Author: Benedict Mcdaniel

Chinese automaker Li Auto has revealed its latest offering, the Li Mega all-electric van, marking the company’s entry into the fully electric vehicle segment. Presales for the Li Mega have commenced in China, with dealer deliveries scheduled to begin in January, and customer handovers expected in late February 2024. The Li Mega electric van boasts a powerful 400 kW electric motor, enabling a rapid acceleration from zero to 100 kph in just 5.5 seconds. Featuring three rows and a spacious interior, the van is equipped with a 17-inch screen for rear passengers, emphasizing a blend of performance and passenger comfort.…

Candela, the Swedish electric boat manufacturer, has officially commenced series production of its P-12 water taxi in Stockholm. The all-electric hydrofoil is available in three distinct versions: Shuttle, Business, and Voyager, marking a significant step towards sustainable water transport. The P-12 Shuttle, initially unveiled last year, accommodates up to 30 passengers and is priced at 1.7 million euros. According to Candela, this cost aligns with that of a similarly-sized vessel equipped with a combustion engine. Designed for 12 to 20 passengers, the Business version boasts a high-quality interior, while the Voyager version offers customization options for both private and commercial…

Renowned Chinese auto manufacturer Geely, already a key player in the European automotive landscape with ownership stakes in Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus, is now reportedly in the early stages of discussions regarding a potential investment in Alpine, a subsidiary of Renault. Alpine, known for its sports cars and owned by Renault, is gearing up for a significant shift, transitioning to an all-electric lineup and expanding its offerings to include hot hatches, crossovers, and SUVs. Alpine, under Renault’s ownership, has set ambitious goals for the next six years, aiming to achieve €8 billion ($8.7 billion) in revenue by the end of…

Rivian has recently announced an exclusive deal for prospective R1T truck buyers, available for a limited time until December 21, 2023. This promotion coincides with the approaching holiday season and the impending release of the Cybertruck. According to Rivian, purchasers of R1T trucks from existing inventory will be eligible to receive a complimentary Rivian Wall Charger, a deal valued at US$800. To sweeten the offer, Rivian has partnered with installation experts Qmerit, extending a substantial installation credit of up to US$2,000. Typically ranging between $800 and $2,000, Qmerit’s installation services effectively render Rivian’s deal cost-free for new R1T owners. https://twitter.com/Rivian/status/1725284158459756792…

Amazon and Hyundai revealed plans to commence the online sale of Hyundai vehicles in the U.S. beginning next year. Under the new agreement, customers will have the convenience of browsing, configuring, and purchasing a Hyundai car directly through Amazon.com. Once the transaction is completed, buyers can schedule delivery through a local Hyundai dealer. This collaboration represents an expansion of a deal initially disclosed two years ago, aimed at enhancing Hyundai’s digital showroom on Amazon.com. The original partnership allowed customers to configure vehicles, calculate prices, and locate dealers to finalize purchases. Hyundai had established its first digital showroom on Amazon in…

Senior executives from Hyundai Motor (005380.KS) and Kia (000270.KS) are optimistic about the robust demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in the U.S., defying industry worries over inflation and higher interest rates. The executives provided insights ahead of the Auto Show in Los Angeles. “I am still very bullish on the battery electrics,” stated Jose Munoz, Hyundai’s global chief operating officer. He noted that Hyundai’s EV sales were doubling year-over-year and highlighted the accelerated investments in the battery electric plant in Savannah, Georgia. Munoz emphasized, “We’re pushing as much as we possibly can to get it ready by October next year.…

Tesla has released its latest over-the-air (OTA) software update, version 2023.38.8, this week. The update addresses user demands by introducing a long-awaited Bluetooth feature and streamlining the activation process for Autosteer, mirroring the functionality seen in the new Model S and Model X. Tesla had previously introduced a rear screen with the 2021 refresh of the Model S and Model X, offering backseat passengers control over HVAC functions and entertainment options. However, users found a limitation in connecting Bluetooth headphones, hindering the ability to enjoy personal audio without disrupting the front-seat experience. While Bluetooth headphone support for the Model S…

Polestar, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced its integration into Tesla’s Supercharger network in China, following in the footsteps of SAIC-GM, which revealed a similar collaboration earlier this month. CEO Shen Ziyu of Polestar China unveiled the plan, emphasizing that the company has entered into a partnership with Tesla to become one of the initial collaborators utilizing the extensive charging station network in China. Polestar’s move is part of its broader strategy to develop its own charging system. During this transition, owners of Polestar electric vehicles will gain access to an expanded charging network, including Tesla Superchargers. The company aims…

General Motors (GM) has discreetly acquired Tooling & Equipment International (TEI), a prominent gigacasting company known for its expertise in sand casting techniques. TEI, previously a key partner for Tesla, played a pivotal role in the electric automaker’s innovative approach to manufacturing large body parts and reducing production costs. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that TEI collaborated with Tesla since 2017, initially contributing to the development of the Model Y and later playing a crucial role in gigacasting mold prototyping for the Model 3, Cybertruck, and Semi. GM’s acquisition of TEI is estimated to have involved a transaction ranging…

ABB E-Mobility has finalized the acquisition of Swedish start-up Vourity, signaling a strategic move to enhance its electric vehicle (EV) charging services. The acquired cloud-based technology from Vourity is designed to streamline payment processes at charging stations, offering a variety of payment options for electric car users. The integration of this technology is anticipated to contribute to a more seamless and user-friendly experience for consumers, a critical factor in driving the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. The acquired cloud-based payment terminal can be integrated into ABB’s charging stations, potentially serving as a central “payment station” for multiple charging points at…

Electric vehicle start-up Canoo has officially commenced deliveries of its Lifestyle Delivery Vehicles (LDV) produced at the newly established manufacturing facility in Oklahoma City. The inaugural batch of Oklahoma-made electric vehicles was handed over to the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) in the state. In a press release, Canoo highlighted this milestone as the initiation of its phased-ramp manufacturing in Oklahoma, signifying the beginning of LDV deliveries to key customers and partners in 2023. While specific details regarding the number of LDV vans delivered to OMES and the projected delivery volume for the year were not disclosed, Canoo…

Italian motorcycle brand MV Agusta, known for its high-performance motorcycles, continues to make strides in the electric bicycle sector with the launch of its latest model, the Cortina Edizione Limitata. Under the sub-brand E-MV Agusta, dedicated exclusively to e-bikes, the Cortina stands out by combining artistic styling with practicality, targeting urban commuters. The Cortina’s frame is a sophisticated blend of aluminum and carbon fiber, designed to accommodate a diverse range of riders and featuring convenient cargo mounts for urban utility. The aluminum tubing frame exudes a slim and elegant profile, while the carbon fiber rigid front fork promises a lightweight…