Category: EV vehicles

  • Tesla to Begin Cybertruck Deliveries Outside North America in 2025

    Tesla to Begin Cybertruck Deliveries Outside North America in 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Cybertruck will be available in the Middle East by the end of 2025, expanding beyond North America.
    2. Initial launch countries include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, with deliveries expected in late 2025.
    3. Customers can already place orders for the Model 3 and Model Y in Saudi Arabia.
    4. The Cybertruck’s size is expected to appeal to the Middle Eastern market, where larger vehicles are favored.
    5. Tesla is working to boost Cybertruck sales following a recent recall, and it’s unclear if the same US models will be shipped or modified for the region.


    The Cybertruck’s Limitations are Lifting

    No longer will the Cybertruck be limited to just North America. Tesla has shared exciting news that their unique steel pickup truck will be making its way to the Middle East before the end of 2025.

    On X, the Cybertruck’s official account shared a teaser video that features the eye-catching vehicle navigating through tough terrains typical of the Middle East, posing the question, “What if I told you I’m coming to the Middle East this year?”

    Launch Plans for the Cybertruck

    As per details on Tesla’s website, the initial countries set to get the Cybertruck will be Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar, with deliveries expected in late 2025. Additionally, Tesla has kicked off sales in Saudi Arabia, allowing customers to place orders for the Model 3 and Model Y.

    The Cybertruck is likely to gain a large fanbase in the Middle East, where larger and more luxurious vehicles are quite popular. Its bigger size will also blend well with the expansive roads found in the area.

    Sales Strategy and Recall Issues

    Tesla is eager to enhance Cybertruck sales, especially after a recent recall indicated that the futuristic vehicle hasn’t had the best start. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain if the company will ship the same US models, which are currently banned in the UK, or offer a modified version tailored for the region.

    Source:
    Link

  • Tesla Canada Addresses $43 Million EV Rebate Controversy

    Tesla Canada Addresses $43 Million EV Rebate Controversy

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla denied claims of manipulating the iZEV rebate system by submitting $43 million in requests just before the deadline.
    2. The company stated that the claims were for electric vehicle sales made before the termination announcement, and they did not benefit from government funds.
    3. Tesla highlighted that dealerships could sell vehicles at reduced prices by factoring in available incentives for buyers.
    4. The automaker expressed dissatisfaction with the rebate payment freeze and the negative media portrayal affecting staff and customers.
    5. Ongoing tensions in Canada include criticism of Tesla and recent removal from an auto show due to safety concerns amid a tariff conflict with the U.S.


    Tesla has refuted claims that it manipulated the system by hastily submitting a massive number of iZEV rebate requests in Canada just before the deadline. Over a single weekend, the automaker put in claims worth $43 million as the government was concluding the program due to a lack of funds. This action led to an investigation, during which the payouts were put on hold.

    Tesla’s Defense

    In a letter dated March 28th to Transport Canada, Tesla sought to demonstrate that it acted within legal boundaries. Fereshteh Zeineddin, the company’s Director of Sales & Service for Canada, clarified that Tesla simply submitted claims for a backlog of electric vehicle sales that took place prior to the government’s announcement of the program’s termination. The automaker did not gain from any funds provided by the government, as the reduction was applied to the customers, who received the rebate ahead of time.

    Clarification on Incentives

    The letter also noted that dealerships and manufacturers were permitted to let qualified buyers pay for vehicles at a price lower than the total cost by factoring in the incentives they were eligible for.

    Tesla expressed its displeasure at discovering the rebate payment freeze through the news. It also voiced concerns over the negative treatment its staff and customers encountered due to unfavorable media coverage. The automaker suggested it might pursue legal action if the government fails to follow through on its promise to release the withheld funds.

    Ongoing Tensions in Canada

    Tesla has faced criticism in Canada, especially as the nation is involved in a tariff conflict with the United States. Recently, the company was removed from a well-known auto show due to safety issues.

    Source:
    Link

  • Tesla to Fix Model Y 12V and USB Outlets in Sentry Mode

    Tesla to Fix Model Y 12V and USB Outlets in Sentry Mode

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is introducing an Accessory Power mode to keep 12V sockets powered overnight or during use.
    2. The previous solution for battery drain in Sentry Mode cut power to 12V outlets, affecting accessory use.
    3. Sentry Mode was found to drain 14% of battery capacity in 24 hours, prompting optimization of video processing.
    4. The new update will include a “Keep Accessory Power On” option, allowing continuous power until battery drops below 20%.
    5. The Accessory Power feature will work independently of Sentry Mode, preventing previous phantom battery drain issues.


    Tesla owners who have had to leave their devices charging in their vehicles overnight or run a small fridge will be pleased to hear that an upcoming Accessory Power mode will restore power to their 12V sockets.

    Previous Battery Drain Issues

    Last year, Tesla addressed a significant battery drain problem linked to Sentry Mode, which it has now activated automatically to safeguard against vandalism. This was part of the 2024.32.6 software update. However, the solution it implemented was quite simplistic; it cut off power to the 12V outlets and USB ports when no one was in the car while in Sentry Mode. This less than smart fix meant that many Model Y owners couldn’t keep accessories like the Acopower TesFridge working overnight or charge laptops and tablets in their vehicles without power by morning.

    Confusing Power Management

    The way Tesla tackled the phantom battery drain issue in Sentry Mode, which drained 14% of the battery pack’s capacity in just 24 hours, was a bit puzzling. It was partly because of the Vision cameras recording during Sentry Mode, so Tesla optimized the video processing algorithms to significantly lower their power usage. However, for devices and accessories that needed to stay plugged into the Model Y while the driver was away, the company simply cut off power to the 12V and USB sockets. This rough approach is set to be improved with the new Accessory Power mode.

    Exciting Update Ahead

    With the upcoming Spring Update, Tesla is expected to introduce a new “Controls > Charging” menu option that allows users to select “Keep Accessory Power On.” This will ensure that all 12V sockets and USB ports receive continuous power until the vehicle’s battery level drops below 20%.

    The best part is that the new Accessory Power feature won’t require Sentry Mode to function, avoiding the risk of the phantom battery drain issues cropping up again.

    Source:
    Link

  • Tesla Unveils Lowest Cost Battery Per kWh in the Market

    Tesla Unveils Lowest Cost Battery Per kWh in the Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla claims to have achieved the lowest cost per kWh for its 4680 battery, primarily in comparison to its own suppliers.
    2. The transition to in-house production of the 4680 battery marked a significant improvement for Tesla, moving away from reliance on suppliers like LG and Panasonic.
    3. Future expectations indicate that significant milestones in battery manufacturing cost efficiency are anticipated by 2025, particularly with the ramp-up of dry battery electrode production.
    4. Tesla’s development of a lithium refinery in the U.S. suggests ongoing cost reductions for the 4680 battery, though the impact of tax credits is still uncertain.
    5. The dry cathode production method’s effects on manufacturing costs and charging performance remain unclear, with some concerns about thermal efficiency compared to competitors.


    Tesla has reached a point where it can produce its cylindrical 4680 battery at the most economical cost per kWh, indeed.

    This statement was initially made by Elon Musk during a company-wide meeting last month, although he didn’t provide many specifics. Recently, it was also verified by Tesla’s Director of Cell Manufacturing, who offered some additional information.

    Clarification on Cost Claims

    It appears that when Elon Musk referred to the lowest cost per kWh, he was talking about Tesla’s battery suppliers, not the cheapest EV battery cell in the entire world. That recognition likely goes to one of the major Chinese battery manufacturers, CATL or BYD. Nevertheless, what Tesla has accomplished with its 4680 battery optimizations is definitely noteworthy.

    The company transitioned from nearly giving up and relying on suppliers like LG or Panasonic for 4680 cells to becoming the producer of the most affordable battery it uses in under a year. During the presentation, Elon Musk humorously mentioned, “Please don’t make us do the anode, too,” alluding to the more cost-effective dry cathode method that Tesla has now mastered and is rapidly increasing production of to further reduce 4680 cell costs per kWh.

    Future Expectations

    Michael Guilfoy, Tesla’s Director of Cell Manufacturing, expressed confidence that “2025 will see significant milestones with fully ramped dry battery electrode manufacturing to provide even more cost efficiency.” He also took a moment to appreciate the team for their outstanding accomplishment.

    Tesla is also developing its own lithium refinery in the United States, which suggests that the costs of the 4680 battery are likely on a downward trajectory. However, it’s still uncertain whether Tesla’s achievement of the lowest battery cost per kWh is due to the production of the 4680 cells or the federal tax credits for domestically made batteries, as outlined in the Inflation Reduction Act.

    Uncertain Impact of Production Methods

    Moreover, it is still ambiguous whether the dry cathode production method will only revolutionize manufacturing costs or if it will also enhance the charging performance for the Cybertruck and other vehicles using the 4680 cells.

    A recent teardown compared the 4680 battery with BYD cells and revealed lower thermal efficiency, which contributed to charging issues that do not match the speed suggested by the Cybertruck’s 800V system.

    Once Tesla scales up the production of the dry 4680 battery cathode, it is expected to release the much-anticipated cheapest Cybertruck RWD version, which has already been listed as an eligible trim on the federal tax credit website.

    Source:
    Link

  • BYD Unveils First Electric Cars with 1-Megawatt Charging Tech April 9

    BYD Unveils First Electric Cars with 1-Megawatt Charging Tech April 9

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD is launching the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV on April 9th, featuring the fastest charging technology for light-duty vehicles.
    2. The Super e-Platform allows for a driving range increase of up to 400 km in just 5 minutes of charging.
    3. Pre-orders for both models started on March 17th, with prices set at RMB 270,000 ($37,080) for the Han L and RMB 280,000 for the Tang L.
    4. The Han L accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.7 seconds, while the Tang L does so in 3.7 seconds, both equipped with advanced LiDAR technology.
    5. BYD plans to establish 4,000 new charging stations in China, with about 500 ready before the vehicles hit dealerships.


    BYD is set to launch the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV on April 9th, marking them as the quickest-charging light-duty vehicles currently in production. These models utilize the innovative Super e-Platform, allowing for an impressive increase in driving range of up to 400 km in just 5 minutes.

    Event Details

    The launch event is scheduled for 7 p.m. local time in Beijing, as stated in a BYD announcement on Weibo. The automaker asserts that these new electric vehicles represent a significant advancement in the industry.

    Pre-Orders and Pricing

    On March 17th, BYD introduced their ultra-rapid charging tech and also began accepting pre-orders for the Han L and Tang L on the same day. The starting prices for the sedan and SUV are RMB 270,000 ($37,080) and RMB 280,000, respectively.

    Performance Features

    The Han L boasts an impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 2.7 seconds, while the Tang L achieves the same speed in about 3.7 seconds. Both vehicles are fitted with God Eye, BYD’s LiDAR-based technology that competes with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving capabilities.

    The Super e-Platform enables rapid charging, providing up to 1 Megawatt of power, which is double the output of Tesla’s Superchargers. BYD aims to set up 4,000 new charging stations across China, with around 500 expected to be operational before the Han L and Tang L become available at dealerships.

    Source:
    Link

  • New Solar and Wind-Powered Motorcycle Travels 30 Miles

    New Solar and Wind-Powered Motorcycle Travels 30 Miles

    Key Takeaways

    1. The YongLE Risheng CG motorcycle features integrated solar panels and a wind turbine for energy generation.
    2. Despite added equipment, the motorcycle remains lightweight at 135 kilograms (293 lbs).
    3. It is powered by a 1,500 watt motor and a 30 amp-hour battery, achieving speeds of up to 37 mph and a range of 31 miles on a single charge.
    4. The battery can also be charged traditionally, extending its range to 75 miles.
    5. YongLE Risheng plans to launch the CG and other renewable energy vehicles, although there are security concerns about their website.


    Motorcycles have taken a leap into the electric world, but the YongLE Risheng CG offers something very unique. This two-wheeler is designed much like the Honda CG125, but it has solar panels integrated into its structure.

    Innovative Design Features

    These solar panels are cleverly positioned in a canopy that hangs over the rider’s head, and it even includes its own wind turbine. Despite this additional equipment, the overall weight of the motorcycle remains relatively light at 135 kilograms (293lb).

    While the aesthetics might not compete with models like the Lightyear 0 or Aptera, it’s believed that this design is functional. It powers the motorcycle’s 1,500 watt (W) motor and 30 amp-hour (Ah) battery, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 37 miles per hour (mph) and travel distances of 31 miles (~50 kilometers) on a single charge.

    Charging and Range

    Additionally, the motorcycle’s battery has the ability to charge through traditional methods, which can extend its range to as much as 75 miles.

    YongLE Risheng is said to be a legitimate company planning to launch the CG along with other renewable energy vehicles in the near future, although its website raises concerns about security across various web browsers.

    Source:
    Link


  • Electric Cars May Help Prevent Childhood Asthma: Study Report

    Electric Cars May Help Prevent Childhood Asthma: Study Report

    Key Takeaways

    1. Increasing electric vehicles (EVs) can reduce childhood asthma cases linked to vehicle emissions.
    2. For every 1,000 new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles sold, a new childhood asthma case is recorded.
    3. Replacing 21% of new fossil-fueled vehicles with EVs could stop the rise in asthma rates.
    4. The needed replacement percentages of ICE vehicles vary by state, from 7% to 42%, based on population and vehicle age.
    5. EVs are already improving public health in states with zero-emission vehicle initiatives, but affordability for lower-income families is crucial.


    A US research has discovered that increasing the number of electric vehicles on the streets can lower the chances of childhood asthma. The findings came after looking at data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gathered between 2013 and 2019.

    New Case Rates

    Harshit Gujrat, Meredith Franklin, and Steve Easterbrook observed that for every 1,000 new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles sold, a new childhood asthma case was recorded. They stated that just replacing 21 percent of new fossil-fueled vehicles with EVs could be “enough to stop the rise in asthma rates linked to new vehicle sales.”

    State-by-State Analysis

    The report highlights that the replacement percentages differ across states. Depending on how many people live there and how many vehicles are already on the road, some states might only need to replace 7 percent of their new ICE cars, while others could need up to 42 percent. This shows that densely populated states with older gas vehicles will gain the most from switching to electric cars.

    Public Health Benefits

    At the same time, the research indicates that EVs are already benefiting public health in the US. States that have zero-emission vehicle initiatives are seeing the bulk of these health improvements.

    The study urges that lawmakers should find methods to make EVs more affordable for lower-income families. Nonetheless, it warns that electric cars aren’t the only way to enhance children’s health.

    Source:
    Link

  • Xiaomi SU7 Crash Kills Three: Timeline, Details, Company Response

    Xiaomi SU7 Crash Kills Three: Timeline, Details, Company Response

    Key Takeaways

    1. The crash of a Xiaomi SU7 Standard electric sedan on March 29 resulted in the deaths of three female university students, marking the first known fatality linked to Xiaomi’s EV.

    2. The vehicle was equipped with a vision-based Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) system, which lacks the advanced LiDAR technology found in higher models, raising safety concerns about autonomous driving technology.

    3. The collision occurred in a construction area with altered traffic lanes and possible debris, suggesting environmental factors may have contributed to the accident.

    4. An investigation revealed that the NOA system failed to recognize smaller barriers, and the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system did not engage due to the water barrier being undetected.

    5. Xiaomi has initiated an internal investigation and expressed commitment to transparency while addressing concerns about the reliability of autonomous driving features and the effectiveness of emergency systems.


    On March 29, a tragic incident occurred involving a Xiaomi SU7 Standard electric sedan on the Dezhou-Shangrao Highway (G0321) near Tongling, Anhui Province, China. This crash resulted in the deaths of three female university students and is the first known fatality associated with Xiaomi’s first electric vehicle (EV). The event has raised significant concerns about the safety of autonomous driving technology.

    Details of the Incident and Victims

    The three victims were university students heading to Chizhou for a civil service examination. They were traveling in a Xiaomi SU7 Standard, which is the entry-level model of the SU7 series, acquired in May 2024 and delivered on October 19, 2024. This model, launched on March 28, 2024, operates with a vision-based Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) system but does not feature the LiDAR technology available in the Pro and Max variants.

    Circumstances of the Crash

    The collision took place in the Chiqi area of the highway, where construction work had altered the traffic lanes. This change, coupled with the possibility of debris from the ongoing repairs, may have contributed to the accident.

    Sequence of Events Leading to the Crash

    An investigation by Xiaomi, based on data provided to the authorities, has outlined the timeline of the crash:
    10:27:17 PM: NOA was turned on; the car was traveling at 116 km/h (72 mph).
    10:44:24 PM: The system identified obstacles, issued alerts, and started to slow down.
    10:44:25 PM: The driver regained manual control, turning the steering wheel 22.0625 degrees left and applying brakes at 31%.
    10:44:26 PM: The steering moved slightly right by 1.0625 degrees, increasing braking to 38%.
    10:44:26–10:44:28 PM: The vehicle collided with a concrete barrier at a speed of 97 km/h (60 mph), leading to a fire.

    Aftermath of the Collision

    Reports on social media, including a post from one victim’s mother, alleged that the doors of the vehicle locked automatically after the crash, trapping the occupants as flames engulfed the car. Xiaomi was unable to confirm the functioning of the doors but mentioned that there is an emergency unlock feature, the efficiency of which remains uncertain. The NOA system’s failure to identify smaller barriers, such as cones, might have played a role in the accident.

    Company Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

    In response, Xiaomi established an investigation team on March 30 and provided data by March 31. CEO Lei Jun expressed sorrow and assured transparency while offering assistance to the families of the victims. The company stated that a special task force was created immediately, and they visited the accident scene on March 30. They also clarified that they haven’t yet accessed the vehicle involved in the crash, countering rumors of it being taken to Beijing. Internal records show that the Xiaomi SU7 was operating in NOA mode at about 116 km/h before it received a warning and slowed to 97 km/h prior to the crash. The cause of the fire after the impact is still under investigation, but Xiaomi suspects it initiated in the cabin rather than in the battery. Additionally, the company reported that the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system did not engage because the water barrier was not recognized by the detection system.

    Continuing Investigation and Safety Questions

    The police investigation is ongoing, focusing on the road conditions, driver behavior, and vehicle systems. This unfortunate event brings to light essential concerns regarding the reliability of autonomous driving features, the effectiveness of emergency systems, and the need for driver education in electric vehicles.


  • Tesla Model Y AWD Price Increase in US for New Diamond Black Color

    Tesla Model Y AWD Price Increase in US for New Diamond Black Color

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla launched the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh in the US, introducing a new regular AWD trim without the FSD bundle.
    2. The new Model Y is priced higher than the previous Long Range AWD version, making the Launch Series edition appear more affordable for FSD buyers.
    3. The 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD Juniper refresh costs $1,000 more than the previous model but is $12,000 cheaper than the Launch Series edition.
    4. The new Model Y is still eligible for the federal $7,500 tax credit, bringing its price down to $41,490.
    5. Tesla introduced an exclusive color option, Diamond Black, for an additional $1,500, which is expected to be popular among buyers.


    Tesla has just launched the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh in the US, introducing a new regular AWD trim that does not include the FSD bundle found in the previously available Launch Series edition. This is the first time the new model is available without that feature pack.

    Pricing Comparison

    However, the new Model Y comes with a higher price tag compared to the earlier Long Range AWD version, making the Launch Series edition appear more affordable for buyers interested in FSD. The old Model Y AWD LR was previously priced at $50,000 before accounting for the federal tax credit, but Tesla later reduced that to $48,000.

    The 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD Juniper refresh is priced $1,000 higher, making it $12,000 cheaper than the Launch Series edition. If a buyer adds all the bundled options such as FSD and Acceleration Boost, along with premium accessories from the Launch Series, the final price of the new Model Y AWD could rise to $65,000.

    FSD Feature and Tax Credit

    This makes the original trim a good deal for anyone looking to buy Tesla’s FSD feature, especially since they expect to receive the unsupervised version starting in June, when testing begins in Austin. Luckily, the new Model Y remains eligible for the federal $7,500 tax credit, bringing the advertised price to $41,490.

    In an effort to ease the disappointment of the increased Model Y Juniper refresh price in the US, Tesla has introduced a unique and exclusive color called Diamond Black. This new color option comes with an additional cost of $1,500 and is described by Tesla as a “deep jet black with variations of sparkle and refined flake appearance.”

    Availability of New Color

    This new color is expected to be highly sought after and could sell out fast, similar to the white interior option of the Launch Series edition, which was unavailable for much of the time that Tesla sold the first Model Y trim in the US.

    Source:
    Link

  • BYD to Challenge Tesla’s Dominance in Electric Motors and Batteries

    BYD to Challenge Tesla’s Dominance in Electric Motors and Batteries

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD is expected to outsell Tesla in electric vehicles by 2025 and may surpass Tesla in technology as well.
    2. Tesla faces financial challenges, including $200 million in unsold Cybertruck inventory, while BYD’s advancements position it as the leading EV manufacturer.
    3. BYD’s new 1 MW EV platform features cutting-edge technology, including a high-speed electric motor and fast-charging battery.
    4. BYD’s vertical integration as a major battery manufacturer gives it a competitive edge in developing efficient EV technologies.
    5. While Tesla excels in production cost management and autonomous driving software, BYD’s new self-driving system will be provided free with its vehicles, enhancing its data collection capabilities.


    Tesla is predicted to lose its top spot in the electric vehicle market by 2025, according to a report from market research company Counterpoint.

    BYD’s Rise in Sales

    The report states that BYD is likely to outsell Tesla in electric vehicles for the first time within a year. More troubling for Tesla and Elon Musk, however, is the expectation that BYD will surpass Tesla in technological advancements as well, rather than just sales. This may explain why Chinese authorities are cautious about allowing BYD to establish a factory in Mexico, fearing that it could enable American manufacturers like Tesla to access their technology.

    Financial Challenges Ahead

    Currently, Tesla has $200 million in unsold Cybertruck inventory, based on their recent shipping figures. Nevertheless, the new Model Y might still find success in markets outside of China. Despite this, the Counterpoint study suggests that even in such scenarios, BYD will take the lead as the largest EV manufacturer in the world by 2025, primarily because it now possesses superior technology.

    Innovative Technology from BYD

    BYD has introduced its new 1 MW EV platform, which offers an unmatched combination of powertrain and drivetrain capabilities. For instance, this high-voltage architecture enables the creation of the industry’s fastest electric motor, capable of exceeding 30,000 rpm while maintaining the same size. Additionally, the fast-charging 10C battery designed specifically for the 1MW system can recharge in just 5 minutes. BYD is also planning to establish a network of over 500 charging stations, all expected to be functional in under a month.

    Vertical Integration and Competitive Edge

    Such advancements have been made possible by BYD’s vertical integration, as it is the second-largest battery manufacturer in the world. This strategy not only allows them to develop custom EV powertrain technologies but also to achieve manufacturing efficiencies that may be challenging for Tesla to match, especially given the thermal efficiency issues with its own 4680 batteries.

    Areas Where Tesla Still Excels

    Tesla continues to excel in production cost management and its autonomous driving software. However, BYD has recently announced that it will provide its new self-driving system called Eye of God free of charge with all of its vehicles. This move could enable BYD to quickly gather millions of miles of driving data to analyze, as it works to catch up with Tesla’s $8,000 FSD option.

    Grab Your Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector

    You can get the 80A Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector with a 24′ cable on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link