Author: Shaun Williams

A recent survey conducted by Consumer Reports, has highlighted ongoing reliability challenges for electric vehicles (EVs), primarily attributed to charging and battery-related issues. The survey revealed that, on average, new EVs experienced 79% more problems than their gasoline-powered counterparts, while hybrid vehicles demonstrated fewer issues compared to traditional gasoline vehicles. Plug-in hybrids, however, faced a notable 146% increase in problems. The reliability of electric pickups ranked the lowest among vehicle types, while compact cars, sports cars, and small pickups emerged as the most reliable in a comprehensive evaluation of 19 categories. Consumer Reports’ senior director of Auto Testing, Jake Fisher,…

American automaker Ford, which called on its dealership network to embark on a “sustainable expansion journey” in support of its EV transformation, has witnessed a significant drop in enrollment. Approximately one year ago, over two-thirds of dealers, totaling 1,920, joined Ford’s program. However, recent reports reveal that nearly 400 dealers have exited the initiative, marking a shift in dealer participation. Originally, Ford urged its dealers to align with the company’s “revolutionary” EV plans, with 1,659 dealers opting for the higher-tier “Certified Elite” level, while 261 chose the “Certified” tier. However, challenges and criticisms emerged, leading to adjustments in the program’s…

Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors has revealed that its latest electric commercial vehicle, the Minicab EV, is slated to debut in the Japanese market on December 21. Priced at 2,431,000 yen (approximately €14,922) for the two-seater variant and 2,486,000 yen (around €15,260) for the four-seater, these figures include a 10% consumption tax. The Minicab EV, belonging to the ‘kei-car’ class—a category defining Japan’s smallest highway-legal passenger vehicles with specific restrictions on dimensions and motor capacity—is founded on a monobox design. This iteration incorporates a new generation of electric components, encompassing the motor and drive battery. The electric motor boasts a peak…

South Korean automaker Kia’s highly anticipated three-row electric SUV, the 2024 EV9, is generating notable interest even before hitting US roads, with the company unveiling a series of enticing pre-delivery deals for prospective buyers. Despite the EV9 already gaining “significant consumer interest,” Kia is launching the electric SUV with a range of promotional offerings. Earlier this month, the company announced a leasing option for the 2024 EV9 starting at $599 per month for a 36-month term, requiring a $5,999 payment at signing—competitive pricing akin to a fully equipped Kia Telluride. See also: Affordable Electric Three-Row SUV: The 2024 Kia EV9…

Paris authorities are contemplating a proposal to raise parking fees for heavy cars, with a specific focus on making the city less attractive for larger SUVs. The citizens of the French capital are set to vote on this proposition in February 2024. The proposed parking fee adjustments aim to address challenges in distinguishing between SUVs and other vehicle models. Instead, fees will be calculated based on vehicle weight, with higher charges planned for cars featuring combustion engines weighing over 1.6 tons and electric cars exceeding two tons. The determination of weight will involve scanning license plates linked to the model…

US semiconductor manufacturer Onsemi has inaugurated an application test laboratory in Piestany, Slovakia, focused on the ongoing development of system solutions for electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids. The facility is equipped with specialized tools for the development and testing of forthcoming silicon and silicon carbide semiconductor components, fostering collaboration with car manufacturers and suppliers, according to the company. The laboratory’s capabilities extend to the development of semiconductors for energy infrastructure applications. The announcement did not specify the number of personnel working at the site. See also: Onsemi Partners with Zeekr to Supply EliteSiC Silicon Carbide Power Modules for Enhanced…

The Chinese electric vehicle market is witnessing a notable rise in the preference for hybrid vehicles, driven in part by their cost-effectiveness compared to traditional internal combustion engine models. Contrary to many global markets where hybrids typically command a premium, certain hybrids in China are priced lower than standard gasoline counterparts, and notably, up to 23% more affordable than battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). Recent data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, reported by Reuters, indicates a substantial 72% surge in plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales during the January-September 2023 period, reaching 1,370,324 units, up from 798,164 in the previous year. Concurrently,…

In response to Hyundai’s recent partnership announcement with Amazon set for 2024, online discussions are circulating criticism regarding marked-up prices on Hyundai vehicles. It’s essential to note that the new system has not yet been implemented and is slated to be available in early 2024. Despite this, concerns about pricing have emerged, indirectly confirmed by Hyundai officials. The confusion stems from Hyundai’s existing digital showroom on Amazon called the ‘Hyundai Evolve Showroom.’ This platform, currently operational, allows users to research and compare vehicles but does not facilitate direct purchases through Amazon. Instead, it acts as a lead generation tool, connecting…

British transport company FirstGroup and Hitachi have joined forces to establish a 50:50 joint venture named NextGen, aimed at procuring batteries for electric buses. The newly formed company is set to purchase approximately 1,000 electric bus batteries valued at around £100 million. Both FirstGroup and Hitachi have committed £10 million each to the joint venture, with the remaining investment being financed through debt. The initial phase will see the installation of 400 batteries in First Bus buses by 2024, followed by the deployment of the remaining 600 batteries over the subsequent 24 months, completing the project by 2026. FirstGroup CEO…

At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Lucid made waves not just with its sleek Gravity electric SUV but with a groundbreaking addition— the Lucid Sanctuary feature. Far more than a means of transport, the Gravity aims to redefine the driving experience, introducing a sanctuary on wheels. The Lucid Sanctuary is more than a luxurious touch; it’s a thoughtful response to the challenges of our screen-dominated lives. In a world where digital overwhelm is a genuine concern, Lucid’s innovation provides a unique escape. Imagine immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Pacific Ocean or the serenity of Lake Tahoe, all from…

Chinese automaker BYD’s premium brand, Yangwang, has officially commenced production of its U8 model, with the first batch rolling off the assembly line. Deliveries are anticipated to start shortly, slightly delayed from the initially projected timeline, as conveyed in a recent Weibo post by Yangwang. The U8 was formally launched in China on September 20, featuring a starting price of 1.098 million yuan ($150,670), with deliveries initially expected to commence in October. Produced at a BYD manufacturing facility in Xi’an, Shaanxi province, the Yangwang U8 has garnered significant attention, with a reported production order for over 30,000 units on October…

Tesla (TSLA.O) has set its sights on South America, with plans to establish a significant presence in Chile. Public documents reveal that Tesla Chile was officially registered on September 28, marking the company’s initial foray into the South American market. The registration, published in the Official Gazette, outlines the scope of Tesla Chile’s activities, encompassing the import, export, manufacturing, marketing, distribution, and sale of vehicles, with a particular emphasis on electric vehicles. Additionally, the registration includes provisions for involvement in other commercial activities, such as the generation and supply of energy and electricity. While the registered headquarters is in Santiago,…