Author: Benedict Mcdaniel

Tesla, the electric car manufacturer, has decided to postpone the release of its highly anticipated Full Self-Driving (FSD) v12 software update, citing the need for additional testing beyond the confines of California. This update is considered a significant milestone in Tesla’s autonomous driving program. Despite CEO Elon Musk’s repeated assertions over several years that Tesla would achieve self-driving capabilities by year-end, it appears that this goal will not be realized in the current year either. In recent months, Musk had indicated that Tesla was gearing up to launch its FSD v12 update in December. However, it now appears that the…

California-based solar electric vehicle (EV) startup, Aptera Motors, has achieved significant milestones as it progresses towards scaled production of its solar EV in 2024. The company has secured a tier-1 battery supplier and a substantial investment from South Korean battery technology firm Creative Technology & Surprise (CTNS). Aptera Motors, known for its solar EV endeavors, has been diligently advancing through various development phases, from beta models to the recent introduction of its Launch Edition solar EV. In a recent update, Aptera revealed its collaboration with CTNS, founded in 2017, which specializes in battery technology. According to a LinkedIn post from…

Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer VinFast has embarked on its initial collaboration with a U.S.-based dealer, establishing a partnership with North Carolina’s Leith Automotive Group. This move signifies VinFast’s ongoing efforts to bolster its sales presence in the competitive U.S. market, as confirmed by both companies. VinFast, aiming to diversify its distribution model, has transitioned from a direct-to-consumer approach, similar to Tesla’s, to a more inclusive “hybrid” model that incorporates dealers. The strategic partnership with Leith Automotive Group is aligned with this shift in approach, enabling VinFast to tap into the U.S. market with a nuanced distribution strategy. See also:…

Chinese smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi recently revealed its inaugural electric vehicle, the SU7, signaling its entry into the competitive electric vehicle (EV) market. The sedan, bearing the moniker SU7 with “SU” denoting Speed Ultra, boasts advanced “super electric motor” technology, which CEO Lei Jun claims surpasses acceleration speeds of Tesla (TSLA.O) and Porsche EVs. Despite the backdrop of China’s largest auto market grappling with overcapacity and dwindling demand, Xiaomi remains optimistic about its automotive venture. Lei Jun expressed ambitious aspirations during the unveiling, stating, “By working hard over the next 15 to 20 years, we will become one of the world’s top…

South Korean automaker Hyundai is making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market with its Ioniq series, earning acclaim for models like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Looking to expand its electric lineup, Hyundai is now focusing on an entry-level EV, targeting a competitive starting price of approximately €20,000 ($22,000). Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, Hyundai Motor Europe’s head of marketing, shared insights into the company’s plans during the Autonews Europe Congress in Prague in mid-2022. The new affordable EV is poised to rival contenders such as the VW ID.2, as well as upcoming models from Skoda and Cupra. The industry-standard…

Panasonic Energy, a subsidiary of Panasonic Holdings (6752.T), announced on Wednesday that Oklahoma is no longer under consideration for the location of a new electric vehicle battery plant in the United States. This decision, impacting the battery supplier to electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla (TSLA.O), follows an earlier statement in April indicating the company’s contemplation of constructing a new plant in Oklahoma, which would have been its third in the United States. In the previous year, Panasonic opted for Kansas as the site for its second U.S. plant over Oklahoma, with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly advocating for and securing state legislative…

Tesla is set to receive an incentive package totaling 2.63 billion pesos (approximately US$153 million/C$205 million) from the Mexican state of Nuevo León for its upcoming Gigafactory. The approval of this incentive package was confirmed by the state’s economic development council on Thursday. As outlined in a government statement, the incentives encompass various initiatives, including the development of crucial infrastructure such as roads and water treatment facilities. Tesla will also benefit from a reduction in payroll taxes as part of the incentive package. See also: Tesla Enlists Bosch Veteran to Lead Gigafactory Operations, Giga Mexico Prepares for Construction This incentive…

Zeekr has unveiled its pioneering in-house developed battery, the Golden Battery, positioning itself as the first among China’s new car manufacturers to achieve this significant feat. The Golden Battery, based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry—similar to BYD’s renowned Blade Battery—was revealed at a launch event today. Currently in mass production, it is set to debut in the Zeekr 007, which is slated to go on sale on December 27, with deliveries commencing on January 1. See also: Zeekr Begins European Vehicle Deliveries as International Expansion Gains Momentum What sets the Golden Battery apart is its distinction as the world’s…

Tesla is initiating a recall of over two million vehicles in the United States, equipped with its Autopilot advanced driver-assistance system, following concerns raised by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding safety issues. The safety regulator has been investigating Tesla for more than two years, focusing on whether the Autopilot system ensures drivers remain attentive while using it. The recall, reported as the largest in Tesla’s history, is seemingly comprehensive, covering nearly all Tesla vehicles on U.S. roads. Tesla, in its recall filing, acknowledged that the Autopilot’s software controls “may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse,” potentially…

Japanese battery giant Panasonic has recently entered into an agreement with Sila Nanotechnologies, a California-based battery material specialist and Mercedes-Benz partner, to procure silicon-dominated anode material named Titan Silicon. The deal aims to replace a larger portion of graphite in battery anodes with silicon, a move expected to enhance energy density. The undisclosed quantities of silicon anode material will be sourced from Sila Nanotechnologies’ plant in Moses Lake, Washington, set to commence commercial production in 2025. Panasonic, a known supplier to Tesla and other automakers, plans to integrate Sila’s material into its anodes to gradually replace graphite. The collaboration aims…

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWN) has officially confirmed the upcoming release of the successor to the T6.1, with the new Transporter set to be available as a battery-electric van (BEV). The new Transporter will be a comprehensive offering, featuring a panel van in two different lengths and heights, an estate, a platform van with a crew cab, and the Caravelle. Notably, the electric variant will join the lineup alongside diesel and plug-in hybrid options. While specific technical details are yet to be disclosed, the Transporter is expected to share technology with the Ford Transit Custom and its electric counterpart, the E-Transit…

Renault is actively seeking a partner to collaborate on the development of its upcoming Twingo electric vehicle (EV), aiming to finalize the decision by early next year, according to sources familiar with the matter. Volkswagen is reportedly among the contenders for this partnership. While Renault has confirmed discussions with various automakers regarding a potential collaboration, no specific details or timelines have been disclosed. Volkswagen, in response to inquiries, chose not to comment on the ongoing talks. See also: Renault Unveils Ambitious Plan to Slash Electric Vehicle Production Costs by 50% by 2027 The French automaker recently unveiled plans for the…

Volvo Car USA and ChargePoint, in partnership with Starbucks, have officially inaugurated the first public DC fast charging network at 15 Starbucks stores. The pilot initiative, announced in March 2022, features 50 ChargePoint DC fast chargers strategically positioned along a 1,350-mile route connecting Denver to Seattle. Branded with both Volvo Cars and Starbucks logos, these chargers are spaced approximately 100 miles apart. Volvo EV drivers can conveniently locate and access charging stations at participating Starbucks locations using the integrated ChargePoint app. Meanwhile, drivers of other electric vehicles equipped with a standard CCS1 or CHAdeMO receptacle can avail themselves of the…

General Motors has clinched a deal to supply its Hydrotec fuel cell technology to US commercial vehicle manufacturer Autocar Industries. Autocar Industries plans to integrate GM’s fuel cell systems into a range of commercial vehicles, including concrete mixers, roll-off and dump trucks, refuse collection vehicles, and terminal tractors. Production is slated to commence in 2026 at Autocar’s facility in Birmingham, Alabama. GM’s Hydrotec fuel cells, named Hydrotec Power Cubes, are specifically designed for commercial vehicles, offering a compact design, scalability, and ease of installation. Each Power Cube boasts an output of 77 kW, with the flexibility to install multiple units…

Tesla is under scrutiny for a workplace incident earlier this year at its Fremont factory, which could result in a total fine of $38,000. According to documents obtained by Bloomberg through a California Public Records Act request, the electric automaker allegedly failed to ensure the power was cut to a conveyor belt during quality inspections, leading to a serious injury sustained by a female worker in April. The worker reportedly became trapped in a Model Y after its door struck a fixed vertical gate, with the documents describing the injuries as “serious.” The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health…

Luxury automaker Lexus is reportedly considering an expansion of its electric RZ line, as indicated by recent trademark filings for the names RZ350e, RZ500e, and RZ550e. The initial RZ offering, the RZ450e, featured a 71.4 kWh battery pack powering a 107 hp (80 kW) motor at the front axle and a 201 hp (150 kW) motor at the rear, resulting in a combined output of 308 hp (230 kW). Recently, Lexus introduced the entry-level RZ300e in Japan, maintaining the same 71.4 kWh battery pack but with a power cap at 201 hp and 196 lb-ft (266 Nm). The specifics of…

Volkswagen Group has unveiled a new exit warning system designed to enhance safety when leaving a vehicle, particularly in inner-city traffic. The system aims to prevent potentially dangerous situations by warning both the driver and passengers about approaching road users from behind the parked Volkswagen vehicle. Catering to the vulnerability of cyclists, the exit warning system covers not only the driver and front passenger doors but also provides protection for the rear doors. Utilizing two rear radar sensors located in the bumper (on the left and right), the system scans the area behind the vehicle and alerts passengers to potential…

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has unveiled plans for a new “tap to park” feature that will allow Tesla vehicles to autonomously identify and park in suitable parking spaces. Musk shared that Tesla’s engineers are actively developing this feature, which utilizes the car’s Tesla Vision cameras and autonomous driving software to identify available parking spots. The envisioned process involves the Tesla car presenting the driver with a selection of potential parking spots to choose from. After making a selection, the driver can exit the vehicle, and the Tesla will autonomously park itself in the chosen spot. Musk’s description of the feature…

Bulls, a prominent player in the e-bike market, unveils its latest offering, the Vuca Evo FSX1, positioned as a versatile trekking or SUV e-bike. This model, equipped with full suspension, caters to riders seeking adaptability on both challenging forest paths and smoother terrains typical of trekking routes. The Vuca Evo FSX1 is designed with features characteristic of a trekking bike, ensuring its utility across a spectrum of scenarios. Bulls has integrated full suspension into the design, providing riders with the flexibility to navigate demanding trails. The e-bike’s specifications include a permissible total weight of 150 kg (331 lb), enhancing its…

Our Next Energy (ONE), the electric-vehicle battery startup, announced on Sunday the immediate appointment of Paul Humphries as its new CEO, succeeding founder Mujeeb Ijaz. Ijaz, a former Apple executive, will transition to the role of vice-chairman of the board and chief technology officer following the leadership change. Humphries, who has been a member of the ONE Board of Directors since the company’s inception in 2020, takes the helm as CEO. The Michigan-based company recently underwent a workforce reduction, laying off approximately 25% of its employees (128 individuals) last month, citing market conditions as the primary reason for the layoffs.…