Category: EV vehicles

January 19, 2025
Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices and Offers 5 Years Free Supercharging in Japan
Tesla is gearing up to launch the refreshed Model Y Juniper, not just in countries like China where it’s available for pre-order, but also worldwide.
Promotional Efforts for Model Y
The company has initiated a big promotional campaign to sell off existing Model Y stock before introducing the updated version in various locations including the US and Japan.
Price Cuts in the US
In the United States, the prices for inventory Model Y vehicles have been slashed by as much as $4,120 for the top-tier Performance model, with reductions ranging from $960 to $2,500 for other variants.
There are several Long Range Model Y AWD cars available at a discount of $2,500, bringing their price down to $47,490 before applying the $7,500 federal tax credit. This also applies to options like multi-coat paint and 20-inch Induction Wheels. To put it in perspective, this particular configuration would cost $51,990 if ordered out of inventory.
Performance Model Discounts
The Model Y Performance version, which accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, has a starting price of $53,490 with the Quicksilver paint. However, if bought from inventory, the price drops to $47,370.
Tesla has already begun selling the Juniper in China and has kicked off mass production in Europe, suggesting that an announcement regarding the 2025 Model Y pricing for the US is imminent.
With the federal tax credit factored in, the base trim of the inventory Model Y can now be snagged for as low as $37,490, making it an attractive offer even for those waiting for the Juniper update in the US.
Incentives in Japan
In Japan, Tesla has introduced another incentive to lure in Model Y customers ahead of the Juniper facelift. Buyers of inventory vehicles will receive free Supercharging for five years, with some conditions:
Customers who buy a new Model Y from stock can use Superchargers without charge for five years post-delivery. To qualify, new orders made after January 1, 2025, must be delivered by March 31, 2025. Those waiting for a vehicle ordered by December 31, 2024, won’t be eligible for this offer if they place a new order after January 1, 2025. This offer is tied to the Tesla account and isn’t transferable to other customers or vehicles. Additionally, used cars and those used for business (like taxis or delivery services) are not eligible. Idle fees incurred when a vehicle is left charging or during busy times also aren’t included in this benefit. Tesla reserves the right to modify or cancel this program at any time.
Similar Conditions for Other Models
These conditions mirror those that Tesla recently imposed on free lifetime Supercharging for orders of the Foundation Series Cybertruck or Model S in the US.
It seems Tesla is reviving the free Supercharging promotions as a tactic to boost quarterly sales figures, extending it even to the Model Y in select markets. Unfortunately, unlike past years, these free Supercharging offers are not transferable to another person or vehicle.
Source:
Link
Tags: Juniper refresh, Model Y, Tesla
January 18, 2025
Escalade IQ: Largest EV Battery; RAM 1500 Cancels 500-Mile Pickup
The new Escalade IQ is now available for order in the United States, claiming the title of the electric SUV with the longest range. Cadillac proudly markets this model as not just an electric vehicle (EV), but also as the one with the largest battery capacity.
Competition and Changes
Previously, the RAM 1500 REV held this title with its impressive 229 kWh battery promising a 500-mile EPA range, set for release in 2025. However, Stellantis has informed its suppliers that it will be cancelling this top-tier REV model. They are now instructed to focus on components for the 350-mile version, which will utilize a 168 kWh battery.
Shifting Landscape
This move means that the RAM 1500 REV becomes the second long-range pickup to be scrapped, following Tesla’s decision to cancel the 500-mile Cybertruck. Tesla has instead opted to offer a $16,000 range extender, planned for launch later this year, to provide those extra miles.
Cadillac’s New Offering
With the cancellation of the 500-mile RAM 1500, the recently launched Cadillac Escalade IQ now takes the crown as the electric passenger vehicle with the largest battery. This all-electric SUV boasts a massive 217 kWh battery that enables an EPA range of 460 miles, coming quite close to the sought-after 500-mile mark that neither Tesla nor Stellantis has achieved.
Starting at $130,000, the new Escalade IQ is hefty at 9,300 lbs without passengers, just under the threshold that would require a commercial driving license. This premium seven-seater from Cadillac surpasses the size of the Cybertruck and features rapid 350 kW charging, achieving 0-60 mph in just 5 seconds and generating up to 750 HP.
Luxurious Features
As expected from Cadillac, the Escalade is packed with luxurious design elements and comforts, including a 55-inch main display that spans from pillar to pillar and a 40-speaker audio system. To enhance the maneuverability of this large vehicle, Cadillac has outfitted the Escalade with rear-wheel steering, similar to what Tesla has done with the Cybertruck. The company claims that a suitable charger can add 100 miles of range in as little as 10 minutes.
While the Lucid Gravity SUV comes very close to the Escalade IQ’s range at 450 miles, it achieves this with a considerably smaller battery, comparable to the Cybertruck’s 123 kWh battery pack.
Source:
Link
Tags: Cybertruck
January 18, 2025
Canoo Bankruptcy: More EV Startups Fail in 2023
Electric vehicle startup Canoo has announced that it has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, ceasing all operations immediately. This event highlights the ongoing struggle within the EV industry, where several companies have faced similar fates. The bankruptcy filing was submitted to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court located in the District of Delaware, which means the company’s assets will now be liquidated with oversight from a court-appointed trustee.
Financial Details and Challenges
Canoo, which was founded seven years ago and created a unique modular electric van platform, revealed in its bankruptcy documents that it has assets valued at less than $50,000. In contrast, its liabilities range from $10 million to $50 million, owed to under 49 creditors. The company mentioned in a press release that it had “been in discussions with foreign sources of capital,” but these efforts were unsuccessful. Additionally, Canoo struggled to secure funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office, which has remained active during the final days of the Biden administration.
Warning Signs and Workforce Impact
Recent indicators of Canoo’s troubles included furloughs of its remaining employees and the closure of its factory in Oklahoma. By mid-November 2024, the company’s cash reserves had dropped to a mere $700,000, making it hard to sustain operations or deliver any vehicles to customers.
Canoo is now part of a growing list of failed EV startups that attempted to go public through the SPAC route. This includes other companies like Fisker, Lordstown Motors, Proterra, Lion Electric, and Arrival. Interestingly, Canoo acquired Arrival’s assets in 2024 shortly before its own downfall.
Company Background and Promises
Founded in 2017 by former leaders from the struggling EV maker Faraday Future, Canoo — originally called Evelozcity — initially showed promise with its innovative technology like a steer-by-wire system and a flexible electric vehicle platform. The company’s potential caught the attention of Apple, which was looking into investing in or purchasing Canoo to enhance its electric vehicle project.
In December 2020, Canoo went public via a merger with Hennessy Capital Acquisition Corp., raising around $600 million. However, after the merger, under the direction of Chairman and CEO Tony Aquila, the company made significant strategic changes, shifting focus from consumer sales to commercial fleets but struggled to find its footing in manufacturing.
Governance Issues and Financial Struggles
Even though Canoo secured tentative agreements with notable partners, such as a possible deal for 10,000 vehicles with Walmart and contracts with the United States Postal Service, Department of Defense, and NASA, it couldn’t produce significant vehicle numbers or generate meaningful revenue.
Concerns about the company’s governance under Aquila emerged. In 2023, regulatory filings indicated that Canoo spent twice its revenue on payments to Aquila’s firm for using corporate jets and leasing office space. Recently, Aquila’s firm provided essential loans to keep Canoo running, secured by liens on the equipment at its Oklahoma City facility.
Conclusion of Operations
The situation became dire as employees received layoff notices, consumer deposits were refunded, and even the billboard at its Justin, Texas, office was taken down. Canoo’s liquidation in Delaware Bankruptcy Court signifies the end of another chapter in the difficult journey of EV startups, emphasizing the challenges faced by newcomers in the highly competitive electric vehicle market.
Source:
Link

Tags: Canoo, electric vehicle
January 18, 2025
2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Facelift: New Police Vehicle in US
When the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper is set to hit the US market later this quarter, it will feature not only the basic RWD, AWD, and Performance models, but also a special version designed for police use.
New Patrol Car Retrofit
Unplugged Performance, known for its UP.FIT shop that transforms Teslas into fleet vehicles, has just revealed plans to offer a fully-equipped Model Y Juniper retrofit for patrol cars shortly after the refresh debuts in the US.
A week ago, Tesla made an announcement regarding the new 2025 Model Y, with a tentative release set for March. They are currently utilizing the Chinese New Year celebrations to enhance and rework the Model Y Juniper production lines at their Shanghai Gigafactory in preparation for mass production.
Production Updates
Prior to this, Tesla was churning out over 600 units of the updated design per day. Recently, there have been numerous reports of truckloads of Juniper models being shipped from Giga Shanghai, including the new Glacial Blue color option.
Alongside the US launch, Tesla is also rolling out the 2025 Model Y Juniper in Europe, having commenced mass production at Giga Berlin earlier this week. Past speculations suggested that the Model Y Juniper would be released simultaneously in China, Europe, and the US, so it’s only a matter of time before we see these updated models coming from the Gigafactories in Texas or Fremont, where the 4680 batteries for the US version of the Model Y refresh are likely being produced.
Law Enforcement Applications
Unplugged Performance boasts unmatched expertise in modifying Tesla vehicles for police use, meaning the Model Y Juniper tailored for law enforcement agencies across the United States could be available very soon after its US launch.
According to the UP.FIT shop, police departments have reported savings of around $15,000 per vehicle each year by operating their Tesla fleet instead of other options. Therefore, the Model Y Juniper might find its way into police car fleets shortly after it becomes available in the US.
Source:
Link
Tags: Tesla Model Y Juniper, Unplugged Performance
January 18, 2025
UK Police Confiscate Tesla Cybertruck Over Safety Issues
A Tesla Cybertruck has landed in the UK, but its time on the road was cut short. The vehicle was seized by UK police, who classified it as illegal and hazardous.
Driver’s Joyride Ends in Trouble
The Greater Manchester Police (GMP) shared on social media that the driver took the Cybertruck for a joyride in Whitefield. They raised alarms about the potential risks posed to other motorists and pedestrians if the Cybertruck were to get involved in an accident.
Demonstration Purposes Only
Tesla brought the Cybertruck to the UK solely for showcasing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. However, it has not been granted a certificate of conformity, meaning it can’t be used on public roads.
The Cybertruck was registered and insured in a different country, which is against the law. The UK driver has been “reported” and is facing consequences for operating a vehicle without proper insurance.
North American Market Focus
Currently, Tesla is marketing the Cybertruck in North America, where road safety regulations are somewhat alike. The electric vehicle manufacturer has yet to announce any intentions to sell the futuristic pickup truck outside of North America.
Interestingly, some enthusiasts have managed to acquire the steel truck outside of North America. Customs officials in Lithuania intercepted two units, while some Cybertrucks have been spotted with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, who has modified them with machine guns.
Source:
Link
Tags: Tesla Cybertruck
January 17, 2025
Tesla Offers Free Lifetime Supercharging with Cybertruck Purchase
In the recent quarter, Tesla reopened the free lifetime Supercharging offer after keeping it inactive for a while. During that time, used Model S vehicles with this feature were sold for prices significantly higher than average compared to similar listings.
Initial Offerings
Initially, in Q3, Tesla provided free Supercharging and FSD for a short duration, applicable only to the Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X. However, the Cybertruck, which has the biggest battery capacity apart from the Semi truck, was excluded from this offer.
Resuming the Promotion
After the three-month promotional period ended, Tesla reinstated the free lifetime Supercharging for the Model S in Q4, a feature that previous owners appreciated because it helped maintain their car’s value for a longer time. However, this new promo came with more restrictions, as it couldn’t be transferred to a new owner or vehicle.
These limitations remained when Tesla started a new free Supercharging for life promotion last month, but this time it was only for the more expensive Cybertrucks that needed to be sold from their inventory when less costly non-Foundation trims began production.
Extension of the Offer
Although the free charging for Cybertrucks was expected to finish at the end of the year, Tesla has extended it for another month due to a surplus of unsold Foundation Series Cybertrucks. Sadly, the offer is non-transferable again, as stated by Tesla. Additionally, Cybertruck owners must still pay congestion charges or idle fees at Superchargers:
Customers who buy a new Cybertruck Foundation Series will get free Supercharging for the time they own the vehicle. Orders must be made on or after December 27, 2024, and be delivered by January 31, 2025. This offer is linked to your Tesla Account and cannot be moved to a different vehicle, person, or order, even if you transfer ownership. Used vehicles, business orders, and those used for commercial purposes like rideshare or delivery are not eligible. Supercharger fees, like idle and congestion fees, still apply when necessary. Orders do not qualify for the Powershare voucher. Tesla can remove the free Supercharging if there are excessive charges or unpaid fees. This promotion may change or end at any time.
Currently, Tesla is also promoting dual-motor and Cyberbeast inventory, having reduced the price of non-Foundation Series Cybertrucks by over two grand for some demo models. However, this price reduction only applies to units made last year, since the 2025 Cybertruck models now qualify for the full federal tax credit of $7,500. Thus, it’s better to order a dual-motor non-Foundation Series Cybertruck and wait a little for delivery rather than grabbing one from the inventory immediately.
Evaluating the Foundation Cybertrucks
For the Foundation Cybertrucks still in stock, the situation is more intricate as they come with various options like FSD and accessories that justify the $20,000 price gap, plus the free lifetime Supercharging that could save significant money over the electric truck’s lifespan, which features a large 123 kWH 4680 battery pack.
Tags: Cybertruck, Tesla
January 17, 2025
Tesla Launches Feature-Rich Software Update for Lunar New Year
Tesla has likely delivered the final update for 2024 in China. The version 2024.45.32 includes a range of features, particularly improvements to navigation.
New Routing Options
With this software update, drivers can now choose between various routing options. The “Fastest Time” mode will still be the default choice, while the “Least Congestion” option focuses on steering clear of traffic, even if it takes a bit longer. The “Prefer Highways” setting will route the vehicle via more expressways, and “Lowest Tolls” will prioritize paths that incur the least toll fees.
Enhanced Navigation Features
Another significant addition is the service that notifies drivers as they near a highway service area. An on-screen alert will show nearby restaurants, stores, and public charging stations. This feature can be disabled in the settings if desired.
Moreover, Smart Summons is a notable new navigation feature. It enables Teslas with Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) or Full Self-Driving (FSD) to autonomously approach their owners in parking areas upon request via the mobile app. This capability has already been rolled out in the US, Europe, and the Middle East.
Holiday Features and Gaming
In celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Tesla has included several holiday-themed features. A collaboration with Tencent brings three exclusive games to China: Happy Landlord, Happy Mahjong, and Throw Eggs.
Supercharger Enhancements
A key addition is the Supercharger Bollards. Some Tesla Supercharger stations in China now have locking mechanisms or bollards that prevent non-Tesla vehicles from occupying charging spots. Previously, owners managed these bollards through the app, but this update allows for easier control directly from the car. The buttons to unlock the bollards appear automatically when a Tesla arrives at a charging station.
Most of the features in this update are unique to China, and there is currently no information regarding when, or if, Tesla users elsewhere will receive these enhancements.
Source:
Link
Tags: Tesla
January 16, 2025
Cybertruck Price Cut for Non-Foundation Models Ahead of 2025 Release
The IRS, which manages the federal EV tax credit program, has surprisingly added a single-motor Cybertruck to its list of eligible electric vehicles for 2025. Before the Cybertruck’s debut, Tesla had a reservations list featuring a rear-wheel drive (RWD) model as the least expensive option, the one that Elon Musk mentioned would begin at around $40,000 long ago.
Tesla’s Launch Strategy
However, Tesla initially rolled out only the pricier dual- and tri-motor Cybertruck models, including exclusive Foundation Series options that commenced at $100,000. Elon Musk suggested that the base single-motor electric pickup would be saved for a 2025 release, anticipating that by that time, the company would have enough supply of 4680 batteries and that early buyers would have snatched up the more costly variants.
Current Developments
It looks like that moment has arrived. Not only has Tesla halted the production of Foundation Series trims, but they’ve also begun to manufacture dual-motor and Cyberbeast trucks priced $20,000 less. Additionally, Tesla is now implementing direct price reductions on non-Foundation series Cybertrucks.
The initial price cuts for the Cybertruck are being applied to inventory vehicles, with a reduction of $1,600 or up to $2,630 for demonstration models. When combined with referral and tax credits, the cost of an inventory Cybertruck is now closer to $70,000 rather than $80,000.
Future Pricing Implications
Whenever Tesla introduces discounts on inventory, it typically follows up with a more significant price drop. Therefore, a direct price cut on the Cybertruck is a possibility. If the IRS has preemptively listed the RWD Cybertruck as an eligible 2025 vehicle based on information from Tesla, this could potentially lower the starting price to around $60,000.
While it won’t reach the promised $40,000 from years ago, it’s certainly a far cry from the $100,000 launch price. This could lead to a noticeable increase in new Cybertruck sales later this year, especially as initial enthusiasm fades and manufactured models sit unsold.
Impact on the Used Market
Nonetheless, a more affordable RWD Cybertruck, along with reduced prices for the dual- and tri-motor versions, is likely to significantly impact the second-hand market. Many buyers who paid over a hundred thousand for Tesla’s first electric pickup might see their investment plummet by as much as 30% in value within the first year of ownership.
Source:
Link
Tags: EV tax credit, Tesla Cybertruck
January 15, 2025
2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Frunk: Cooler Use & Opening Tips
While it’s still uncertain if the upcoming 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh will include the expected touchless frunk opening, there is at least one confirmed enhancement for the frunk.
Frunk Design Upgrade
According to Tesla, the Model Y Juniper’s front trunk, often referred to as the frunk, will now feature a drainage hole at the bottom of the compartment under the vehicle’s hood. This upgrade allows for practical use, enabling the frunk to be filled with ice and effectively turned into a cooler. This eliminates the need for official Tesla accessories like the Cybercooler or third-party alternatives such as the Portable Model Y fridge, which is priced at $699 on Amazon.
Easy Cleanup After Gatherings
After a gathering, users can easily unplug the new drainage hole in the Juniper’s frunk to let the water out. This makes clean-up after using the frunk for chilling beverages or food much simpler.
As for the potential touchless opening feature when approaching the vehicle, similar to the system found in the Cybertruck, its inclusion remains uncertain. If Tesla had it in mind, they would probably have showcased it in the features summary for the 2025 Model Y.
Key Features and Functionality
In one of the promotional videos for the Model Y Juniper, the button for initiating the frunk opening animation lacks a pause or a closing option at the end of the sequence. However, Tesla does advise users to “Close Frunk” at the screen’s edge. It’s worth noting that Tesla already provides a touchless opening feature for the rear trunk, which may explain the rumors circulating about the frunk.
According to Tesla, “A hands-free trunk automatically unlocks as you approach so you can easily store all your gear.” They demonstrate this functionality in a video featuring new Model Y owners carrying large bags of groceries.
Source:
Link
Tags: Juniper refresh, Tesla Model Y
January 15, 2025
Can Royal Enfield Flying Flea Compete in India’s EV Market?
Royal Enfield is teaming up with Qualcomm to develop its future electric motorcycles. The recently unveiled Royal Enfield Flying Flea EV boasts a stylish new look, advanced technology integration, and a Snapdragon chipset. But does this have what it takes to win over the Indian market? Here’s what we’ve gathered so far.
Royal Enfield Flying Flea EV: What’s Unique About It?
Snapdragon-Enabled Royal Enfield Flying Flea EV
Royal Enfield, a prominent name in India’s motorcycle scene, is taking a daring step with the introduction of its electric bike. Their partnership with Qualcomm brings in state-of-the-art technology, including the Snapdragon QWM2290 SoC and the Car-to-Cloud platform, marking a notable evolution for the brand.
For those who might not know, this chipset was specifically designed for motorcycles, and it powers the control unit of the Flying Flea. It operates on a custom-built OS, overseeing every element of the bike, including performance and rider interaction. All of this information is conveniently shown on a round TFT display.
Advanced Connectivity Features
Moreover, the Snapdragon Car-to-Cloud Platform enables the Flying Flea to stay connected via 4G, Bluetooth, and WiFi. This feature ensures that the bike maintains constant communication while you ride. There’s also a special Voice Assistant button to make full use of this connectivity. Additionally, one of the innovative tech features includes the “Phone as a Key” function, allowing riders to unlock and start their motorcycles with their smartphones.
Tags: Royal Enfield