Category: EV vehicles

  • Elon Musk Aims to Double US Production with Affordable Tesla Launch

    Elon Musk Aims to Double US Production with Affordable Tesla Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla plans to double US production from about 665,000 vehicles last year to over 1.3 million by 2027.
    2. The company currently has the capacity to produce around 1.1 million vehicles annually in the US, needing slight expansion for its new goals.
    3. A more affordable vehicle, tentatively called Model 2, is set to be revealed soon, potentially boosting demand.
    4. Tesla is enhancing production of the Model Y Juniper refresh and plans facelifts for the Model S and Model X by late 2025.
    5. Despite challenges like declining global sales and vandalism, Musk is committed to fulfilling his production goals with upcoming models like the Cybercab.

    Tesla is set to increase its production at its US factories by two times over the next two years, according to Elon Musk. This move aligns with the current administration’s push for more goods to be made in America.

    Production Goals

    This shift means Tesla aims to ramp up its output from around 665,000 vehicles produced in the US last year to over 1.3 million by 2027. Considering Tesla manufactured approximately 1.8 million cars worldwide in 2024, this target for US production alone appears quite ambitious.

    Capacity and Demand

    At present, Tesla has the capability to produce about 1.1 million vehicles annually in the US, meaning it just needs to slightly expand that capacity. The more challenging aspect will be securing enough American customers for the increased output, a strategy Musk appears to have carefully considered.

    New Models on the Horizon

    Later this year, Tesla is expected to reveal its most affordable vehicle, tentatively referred to as the Model 2. Elon believes that its lower price could quickly make it a popular choice among buyers. Additionally, the company is gearing up to enhance production of the new Model Y Juniper refresh, which many enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting before making their Tesla purchases.

    The Model S and Model X are also set to receive facelifts by late 2025, and Tesla plans to launch a more affordable rear-wheel drive version of the Cybertruck this year, with this model already listed in the IRS tax credit database.

    Future Production Plans

    The Cybercab, which will use the same production platform as the Model 2, is also scheduled for mass production in 2026. Thus, fulfilling Musk’s commitment to double US production seems achievable, a promise made during an event at the White House.

    Despite facing difficulties like a dip in global sales and vandalism issues domestically, Elon Musk organized a promotional event at the White House, where he showcased a price list to President Trump and suggested he buy a red Model S Plaid.

    Trump expressed his support for Tesla amid the backlash related to Musk’s political activities, which have impacted sales and led to vandalism against Tesla’s Supercharger stations and showrooms. As a gesture of this support, he allowed Musk to bring all Tesla models to the White House and confirmed he would buy a Model S Plaid, which Musk mentioned is his daily driver.

    Elon committed to doubling the production of American-made vehicles to around 1.3 million within the next two years, a plan that shouldn’t significantly strain Tesla’s existing budget, as it aligns with prior goals set before the White House endorsement event.

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  • Tesla Accelerates Supercharger Installations with New Foundation

    Tesla Accelerates Supercharger Installations with New Foundation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is increasing the construction of charging stations using a new, cost-effective foundation solution.
    2. The new installation method uses polypropylene housing, allowing faster setup without concrete foundations.
    3. This approach reduces costs by up to 70% compared to competitors and speeds up the installation process.
    4. The method also allows for quicker repairs of damaged Supercharger stations, supporting Tesla’s commitment to rapid restoration.
    5. The innovative solution contributes to reducing the CO2 footprint of the charging infrastructure.

    Tesla is ramping up the construction of its charging stations and the repair or installation of Supercharger piles using a new foundation solution.

    Prefabricated Units and Their Benefits

    Previously, the company used a Prefabricated Supercharger Units (PSU) approach, where they shipped ready-made piles with all the electrical wiring on a concrete slab. This method allowed Tesla to set up Supercharger stations in just days rather than weeks, and it was significantly cheaper—up to 70% less than competitors. This cost-effectiveness has helped Tesla win numerous federal and state contracts for public charging infrastructure subsidies.

    Faster and More Efficient Installations

    Now, Tesla aims to speed up the process even further. As Max de Zegher from Tesla emphasizes, the electric vehicle charging infrastructure must grow 30 times larger. To achieve this, the company has developed a new method for installing or replacing Supercharger stalls that eliminates the need for concrete foundations or for transporting prefab units from its Buffalo, NY factory.

    The new solution involves a polypropylene housing that a single person can easily place in a dugout and then secure with gravel. According to de Zegher, this approach “reduces C02 footprint, is faster, and reduces cost.”

    Responding to Damage Promptly

    This innovative installation method could also facilitate quicker repairs for damaged piles. With Elon Musk’s increasing political activism, there has been a rise in vandalism and arson against Tesla’s vehicles and charging stations. Tesla has committed to replacing any burned or damaged Supercharger stations within 48 hours, and they have successfully met this goal so far.

    The polypropylene housing filled with local gravel may prove useful not just for new installations but also for repairing or replacing piles, depending on the level of damage sustained by Tesla’s charging stations.

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  • Cybertruck vs RAM 2500: Towing Hitch Load Test Results

    Cybertruck vs RAM 2500: Towing Hitch Load Test Results

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tesla Cybertruck’s back is made from a single piece of 6000-series aluminum alloy using gigacasting, which broke under a tongue load of approximately 10,400 lbs during testing.
    2. In comparison, the steel frame of the RAM 2500 held up against greater forces, highlighting the differences in strength between aluminum and steel.
    3. The 6000-series aluminum used in the Cybertruck is less durable than the 7000-series aluminum, making it more prone to wear and deterioration under heavy loads.
    4. The Cybertruck’s frame failed under vertical pressure close to the required 50% of a trailer’s GVWR, raising concerns about its durability under certain towing conditions.
    5. Owners of the Cybertruck should be cautious when towing heavy loads, especially over uneven terrain, as it may increase the risk of damaging the aluminum frame.

    The back of the Tesla Cybertruck is made from a single piece of aluminum alloy using gigacasting, and it underwent a durability test with a trailer hitch against a RAM 2500 pickup truck that has a classic steel frame.

    To summarize, the Cybertruck’s aluminum gigacasting, where the trailer hitch is connected, broke at around 10,400 lbs of tongue load. On the other hand, the steel frame of the older RAM 2500 held up against even more force.

    Towing Capacity Context

    It’s important to note that this situation doesn’t directly relate to Tesla’s claimed 11,000 lbs towing capacity, which refers to the ability to pull a trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) forward and backward, rather than dealing with the bouncing effect on the hitch. Nonetheless, the comparison of material choices is quite fascinating.

    Tesla opts for a 6000-series aluminum for the Cybertruck’s gigacastings, unlike the 7000-series aluminum that Apple began using for products like the iPhone 16 Pro Max after the Bendgate incident.

    Material Properties

    The 6000 series is less strong because it contains lower amounts of zinc and magnesium in the alloy. This softer material also deteriorates faster than steel under various loads, as its wear increases with each heavy stress applied.

    This difference in how materials wear out may have been evident when the 2024 Cybertruck’s aluminum frame broke, while the 1994 RAM 2500’s steel frame withstood the same tongue load and more.

    The RAM’s hitch did bend, and its frame might have twisted when pulled by a 50,000 lbs excavator, yet it didn’t break like the Cybertruck did. The rear of the Tesla snapped off completely, causing the whole bumper section to collapse and exposing some peculiar engineering choices, like a purple adhesive that appears to hold the frame together.

    Engineering Decisions

    While the look of this adhesive is not ideal for a $100,000 Cybertruck, some commenters suggest that it is likely just structural epoxy, which car manufacturers use as a chemical welding method in places where traditional spot welding isn’t suitable.

    The broken frame of the Cybertruck also looked quite concerning, but the SAE J684 standard, which governs towing load characteristics, requires that the frame endure vertical pressure equal to 50% of a trailer’s GVWR without deforming. The Cybertruck almost reached that limit before its frame failed.

    Earlier tests showed that the Cybertruck could indeed tow its maximum advertised weight of 11,000 lbs, although this did impact battery range negatively. However, other durability tests involving vertical tongue loads, particularly the notorious F-150 pull, indicated that heavy weights bouncing on the Cybertruck’s trailer hitch could indeed cause the softer gigacast frame to snap, even if it’s not typical.

    Caution for Owners

    These findings suggest that Cybertruck owners need to exercise caution in certain situations. Pulling heavy vehicles, going over hills, or hitting potholes with a loaded trailer could potentially heighten the risk of damaging the gigacast aluminum frame, especially in its thinner areas.

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  • Electric Vehicles Power Homes During Cyclone Alfred Blackouts

    Electric Vehicles Power Homes During Cyclone Alfred Blackouts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cyclone Alfred has caused serious blackouts in Queensland and New South Wales, leaving many without power.
    2. Electric vehicle (EV) owners are using vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology to power home appliances during outages.
    3. Stories from EV owners illustrate how their cars can keep essential items, like food and electronics, running during emergencies.
    4. Some EVs can be charged at functioning power grids and then used to provide power back home, acting as portable power sources.
    5. The experiences shared highlight the practical benefits of EVs beyond reducing transport emissions.

    Hundreds of thousands of people in Queensland and New South Wales are struggling with serious blackouts caused by Cyclone Alfred. In this tough time, some electric vehicle (EV) owners are relying on the large batteries in their cars to keep their homes running.

    EVs to the Rescue

    Social media is buzzing with stories of EVs equipped with vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology coming to the rescue by supplying power to home appliances during and after the cyclone. For instance, Chris Baker, a company director, posted on LinkedIn about how his Nissan Leaf managed to keep “food fresh, phones charged, and laptops going,” while only using about 10 percent of its battery each day.

    Neighbors Helping Neighbors

    Another EV owner in Australia shared that their car was able to power their fridge, freezer, microwave, kettle, lights, and phones for more than two days. They even mentioned providing their neighbors with fresh coffee while only draining 18 percent of their battery. This shows the real-life benefits of having an electric vehicle during emergencies.

    Power-on-Wheels

    In another instance, a driver went to an area where the power grid was functioning to charge their EV. They then brought it back home to use the stored energy, effectively turning their car into a portable power source.

    While not every EV comes with V2L features, these stories from Australia highlight the useful side of battery-powered vehicles, showing that they can do more than just reduce transport emissions.

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  • BYD Unveils Blade Battery: 50% More Energy Density, Safe Design

    BYD Unveils Blade Battery: 50% More Energy Density, Safe Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. 50% Boost in Energy Density: The new Blade Battery from BYD offers a significant increase in energy density while maintaining safety standards.

    2. Innovative Design: The battery features a unique cell arrangement that improves space utilization by over 50% compared to traditional lithium iron phosphate batteries.

    3. Impressive Safety Features: The Blade Battery passed rigorous safety tests without releasing smoke or flames, demonstrating a much lower risk of ignition.

    4. Extreme Conditions Testing: The battery showed resilience under extreme conditions, including crushing, bending, and high temperatures, with no signs of fire or explosions.

    5. Integration in New EV Model: Starting in June, the Blade Battery will be used in the Han EV sedan, which offers a range of 605 kilometers and rapid acceleration capabilities.

    After a long period of research and development, the Chinese firm BYD unveiled the new version of the Blade Battery, claiming a 50% boost in energy density while maintaining safety, as demonstrated in their tests.

    Innovative Design

    At a launch event, the company showcased the design, which features unique cells organized in a smart array, greatly enhancing the space usage inside the battery pack. When compared to traditional lithium iron phosphate block batteries, the Blade Battery’s design improves space utilization by more than 50%, signaling a major advancement in battery efficiency and compactness, according to the firm.

    Impressive Safety Features

    The battery also displayed impressive safety during tests like the nail penetration. In this test, the battery did not release any smoke or flames, with its surface temperature only increasing to a safe 30-60°C. These findings suggest that electric vehicles using this battery are less likely to ignite, even if they are severely harmed.

    Conversely, a ternary lithium battery that underwent the same test resulted in a violent fire, while a standard LiFePO4 battery reached hazardous surface temperatures of 200 to 400°C. The company has not revealed the battery that was used for comparison in these tests.

    Extreme Conditions Testing

    In additional extreme condition tests, such as crushing, bending, heating to 300°C in a furnace, and overcharging by 260%, there were still no signs of fire or explosions.

    Starting in June, this battery will be featured in the Han EV sedan model, which boasts a range of 605 kilometers and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

    BYD’s Commitment

    During an online launch event titled “The Blade Battery – Unsheathed to Safeguard the World,” Wang Chuanfu, the Chairman and President of BYD, expressed that the Blade Battery embodies BYD’s resolve to tackle battery safety issues while also setting new safety benchmarks for the industry as a whole.

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  • BYD Launches 1000V EV System for 10-Minute Charging and Superchargers

    BYD Launches 1000V EV System for 10-Minute Charging and Superchargers

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD is introducing a 1000V powertrain system that allows high-end models to gain 200 miles of range in just 5 minutes.
    2. The company plans to develop a comprehensive network of charging stations similar to Tesla’s V4 Superchargers to support the new powertrain.
    3. Premium models in the Dynasty lineup will be the first to feature the 1000V architecture, surpassing competitors like Tesla and NIO.
    4. Upcoming models like the revamped Han sedan and Tang SUV will enable 300 kilometers (186 miles) of range in just 5 minutes of charging.
    5. BYD’s marketing strategy leverages the 1000V architecture to enhance their brand image and advertising ahead of a planned announcement.

    The largest electric vehicle manufacturer in the world is set to surpass its rivals by introducing a 1000V powertrain system. This new technology will enable its high-end models to gain an impressive 200 miles of range in just 5 minutes.

    Charging Infrastructure Development

    In addition to the powertrain, the company is also gearing up to establish a robust network of charging stations, akin to Tesla’s V4 Superchargers. This infrastructure will be designed to support the high demands of their new powertrain.

    Premium Model Advancements

    The first vehicles to feature this groundbreaking 1000V architecture will be the premium BYD models in the Dynasty lineup. This new system will outperform Tesla’s Cybertruck’s 800V architecture and the 900V systems offered by competitors like NIO and XPeng.

    The 1000V system will not only reduce heat generation from the battery, enabling quicker charging times, but it will also allow for more powerful electric motors to fit within the same design space. Each 100V increase allows for an extra 25 kW of faster charging compared to the Cybertruck’s 800V baseline.

    Future Model Expectations

    For upcoming BYD models equipped with the 1000V system, such as the revamped Han sedan and Tang SUV, which are set to launch later this month, drivers can expect to add an impressive 300 kilometers (186 miles) in just 5 minutes of charging.

    However, theoretical charging speeds are of little value without the necessary infrastructure to support them. Therefore, BYD plans to construct a significant number of charging stations, creating a network similar to Tesla’s Superchargers but with even more powerful charging stalls.

    Marketing Strategy Behind the Move

    The “above 5C” charging network will enable a full charge in as little as 10 minutes for compatible vehicles, and details about the dual-gun stalls have already been leaked.

    The reason BYD opted to outshine competitors like Tesla with its 1000V architecture seems to stem from a marketing strategy. It appears the team believes this advancement will not only provide engineering benefits but will also enhance their advertising, especially with an announcement planned for next week.

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  • Volkswagen Recalls 14,000 EVs in US for Power Loss Risk

    Volkswagen Recalls 14,000 EVs in US for Power Loss Risk

    Key Takeaways

    1. Volkswagen is recalling 13,769 electric vehicles in the US due to a 12-volt battery charger issue that may lead to loss of power.
    2. Affected models include the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 and 2024-2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron and Q4 E-Tron Sportback.
    3. Approximately 10 percent of these vehicles may have the defect, with nearly 250 driver complaints reported.
    4. The safety concern is that vehicles may fail to start or could lose power while driving, risking crashes due to accessory and safety feature shutdowns.
    5. Owners should contact authorized dealers if they notice warning signs, and Volkswagen will replace the onboard charger at no cost.

    Volkswagen is recalling 13,769 electric vehicles in the US due to an issue with the 12-volt battery charger, which could lead to a loss of power.

    Affected Models

    This recall impacts several models, such as the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, along with the 2024 to 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron and the 2024 to 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that around 10 percent of these vehicles might have this defect. Volkswagen has received complaints from nearly 250 drivers regarding this problem.

    Safety Concerns

    Cars affected by this issue may fail to start when parked. The situation becomes significantly more hazardous if the 12-volt battery stops working while driving. If this occurs, various accessories and safety features that rely on the battery might turn off, with the most severe danger being a complete loss of power, which could result in a crash.

    What Owners Should Do

    The NHTSA encourages owners to reach out to their authorized dealers right away if they experience signs like audible chimes, warning alerts appearing in the instrument cluster, or a clear decrease in certain electric vehicle capabilities. The solution involves replacing the onboard charger (OCDC), and Volkswagen will carry out this service at no cost to the owners.

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  • Farasis Energy Unveils Fast-Charging Battery Tech for EVs

    Farasis Energy Unveils Fast-Charging Battery Tech for EVs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Farasis Energy has developed a technology that allows EV batteries to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 8.55 minutes.
    2. The company achieved 6C ultra-fast charging, enabling batteries to absorb power six times faster than they discharge.
    3. The technology improves battery design for 6C lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and 5C lithium ternary battery systems.
    4. Enhanced heat management features increase heat dissipation areas by 4.8 times for LFP and 4.0 times for ternary batteries, keeping temperatures below 50°C during rapid charging.
    5. Farasis Energy currently holds a 0.48 percent share of the Chinese battery market.

    For a lot of people, one of the biggest hassles with owning an electric vehicle (EV) is how long it takes to charge. Unlike quickly filling up a gas tank in a traditional car, putting energy into an EV battery is a time-consuming process, especially on long road trips. However, Farasis Energy has introduced a new technology that enables batteries to charge from 10 to 80 percent in only 8.55 minutes.

    Fast Charging Breakthrough

    The Chinese firm asserts that it has reached 6C ultra-fast charging, which means its batteries can absorb power six times quicker than they discharge it. Jian Weiran, the VP of research and development at Farasis Energy, explained that their technology enhances the battery design for 6C lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and 5C lithium ternary battery systems.

    Enhanced Heat Management

    This innovative battery’s super pouch solution (SPS) improves the heat dissipation areas on the 6C LFP and 5C ternary batteries by 4.8 and 4.0 times, respectively. This enhancement allows the batteries to maintain temperatures below 50°C during rapid charging. The better heat management could help electric vehicle manufacturers reduce charging times.

    Farasis Energy holds a mere 0.48 percent share of the Chinese battery market.

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  • Tesla Expands Important Child Safety Feature to More Models

    Tesla Expands Important Child Safety Feature to More Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is adding a child presence detection feature to the updated Model Y to enhance child safety in vehicles.
    2. The feature uses cabin radar to identify passengers and can alert owners or emergency services if a child is detected inside a locked car.
    3. NHTSA reports that at least 37 children die from heat stroke each year in the U.S. after being left unattended in vehicles, underscoring the need for such safety features.
    4. Other Tesla models, including newer versions of the Model Y, Model 3, and Cybertruck, will also receive the child safety feature.
    5. The cabin radar will help determine passenger size for proper airbag deployment during accidents, improving overall safety in collisions.

    Children getting trapped in cars often make news, sadly with tragic outcomes. However, Tesla is taking steps to change this by adding a child presence detection feature to the updated Model Y. It’s exciting to note that more models will soon include this crucial safety feature.

    Advanced Detection System

    Tesla is implementing this by activating cabin radar, which is the core technology that helps identify passengers inside the vehicle. When a locked Tesla car detects a child inside, it can send alerts to the owner’s mobile app or turn on the HVAC system. Additionally, it has the ability to reach out to emergency services and share its location, aiding in swift rescues.

    Safety Statistics

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that at least 37 children die from heat stroke each year in the United States after being left unattended in vehicles. This alarming statistic highlights the importance of such features in modern cars.

    Expanded Model Safety

    Other Tesla models that will receive the child safety feature include newer versions of the Model Y, Model 3, and the Cybertruck. Some of these models have already been confirmed to have the necessary hardware to support this function.

    Moreover, the cabin radar will assist in identifying passengers by size, which is vital for determining how airbags should be deployed during accidents. This capability will significantly improve safety for everyone involved during collisions.

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  • Woman Receives EV After Racial Abuse from Car Dealership

    Woman Receives EV After Racial Abuse from Car Dealership

    Key Takeaways

    1. Makayla Starks found a racial slur on her oil change sticker after visiting Kunes Buick GMC, leading to frustration and social media exposure.
    2. The dealership quickly apologized and dismissed the employee responsible for the incident.
    3. Starks’ story sparked a protest outside the dealership, drawing community attention.
    4. Family Nissan in New York decided to support Starks by gifting her a Nissan Leaf, an electric car.
    5. The choice of an electric car was made to ensure Starks would never have to deal with oil changes again.

    After an unfortunate event at her car dealership, Makayla Starks from Milwaukee is now relieved from the hassle of changing oil. She had gone to Kunes Buick GMC in Oak Creek for service when an employee left a hurtful message on her oil change sticker.

    Uncovering the Upset
    Starks only discovered the racial slur affixed to her windshield later in the day, leading to her understandable frustration. She decided to voice her experience on social media, bringing attention to the incident.

    The dealership quickly issued an apology both in person and through their Instagram account. The employee responsible for the incident was also dismissed from their position.

    Community Response
    As Starks’ story resonated with many individuals, a protest emerged outside the dealership. It was during this time that Family Nissan in New York chose to help Starks by gifting her a Nissan Leaf, ensuring she would never have to deal with oil changes again.

    Family Nissan’s owner, Ramzey Rizk, shared how they came to this decision: “We saw people chanting outside and it really hit us. Then the conversation shifted to how can we support her? How can we amplify her voice?”

    A Unique Gift
    Someone suggested, ‘Let’s give her a free car.’ And then another person added, ‘Not just any car, an electric car.’ I asked, ‘Why an electric car?’ And they said, ‘Because she will never need to get an oil change again.’”

    Electric cars like the Nissan Leaf are well-known for not requiring oil changes, making them simpler to upkeep. They lack the traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) that need regular oiling to keep the moving parts lubricated.

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