Category: EV vehicles

  • Volkswagen Reveals Next-Gen Concepts for China’s Car Market

    Volkswagen Reveals Next-Gen Concepts for China’s Car Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. Volkswagen plans to expand its car lineup in China with new Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), starting with a prototype-based model.
    2. The ID. ERA, developed in collaboration with SAIC, features batteries providing a standard range of 300 km and an additional 700 km through a fuel generator.
    3. The ID. EVO, a full-sized all-electric SUV, is launched under the youth-oriented ID.UNYX brand and operates on an 800V system.
    4. The ID. AURA, designed with a notchback style, introduces new electronic architecture and is the first to use the Compact Main Platform (CMP).
    5. Future models are expected to support Level 2++ autonomy by 2026, enabling semi-autonomous driving features like merging and overtaking in China.

    Volkswagen has shared its intentions to expand its car lineup in China with new Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) soon, starting with a model that could be derived from one of its recent prototypes.

    Collaboration with SAIC

    In collaboration with the renowned OEM SAIC, the ID. ERA features batteries that provide a standard range of 300 kilometers (km, or roughly 184 miles). These batteries are connected to a fuel generator that is capable of extending the driving range by an additional 700 kilometers (approximately 435 miles).

    Introduction of New Models

    This model has been launched together with the ID. EVO, which is the first “full-sized” all-electric SUV created for Volkswagen Anhui’s youth-oriented ID.UNYX brand.

    The vehicle operates on an 800V system and incorporates the new “zonal” electronic architecture similar to that of the ID. AURA. The ID. AURA is designed with a “notchback” style, which is viewed as a budget-friendly sedan, and it is the first to implement the FAW-Volkswagen subsidiary’s Compact Main Platform (CMP).

    Advanced Features and Future Plans

    The company also claims that the ID. AURA will offer an experience reminiscent of Knight Rider, featuring a “smartphone-like” interface along with a possible “humanoid” AI assistant.

    The actual cars based on these three concepts are expected to support Level 2++ autonomy by 2026, permitting them to perform actions like merging and overtaking on their own, though under the supervision of the driver, specifically in China.

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    Volkswagen Reveals Next-Gen Concepts for China's Car MarketVolkswagen Reveals Next-Gen Concepts for China's Car MarketVolkswagen Reveals Next-Gen Concepts for China's Car Market

     

  • First Hydrogen-Powered Helicopter Flight: Key Details Revealed

    First Hydrogen-Powered Helicopter Flight: Key Details Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The first piloted flight powered by hydrogen was successfully completed using a modified R44 helicopter by Unither Therapeutics.
    2. The helicopter’s original engine was replaced with two PEM fuel cells, a lithium-ion booster battery, and an electric motor, with the hydrogen tank strategically placed for weight balance.
    3. Managing heat from the fuel cells was a significant challenge, especially during hovering flights, where airflow is limited.
    4. During the test flight, PEM fuel cells provided 90% of energy needs, with the battery supporting demand spikes and retaining 80% charge.
    5. ‘Project Proticity’ aims to develop hydrogen-powered technology further, including plans for an R66 model and exploring liquid hydrogen storage for longer-range missions.

    For a duration of three minutes and 16 seconds, a specially modified R44 helicopter successfully completed the first piloted flight powered by hydrogen. This achievement was announced by Unither Therapeutics, the parent organization of Unither Bioélectronique, marking a significant step forward in this innovative technology.

    Helicopter Modifications

    The test involved a revamped R44 model from Robinson Helicopter Company. The original Lycoming IO-540 piston engine was taken out and replaced with two low-temperature proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, a lithium-ion booster battery pack, and a MagniX electric motor. The hydrogen tank was cleverly placed beneath the tail boom to optimize weight distribution.

    Overcoming Technical Hurdles

    One of the key challenges faced during this project was the cooling system. In a chat with Vertical Magazine, Mikael Cardinal, who is the VP of Program Management and business development for Organ Delivery Systems at Unither Bioelectronics, mentioned that managing the heat – which accounts for about 50% of the energy produced by the fuel cells – was particularly tricky. This was especially true during hovering flights, which lack the airflow that higher-speed flights provide.

    Robinson Helicopter Company reported that during the test flight, PEM fuel cells met 90% of the energy needs, while the battery played a crucial role in handling spikes in demand and maintained 80% of its charge by the end of the flight.

    Future Developments

    This helicopter is part of ‘Project Proticity,’ a collaboration between the aircraft manufacturer and Unither Therapeutics to further develop this hydrogen-powered technology. The companies are also looking into creating an R66 hydrogen-powered model.

    In addition, Robinson is exploring the integration of a liquid hydrogen storage system. The company believes this could facilitate longer-range missions, as the current tests have been conducted with gaseous hydrogen.

    These helicopters are designed for the purpose of transporting manufactured organ alternatives, showcasing a promising future in medical transportation.

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  • CATL to Mass Produce First 300-Mile Sodium-Ion Battery

    CATL to Mass Produce First 300-Mile Sodium-Ion Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Energy Density: CATL’s sodium-ion batteries in the Naxtra series have an energy density of 175 Wh/kg, comparable to lithium iron phosphate batteries.

    2. Extended Range Capabilities: The Naxtra batteries can achieve over 300 miles of range on a single charge, marking a significant advancement for sodium-ion technology in electric vehicles.

    3. Resilience in Extreme Conditions: These batteries maintain capacity for over 10,000 charge cycles and perform well at extremely low temperatures, retaining 90% of charge at -40 degrees Celsius.

    4. Cost and Safety Advantages: Sodium-ion batteries offer lower costs and enhanced safety, as they do not contain flammable materials, reducing the need for reinforced casings.

    5. Mass Production Plans: CATL plans to start mass production of sodium-ion batteries for heavy-duty trucks in June and will begin delivering 300-mile Naxtra packs for electric vehicles by December.

    Battery producers such as BYD and HiNa have begun making sodium-ion batteries aimed at energy storage and smaller vehicles. However, the largest battery manufacturer in the world has surpassed them by revealing its new sodium-ion battery series for passenger electric vehicles, named Naxtra.

    High Energy Density

    The battery packs are constructed with CATL’s next-generation sodium-ion cells, boasting an impressive energy density of 175 Wh/kg. This energy density matches that of today’s lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries found in Anker power banks and popular electric cars like the Tesla Model Y, marking a significant advancement for sodium-ion battery technology.

    Extended Range Capabilities

    The Naxtra series features the first sodium-ion battery mass-produced for electric vehicles that can achieve a range of over 300 miles on a single charge. Besides being the first extended-range sodium-ion battery for passenger electric cars, CATL’s Naxtra battery offers all the benefits associated with sodium-ion technology when compared to lithium batteries.

    Resilience in Extreme Conditions

    This new sodium-ion battery maintains its capacity for over 10,000 charge cycles and performs well even in extremely low temperatures. CATL claims that its sodium-ion pack can keep 90% of a minimal 10% charge at -40 degrees Celsius, a challenge that lithium batteries struggle to meet. For instance, preconditioning a lithium battery, which uses its own energy to warm up before charging, is only effective when the charge is above 20%.

    In June, CATL plans to kick off mass production of sodium-ion batteries for heavy-duty trucks, intending to replace lead-acid batteries at half the cost. By December, they will begin sending out the first 300-mile sodium-ion Naxtra packs for customers to integrate into their forthcoming electric vehicle models.

    Cost and Safety Advantages

    While lithium prices have significantly decreased from their 2022 peak and sodium-ion batteries currently do not achieve half the manufacturing costs of lithium cells, sodium-ion chemistry presents various benefits beyond just a lower price point.

    These batteries can retain their capacity for a longer duration and under harsher conditions. A major advantage is their safety; unlike lithium cells with liquid electrolytes, sodium-ion batteries do not contain flammable materials, allowing them to endure various impact, puncture, or fire tests without needing reinforced casing like CATL’s lithium batteries.

    The battery manufacturer has even shared a testing video demonstrating that the Naxtra sodium-ion packs undergo rigorous endurance tests, succeeding impressively, which is promising for the safety of future electric vehicles utilizing the Naxtra sodium-ion battery in case of road incidents.

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  • Young Drivers Choose Electric Cars Over ICE, Paying £16,000 More

    Young Drivers Choose Electric Cars Over ICE, Paying £16,000 More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Young drivers in the UK are willing to spend an extra £16,000 for electric vehicles (EVs).
    2. 47% of UK drivers under 25 are interested in driving electric cars, with 31% willing to wait to afford one.
    3. Environmental concerns drive 38% of young drivers to avoid petrol or diesel cars for their first vehicle.
    4. Electric vehicle insurance rates are higher for younger drivers, averaging £1,881 compared to £1,621 for internal combustion engine vehicles.
    5. EV sales in the UK rose significantly, with a 55% increase in 2024, making up 2.5% of total car sales.

    Electric vehicles (EVs) usually have higher price tags than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Despite this, younger drivers are enthusiastic about switching to electric. A study conducted by the insurance comparison platform MoneySuperMarket reveals that young car buyers are ready to spend an extra £16,000 to own an electric vehicle.

    Young Drivers’ Preferences

    The survey highlighted that 47 percent of UK drivers under 25 expressed interest in driving electric cars, making up about 31 percent of the total respondents. Additionally, around 31 percent of these young individuals are willing to wait until they can afford an EV before getting behind the wheel. Notably, 38 percent of them cited environmental issues as the reason they would avoid purchasing a petrol or diesel car for their first vehicle.

    Insurance and Costs

    Younger UK drivers also face higher insurance rates for electric vehicles, with the average premium reaching £1,881, compared to £1,621 for ICE vehicles. Moreover, they need to be aware of increased taxation, as the government introduced a vehicle excise duty (VED) on electric cars starting in April 2025. This new tax adds £620 to the yearly expenses associated with operating a new electric vehicle.

    Growth in EV Sales

    On a brighter note, young drivers can take comfort in the rising popularity of electric vehicles in the UK. In 2024, approximately 190,000 electric cars were sold, representing 2.5 percent of total car sales. This marks an impressive 55 percent increase from 2023. The trend shows a growing acceptance of EVs among the younger generation, despite the challenges they face.

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  • BYD Wins 200 EV Orders from Dubai Taxi Company

    BYD Wins 200 EV Orders from Dubai Taxi Company

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) has partnered with BYD to introduce 200 electric BYD Seal taxis.
    2. DTC aims for a fully electric taxi fleet by 2040, supporting Dubai’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
    3. Currently, 86% of DTC’s taxi fleet is eco-friendly, with over 9,000 vehicles in operation.
    4. The BYD Seal can travel up to 600 km on a single charge and has impressive acceleration capabilities.
    5. DTC has previously added electric taxis to their fleet, including 250 in late 2024, and other companies have also introduced Tesla models to their services.

    If you’re thinking about a trip to Dubai, it’s likely you’ll find yourself riding in an electric taxi made by BYD. The Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) has inked a deal with the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer to provide 200 BYD Seal taxis that run on batteries.

    Aiming for a Green Future

    DTC has set an ambitious goal to have a fully electric taxi fleet by 2040, aligning with Dubai’s broader commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Currently, they state that 86 percent of their taxis are eco-friendly. The company operates a fleet of over 9,000 vehicles.

    Impressive Vehicle Specifications

    The BYD Seal is a battery-powered sedan that can travel as far as 600 km on a single charge. It features a cell-to-body design that incorporates the battery into the car’s structure, enhancing both safety and efficiency. Although DTC hasn’t disclosed which model of the Seal they are purchasing, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. If you’re in a hurry, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version can do the same in just 3.8 seconds, making it perfect for quick trips between sightseeing spots.

    Progress in Electric Transportation

    Dubai already has taxis that produce zero tailpipe emissions. In late 2024, DTC added 250 electric taxis to their fleet. The largest taxi service, Economic Group Holdings, through its Arabia Taxi division, bought 269 Tesla Model 3s in 2023. Additionally, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) introduced 172 Teslas, which included the Model S, Model X, and Model 3, back in 2017.

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  • Camouflaged Tesla Model Y Seen in India Before Launch

    Camouflaged Tesla Model Y Seen in India Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is nearing the launch of the Model Y and Model 3 in India, with ongoing certification processes.
    2. A Model Y was spotted undergoing public testing in Mumbai, indicating active preparations for the Indian market.
    3. Tesla has secured showroom locations near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai and Delhi.
    4. The company is hiring for various roles in India, signaling increased operational activity ahead of launch.
    5. Tesla views India as a key market for recovery following a downturn in global sales.

    Keen observers have recently spotted signs that Tesla is getting closer to launching its products in India. A Reddit user named shameelck shared a picture of a covered Tesla Model Y parked outside a store, but didn’t mention where exactly the sighting took place.

    Certification Progress

    Tesla is currently going through the necessary certification processes to sell the Model Y and Model 3 in the world’s most populous country. In March 2025, the company submitted its eighth test permit.

    Public Testing in Mumbai

    On the platform X (previously known as Twitter), user @ashishpol86 shared two brief videos of a fast-moving Model Y on a highway in Mumbai. The electric SUV was also camouflaged, as Tesla conducts public testing for its vehicles.

    Showroom Developments

    Reports indicate that Tesla has secured locations for showrooms close to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in both Mumbai and Delhi. The company is hiring for roles in vehicle service, sales, customer support, and operations. This surge in pre-launch activities follows a meeting between CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi earlier this year.

    India represents a significant opportunity for Tesla as it seeks to recover from a downturn in global sales. The company plans to start delivering the Cybertruck in the Middle East by the end of 2025, although the truck is still prohibited in certain European nations.

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  • Luxeed R7 Max RWD: SUV with 1000-Mile EREV Range & Huawei Tech

    Luxeed R7 Max RWD: SUV with 1000-Mile EREV Range & Huawei Tech

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Luxeed R7 Ultra AWD features a 1.5T 4-cylinder engine paired with dual Huawei DriveONE motors, offering up to 1,551 km (964 miles) of range.
    2. The Luxeed R7 Max RWD variant achieves a maximum range of 1,673 km (1,039 miles) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
    3. Both models are part of Huawei’s Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA) and utilize a 400-volt Tuling platform with a 53.4 kWh battery that charges from 20% to 80% in 15 minutes.
    4. They include advanced features like Huawei’s Qiankun driver assistance systems and HarmonyOS 4, with a 15.6-inch center console display.
    5. The starting prices are 299,800 yuan (around $41,000) for the Max RWD and 319,800 yuan (approximately $44,000) for the Ultra AWD.

    The EREV, or Electric Range Extended Vehicle, combines a traditional internal combustion engine with electric motors to enhance fuel efficiency between stops.

    Luxeed R7 Ultra AWD Features

    The Luxeed R7 Ultra AWD showcases a 1.5T 4-cylinder engine, complemented by dual Huawei DriveONE motors. These motors produce 155 kilowatts (kW), roughly 208 horsepower (hp), for the front and 227 kW (or 304 hp) for the rear. This setup allows the vehicle to achieve an impressive range of up to 1,551 kilometers (km), which is about 964 miles, thanks to its 67-liter (l) fuel tank.

    Performance of the Luxeed R7 Max RWD

    Alongside the Ultra AWD, the Luxeed R7 Max RWD is also introduced, boasting an impressive maximum range of 1,673 km, or about 1,039 miles, on a full tank. This rear-wheel drive variant only features the 227 kW electric motor and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (approximately 0 to 62 mph) in a quick 4.9 seconds. In contrast, the AWD sibling achieves this in 7.4 seconds.

    Innovative Technology and Pricing

    The new R7 models are part of Huawei’s Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA) program. They are built on the OEM’s 400-volt (V) Tuling platform and feature a substantial 53.4 kW-hour (kWh) battery that can charge from 20% to 80% in just 15 minutes.

    Additionally, both R7 Max RWD and Ultra AWD come with Huawei’s Qiankun driver assistance systems and HarmonyOS 4, which includes a 15.6-inch center console display.

    Huawei and Chery are marketing these vehicles as among the most intelligent, smooth, and powerful EREVs available on Chinese roads. The starting prices are set at 299,800 yuan (approximately $41,000) for the Max RWD and 319,800 yuan (around $44,000) for the Ultra AWD.

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  • Affordable Tesla Model Y and Model 3 with Basic Specs Launching Soon

    Affordable Tesla Model Y and Model 3 with Basic Specs Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The launch of Tesla’s budget-friendly Model Y in the U.S. has been delayed, with production now aimed for 2026.
    2. Elon Musk hinted at an affordable Tesla model for the U.S. in early 2024, but it’s unclear if it’s the Model Y or a new model like the Model 2.
    3. The budget Model Y, referred to as E41, will be a simplified version of the Juniper refresh, potentially lacking premium features.
    4. The starting price for the economical Model Y is expected to be around $40,000, with production costs estimated to be 20% lower than the current model.
    5. Tesla is likely to reveal more details about the Model Y delays during its upcoming earnings announcement.

    After the introduction of the more affordable and smaller Model Y, there are reports that the Juniper refresh in China has been pushed back to 2026. It seems that a similar situation might be unfolding for the U.S. model of Tesla’s popular budget-friendly vehicle.

    Though insiders did not confirm if the delay is related to supply chain challenges arising from the tariff conflicts with the White House, they suggest that Tesla’s timeline for the smaller, less expensive version of the Model Y in the U.S. has been pushed back. It appears that Tesla is now aiming to manufacture 250,000 units of this model in 2026.

    Elon Musk’s Comments on the Release

    During the last quarterly earnings call, Elon Musk stated that there is still an affordable Tesla model planned for a U.S. launch in the first half of the year. However, it remains unclear whether he was referring to the more affordable Model Y or another model akin to the Model 2, which has been speculated to look like a smaller version of the Y. Reports indicate that the launch window has shifted to around the holiday season or early next year, coinciding with the launch in China.

    Details on the Cheaper Model Y

    The budget-friendly Model Y, internally referred to as E41, is expected to be a significantly simplified version of the Juniper refresh. Tesla may replicate their strategy with the Cybertruck, offering a basic RWD model that features cloth seating, lacks air suspension, and is missing many other premium features.

    In the past, a similar approach was taken with the Model 3 in Mexico, although those vehicles maintained the same dimensions as the original Model 3 or Cybertruck. Elon Musk has previously stated that the new budget model, once called Model 2, will indeed be “smaller, to be certain.”

    Pricing and Production Costs

    This concept could easily extend to a downsized, simplified Model Y that Tesla plans to sell for considerably less than the Juniper refresh AWD model, which currently retails for over $50,000. The production expenses for the economical Model Y E41 are believed to be 20% lower, potentially allowing it to be priced starting at $40,000 before any federal tax incentives—making it an attractive option for buyers.

    The production strategy for this economical Model Y, likely to feature a single-motor RWD setup, is still uncertain, with the launch leaning towards the holiday quarter or early next year. This timeframe is also when Tesla is expected to unveil a more basic Model 3, which could become its least expensive vehicle.

    Tesla is set to announce earnings next week and may provide additional information regarding the delays surrounding the smaller, more affordable Model Y.

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  • Tesla Offers $10,550 Discounts on Inventory Cybertrucks

    Tesla Offers $10,550 Discounts on Inventory Cybertrucks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has increased discounts on the Cybertruck, ranging from $6,000 to $10,550 for the 2024 model, depending on conditions.
    2. The discounts are specifically for U.S. buyers and apply to both the Foundation and Non-Foundation Series.
    3. The Foundation Series includes free lifetime charging at Superchargers as part of the offer, aimed at clearing last year’s stock.
    4. A new, cheaper version of the Cybertruck is set to be introduced, approximately $10,000 less expensive, but with fewer features.
    5. Despite being the most popular electric pickup in the U.S., the Cybertruck’s sales have not met CEO Elon Musk’s expectations, though expansion to the Middle East may boost sales.

    If you’ve dreamed of having the steel-body Cybertruck, now could be the perfect moment to act. Tesla has raised the discounts on this pickup truck, going from $6,000 to $10,550, depending on certain conditions.

    Special Offers for American Customers

    This limited-time offer is specifically for buyers in the U.S. and applies to the 2024 model year. Tesla is reducing prices by up to $10,000 on the Foundation Series and up to $10,550 on the Non-Foundation Series, leading to significant savings for customers.

    Additional Incentives

    To make the Foundation Series even more attractive, Tesla is including free lifetime charging at its widely-used Superchargers as it works to sell off last year’s stock. However, it’s important to note that the 2025 models eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credits are not part of these discounts.

    A Cheaper Option on the Horizon

    The car manufacturer is also aiming to reach more consumers by introducing a version that is approximately $10,000 less expensive. But those looking for a bargain will miss out on some features, such as Air Suspension, a tonneau cover, and various interior amenities.

    The Cybertruck concluded the first quarter of 2025 as the most popular battery-powered pickup truck in the U.S. Yet, it hasn’t achieved the overwhelming success that CEO Elon Musk envisioned. Still, sales might begin to rise as Tesla expands the Cybertruck’s availability to the Middle East, where luxury vehicles are highly coveted.

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  • New Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic Colors

    New Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift features a new Diamond Black color option, exclusive to U.S. buyers.
    2. The Diamond Black finish is designed to mimic the sparkle of a diamond when exposed to sunlight.
    3. Spy shots reveal that the Diamond Black hue appears vibrant and eye-catching, even when the car is dirty.
    4. The Diamond Black color option costs an additional $1,500, with an extra $1,000 for a stylish black and white interior.
    5. Tesla also offers the 80A Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector with a 24′ cable for purchase on Amazon.

    Those looking to get their hands on the latest Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift can now check out how two of its color options appear in bright sunlight, which is probably the toughest condition for any color to show its true self.

    The leaks showcase the fresh and exclusive Diamond Black shade for the 2026 Model Y, available only to buyers in the United States, along with the popular Deep Blue Metallic.

    Eye-Catching Diamond Black

    Unquestionably, the new Diamond Black finish has captured the most interest, as Tesla aimed to mimic the glimmer of a diamond facet when exposed to direct sunlight.

    Images of the new Model Y in Diamond Black have already surfaced, showing a unit charging at Tesla’s public showroom in Fremont, but now we have footage of it in full sunlight as well.

    Sparkle in the Sun

    Admittedly, the spy shots feature a rather dirty 2026 Model Y, but even then, the Diamond Black hue glimmers softly as the camera pans over it. The video showcases both the front and back of the new Model Y dressed in Diamond Black, providing a stark contrast to Tesla’s prior dark color options.

    This new finish appears more vibrant, at least for a black shade, and injects some flair into what could have been a rather dull appearance for the updated Model Y.

    Tesla has set the price for the Diamond Black color at an additional $1,500. For those who desire a stylish black and white interior alongside the shimmering exterior finish, an extra grand will be required.

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    New Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic ColorsNew Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic ColorsNew Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic Colors
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