Category: EV vehicles

May 8, 2025
Tesla Launches Affordable Model Y RWD with Longest Range
Key Takeaways
1. New Model Introduction: Tesla has launched the Model Y Long Range RWD trim, priced lower than the existing AWD version.
2. Enhanced Range: The Long Range RWD offers a range of 357 miles per charge, 30 miles more than the AWD model, making it the longest range Model Y to date.
3. Acceleration Performance: The RWD variant has slower acceleration (0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds) compared to the AWD (4.6 seconds), but the difference is minimal due to its lighter weight.
4. Identical Features: The RWD model shares the same specifications as the AWD version, including heated seats and acoustic glass windows, but at a lower cost.
5. Pricing: The starting price for the Model Y Long Range RWD is $44,990, which can be reduced to $37,490 with the federal tax credit.
Tesla has unexpectedly introduced a new version of the Model Y in its order system, known as the Long Range RWD trim. This trim is priced lower than the only available AWD Model Y, which has been available since the original $60,000 Launch Series edition.
Not the Smaller Version
The Model Y Long Range RWD is not the more affordable, smaller version anticipated to arrive later this year, which will feature cloth seats and a smaller battery. Instead, it is simply a single-motor variant of the dual-motor AWD Model Y, lacking an electric drive unit at the front. While this reduces its off-road capabilities and acceleration performance, it lightens the vehicle, enabling it to travel further on a single charge.
Impressive Range
As noted, the new Model Y RWD trim boasts the longest range per charge of any Model Y to date. According to Tesla, EPA testing indicates a range of 357 miles, surpassing the existing Model Y AWD record by 30 miles. The earlier Model Y RWD had a smaller LFP battery and was only capable of 260 miles.
The efficiency gains and aerodynamic improvements from the recent Juniper facelift have propelled the RWD trim to the forefront of the Model Y lineup. It shares the same battery size as its AWD counterpart but is lighter. This setup enables it to add 182 miles of range in just 15 minutes at a Tesla V3/V4 Supercharger, compared to 169 miles for the heavier AWD model.
Slightly Slower Acceleration
It goes without saying that the single-motor 2026 Model Y Long Range RWD is a bit slower in acceleration compared to the AWD version. It achieves 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds as opposed to the 4.6 seconds of the AWD model, but this difference is hardly significant. The lighter weight of the RWD trim means the acceleration difference is under a second, even without the second electric motor.
Tesla has set the price of this electric motor at exactly $4,000, which is how much less the 2026 Model Y Long Range RWD costs when compared to the AWD version. The starting price for the Model Y RWD is $44,990, which includes 19-inch Crossflow Wheels that contribute to its outstanding range.
Specifications and Features
The rest of the specifications for the Model Y RWD are identical to the AWD model. It features heated and ventilated front seats, a heated rear bench that folds automatically, and dual-layer acoustic glass windows that enhance the experience of the 15-speaker sound system, complete with one subwoofer.
An automatic trunk door and a newly designed quieter suspension system are also included as standard features. This means that for those who do not require AWD, the lower price of the Model Y RWD starts at $37,490, especially if the federal tax credit is applied while it’s still available.
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Tags: electric vehicle, Long Range RWD, Tesla Model Y
May 7, 2025
Volvo XC70 Returns as Extended-Range Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Key Takeaways
1. The new Volvo XC70 resembles an SUV rather than a traditional station wagon.
2. It features non-internal combustion engine (ICE) motors to improve driving range.
3. The hybrid model can travel up to 200 kilometers (about 124 miles) on battery power alone.
4. It utilizes Volvo’s latest Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) for electric vehicles.
5. The XC70 is set to debut in 2026, potentially starting only in the Chinese market.
Volvo has launched something that might seem like a throwback with the XC70. However, this latest model doesn’t really resemble the classic station wagon you might expect when you hear that name.
A New Take on an Old Classic
Instead, it’s apparent that the ‘new XC70’ fits the mold of an SUV like any other, although it does come with non-internal combustion engine (ICE) motors to enhance its driving range.
Moreover, the company claims that this new hybrid model can travel up to 200 kilometers (around 124 miles) using only its batteries.
Advanced Features
This plug-in variant of the XC70 boasts Volvo’s newest Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) designed for electric vehicles. At the moment, not much more is known about the specifications of this new Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV).
The Volvo XC70 is set to debut in 2026, but it’s possible that it will initially be limited to the Chinese market at least.
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Tags: Hybrid, SUV, Volvo XC70
May 4, 2025
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9: Long-Range Electric SUV, 335 Miles, $60,555
Key Takeaways
1. Impressive Range: The Ioniq 9 offers up to 335 miles of range for the rear-wheel drive (RWD) base model, with a slight decrease in range for more powerful versions.
2. Fast Charging: The vehicle’s 110.3 kWh battery can charge from 10% to 80% in about 24 minutes and features Tesla’s NACS port for access to many Superchargers.
3. Powerful Performance: The base RWD model has 215 hp, while the Performance Limited trim boasts 422 hp, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds.
4. Spacious Interior: The Ioniq 9 has three rows of seating, ample legroom, and a cargo capacity of 21.9 cubic feet, along with advanced tech features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
5. Safety Features and Pricing: Standard safety features include lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Pricing starts at $60,555 for the base model, with higher trims going up to $78,090.
Hyundai USA is getting ready to launch the Ioniq 9 at local dealerships, and here’s what you might wanna know about this electric SUV.
Range and Charging
A key aspect of any electric vehicle is how far it can go on a single charge. The Ioniq 9 has an impressive range of up to 335 miles for its rear-wheel drive (RWD) base model, making it an excellent option for those long trips. However, if you opt for the more powerful versions, you might see a decrease of about 25 miles in range.
The vehicle is powered by a 110.3 kWh lithium-ion battery that can charge from 10% to 80% in around 24 minutes. Finding a public fast charger shouldn’t be too hard, as the SUV features Tesla’s NACS port, giving it access to thousands of Superchargers across North America. Additionally, Hyundai will include a CCS adapter to ensure compatibility with other charging stations.
Performance Specs
The electric motor’s power varies depending on the trim you choose. The Ioniq 9’s base RWD variant produces 215 hp, while the highest Performance Limited trim delivers a robust 422 hp thanks to its dual-motor setup. The fastest version can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than 5 seconds, making it quite exciting to drive.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Ioniq 9 is roomy with three rows of seating, making it perfect for families. There’s plenty of legroom and headspace, so even taller passengers can enjoy comfortable rides in the third row. The spaciousness also extends to its cargo area, which offers a capacity of 21.9 cubic feet.
Among the interior highlights are a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a similarly sized touchscreen for controlling settings and entertainment. Hyundai has included features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, seven USB ports, wireless phone charging, and a premium Bose audio system.
Safety and Pricing
Standard safety features come with lane-keeping assist, a driver attention monitor, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and rear occupant alerts.
The starting price for the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is $60,555 for the S RWD trim. The SE AWD, SEL AWD, and Performance Limited trims are priced at $64,765, $67,920, and $72,850, respectively. Hyundai will also offer the Performance Calligraphy and Performance Calligraphy Design at $76,590 and $78,090, respectively.
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Tags: electric SUV, Hyundai Ioniq 9, long-range driving
May 2, 2025
Older HW3 Teslas Can’t Use New 360-Degree Sentry Mode Feature
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla cars with Hardware 3.0 (HW3) are getting the new Dashcam Viewer feature in the 2025.14 Spring Release update.
2. Enhanced Sentry mode features are not available for older HW3 vehicles due to resource limitations.
3. Even HW3 vehicles with the faster Ryzen FSD processor cannot access the new 360-degree Sentry mode.
4. The Dashcam Viewer provides improvements like a grid view with four camera feeds and quicker previews of Sentry footage.
5. The Cybertruck, equipped with the AI4 kit, also lacks the B-pillar camera update for Sentry mode, with further updates expected later this year.
Tesla cars equipped with the old Hardware 3.0 (HW3) system, which makes up the majority of their fleet on the roads, are receiving the new Dashcam Viewer feature through the 2025.14 Spring Release update.
Limited Features for Older Models
The upgraded Sentry mode, which offers enhanced video surveillance, cannot be utilized on older HW3 vehicles. This is due to the lack of resources needed to manage the additional video feeds from the B-pillar cameras, which would allow Sentry mode to provide a full 360-degree surveillance experience. Instead of opting for an external dash camera solution, like Vantrue, Tesla has chosen to limit these features to newer models that use the HW4 system, now referred to as AI4.
FSD Computer and New Features
Even HW3 vehicles that are equipped with the quicker Ryzen processor for their FSD computer aren’t able to access the new 360-degree Sentry mode feature. But they will enjoy the new Dashcam Viewer, which enhances the display with improvements, like a grid view that shows four camera feeds simultaneously and quicker previews of Sentry footage in 15-second intervals.
Cybertruck’s Unique Position
Interestingly, the Cybertruck, which boasts the latest AI4 kit, also misses out on the B-pillar camera update for Sentry mode. Being a taller vehicle, it appears that Tesla might require more time to develop a comprehensive 360-degree surveillance system for it. Cybertrucks have been targets of vandalism even prior to Elon Musk’s involvement with the federal government, which created some negative perceptions of the Tesla brand. Therefore, it’s likely that the HW4-exclusive upgrades for Sentry mode will be rolled out to the Cybertruck through an OTA update later this year.
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Tags: HW3, Sentry Mode, Tesla
May 1, 2025
Tesla Chair Denies Efforts to Remove Elon Musk as CEO
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla denied rumors of searching for a new CEO to replace Elon Musk, with confirmations from the board chairwoman and Musk himself.
2. Reports suggested that Tesla’s board reached out to executive search firms, indicating Musk should focus more on Tesla’s operations.
3. Musk plans to reduce his responsibilities with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and allocate limited time to it.
4. Tesla is facing challenges with declining demand and rising manufacturing costs, leading to a drop in net income.
5. The company is set to introduce more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3 to address sales declines, but results may take time to evaluate.
A report suggesting that Tesla is searching for a new CEO to replace Elon Musk has been firmly denied by the company, its board chairwoman Robyn Denholm, and Musk himself.
Claims of Executive Search
The rumor claimed that Tesla’s board reached out to prominent executive search firms to explore the possibility of finding a replacement. They reportedly focused on one particular firm, indicating to Musk that he should dedicate more time to Tesla’s operations.
Musk did not raise any objections and declared that starting in May, he would cut back on his responsibilities with the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He has exited the West Wing office, where he was working on reducing government expenditure. During the last cabinet meeting, Trump expressed gratitude towards Musk and mentioned that he probably wishes to “return to his cars.”
Ongoing Communication
The Chief of Staff for Trump stated that communication with Musk remains regular, but instead of face-to-face meetings, they are now conversing over the phone, achieving “the same net effect.”
Musk had previously mentioned that he would only allocate one or two days a week to DOGE, leaving his assembled team to manage operations.
Challenges for Tesla
Tesla is currently grappling with a significant drop in demand and rising manufacturing costs, a situation that has worsened since Musk took up his role at the White House, leading to a notable decline in net income last quarter.
While the company attempted to connect the drop in shipments to the timing of the new Model Y launch and factory upgrades, the ongoing decline in sales, particularly in Europe, suggests a possible long-term shift in brand perception.
To tackle these challenges, Tesla is preparing to introduce more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3, which will feature lower specifications and reduced interior comforts. However, despite Musk’s renewed focus on daily operations, it may take several quarters before shareholders can accurately assess the effectiveness of these strategies.
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Tags: Elon Musk, Model Y, Tesla
April 30, 2025
Toyota Unveils Hydrogen Solutions Website for North America
Key Takeaways
1. Toyota sees hydrogen as a key future energy source, using fuel cells that combine hydrogen with oxygen to create electricity.
2. The fuel cells have a modular design, allowing for versatile applications, including off-grid energy supplies.
3. Currently, the fuel cells are primarily used in the 2025 Toyota Mirai, a type of electric vehicle known as an FCEV.
4. These fuel cells can produce a maximum output of 85 kilowatts (kW) of zero-emission power.
5. Toyota is promoting its next-generation power technologies through a newly launched website to encourage client engagement.
Toyota believes that hydrogen will be a key energy source in the future. They say they have successfully captured this energy in their “proven” fuel cells, which create electricity by combining the universe’s “most abundant” resource with oxygen using a polymeric electrolyte membrane.
Modular Design for Versatility
These fuel cells can be arranged in a modular or “stacked” way, making them suitable for a variety of uses, including off-grid stationary energy supplies for businesses.
At present, these fuel cells are mostly utilized in the 2025 Toyota Mirai, which is a unique type of electric vehicle called an FCEV. They are also used in the powertrain of Toyota’s Class 8 heavy-duty truck, which has reportedly completed 130,000 miles of “real-world” testing for haulage.
Impressive Power Ratings
The fuel cells are rated for a maximum output of 85 kilowatts (kW) of “on-demand zero-emission power” and are poised for deployment from Toyota Motor North America’s Hydrogen Headquarters.
The company is now encouraging potential clients to fully commit to its next-generation power technologies through their newly launched website.
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Tags: hydrogen fuel cells, Mirai, Toyota
April 30, 2025
Tesla Model Y to Charge at Megawatt Semi Chargers Soon
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is building advanced V4 Superchargers for its Semi, launching commercially in 2026.
2. The 1.2 MW charging stations can provide energy to 8 charging stalls simultaneously, enhancing efficiency.
3. Tesla has permits for 46 Semi charging locations this year and plans to add over 300 charging piles by 2026.
4. New stations use most components from existing Superchargers, allowing for faster and cheaper rollout.
5. Tesla is enabling white-label Supercharger projects for other companies, promoting faster network growth through collaboration.
Tesla is in the process of building the advanced V4 Superchargers meant for its Semi, which is set to launch commercially in 2026.
Powerful Charging Capability
These 1.2 MW charging stations are made to work with Tesla’s passenger cars, including the Model Y. The power units can provide energy to as many as 8 charging stalls simultaneously, which is quite efficient.
Tesla has received permits to establish 46 charging locations for the Semi this year and in 2026, aiming to add over 300 charging piles to its rapidly expanding network.
Sharing Insights from the ACT Expo
During the ACT Expo 2025 clean energy conference, Dan Priestley, who leads the Tesla Semi project, mentioned that the new 1.2 MW stations use most of the internal components from the existing Superchargers, except for the stronger cables and connectors necessary for megawatt-level charging.
This design will enable Tesla to roll them out quickly and at lower costs, which should positively impact the pricing per kWh while maintaining the reliability and uptime that users expect from the Supercharger network.
Expanding Through Collaboration
In addition, Tesla is leading initiatives for white-label Supercharger projects, allowing other companies to install and brand these chargers. This move lets them benefit from local or federal subsidies while ensuring quicker growth of Tesla’s charging network.
The details of the Hardware Sales program were shared at the Power2Drive EV industry event in Munich. Tesla’s Moritz Gutbrod hinted that interested parties could have “full control, yet zero hassle” when they install and manage Supercharger stations under their own brand and pricing models.
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Tags: Tesla, Tesla Semi, V4 Superchargers
April 30, 2025
Xiaomi YU7 Long-Range Edition Leaks Featuring Panoramic HUD Tech
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi plans to disrupt the e-SUV market with the YU7, set to launch by July 2025.
2. The YU7 is expected to have a single-motor setup offering a driving range of up to 835 km (519 miles).
3. Interior features will include a steering wheel with physical controls and a “Panoramic” heads-up display.
4. The YU7 may utilize materials like carbon fiber and Alcantara, with a distinctive burgundy and beige color scheme.
5. The YU7 may only be available in China, though similar features can be found in aftermarket products.
Having made a strong entrance into the electric sedan market in its home country of China, Xiaomi is set to disrupt the e-SUV segment with the YU7, expected to launch by July 2025.
Confirmation of Specifications
To support this speculation, the company has apparently received certification for a version of the vehicle from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), featuring a single-motor setup that can provide as much as 835 kilometers (km, or around 519 miles) of driving range.
It’s unclear if this will be a premium version of the YU7, as other configurations are rumored to offer a range of 820 km (approximately 510 miles) on a single charge.
Interior Features
Reports suggest that the YU7 will come with an interior that includes a steering wheel equipped with physical controls, along with a central console that has more switches leaning toward the driver’s side.
Additionally, there seems to be a “Panoramic” heads-up display that may show the time, date, and the status of the car’s systems and infotainment features.
Material Choices and Design
There are discussions about using materials like carbon fiber and Alcantara for certain versions of the YU7. Photos of the interior have surfaced, showcasing a burgundy color scheme with beige highlights; it’s yet to be determined if this color will vary based on the car’s exterior design.
The anticipated YU7, as described, might not be sold to buyers outside of China. Nevertheless, enthusiasts can find similar features, such as Alcantara steering wheel grips, available on Amazon.
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Tags: electric SUV, Xiaomi, YU7
April 29, 2025
BYD Shenzhen’s Maiden Voyage to Brazil with 7,000 Electric Cars
Key Takeaways
1. BYD’s latest car carrier, Shenzhen, is on its way to Brazil with over 7,000 vehicles on board and is set to arrive at Itajai Port in about 30 days.
2. Shenzhen is the largest car transporter in the world, capable of carrying 9,200 vehicles and equivalent in size to 20 soccer fields.
3. The ship is named after the Chinese city of Shenzhen, a key production center for BYD, and features 16 decks.
4. BYD currently operates four car carriers and is expanding its fleet to enhance vehicle export logistics and compete with Tesla.
5. The automaker is preparing to launch its fifth vessel, the Changsha, with the same capacity as Shenzhen, and has introduced a sixth ship named Xian, with pending details.
BYD has sent its latest car carrier, named Shenzhen, to Brazil, carrying over 7,000 vehicles on board. The official handover to the carmaker took place on April 22, 2025. The ship is expected to arrive at Itajai Port in about 30 days.
Impressive Size
This vessel is recognized as the largest car transporter worldwide, though it wasn’t fully loaded when it departed on April 27 from Taicang, Jiangsu province in China. It has the capacity to hold 9,200 vehicles, and its cargo hold is equivalent to 20 standard soccer fields.
Named After a City
In line with BYD’s tradition of naming ships, Shenzhen is named after the Chinese city which is a key production center for the automaker. The ship measures 219.9 meters in length and 37.7 meters in height, featuring a total of 16 decks.
Expanding the Fleet
Currently, BYD operates four car carriers as it seeks to broaden its global reach and compete with Tesla. The company aims to enhance the efficiency of vehicle export logistics by managing operations internally. Other ships in the BYD fleet include the Explorer No. 1 (owned by a different company), the Hefei with a capacity for 7,000 cars, and the Changzhou.
BYD is preparing to launch its fifth vessel, the Changsha, which will have the same capacity as the Shenzhen. Additionally, the automaker has introduced the sixth ship, named Xian, but details about its specifications are still pending.
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Tags: BYD, electric vehicles, Shenzhen
April 29, 2025
New Toyota BZ7 Flagship Electric Sedan Unveiled
Key Takeaways
1. Toyota unveiled the bz7 at the Auto Shanghai 2025 event in collaboration with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co (GAC).
2. The bz7 is a flagship electric sedan, measuring nearly 200 inches (~5,080 mm) in length, and features a design similar to the 2024 concept model.
3. Key design elements include conventional door handles, white leather seating, wooden trim, ambient lighting, and a large infotainment screen with Huawei’s HarmonyOS.
4. Toyota plans to launch the bz7 in China within the next year, with an estimated starting price of CNY 170,000 (~$23,400).
5. There is uncertainty about the bz7’s availability in other regions, including the US, where Toyota already sells the bZ4X.
Toyota has introduced the bz7 at the Auto Shanghai 2025 event. This fresh model has been created in partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co (GAC). It adds to Toyota’s lineup of battery electric vehicles, which already includes the bZ4X and the bZ3.
Details About the bz7
Currently, Toyota has shared just a few specifics about the new bz7. The company has labeled this electric sedan as a flagship model, and its length is almost 200 inches (~5,080 mm). The design of both the exterior and the interior of the bz7 closely resembles the original concept that was showcased in 2024. Notably, it sports a lidar sensor positioned on the front of the roof, along with a front light bar and headlights that remind one of the Toyota Prius.
Design Changes and Interior Features
One notable difference from the concept version is the introduction of conventional door handles. Inside the electric vehicle, you’ll find white leather seating, wooden trim, and ambient lighting. Additionally, there’s a more extensive infotainment screen equipped with Huawei’s HarmonyOS. Further information about the electric vehicle, particularly its powertrain, has not been disclosed yet.
Launch Plans and Pricing
Toyota plans to launch the bz7 in China; as per a recent press release, the company aims to deliver the electric vehicle to customers within the next year. There are rumors suggesting that the initial price for this model is CNY 170,000 (~$23,400). Although Toyota has not confirmed if it will also introduce the bz7 in other regions such as the US, where it already markets electric vehicles like the bZ4X, it appears unlikely given the present information.
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Tags: bz7, electric vehicle, Toyota