Category: EV vehicles

  • 2025 Volkswagen ID.4: 0% APR for 72 Months or $5,000 Bonus

    2025 Volkswagen ID.4: 0% APR for 72 Months or $5,000 Bonus

    Key Takeaways

    1. Financing Offer: Volkswagen is offering 0% APR financing for 72 months on the 2025 ID.4, making it easier to afford the electric SUV.

    2. Customer Bonus Package: A one-time payment option is available, allowing customers to save $5,000, but it cannot be combined with the financing offer.

    3. Leasing Option: A leasing plan is available for $339 per month for 24 months, with a $4,499 payment due at signing and no security deposit.

    4. Driving Range and Performance: The ID.4 has an impressive driving range of up to 291 miles, charges from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes, and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

    5. Tax Credit Reminder: Customers can still benefit from a $7,500 EV tax credit, which expires on September 30, 2025.

    If you’ve had your eyes on the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4, the summer promotions from the company could help you finally decide. This offer applies to both new and pre-owned models.

    Financing Options

    Customers can get financing for the compact SUV with a 0% APR for 72 months. Volkswagen lets you pick your trim, starting from the base model, which usually has a price of $45,095. This discount makes it easier to own a well-regarded family electric vehicle without having to worry about interest payments, something that’s hard to find nowadays.

    Volkswagen’s site states that this deal means you’ll pay $13.89 for every $1,000 you finance.

    Customer Bonus Package

    If you prefer a one-time payment, Volkswagen has a Customer Bonus package that can save you $5,000. However, keep in mind that you can’t combine these two options, so you will have to choose between immediate savings and long-term financing benefits.

    These offers will end in July, giving you enough time to make your decision. Plus, you can still take advantage of the $7,500 EV tax credit, which will expire on September 30, 2025.

    Leasing Information

    Volkswagen also has a separate leasing option available for $339 per month for 24 months, with a $4,499 payment due at signing and no security deposit needed.

    The 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 provides an impressive driving range of up to 291 miles (according to EPA estimates) and can charge from 10% to 80% in just 28 minutes. It boasts an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.9 seconds, delivering up to 335 horsepower through its single or dual-motor system.

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not liable for any price modifications made by sellers. The discounted price or deal mentioned here was available when this was written and may be subject to time limits and/or limited availability.

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  • Tesla resolves Supercharger issues with digital queue and parking fees

    Tesla resolves Supercharger issues with digital queue and parking fees

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is introducing a digital queue system for Superchargers to improve organization and reduce conflicts at charging stations.
    2. The virtual queuing system is currently being tested at select locations and will be widely implemented in the next quarter.
    3. Drivers will be added to a waitlist at busy Supercharger stations based on arrival time and may receive a specific stall number.
    4. The new system allows drivers to move around freely rather than stay in their cars, reducing disruptions from “bad actors.”
    5. An update will provide essential information about Superchargers, including parking fees and location details, enhancing the overall charging experience.

    Tesla is about to introduce a digital queue for drivers heading to a Supercharger, aiming to create a more organized charging experience. This move comes in light of incidents that have led to arguments and even fights at charging stations for various reasons.

    Streamlining the Charging Process

    The Tesla charging team refers to waiting for a Supercharger stall as an “edge” or “corner” case, which they say happens in roughly 1% of all situations. Currently, the virtual queuing system is undergoing pressure testing at certain sites to assess its effectiveness and is expected to be widely implemented in the next quarter.

    Waitlist for Busy Stations

    When drivers input a Supercharger location, they will be added to a waitlist based on their arrival time if the station is crowded. This system may also show the specific stall number assigned to their vehicle.

    If a stall is assigned to them, drivers can move around freely instead of remaining in their cars or dealing with “bad actors,” the term Tesla uses for those who create disruptions in the queue.

    Enhancements to the Supercharger Experience

    Tesla is rolling out an update to tackle some frequent issues that users have faced with the Supercharger experience. This update will provide information such as parking fees, which floor the Supercharger is on in multi-level parking structures, or if an entry code is necessary.

    This information will be visible while drivers look for a Supercharger. Details like whether parking is paid or valet service will still be shown even after a destination has been selected. Once they arrive, the navigation card will also show the access code or indicate which floor hosts the Supercharger in multi-story lots.

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  • Tesla’s New Update: Automatic Rate-Based Charging to Cut Bills

    Tesla’s New Update: Automatic Rate-Based Charging to Cut Bills

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is launching a new automatic EV charging feature that uses smart algorithms to minimize the impact of high electricity prices.
    2. The feature will enable charging based on electricity costs, utilizing the Tesla Powerwall and Universal Wall Connector for more efficient charging.
    3. The new charging protocol is currently being tested in pilot programs and will be compatible with both Tesla and non-Tesla vehicles.
    4. The charging process will focus on the best times to charge according to electricity prices rather than just following a time-of-use plan.
    5. The advanced charging options will be included in the upcoming firmware version 25.26 for the Wall Connector.

    Tesla is getting ready to launch a new automatic EV charging feature that uses smart algorithms to reduce the impact of high electricity prices from the grid. The latest update to the Tesla App, version 4.46.5, has a code string that hints at this rate-based charging option, even though it hasn’t been mentioned in the official release notes.

    New Charging Protocol

    This code refers to a future communication system that will connect a Tesla Powerwall with home charging equipment like the Universal Wall Connector, which is available for $650 on Amazon. This new feature will enable charging based on the cost of electricity rather than simply the time of day, making it more efficient.

    In practical terms, this means that the Tesla home charger will fill up the vehicle using the Powerwall according to the price of electricity and its source, whether it’s from the grid or solar, instead of just following a time-of-use utility plan.

    Future Feature Testing

    Alex Guichet, a designer for Tesla’s mobile app, mentioned that this feature is expected to roll out soon and is currently being tested in pilot programs. The presence of corresponding code in the latest app version confirms this development.

    The energy algorithms within the Powerwall are designed to determine the best time for the Wall Connector to charge your vehicle. It aims to achieve the lowest costs aligned with your Time-of-Use rate plan, and it is compatible with both Tesla and non-Tesla vehicles. The intention is to be more advanced than the basic schedule that the Wall Connector currently provides, which doesn’t account for pricing!

    Enhanced Charging Options

    The code strings powerwall_x_wall_connector_rate_based_charging_min_hours_charging_set and wallConnectorSupports4HourChargingFactory suggest a more detailed approach to charging that considers electricity costs, moving away from the existing time-based schedule provided by Tesla’s app.

    However, this new capability will be part of the upcoming firmware version 25.26 for the Wall Connector, which has yet to be made available as an update.

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  • Tesla Celebrates 4th of July with Free Model Y Color Choices

    Tesla Celebrates 4th of July with Free Model Y Color Choices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is offering free color options in red, white, or blue for the 2026 Model Y, refreshed Model S/X, and Model 3 as part of an Independence Day promotion.

    2. Buyers can receive discounts of $2,500 for the Ultra Red Model Y and Frost Blue Metallic Model X, and $1,500 for Pearl White Multi-Coat across all models (except Cybertruck).

    3. The promotion runs from July 4th to July 14th, lasting ten days.

    4. Tesla has previously used free color options as sales incentives, including a similar promotion in April to boost Q2 delivery figures.

    5. Current demand for Tesla vehicles is low, making this promotion an opportunity for potential buyers.

    Tesla is launching a special Independence Day promotion, offering customers a choice of free color options in red, white, or blue for the new 2026 Model Y, as well as for the refreshed Model S/X and the Model 3.

    Savings on Color Choices

    There are slight variations in colors across different models. Buyers of the Model Y who select the Ultra Red color will benefit from a $2,500 discount, and the same applies to those interested in the new Model X with Frost Blue Metallic. Additionally, the Pearl White Multi-Coat, available on all current Tesla models (except for the Cybertruck), offers savings of $1,500.

    Duration of the Promotion

    This Made in America free color promotion for the Model Y, Model S, Model X, and Model 3 will be available from July 4th to July 14th, lasting a total of ten days.

    This isn’t the first instance of Tesla providing free color options valued up to $2,500 as a sales incentive. Back in April, the company introduced a 0% APR financing offer for the Model 3 and included free color options to boost Q2 delivery figures.

    Previous Pricing Strategies

    When Tesla reduced the price of the Model X to align with the government tax credit requirements, they also offered free paint options. Conversely, they have taken away free color choices for the Model 3 in China during a price cut campaign that was so effective it eliminated the need for extra promotions.

    At present, there isn’t a strong demand for any of Tesla’s vehicles, including the Model Y, so potential buyers can take advantage of the free red, white, or blue color options until July 14.

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  • Tesla UK Sales Up 14% in June 2025, Driven by Model Y Deliveries

    Tesla UK Sales Up 14% in June 2025, Driven by Model Y Deliveries

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s UK sales increased by 14% in June 2025, with 7,719 vehicles sold, partly due to the new Model Y deliveries.
    2. Year-to-date, Tesla’s sales have decreased by 2%, while competitors like BYD and Ford saw significant sales growth.
    3. The overall UK car market grew by 6.7%, with electric vehicle registrations up 39%, indicating rising acceptance of EVs.
    4. Electric vehicles now account for 25% of all car sales in the UK, the highest since 2019.
    5. The growth in EV sales is largely driven by industry incentives and discounts, highlighting concerns about sustainability without ongoing government support.

    Tesla might be getting ready for a comeback in the UK, as its sales increased in June 2025. The company saw a rise of 14 percent compared to last year as the electric vehicle (EV) market keeps growing.

    Sales Figures

    Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that buyers purchased 7,719 Tesla vehicles in June. This spike happened in the same month when the refreshed Model Y began its deliveries. However, independent information from New Automotive suggests a smaller growth rate of 12 percent, with 7,891 units sold. These two organizations rely on different data sources and calculations.

    Year-to-Date Challenges

    On the other hand, Tesla still faces challenges in the UK, as its sales for the year so far have decreased by 2 percent. Meanwhile, BYD, its main rival, saw its sales soar to 2,498 EVs, a fourfold increase. Additionally, Ford, another American company, also experienced a growth of over 400 percent in EV sales.

    Market Overview

    The UK’s overall car market grew by 6.7 percent, totaling 191,316 units sold compared to the same time last year. June marked the best month since 2019, with electric vehicle registrations climbing 39 percent, making up 25 percent of all car sales, showing a greater acceptance of e-mobility.

    However, SMMT points out that the growth in EV sales is still largely fueled by incentives. Chief Executive Mike Hawes remarked, “That EV growth, however, is still being driven by substantial industry support with manufacturers using every channel and unsustainable discounting to drive activity, yet it remains below mandated levels. As we have seen in other countries, government incentives can supercharge the market transition, without which the climate change ambitions we all share will be under threat.”

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  • Xpeng G7 Launches in China at $27,325; 10,000 Orders in 9 Minutes

    Xpeng G7 Launches in China at $27,325; 10,000 Orders in 9 Minutes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xpeng G7 SUV has a starting price of $27,325, significantly lower than the Tesla Model Y priced at $36,770.
    2. The G7 features a rear-mounted motor with 292 hp, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, and offers a maximum driving range of 702 km.
    3. It includes advanced tech like a 15.6-inch touch display, an 87-inch heads-up display, and runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chipset.
    4. The G7 has three trims: Max ($27,325), longer-range Max ($28,720), and Ultra ($31,520), with over 10,000 orders received shortly after launch.
    5. Xpeng plans to introduce Level 3 autonomous driving through an update later this year.

    It’s always exciting in the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market, as another competitor to the Tesla Model Y emerges. Xpeng has officially introduced the G7 SUV, which is priced very competitively and received thousands of orders in less than 10 minutes.

    Pricing Details

    The starting price for the Xpeng G7 is only $27,325, which is much lower than the leading Tesla Model Y, that comes in at $36,770. Furthermore, the G7 is also less expensive than the Xiaomi YU7, which was recently launched at $35,000.

    Performance Specifications

    At the launch event, Xpeng took a page from Xiaomi’s strategy by comparing the G7 directly with the Tesla Model Y. The G7 features a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 292 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds. It offers a maximum driving range of 702 km (as per CLTC standard) with either a 68.5 kWh or 80.8 kWh battery pack. The company claims that the battery can add an impressive 271 miles (or 436 km) in just 10 minutes of charging.

    Tech Features and Updates

    Inside, the G7 has a 15.6-inch touch display for infotainment and settings. It also includes a large 87-inch heads-up display (HUD) that was developed in collaboration with Huawei. All of this tech runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chipset.

    Other interesting features are an 819-liter trunk, an AI-powered suspension system that adjusts based on the road conditions, a premium audio system with 20 speakers, and control screens for passengers in the back that measure 8 inches. Xpeng has also announced that an update later this year will introduce Level 3 autonomous driving.

    Trim Levels and Market Response

    The Xpeng G7 comes in three different trims: the Max at $27,325, a longer-range Max priced at $28,720, and the Ultra which costs $31,520.

    Impressively, Xpeng received over 10,000 orders for the G7 just nine minutes after its launch. The company shared on Weibo that deliveries will begin shortly, and some users on social media have posted screenshots indicating they might get their vehicles within one to two weeks.

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  • Huawei’s Solid-State Battery Patent: 5-Min Charge & Longest EV Range

    Huawei’s Solid-State Battery Patent: 5-Min Charge & Longest EV Range

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei has applied for a patent for solid-state batteries that could offer a range of up to 3,000 km (1,864 miles) with rapid charging under ten minutes.
    2. The battery technology relies on a unique solid sulfide electrolyte and nitrogen treatment to enhance electrochemical reactions.
    3. The energy density of Huawei’s solid-state battery is estimated to be between 400-500 Wh/kg, which aligns with industry standards but faces challenges for large-scale production.
    4. The impressive range claims may be based on optimistic testing cycles and could realistically deliver about 1,200 miles under ideal conditions, with potential real-world performance closer to 800 miles.
    5. Huawei faces significant challenges in mass production and cost management of solid-state batteries, especially compared to established manufacturers like Toyota, CATL, and Samsung.

    Huawei, a relatively new player in the electric vehicle market, has recently applied for a patent related to solid-state batteries. This innovative technology could potentially offer a range of up to 3,000 km (1,864 miles) on a rapid charge that takes less than ten minutes.

    Huawei’s Innovations in EV Technology

    The Chinese tech giant, known primarily for its smartphones and long-lasting smartwatches like the GT 5 Pro, has formed partnerships with various electric vehicle manufacturers. Additionally, Huawei provides a widely-used suite of connectivity, infotainment, and autonomous driving solutions as a complete package.

    According to Huawei, the impressive range claimed for its electric vehicles will be achieved through a unique solid sulfide electrolyte technology. This process involves treating the reactive material with nitrogen to control the electrochemical reactions effectively.

    Energy Density and Charging Times

    Huawei’s patent suggests that the energy density of its solid-state battery will fall between 400-500 Wh/kg, which aligns with the current industry standards and the theoretical potential of this emerging technology. The rapid charging time is also typical for solid-state battery tech and not an extraordinary breakthrough.

    A scientist from Korea has pointed out that Huawei might be referring to laboratory results instead of what can be manufactured on a large scale. While nitrogen doping can enhance interface stability, it typically requires precise conditions and vacuum environments, making it challenging to scale for commercial production without incurring significant costs and delays. It’s akin to attempting to add pepper to a sandwich using fine tweezers.

    Real-World Range Considerations

    Moreover, the impressive range mentioned may be based on the optimistic Chinese CLTC testing cycle, which often exceeds real-world mileage by about a third compared to the EPA’s estimates in the United States. This suggests that the solid-state battery developed from Huawei’s patent may realistically deliver around 1,200 miles.

    However, this estimation is under ideal conditions and does not factor in the weight of the active materials in the prototype. When considering “real-world elements such as energy loss and thermal management,” as the Korean researchers noted, the actual range could be significantly less—possibly approaching the 800 miles that Toyota has hinted at for its own solid-state battery technology.

    While this range still surpasses that of current batteries, which typically provide half the energy density of solid-state batteries in a similar size, challenges remain regarding mass production and associated costs. These issues are difficult to tackle, even for established companies like CATL or Samsung, let alone for Huawei, which lacks experience in battery manufacturing.

    Toyota has already indicated that its solid-state batteries will initially be utilized in small quantities for its high-end electric vehicles under the Lexus brand, meaning that price will be the main barrier to widespread adoption of solid-state batteries in the near future.

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  • Aito M6 Set to Launch as EV with Next-Gen Sodium Battery

    Aito M6 Set to Launch as EV with Next-Gen Sodium Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aito M9 features luxury innovations like individual entertainment screens, a voice assistant, and a retractable 100-inch projector.
    2. The vehicle relies on a 100Wh battery, with future versions expected to include advanced sodium-ion technology for longer ranges.
    3. The battery offers improved stability with a safe temperature range of -40 to 70°C, thanks to NP2.0 thermoelectric separation technology.
    4. The new “Sodium New Energy” battery supports a 12C charging standard, allowing rapid charging in as little as 10 minutes.
    5. CATL is mass-producing the new battery using a low-waste method, and Aito plans to integrate it into future SUV models, possibly the M6 or updated M7.

    The Aito M9 is packed with some of the latest luxuries found in markets like China and the Philippines. It features a per-seat entertainment system with individual screens and a voice assistant, plus a 100-inch projector that emerges from the front of the vehicle.

    Advanced Battery Technology

    This vehicle’s smart features rely on a battery with a maximum capacity of 100Wh in its best configurations. However, there are whispers that its next version may offer even more sophisticated technology.

    Recently, CATL revealed its new product for electric vehicles, which will utilize the innovative sodium-ion energy storage system that could provide ultra-long ranges.

    Innovative Safety Features

    The battery is described as “condensed,” not fully solid-state, yet it promises better stability with a ‘safe’ temperature range from -40 to 70 degrees Celsius (°C), or -40 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit (°F). This is made possible through the advanced NP2.0 thermoelectric separation technology.

    The “Sodium New Energy” (also called “Freevoy”) battery is expected to work with the new 12C charging standard. This allows a 100Wh battery to be charged at a rate of up to 1.2 megawatts (MW), taking as little as 10 minutes to fully refill.

    Production and Future Plans

    Currently, this battery is in mass production at CATL, utilizing a “DPPB zero-carbon low-waste” method. Aito, which is linked to Huawei through the Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA), is likely to incorporate this new battery into its forthcoming SUV, possibly named the M6 or even a refreshed version of the M7.

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    Aito M6 Set to Launch as EV with Next-Gen Sodium Battery
  • Rivian July Lease: $6,500 Down Payment Bonus & $7,500 EV Credit

    Rivian July Lease: $6,500 Down Payment Bonus & $7,500 EV Credit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rivian’s new promotion, the “Nothing but Adventure Offer,” provides a $6,500 contribution towards leasing the 2025 R1S or R1T Tri-Motor configuration.

    2. Customers can combine this offer with a $7,500 federal EV credit, allowing for total savings of $14,500 and no down payment on the lease.

    3. The promotional deal requires vehicle delivery by July 31 and includes additional fees like the Preorder Deposit and the first monthly lease payment at signing.

    4. The 2025 R1S and R1T Tri-Motor AWD feature 850 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds, with an EPA range of 371 miles (up to 405 miles in Conserve mode).

    5. The starting price for the R1S is $105,900, while the R1T pickup truck starts at $99,900.

    Rivian has recently introduced an exciting new promotion called the Nothing but Adventure Offer. This initiative will see the electric vehicle manufacturer contribute $6,500 towards leasing the fresh 2025 R1S or R1T Tri-Motor configuration, which includes the exclusive California Dune edition.

    Combining Offers for Maximum Savings

    According to Rivian, customers can combine the Nothing but Adventure Offer with the $7,500 federal EV credit, which will help reduce monthly payments. However, the company has cautioned that this leasing incentive could be canceled if there are any changes in the law, hinting at ongoing government discussions about eliminating such benefits.

    As a result of the combination of the Nothing but Adventure Offer and the EV credit, individuals leasing the vehicles can enjoy no down payment and save a total of $14,500—a rare find for a high-performance electric vehicle.

    Important Details for Customers

    It’s important to note that additional fees apply, such as the Preorder Deposit and the first monthly lease payment, which are required at the signing of the lease. To qualify for this promotional deal, customers must take delivery of their vehicle by July 31.

    The 2025 R1S and R1T Tri-Motor AWD boast an impressive 850 horsepower and can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. They are estimated by the EPA to have a range of 371 miles, which Rivian claims may increase to 405 miles when in Conserve mode. The starting price for the electric SUV is set at $105,900, while the pickup truck comes in at $99,900.

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  • Tesla Reveals Electric Vehicle Battery Lifespan: Time and Mileage

    Tesla Reveals Electric Vehicle Battery Lifespan: Time and Mileage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s batteries typically maintain 80% capacity after 200,000 miles, demonstrating their longevity.
    2. In Europe, batteries show a 20% capacity decline at around 150,000 miles, indicating regional differences in battery performance.
    3. The potential for batteries to outlast the vehicle’s practical life may impact the second-hand market for Teslas.
    4. The average age of vehicles in the US is rising, prompting Tesla to improve battery lifespan and warranty options.
    5. Collaborations with battery manufacturers like CATL may lead to longer warranty periods for Tesla batteries in the future.

    Tesla has shared some captivating new data regarding the lifespan of its car batteries, outlining the longevity of its vehicles irrespective of battery chemistry.

    Battery Lifespan Insights

    Over the past ten years, Tesla has sold a significant number of electric vehicles and found that 200,000 miles is the average distance driven before the battery capacity drops to 80% of its original state. This figure has been mentioned previously, and it now appears to be a reliable estimate for how long its electric cars can perform.

    Regional Variations

    In Europe, where driving habits differ from those in the US, Tesla’s battery experiences a 20% decline in capacity at an average of 150,000 miles. Although this is still a commendable number, it highlights that the age of the battery plays a crucial role in its deterioration, even more so than the mileage accumulated by electric vehicles. So, whether an American drives 20,000 miles annually and their Tesla lasts for ten years before reaching 80% battery capacity, or a European drives 15,000 miles in the same timeframe, the outcome is still a 20% reduction.

    Market Challenges

    Tesla emphasizes that the battery could potentially outlast the practical life of its cars since, after over a decade and 200,000 miles, many owners might consider upgrading. Nevertheless, the second-hand electric vehicle market might struggle to thrive if the benchmark is set at 200,000 miles for an 80% battery capacity. After the 8-year battery warranty expires, potential buyers might be wary of purchasing a pre-owned Tesla.

    The average age of vehicles on the road in the US is nearing a record high of 13 years, which means Tesla must enhance battery lifespan and warranty options. This is an area where Chinese manufacturers are making significant progress.

    Future Developments

    CATL, the largest battery manufacturer globally, is collaborating with NIO, an electric vehicle maker, to establish a 15-year warranty on batteries with a maximum 15% capacity decline. Some of CATL’s latest battery technologies already come with warranties ranging from 12 to 20 years for energy storage products, so achieving a 15-year warranty for electric vehicles seems feasible.

    It’s uncertain whether Tesla will adopt similar measures. The company is close to finishing its own LFP battery factory in the US, utilizing equipment from CATL. Alongside lower costs, Tesla could also extend the warranty on its future vehicles equipped with LFP cells for the US market.

    Tesla Reveals Electric Vehicle Battery Lifespan: Time and Mileage
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