Category: EV vehicles

  • Xiaomi YU7 Buyers Face Year-Long Wait Due to High Demand

    Xiaomi YU7 Buyers Face Year-Long Wait Due to High Demand

    Key Takeaways

    1. Over 200,000 pre-orders for Xiaomi’s YU7 series of electric SUVs were received within three minutes of launch.
    2. Demand exceeded Xiaomi’s yearly production capacity, with total pre-orders reaching 289,000 in the first hour.
    3. Significant wait times are expected, with the entry-level model having delivery dates exceeding one year.
    4. Flexible installment payment options are available, allowing down payments between 15% and 85% of the vehicle price.
    5. Xiaomi aims to increase production capacity to 350,000 units by 2025 to address the current backlog.

    Just three minutes after the launch of the YU7 series of electric SUVs by Xiaomi, over 200,000 pre-orders came in, including 120,000 non-refundable deposits. This clearly shows the serious intent of buyers.

    Rapid Growth in Orders

    In the first few hours after the launch, the number of orders exceeded the brand’s current yearly production capacity, highlighting the vehicle’s instant popularity. The trend didn’t stop there; total pre-orders skyrocketed to 289,000 within just the first hour. By the time 18 hours had passed, Xiaomi reported that confirmed orders had doubled to 240,000 — an astonishing number that demonstrates remarkable consumer interest.

    Long Wait Times Ahead

    This increase in demand has caused significant wait times for excited customers. Checking Xiaomi’s official site shows the following estimated delivery dates: The entry-level YU7, which is priced at CN¥253,800, has the longest lead time, exceeding a year. The mid-range Pro, costing CN¥279,900, and the premium Max at CN¥329,900, also have shorter but still considerable waiting periods.

    To assist buyers with their financial obligations, Xiaomi is providing flexible installment options ranging from 12 to 60 months, with down payments between 15% and 85% of the total price. While Xiaomi is working hard to boost its production capacity — with a goal of 350,000 units by 2025 — the current backlog presents a significant logistical challenge and tests customer patience.

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  • Lease 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 for $419/month or 1.99% APR

    Lease 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 for $419/month or 1.99% APR

    Key Takeaways

    1. Special Independence Day Promotions: Hyundai offers attractive deals for the 2026 Ioniq 9, including lease and financing options, available until July 7.

    2. Leasing and Financing Options: Lease starts at $419/month for 36 months with a $4,999 upfront payment; financing available at 1.99% APR for up to 60 months with up to $5,000 down payment support.

    3. Incentives for Specific Groups: Additional savings of $500 for Military personnel and $400 for recent College Graduates applicable until the end of 2025.

    4. Impressive Specs: The Ioniq 9 starts at $58,955, offers a driving range of up to 335 miles, and can recharge from 10% to 80% in under 25 minutes.

    5. Notable Features: Includes flexible seating arrangements, dual 12.3-inch displays, advanced driver-assistance systems, a head-up display, and 21.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

    Buyers on the hunt for a family-friendly electric vehicle with zero tailpipe emissions can still benefit from Hyundai’s special Independence Day promotions for the 2026 Ioniq 9. This three-row SUV is a unique find in the EV market and becomes even more appealing with the current offers available.

    Exciting Lease Opportunities

    Hyundai is rolling out an attractive lease offer that starts as low as $419 per month for a period of 36 months, requiring an upfront payment of $4,999.

    For those considering financing, Hyundai is providing a competitive 1.99% APR for terms of up to 60 months. To make the deal even more enticing for a fresh model, Hyundai is including up to $5,000 in down payment support.

    Limited Time Offers

    These special offers will be available until July 7.

    Additionally, there are other options for savings on the Ioniq 9, including benefits for Military personnel ($500) and recent College Graduates ($400). These incentives can be applied to the lease payment and are valid until the end of 2025.

    The starting price for the 2026 Ioniq 9 is $58,955, and it comes in six different trim options. It boasts an impressive driving range of up to 335 miles based on EPA estimates, and it can recharge from 10% to 80% in less than 25 minutes. With the NACS port, it can access Tesla’s extensive network of Superchargers.

    Notable Features

    Key features of the Ioniq 9 include a second row that can be arranged with either two captain’s chairs or a bench seat, dual 12.3-inch displays for both the instrument cluster and infotainment system, a variety of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), a head-up display (HUD), and a generous cargo capacity of 21.9 cubic feet

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  • SpaceX Offers Starlink Mini Kit Discount and Service Credit in US & Canada

    SpaceX Offers Starlink Mini Kit Discount and Service Credit in US & Canada

    Key Takeaways

    1. SpaceX offers a promotion for Starlink Mini Kit purchasers in the US and Canada, valid until July 7.
    2. US customers receive a $100 discount on the Mini Kit and a $100 service credit applied in the second month of their Roam plan.
    3. Canadian buyers pay CAD 499 (down from CAD 599) and receive a CAD 150 service credit.
    4. Starlink’s monthly plans for US users are $50 for 50 GB and $165 for unlimited, while Canadian prices are CAD 70 and CAD 189, respectively.
    5. The Mini Kit is designed for travelers, featuring a compact size, built-in WiFi, high download speeds, and quick setup for on-the-go use.

    Starlink Mini Kit purchasers in the United States and Canada can benefit from SpaceX’s new promotion that makes mobile internet a bit more affordable. The company is providing a discount on the mini receiving devices, along with a service credit, if both the purchase and the plan activation are completed by July 7.

    Savings for US Customers

    In the US, buyers can enjoy a $100 discount off the regular price of $499 for the Mini Kit. Additionally, they will receive an extra $100 in service credit, which will be automatically applied during the second month after they enroll in a Roam plan.

    Canadian Offers

    For those in Canada, Starlink users will only have to pay CAD 499 instead of the usual CAD 599. They will also receive a CAD 150 service credit.

    Starlink provides personal roaming monthly plans in the US at a rate of $50 per month for 50 GB, and $165 for unlimited access. In Canada, these plans are priced at CAD 70 and CAD 189 per month, respectively.

    Designed for On-the-Go Users

    The Mini Kit is tailored for people who are frequently traveling, such as adventurers and RV lovers. It features a built-in WiFi router and is compact and light enough to fit in a backpack. Users can achieve download speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, even while moving at speeds up to 160 km/h. The setup process is quick, and the equipment is durable enough to be mounted on vehicle roofs using accessories offered by Starlink.

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  • Tesla Shares Video of First Model Y Self-Delivery to Customer

    Tesla Shares Video of First Model Y Self-Delivery to Customer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla achieved the first-ever autonomous car delivery with a Model Y navigating from the factory to a customer’s home without any human intervention.
    2. The Model Y’s journey from Giga Texas to the owner’s residence took approximately 30 minutes and included various terrain types.
    3. Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk confirmed that the delivery was entirely autonomous and no remote operation was involved.
    4. The electric SUV reached speeds of 72 m/h (116 km/h) during its self-guided trip, showcasing the vehicle’s capabilities.
    5. While the future of self-delivery in Tesla’s business model is uncertain, this milestone enhances the company’s public image and reflects advancements in driverless technology.

    It’s a thrilling moment to be living in a time when our vehicles can navigate their way to us. Tesla has made history by completing the first-ever autonomous car delivery, and they have shared a video to prove it. The company released a three-and-a-half-minute video on X showcasing the inaugural self-guided trip from the factory to the customer’s residence.

    The Journey of the Model Y

    The Model Y departed from Giga Texas located in Austin and made its way to its new owner’s house all by itself. This journey took roughly 30 minutes and, as mentioned in the post, it traversed various routes including parking lots, highways, and different city areas.

    Earlier, Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk had shared his thoughts about this milestone on his personal X account. He mentioned that the delivery was entirely autonomous without any remote operation at any time, and the video clearly shows that no one was inside the Model Y during its journey.

    Speed and Milestones

    Ashok Elluswamy, who leads the company’s artificial intelligence and Autopilot divisions, stated that the electric SUV hit speeds of 72 m/h (116 km/h) during this remarkable ride.

    Interestingly, the self-delivery took place just a day before Musk had indicated it would occur, which would have coincided with his 58th birthday. This event followed closely after Tesla had introduced their Robotaxi service.

    Tesla had previously shared footage of cars moving from the assembly line to their parking spaces at Giga Texas. The newest video illustrates the company’s confidence in allowing its electric vehicles to roam independently in real-world scenarios.

    Future of Self-Delivery

    At this point, it remains unclear how significantly Tesla will incorporate self-delivery into its business model. Nevertheless, this latest achievement serves as an impressive and well-earned public relations boost for the company and the future of driverless technology overall.

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  • Global Electric Vehicle Sales Reach 56 Million, China Leads Market

    Global Electric Vehicle Sales Reach 56 Million, China Leads Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. The global fleet of electric vehicles has reached 56 million, with China holding 56% of this total (31.4 million EVs).
    2. The United States is the second-largest market for electric vehicles, with 6.4 million, followed by Germany (2.6 million), the UK (2.1 million), and France (2.1 million).
    3. New registrations of electric vehicles are growing rapidly, with an increase from several hundred thousand to 3.7 million in recent years, particularly in China.
    4. China’s electric vehicle market is supported by a strong local manufacturing sector, leading to competition for Tesla from companies like BYD, Nio, Xpeng, and Xiaomi.
    5. The count of electric vehicles includes fully electric cars, plug-in hybrids, and vehicles with range extenders, as well as those no longer in service.

    Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular, as shown by a recent study. The Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) from Germany found that the global fleet of electric vehicles has reached a total of 56 million, with the majority found in China.

    Dominance of China

    China leads the world in electric vehicle ownership, with 31.4 million EVs, which represents 56 percent of the global total. The United States follows as the second-largest market, home to Tesla, the leading electric car manufacturer, with 6.4 million EVs. Germany holds the third position with 2.6 million, while the United Kingdom and France each have 2.1 million electric vehicles. Norway, with one million EVs, ranks sixth but has the highest number of electric vehicles per person by a large margin.

    Growing Registrations

    The study interestingly notes that new registrations of electric vehicles are growing faster than the overall fleet. The gap has increased from several hundred thousand to 3.7 million over the past few years, largely due to developments in China, where older vehicles are being taken off the roads at a quicker rate.

    Competition in the Market

    In China, the growth of electric vehicle adoption is driven by a robust local manufacturing sector. Tesla is now facing fierce competition from companies like BYD, Nio, Xpeng, and the new player Xiaomi. This competition is expanding globally as more Chinese brands aim to reach international markets and increase their presence.

    The count from ZSW included fully electric cars, plug-in hybrids, and vehicles with range extenders. It also took into account the electric vehicles that are no longer in service or have been scrapped.

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  • Xiaomi YU7 Series: Details on New EVs YU7, YU7 Pro, YU7 Ultra

    Xiaomi YU7 Series: Details on New EVs YU7, YU7 Pro, YU7 Ultra

    Key Takeaways

    1. The YU7 is a mid-to-large SUV with sporty dimensions: 4,999 mm long, 1,996 mm wide, and 1,600 mm high, featuring a 3,000 mm wheelbase.
    2. All models are powered by the Xiaomi HyperEngine V6s Plus, producing 288 kW and 528 Nm of torque.
    3. The vehicles support 800 V fast charging, allowing a battery charge from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes.
    4. The lineup shares the same braking and suspension systems, enhancing performance consistency.
    5. These vehicles are currently available only in the Mainland China market.

    Measuring 4,999 mm (196.81 inches) in length, 1,996 mm (78.58 inches) in width, and 1,600 mm (62.99 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm (118.11 inches), the YU7 presents itself as a mid-to-large SUV with a sporty look. The heart of all three variations is the Xiaomi HyperEngine V6s Plus, which boasts a maximum power output of 288 kW, along with 528 Nm of torque and a remarkable 22,000 RPM.

    Fast Charging Capabilities

    Xiaomi claims that each model supports 800 V charging, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. They also feature the same braking and suspension systems across the lineup. Additionally, they are fitted with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for the cockpit, as well as the next-gen Nvidia Drive AGX Thor for driving assistance. This tech delivers an impressive computing power of 700 TOPS. Below is a comparison of the models:

    Availability Notice

    Please note that these vehicles are currently limited to the Mainland China market.

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  • Tesla Recalls 48 Model 3 and Model Y for Loose Seat Fasteners

    Tesla Recalls 48 Model 3 and Model Y for Loose Seat Fasteners

    Key Takeaways

    1. A recall affects a limited number of 2026 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles due to incorrectly installed front seat fasteners.
    2. The affected vehicles were manufactured between April 3 and May 7, 2025, including 18 Model 3s and 30 Model Ys.
    3. The issue arose from a change in production, where a critical step in the seat fastener torque check was skipped.
    4. Customers may notice signs like rattling seats and can check if their vehicle is affected using Tesla’s VIN Recall Search tool.
    5. The remedy involves a free visit to a Tesla service center for proper assessment and adjustment of the fasteners, with no reported injuries or deaths related to the issue.

    A limited number of 2026 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles are being recalled. According to documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall is due to front seat fasteners that were installed incorrectly.

    Details of the Recall

    The affected vehicles were made between April 3 and May 7, 2025, and include 18 Model 3s and 30 Model Ys, which feature both standard and Performance versions.

    Tesla has identified that the issue arose from a change in their production process, which involved skipping a critical step in the final seat fastener torque check. This alteration could result in the car leaving the factory with some fasteners either loose or entirely absent, meaning the seats may not hold passengers securely in case of an accident.

    Signs and Solutions

    Tesla mentions that customers might notice signs such as rattling seats. Owners can verify if their Model 3 or Model Y is part of the recall by checking their VIN on Tesla’s VIN Recall Search tool.

    The remedy will necessitate a visit to a Tesla service center, where technicians will assess the seat and either properly torque or replace the fasteners as necessary. This service comes at no cost, as the vehicles are still under warranty.

    Safety Status

    As of now, Tesla has not reported any injuries or deaths linked to the fasteners. The initial case was found by service technicians in May.

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  • Hyundai and Kia Up to $17K Off Ioniq 5, EV9, and Electric Cars

    Hyundai and Kia Up to $17K Off Ioniq 5, EV9, and Electric Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hyundai and Kia are offering discounts up to $17,000 on electric vehicles (EVs) in key global markets.
    2. Significant discounts are available on popular models like the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and EV9 in various regions including North America, Europe, and Asia.
    3. The discounts are partly a response to a 25% tariff on imported cars in the US, aiming to maintain sales amid expected declines.
    4. Hyundai and Kia are targeting a 10% increase in sales outside the US as they adapt to market changes.
    5. Both automakers are increasing production in the US to mitigate the impact of import taxes.

    Hyundai and Kia customers are set to enjoy substantial discounts on their new electric vehicle (EV) purchases. These two related brands are providing discounts of as much as $17,000 on their electric models in key markets around the world, especially as the US prepares for potential price increases.

    Global Discounts on Popular Models

    The South Korean manufacturers have initiated major campaigns in North America, Europe, the Middle East, as well as Asia and Central and South America, featuring significant offers on popular electric vehicles like the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and the EV9. According to a report from the Korea JoongAng Daily, buyers in Serbia can take advantage of a discount of $17,400 on the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Promotions are also happening in Thailand and Chile, with similar discounts available for non-EV models.

    Impact of U.S. Market Changes

    In a twist of fate, Hyundai and Kia customers might owe their good luck to the situation in the US. The aggressive marketing strategies are likely designed to compensate for an expected drop in sales in the largest car market in North America, where a 25 percent tariff on imported cars has been put in place by the federal government.

    The Korea JoongAng Daily has stated that Hyundai and Kia have told their regional managers to aim for a 10 percent increase in sales in other areas. The South Korean automakers have committed to keeping prices stable in the US until July 7, but they may need to raise them if the tariff remains unchanged.

    Adapting to Market Dynamics

    Hyundai and Kia are acutely aware of fluctuations in the US automotive scene, which contributes to about 25 percent of their global revenues. However, both companies are rushing to boost production within the US to avoid the heavy import taxes that could affect their sales.

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  • EV Fire Sinks Cargo Ship, Increasing Risks in EV Transport

    EV Fire Sinks Cargo Ship, Increasing Risks in EV Transport

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Morning Midas sank on June 23 after battling a fire that started on June 3 while transporting nearly 3,000 vehicles to Mexico.
    2. All 22 crew members were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard as the fire worsened and the ship faced harsh weather conditions.
    3. The incident is reminiscent of previous cases, including the sinking of the Felicity Ace in March 2022 and the Fremantle Highway fire in July 2023, raising concerns about safety measures for vessels carrying electric vehicles (EVs).
    4. Lithium-ion batteries in EVs can cause dangerous fires if damaged, leading to “thermal runaway,” which is difficult to extinguish with standard equipment.
    5. The sinking of the Morning Midas serves as a warning about the unresolved safety issues related to transporting electric vehicles as the automotive industry shifts towards more EVs.

    The 600-foot (183-meter) vehicle carrier, Morning Midas, sank on Monday, June 23, in deep international waters near Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, as confirmed by its management company, Zodiac Maritime. The ship, which was transporting nearly 3,000 new vehicles to Mexico, faced a fire that started on June 3. All 22 crew members were successfully rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard and moved to a nearby merchant vessel as the fire worsened.

    Fire and Damage

    In a statement from Zodiac Maritime, it was reported that the ship ultimately lost the battle against the combined damage from the initial fire, harsh weather conditions, and later water seepage. Smoke was first detected rising from the deck, which was loaded with around 750 electric and hybrid vehicles.

    Similar Incidents

    This incident echoes the sinking of the Felicity Ace in March 2022, which went down off the Azores with 4,000 luxury vehicles following a fire, as well as the July 2023 fire on the Fremantle Highway in the North Sea. The latter case, involving nearly 500 EVs, led the Dutch Safety Board to urgently call for better emergency response measures for vessels carrying electric vehicles.

    The Lithium-Ion Issue

    The main problem stems from the lithium-ion batteries that power EVs. Although they are usually safe, if they become damaged or have defects, they can trigger a “thermal runaway” — a chemical reaction that generates extreme heat and releases flammable, toxic gases. Such fires are notoriously hard to put out using standard shipboard equipment and can rage on for days or even weeks without control.

    The U.S. Coast Guard is currently keeping an eye on the Morning Midas location, which is about 415 miles (667.88 km) from shore in waters more than 16,404 feet (5 km) deep. “There is no visible pollution,” stated Petty Officer Cameron Snell, who also noted that salvage and pollution-control vessels are present at the site as a precautionary measure.

    A Wake-Up Call

    As the global automotive industry speeds up its shift towards electric vehicles, the tragedy of the Morning Midas highlights the unresolved safety issues associated with transporting these vehicles across oceans worldwide.

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  • Infinity Train: The Electric Train That Never Needs Recharging

    Infinity Train: The Electric Train That Never Needs Recharging

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fortescue’s Infinity Train completed a journey of 1,100 kilometers from Perth to the Pilbara mines without using fossil fuels.
    2. The train uses regenerative braking to generate electricity from downhill slopes, potentially allowing it to run indefinitely without grid power.
    3. The locomotive was developed through a partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering and is part of Fortescue’s plan for “Real Zero” emissions by 2030.
    4. Transitioning to Infinity Trains could save Fortescue 82 million liters of diesel and reduce CO₂ emissions by about 235,000 tons annually.
    5. The initial development phase of the Infinity Train cost around $50 million USD, with anticipated operational savings of about $80 million USD per year.

    Australian mining firm Fortescue has successfully sent its battery-operated “Infinity Train” on a complete journey of 1,100 kilometers (roughly 684 miles) from Perth to the Pilbara mines, all without using fossil fuels. Although it is not confirmed if the train finished the trip without needing a recharge, this is the company’s aim for the future. The Infinity Train takes advantage of the natural landscape of the iron ore railway and employs regenerative braking to harness energy from downhill sections, helping to recharge its batteries.

    Energy Recovery

    When the train is loaded, it utilizes the downward slope as a source of energy. Its regenerative braking system generates enough electricity to allow the empty train to return uphill to the open-pit mine without needing outside charging sources. After reaching the top, it can recharge again while being filled with ore, getting ready to start the cycle over. Ideally, the Infinity Train might run indefinitely without drawing power from the grid.

    Collaboration and Development

    The locomotive was created by Fortescue Zero in partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE), which Fortescue bought in 2022. The company celebrated the arrival of the prototype with several posts on LinkedIn. CEO Ellie Coates referred to it as “an important milestone on the road to Real Zero.” Following this transfer run, a testing program lasting several months will take place before the Infinity Train is put into regular service along the 385-mile heavy-duty route in the Pilbara area. “These tests are crucial for scaling the system to meet the unique demands of the area,” Coates elaborated.

    Commitment to Emission Goals

    The Infinity Train initiative is a significant part of Fortescue’s plan to achieve “Real Zero” emissions by 2030. Currently, the company operates 54 diesel-powered locomotives within its Pilbara rail network. By moving entirely to Infinity Trains, Fortescue anticipates saving 82 million liters (21.7 million U.S. gallons) of diesel and lowering CO₂ emissions by approximately 235,000 tons each year, while also cutting operational costs by about $80 million USD annually. The estimated cost for the initial development phase over the first two years was around $50 million USD.

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    Infinity Train: The Electric Train That Never Needs Recharging
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