Tag: Electric Vehicle Range

  • 2000-Watt Solar Charging Roof Rack for EVs by Dartsolar

    2000-Watt Solar Charging Roof Rack for EVs by Dartsolar

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dartsolar’s new folding solar roof rack offers 2,000 watts of power, extending electric vehicle range by up to 40 miles daily at no cost.
    2. The product is designed for easy mounting on Tesla roofs or other electric vehicle roof racks, with a starting price of $1,950.
    3. The solar panels generate up to 10 kWh of energy daily when fully deployed and can still produce 360 watts when folded.
    4. The system features replaceable components, including solar panels that can be upgraded for better efficiency.
    5. Energy from the solar panels is stored in a battery unit, allowing for convenient recharging of electric vehicles like a typical charging station.

    Dartsolar has introduced its new folding solar roof rack, which boasts 2,000 watts of power and is designed for electric vehicles. This innovative product can extend the driving range by up to 40 miles each day without any cost. This announcement follows the completion of their earlier 1,000-watt model. For those interested, updates and the opportunity to pre-order the 1,000-watt version for $99 can be found on the company’s website. The starting price for these models is $1,950, which varies based on the chosen accessories.

    Daily Solar Power Benefits

    Most vehicles sit idle for most of the day after just a couple of hours on the road, even in cities with long commutes. States like New York enjoy an average of over nine hours of sunlight daily, which means the solar roof rack can provide a significant boost in range on a daily basis.

    Power Generation Details

    When deployed, the 2,000-watt solar panels are fully exposed to sunlight, while 360 watts are available when the rack is folded during travel. The unit can produce as much as 10 kWh of energy each day, translating to a range of 40 miles for electric vehicles. The smaller 1,000-watt version can yield up to 20 miles of range.

    Design and Features

    The Dartsolar is intended to be mounted directly onto Tesla roofs or on a roof rack for other electric vehicles. Its construction includes expanding aluminum tubes, 3D-printed components with provided blueprints, and solar panels that are 1/8-inch thick, achieving around 20 percent efficiency. Notably, all components are replaceable, including the solar panels, which can be upgraded to more efficient versions.

    The energy harnessed from the solar panels is stored in a battery unit, which can be used along with a compatible charging cable to recharge the electric vehicle, similar to any charging station. Innovative users may find ways to hardwire the system, making it unnecessary to exit the car to connect the charging cable.

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  • Cheapest Model Y Now Offers 5% Longer Range Per Charge

    Cheapest Model Y Now Offers 5% Longer Range Per Charge

    Tesla appears to be quite cautious, or maybe more accurately, realistic, when it comes to estimating the range of its own electric vehicles.

    Before the EPA put the base Model Y RWD Long Range through its updated and rigorous range testing, Tesla estimated its least expensive Model Y would have a range of 320 miles on its own.

    Now that the EPA has completed testing under its stricter standards, the official range for the Model Y RWD LR is an impressive 337 miles, which is 5.3% more than Tesla’s earlier estimate.

    Updated Range Makes Model Y More Attractive

    Unsurprisingly, Tesla quickly adjusted the Model Y Long Range RWD‘s official range to reflect this new figure, making this most affordable Model Y not only the cheapest but also the one with the best range of all the versions they offer. It can now be purchased for under $35,000, especially with some inventory discounts.

    In Europe, Tesla has been offering a more economical RWD Model Y since spring, boasting an even longer range of 375 miles. However, this figure comes from the local WLTP cycle, which is usually about 10% more lenient than the EPA’s standards. The European version of the 375-mile Model Y RWD LR is equipped with 2170 cells, the same as the AWD version sold in the U.S., qualifying it for the entire federal tax credit.

    Challenges with Battery Variants

    Tesla faced some difficulties with the base Model 3 RWD that used the Chinese LFP battery, which they have since phased out because it turned out to be pricier than the AWD version that is eligible for the full tax credit.

    The Model 3 RWD LR, now the cheapest option, has a range of 363 miles, making it the longest range among Tesla’s two top-selling models. While the highest range still goes to the base Model S, rated for an astounding 402 miles, it is worth noting that it sells in much lower numbers, starting at $74,990.

    Recently, the EPA updated its electric vehicle range testing standards, placing greater importance on highway driving efficiency to better reflect real driving habits in America.

    So, even though Tesla had to lower some of its official Model Y range estimates, the fact that the base Model Y RWD is now rated at 337 miles on the new EPA cycle is quite remarkable.

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  • A Quantum Leap in Electric Vehicle Range: The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS

    A Quantum Leap in Electric Vehicle Range: The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS

    The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS: A New Standard in Driving Range and Efficiency

    The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) world with its impressive driving range and efficiency. With the latest EPA ratings, this luxury electric sedan is set to deliver more miles on a single charge, representing a significant leap forward for both the brand and EV enthusiasts.

    A Lineup of Luxury and Performance

    The 2024 EQS lineup consists of three models: the EQS 450+, the EQS 450 4Matic, and the EQS 580 4Matic. Each model offers a perfect blend of luxury and performance. However, it is the EQS 450+ that stands out with its exceptional EPA combined range of 352 miles, surpassing its predecessors. The EQS 450 4Matic and EQS 580 4Matic also offer noteworthy improvements, with each boasting a range of 345 miles.

    The Performance-Oriented AMG EQS 4Matic+: Pushing Boundaries

    While all the models in the lineup showcase impressive ranges, it is the AMG EQS 4Matic+ that truly shines. This performance-oriented variant has witnessed a remarkable 10% increase in range, jumping from 277 to 305 miles. This improvement not only allows for longer drives but also demonstrates Mercedes-Benz's commitment to advancing electric mobility without compromising on performance or luxury.

    Unveiling Enhanced Efficiency

    The gains in driving range are not solely attributed to larger batteries. The 2024 AMG EQS showcases over 6% lower total energy consumption, suggesting improvements in efficiency and a smarter utilization of its powertrain. These enhancements contribute to the overall driving range, ensuring that the EQS models deliver more miles on a single charge.

    Pricing and Considerations

    One aspect that remains a mystery is the pricing of these models. The 2023 lineup, with its six-figure price tags, positions these vehicles as premium choices in the EV market. Additionally, it is worth noting that these models do not qualify for federal tax credits due to their import status and price. This factor could potentially influence prospective buyers when considering their options.

    In conclusion, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS is raising the bar in terms of driving range and efficiency in the EV market. With its impressive EPA ratings, the EQS lineup offers a range of models that blend luxury and performance. The AMG EQS 4Matic+ is a standout, showcasing a significant increase in range. These advancements are not solely due to larger batteries but also reflect improvements in efficiency. As the pricing details remain undisclosed, potential buyers will have to consider the premium positioning of these models and the absence of federal tax credits.

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