’s SEA vast architecture. It offers an array of customization options, including six body colors and two interior color choices. The car’s dimensions measure 5010mm in length, 1920mm in width, and 1465mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2925mm and an impressive drag coefficient of 0.199Cd.

    Groundbreaking 45-Inch Smart Screen

    One of the standout features of the Galaxy E8 is its groundbreaking 45-inch smart screen, the largest of its kind globally. The screen, with an effective display area of 1130 * 138 mm, is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 flagship cockpit chip and seamlessly integrates with Flyme Link. This allows for connectivity with Meizu 21, supporting functions such as three-finger task transfer and address transfer to the car.

    Battery Options for Different Driving Needs

    To cater to different preferences and driving needs, the Galaxy E8 offers 62kWh and 76kWh battery options, providing cruising ranges of 550km, 665km, and 620km.

    Overall, the Geely Galaxy E8 is set to make a splash in the electric car market with its impressive specifications, customization options, and groundbreaking features. The global launch conference on January 5, 2024, will mark the official introduction of this highly anticipated electric sedan.

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  • Uber Eats and Gogoro Team Up in Taiwan for Environmentally-friendly Food Delivery

    Uber Eats and Gogoro Team Up in Taiwan for Environmentally-friendly Food Delivery

    Uber Eats and Gogoro Partner to Prioritize Sustainability in Food Delivery

    In today’s world, convenience is key, and food delivery services like Uber Eats have become a staple in many households. These services bring our favorite meals right to our doorstep, making it a luxury that we have come to rely on in our daily lives. However, it is important to consider how these deliveries are made, especially when it comes to the impact on the environment.

    That’s where the innovative partnership between Uber Eats and Gogoro in Taiwan comes into play. This collaboration is not just a simple business deal; it is a game-changer in the way food is delivered. With a significant investment of around $30 million, this partnership is shaking up the delivery scene by prioritizing sustainability.

    Gogoro, a company known for its smart electric scooters and unique battery swapping system, is at the forefront of this green revolution. Through this partnership, Uber Eats couriers in Taiwan are offered special deals on these eco-friendly scooters and have easy access to battery stations. This is a significant development because it takes a step towards cleaner city air and a healthier environment.

    By utilizing electric scooters for deliveries, every meal transported contributes to reducing the number of gas-guzzling bikes on the road. This translates to less pollution and a cleaner Taiwan. The goal is to double the percentage of electric deliveries from 20% to 40% by 2025. While ambitious, this target seems attainable with over 600,000 Gogoro riders already in Taiwan and a large number of available batteries.

    Not only is this move beneficial for the planet, but it also makes sense for the couriers themselves. Electric scooters are easier to maintain, cheaper to run, and more user-friendly. Additionally, swapping a battery is a quicker process compared to refueling a tank. It’s a win-win situation for both the environment and the couriers.

    The next time you order a meal from Uber Eats, take a moment to think about the journey it has made. Thanks to partnerships like this one, even your late-night snack can contribute to reducing emissions and paving the way for a greener future in food delivery. It’s certainly food for thought!

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  • New Megapack Battery Factory Establishes Tesla’s Expanding Presence in Shanghai

    New Megapack Battery Factory Establishes Tesla’s Expanding Presence in Shanghai

    Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle (EV) and clean energy company, is expanding its presence in China by purchasing land in Shanghai for a new factory dedicated to producing its Megapack large-scale batteries. This move signifies Tesla’s commitment to China’s growing new-energy market and its strategic expansion beyond electric cars.

    Tesla’s Focus on Energy Storage Solutions

    The new factory in Shanghai, which will be located in the Lingang free-trade zone, will be Tesla’s first facility outside the US solely focused on energy-storage batteries. By venturing into energy storage, Tesla aims to not only lead in electric vehicle production but also in providing solutions for energy storage needs. Their Megapack batteries, with the capability to power 3,600 homes for one hour, play a crucial role in addressing the increasing demand for energy storage, an essential component of the renewable energy landscape.

    Competing in China’s EV Market

    Interestingly, Tesla’s decision to expand its energy storage operations in China comes at a time when the EV market in the country is experiencing rapid growth and heightened competition. While Tesla has been a dominant player in China’s premium EV segment, local Chinese companies such as Li Auto and Xpeng are quickly catching up. These companies have been breaking monthly sales records and offering stiff competition to Tesla.

    Strategic Response to China’s New-Energy Sector

    The construction of the Megapack factory is a strategic response by Tesla to not only solidify its position in the EV market but also to tap into the broader new-energy sector in China. With the country’s ambitious goals of achieving peak carbon emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060, there is a significant opportunity for Tesla’s energy storage products. By localizing production, Tesla can better serve the Chinese market and also export these products to other countries. This latest move positions Tesla as a key player in the green energy revolution, as the world increasingly shifts towards renewable energy and sustainable practices.

    Conclusion

    Tesla’s purchase of land in Shanghai for a new Megapack factory demonstrates its commitment to expanding its presence in China’s new-energy market. By focusing on energy storage solutions, Tesla aims to address the growing demand for energy storage and solidify its position as a leader in the renewable energy landscape. With competition intensifying in China’s EV market, this strategic move allows Tesla to maintain its dominance while also capitalizing on the broader new-energy sector. As the world transitions to greener energy practices, Tesla’s expansion positions the company at the forefront of the green energy revolution.

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  • Founder of Nikola fined $1 million and given a four-year prison sentence for fraudulent activities connected to the company’s vaporware electric truck

    Founder of Nikola fined $1 million and given a four-year prison sentence for fraudulent activities connected to the company’s vaporware electric truck

    Nikola Founder Sentenced to Jail in Fraud Case

    Former CEO of Nikola, Trevor Milton, has been sentenced to four years in jail for his involvement in a fraud case related to the electric truck manufacturer. Milton had falsely claimed that Nikola had developed its vehicle from scratch, leading investors to believe in the company's technology. In addition to the prison sentence, Milton has also been ordered to pay a fine of $1 million.

    False Claims and Accusations

    The fraud case, which took place in the United States, accused Milton of providing misleading information about Nikola's capabilities. One of the false claims made by Milton was that the company had built the Nikola One electric truck from the ground up. The prosecution also accused him of staging a video that purportedly showed the truck driving under its own power, when in reality it was rolling down a hill.

    Rise and Fall of Nikola

    Founded in 2015, Nikola aimed to produce zero-emission big rigs using hydrogen fuel cell technology. The company gained attention when General Motors announced its plans to acquire an 11% equity stake in Nikola in 2020. GM also committed to assisting Nikola in manufacturing its battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. However, Nikola's upward trajectory came to a halt when Hindenburg Research released a report accusing Milton of fraud, including the deceptive video of the Nikola One truck. The report also alleged that Milton falsely claimed to produce hydrogen fuels at below-market rates and obtained billions of dollars in truck orders.

    Consequences and Fallout

    The damning report from Hindenburg Research had severe consequences for Nikola. General Motors quickly withdrew from its planned equity purchase, and Milton stepped down as the board chair and CEO. The report also triggered a federal investigation, leading to Milton's arrest. As a result of the crisis, Nikola scaled down its operations, and in 2021, it halted work on its electric ATV and motorboat project. The discontinuation of these projects is estimated to have cost Nikola around $14 million.

    No Official Response Yet

    As of now, neither Nikola nor Trevor Milton has issued an official response to the fraud case ruling. It remains to be seen if there will be further developments in this case.

    Please note that the information provided in this article is based on the original text and does not reflect the views or opinions of the writer.

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  • Impressive 291-Mile Range: Surprise Show by Rolls-Royce Spectre

    Impressive 291-Mile Range: Surprise Show by Rolls-Royce Spectre

    Surpassing Expectations: The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre

    Exceptional Range Achievement:
    The all-electric luxury vehicle, Rolls-Royce Spectre, has defied expectations by achieving remarkable EPA range figures. Equipped with 22-inch wheels, it can travel an impressive 291 miles on a single charge, significantly surpassing the initial projection of 260+ miles. However, it does fall short of the anticipated 323-mile range adhering to Europe’s WLTP standards.

    Diverse Variants Highlighting Unique Characteristics

    The Spectre presents itself in four distinct variants:

    • 22-inch wheels: Showcasing a range of 291 miles
    • 23-inch wheels: Offering a range of 266 miles
    • Black Badge with 22-inch wheels: Delivering a range of 280 miles
    • Black Badge with 23-inch wheels: Providing a range of 264 miles

    Embracing a Unified Battery System and Swift Charging Capability

    The Spectre relies on a 102-kilowatt-hour battery, which it shares with the BMW i7 model. It is proficient in fast charging and can reach an impressive 80% capacity within a mere 34 minutes.

    Performance Excellence and Acceleration Prowess

    Boasting a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain, the Spectre delivers a hefty 430 kilowatts and 900 Nm of torque. It achieves acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.4 seconds, an impressive feat given its weight of 6,559 lbs.

    Energy Efficiency and Elegance Blend Seamlessly

    In terms of energy consumption, the Spectre featuring 22-inch wheels registers at 81 MPGe. The 23-inch wheel variant experiences a 9.3% surge in energy consumption due to the larger wheels. The Black Badge edition, though slightly more energy-intensive, offers a distinctive and stylish appeal.

    Final Verdict

    The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre stands out for its exceptional range, potent performance capabilities, and captivating design elements. Its opulent features and prestigious allure position it as a compelling choice for discerning clientele, despite not holding the title for the lengthiest range in the realm of luxury electric vehicles.

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  • Unveiled: Geely Zeekr 007 Reveals Impressive 870km Range with a 100kWh Battery Pack

    Unveiled: Geely Zeekr 007 Reveals Impressive 870km Range with a 100kWh Battery Pack

    The Zeekr 007 sedan, a high-end electric vehicle (EV) from the Geely Group, has had its battery options revealed by the governmental regulator. The EV will come with two battery packs: a 75.6kWh LFP battery and a 100kWh ternary NMC battery pack. The range of these battery options will depend on the powertrain and will range between 688km and 870km.

    Zeekr 007: A Growing Lineup of EVs

    The Zeekr sub-brand, launched by the Geely Group in 2021, has expanded its presence in various regions, including China, Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The Zeekr 007 is the fourth vehicle in Zeekr’s lineup of EVs, following the 001, 009, and X models.

    Multiple Variants and Battery Options

    The Zeekr 007 offers both a 4WD and an RWD variant. The RWD variant, equipped with a 75.6kWh LFP battery, has a range of 688km. On the other hand, the 100kWh ternary battery option provides a range of 870km for the same RWD variant. The 4WD drivetrain, available exclusively with the 100kWh battery pack, offers a range of 770km. It is important to note that the range of the 4WD version is influenced by the choice of rims and the optional sport package.

    Design and Interior Features

    The Zeekr 007 is a mid-size sedan with dimensions measuring 4,865 x 1900 x 1,450 mm. It boasts a wheelbase of 2,928mm and showcases a brand new design language developed by Stefan Seilaff and the Zeekr Design Center Team in Gothenburg, Sweden. Inside the EV, drivers and passengers will find a 15.05-inch display integrated with Kr GPT AI and powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip. The Zeekr 007 will be available in four trim options: WE RWD, ME RWD, ME 4WD, and YOU 4WD.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Zeekr 007 will be priced between 224,900 yuan ($31,700) and 334,900 yuan ($47,200) in China. Sales are scheduled to begin in January 2024 for Chinese customers, with Kazakhstan expected to be the next market to offer the Zeekr 007. Other regions within Zeekr’s current reach, including Europe, can expect to see the model later in 2024.

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