Author: Shaun Williams

Fisker, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, has set the automotive world abuzz with anticipation as they prepare to host a groundbreaking event titled “Product Vision Day” on August 3. During this much-awaited occasion, the company will finally pull back the curtain on their latest creation, the highly anticipated Ronin convertible. Although Fisker is keeping tight-lipped about specific details, they did offer a tantalizing glimpse of the upcoming EV by releasing a teaser image showcasing the sleek rear end. Fans and enthusiasts eager to witness the full reveal won’t be disappointed, as the event will be live-streamed on YouTube, starting at…

Tesla’s much-anticipated Cybertruck could potentially launch with a battery pack that offers a range of 350 miles (563 kilometers), according to Bearded Tesla, a Twitter user who claims to have had confidential conversations with three informed sources. If this rumor holds true, it would mean that the initial range of 620 miles (998 km) promised at the Cybertruck’s unveiling in 2019 would not be met. The projected range would also fall short of the Chevrolet Silverado EV’s 450-mile (724 km) range, but align with the dual-motor Rivian R1T. The rumored 350-mile variant of the Cybertruck would outperform the Ford F-150…

In a groundbreaking move, Ford has filed a patent that introduces an ingenious concept for trailers. The patent envisions a trailer equipped with an integrated battery pack and electric motors, revolutionizing its functionality and usability. This innovative design allows users to effortlessly position the trailer at various locations, such as campsites or job sites, while also serving as a reliable backup power source for both the towing electric vehicle (EV) and essential tools and appliances. The detailed document, filed on January 13 and recently published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on July 13, unveils the impressive…

WiTricity, a developer of wireless EV charging systems based in the US, has unveiled a new initiative called FastTrack, aimed at enabling automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to seamlessly integrate their ‘Halo’ wireless charging system into vehicles within a short span of three months. This program is specifically designed to accelerate the testing and implementation of wireless charging technology across both current and future electric vehicle platforms. FastTrack offers automotive OEMs a comprehensive solution for integrating WiTricity’s Halo charging system, encompassing hardware and software components that are fully equipped for testing and evaluation. The Halo system consists of a receiver…

SAIC-GM, the successful joint venture between General Motors and SAIC Motor, has recently initiated the construction of its third electric car factory. The new facility, located in Yantai, eastern China, marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to the production of electric vehicles (EVs) based on GM’s innovative Ultium platform. According to a statement released by SAIC-GM, series production of electric cars at the Yantai plant is expected to commence in the first half of 2025. While specific details about the factory’s capacity remain undisclosed, it is evident that the investment in the Yantai vehicle plant forms part of…

Blink Charging and AAA have recently announced a collaborative partnership aimed at enhancing electric vehicle (EV) solutions and charging services for AAA members. While AAA clubs are primarily known for their emergency road assistance, this partnership intends to bring about notable advancements in their offerings. Traditionally, AAA clubs have relied on local towing companies, contracted by state AAA branches, to provide emergency services to their members. In line with this collaboration, Blink Charging has already taken the initiative to install onsite EV chargers at numerous AAA branch offices, AAA-owned repair facilities, and auto repair shops. Building on this progress, Blink…

Thok, a renowned brand in the high-end electric mountain bike industry, has established itself as a popular choice among enthusiasts. While the company has gained recognition through its collaboration with Ducati, producing models like the TK-01RR and MIG-S under the Ducati brand, Thok also offers an impressive lineup of premium electric bicycles. Now, they have set their sights on the ultra-lightweight e-MTB sector with their upcoming innovation, Project 4. Developing a new model entails significant investment and time commitment for manufacturers. To overcome these challenges and bring their visionary concepts to life, companies often resort to innovative approaches. Thok’s solution…

In a significant move towards embracing an all-electric future, Ford is set to halt production of its highly popular Fiesta model. This decision allows the automaker to create essential space at its Cologne, Germany, plant for the manufacturing of Ford’s upcoming electric Explorer SUV. Ford had previously announced its intention to remove the iconic compact car from its lineup sooner than anticipated, as part of its accelerated transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Autocar reports that the final Fiesta model will roll off the assembly line on July 7, 2023, marking the end of an era after 47 years and eight…

In a recent incident in Phoenix, multiple Nikola electric semi-trucks were engulfed in flames, raising concerns about the safety of the vehicles. Initially, the company suspected defects in the battery modules, but a subsequent investigation has shed light on other possible causes of the fires. Upon receiving the emergency call, the Phoenix fire department swiftly dispatched their Hazardous Materials crew to the scene to extinguish the flames. Internal documents obtained by Electrek now reveal that engineers detected corrosion in the battery cells, which were prone to self-discharge. Nikola Corporation, in an effort to streamline its operations and reduce costs, acquired…

In the world of electric bicycles, embracing the e-bike lifestyle goes beyond the mere act of owning one. These electrified two-wheelers not only serve as practical alternatives to cars and public transportation but also evoke emotions, open doors to new experiences, and facilitate connections with like-minded individuals. One brand that excels in incorporating these elements into their designs is California-based e-bike manufacturer, Super73. Renowned for their moto-inspired electric bikes, Super73 consistently pushes boundaries by taking their creations to the next level. The latest example of their innovation is a distinctive custom build designed to embrace surf culture, created in collaboration…

The latest report from Reuters reveals that General Motors (GM) has stated that the all-new Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup will not be equipped with Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector until the 2025 model year. As the first units of the 2024 Silverado electric pickup begin production at GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck plant, fleet deliveries are anticipated to commence in the coming weeks. Following the announcement of a collaboration between GM and Tesla in early June, some customers may have expected to find the NACS inlet already integrated into the Silverado. However, that is not the case. See also: The difference…

In a strategic move to strengthen Germany’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, bp ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of bp, has made a noteworthy investment of €7.5 million in Service4Charger GmbH. The Berlin-based company specializes in providing comprehensive solutions for the planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of EV charging stations. The investment comes as part of Service4Charger’s Series A funding round, totaling €10 million, with bp ventures leading the way. Service4Charger focuses on deploying charging stations tailored for various charging scenarios, including fleet depots, public charging stations, and residential areas throughout Germany. With a team of over 85 employees,…

The Advertising Standards Agency (ASA), the UK’s advertising watchdog, has taken action against car manufacturers Hyundai and Toyota for their misleading advertisements regarding electric vehicle (EV) charging capabilities. The watchdog found that the charging times mentioned in the ads did not accurately reflect real-world conditions and that the availability of high-speed charging stations was not as widespread as claimed. Toyota’s advertisement for the bZ4X SUV claimed that the vehicle could be charged to 80 percent in around 30 minutes using a 150 kW charger. Similarly, Hyundai advertised that the Ioniq 5 could be charged in just 18 minutes using a…

Qingtian Truck, a self-driving truck startup based in China, is reportedly on the brink of closure, facing significant setbacks in its operations. The company, which had emerged just 19 months ago, is now facing the prospect of employee displacement and potential liquidation, according to a report by local media outlet Jiemian. Citing sources within the self-driving industry, the report reveals that engineers from Qingtian Truck have been leaving the company in droves. While the company’s registration information remains unchanged and its operating status technically intact, its website has not been updated with any news since January, indicating a lack of…

SK Signet, one of the manufacturers of electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers, has announced its plans to incorporate Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging connector option into its entire range of chargers. This move comes as several major automakers, including Ford and General Motors, have decided to adopt the NACS charging connector in their upcoming models starting from 2025. Rivian has also recently announced a similar decision. What sets SK Signet apart is its expectation to release a compliant product as early as 2023. This means that the first NACS-compatible charger could hit the market within the next few…

Belgium-based Umicore has officially inaugurated its latest facility in Olen, Belgium, dedicated to the production of solid-state battery prototypes. The company has established the facility, spanning 600 square meters, as a large-scale prototyping center specifically designed for the development of solid-state battery materials. Umicore’s venture into this domain does not come as a surprise, considering its ongoing efforts in solid-state battery chemistries since 2017, bolstered by strategic investments and collaborations. By repurposing an existing building in Olen, the company has created a comprehensive research and development center that encompasses all stages of solid-state battery development, ranging from material formulation and…

Quebec-based charging equipment manufacturer FLO has made an announcement regarding its latest offering in the electric vehicle (EV) market. In a bid to streamline and standardize charging hardware in North America, FLO will be providing Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging connector as an optional feature. FLO’s decision to adopt the NACS charging connector comes as more EV manufacturers, including Ford, General Motors, Rivian, and Aptera, express their intention to transition from the Combined Charging System (CCS1) to NACS plugs for their future EV models. See also: EverCharge Endorses Tesla’s NACS Charging Connector as Superior to CCS1 Nathan Yang,…

Toyota Research Institute (TRI) has introduced an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) technique that aims to enhance the capabilities of vehicle designers. Traditionally, designers have relied on text-to-image generative AI tools to inspire their creative process. However, these tools have been limited in their ability to address the complex engineering and safety considerations involved in car design. TRI’s new technique overcomes this limitation by allowing designers to incorporate initial design sketches and engineering constraints into the generative AI process, streamlining the iterative process of aligning design and engineering requirements. Avinash Balachandran, director of TRI’s Human Interactive Driving (HID) Division, emphasized the…

Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has expressed its interest in acquiring Wiferion, a small wireless charging startup based in Germany, as reported by Business Insider. This development comes after Tesla hinted at the possibility of launching its own EV wireless charger. While various companies have been exploring wireless charging technology for EVs in recent years, it has yet to gain widespread adoption due to several challenges. One such obstacle is its relatively lower efficiency compared to traditional cable charging. However, advancements have been made, narrowing the efficiency gap in recent times. Additionally, wireless charging tends to be more…

Stromer has recently unveiled the ST7 Alinghi Red Bull Racing Limited Edition e-bike, claiming it to be the pioneering S-Pedelec equipped with the innovative Pinion Smart.Shift C1.12i electronic shifting system. This cutting-edge system offers a gear shift experience akin to paddle shifters found in sports cars, complete with a pre-selected starting gear feature. To further enhance its appeal, the bicycle also boasts a Gates Carbon Belt drive, which contributes to its low-maintenance nature, according to the brand. At the core of the ST7 Alinghi Red Bull Racing Edition lies a robust 940W rear-wheel motor capable of providing assistance at speeds…