Author: Casper Benedict

Recreational Equipment Incorporated, widely known as REI, has long been a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of gear and equipment. In addition to its extensive selection for outdoor adventurers, the company boasts its in-house bicycle brand, Co-op Cycles. Traditionally, Co-op Cycles has focused on commuter and utility bikes, both electric and non-electric. However, with the introduction of the Co-op Cycles DRT e3.1, the brand is making a notable entry into the realm of high-performance bicycles. The DRT e3.1 represents Co-op Cycles’ inaugural venture into the world of electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs). Notably, this e-MTB is classified…

Rivian has unveiled its new inventory shop, offering customers a quicker path to owning the acclaimed R1T electric pickup truck. This development allows prospective buyers to receive their R1T orders in as little as 1 to 6 weeks when opting for vehicles available in Rivian’s inventory. In an email addressed to its customers, Rivian outlined the expanded options for obtaining the R1T, stating, “Now, there are two ways to get behind the wheel of the award-winning R1T. You can make a reservation and put together your own custom configuration. Or you can shop available R1T inventory that delivers in just…

Germany’s Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport (BMDV) has achieved a significant milestone in advancing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. In a groundbreaking move, the BMDV has successfully completed the first tender for the Deutschlandnetz, Germany’s fast-charging network, which will see the construction and operation of approximately 900 charging locations equipped with nearly 8,000 new ultra-fast charging points for electric cars. The selection process yielded contracts for ten distinguished companies: Allego GmbH BayWa Mobility Solutions GmbH E.ON Drive Infrastructure GmbH Eviny Elektrifisering AS Fastned Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG EWE Go HOCHTIEF Ladepartner GmbH & Co. KG Mer Germany GmbH Pfalzwerke…

Chinese automaker BYD has clinched the coveted fourth spot in global auto sales, displacing Ford, according to a report by market research firm TrendForce. With sales figures from August revealing a shifting landscape, here’s a closer look at the key highlights. In August, the worldwide vehicle sales tally reached 5.55 million units across 37 markets, marking a modest 1 percent increase from the previous month, as per TrendForce’s findings. The top three positions in the rankings remained unchanged, with Toyota, Volkswagen, and Honda maintaining their strong positions. However, it was the rise of BYD that garnered significant attention. The Chinese…

Opening statements are poised to begin on Thursday in a landmark U.S. trial that revolves around allegations that Tesla’s Autopilot driver-assistant feature played a role in a fatal accident. The outcome of this trial, unfolding in a California state court, could significantly influence similar cases across the United States. This legal battle originated from a civil lawsuit that contends Tesla’s Autopilot system was responsible for a tragic incident in which Micah Lee’s Model 3 veered off a highway east of Los Angeles, hurtling at 65 miles per hour (105 kph), striking a palm tree, and erupting into flames within seconds.…

In a potentially electrifying twist, Audi is rumored to be in the early stages of developing an electric vehicle architecture specifically tailored for low-volume, high-performance sports cars and supercars. While details remain scant, Audi’s Technical Development boss, Oliver Hoffmann, hinted at the company’s commitment to sports cars, indicating that they intend to leverage components from various electric platforms, including the SSP, MEB, and PPE, to create a winning formula. Hoffmann refrained from confirming the resurrection of iconic models like the R8 or TT. However, he did acknowledge that Audi is actively exploring different concepts and projects beyond the 20 new…

Honda is poised to introduce its much-anticipated 2024 Honda Prologue. Having initially unveiled the EV nearly a year ago, the Japanese automaker has now disclosed additional details and specifications for the electric SUV, shedding light on its expected range and more. The Prologue’s interior showcases a contemporary Honda design, characterized by a sleek low dash, a minimalist appearance, and a full-width air vent design. It features an 11-inch instrument screen and an 11.3-inch infotainment screen, with the convenience of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard offerings. In terms of size, the Prologue occupies the space between Honda’s CR-V…

The ASYNC H7 XC all-in-one e-bike has officially entered the crowdfunding arena on Indiegogo, promising a versatile hybrid riding experience. This model is designed to conquer both on-road and off-road terrain, equipped with a robust 500W mid-mounted motor that provides a top assistance speed of 28 mph (~45 kph) and an impressive torque of up to 130 Nm. Precision is ensured through speed and torque sensors that synchronize the engine’s power delivery with the rider’s pedaling effort, offering a choice of five assistance modes. A standout feature of the H7 XC is its removable 960Wh battery, granting riders the flexibility…

Tesla has officially unveiled the facelifted Model 3, codenamed “Project Highland.” The announcement has put an end to months of speculation, spy shots, and rumors surrounding the popular and affordable electric vehicle (EV) produced by the Austin-based automaker. One of the standout features of the updated Model 3 is a focus on comfort and performance enhancements. Notably, the vehicle now boasts improved dampers and an entirely acoustic glass greenhouse. This represents a significant improvement over the previous version, which only featured noise-repelling glass on the windshield and front windows. Perhaps less well-known to potential buyers, especially those in markets where…

Taxi Xanh Sapa has recently announced a pivotal partnership with Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast. This collaborative agreement signifies Taxi Xanh Sapa’s commitment to transitioning its conventional petrol-powered fleet to environmentally friendly VinFast electric vehicles (EVs). According to the terms of the agreement, Taxi Xanh Sapa is set to acquire a total of 250 VinFast electric cars, including the VinFast VF e34 and VF 5 Plus models, over the course of 2023 and 2024. These new EVs will gradually replace the company’s existing petrol vehicles, reflecting a substantial step towards reducing their environmental footprint. The genesis of this partnership can…

UK-based developer Bo has officially announced the commencement of production and unveiled the full specifications of its inaugural product, the Bo M. This marks the first step in a series of lightweight electric vehicles (EVs) set to revolutionize urban transportation. Over the course of 24 months, Bo has meticulously refined and engineered the Bo M, introducing a host of technological advancements that promise to redefine the urban EV landscape. Notable enhancements include a remarkable 100% increase in chassis strength and a substantial boost in peak power output, now standing at a category-leading 1200W. See also: Paris Bans Electric Scooter Rentals…

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a bold initiative to manufacture one million electric vehicles by 2027, as part of France’s broader strategy to achieve a 55% reduction in carbon emissions by the end of the decade. This announcement followed a meeting with several ministers, including Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, during which they outlined a dozen action plans aimed at curbing carbon emissions. “My absolute priority is decarbonization,” President Macron emphasized following the discussions, underlining his commitment to an inclusive and equitable transition to a greener future. He stressed the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind…

Tesla has successfully obtained environmental impact permits from the Ministry of the Environment in the Mexican state of Nuevo León, marking a significant step forward in its plans to establish a manufacturing plant in the region. These permits come with specific conditions that Tesla must adhere to as it proceeds with the construction of the factory, with a deadline of 26 months to initiate the building process. However, it’s worth noting that additional permits are still pending. Meeting the 26-month construction timeline appears to be well within Tesla’s capabilities. The automaker is reportedly eager to commence vehicle production in Nuevo…

In an unusual twist to the world of electric vehicles, the Volkswagen ID.4 has become known for its otherworldly sounds during software updates. While some might mistake these eerie noises for a technical glitch, VW has offered insight into this intriguing phenomenon. In a video shared by YouTuber Ps3mn1 back in July, a white VW ID.4 parked in a garage emitted strange and unsettling sounds, causing speculation among viewers. However, according to a spokesperson from Volkswagen, these peculiar sounds are perfectly normal during a software update. The root cause of this auditory spectacle lies in the car’s need to comply…

In an era where off-road recreational parks face closures due to noise complaints from nearby residents, electric off-roaders are emerging as potential saviors of the sport. Electric dirtbikes, known for their lighter build and cost-effectiveness compared to their gasoline counterparts, have gained considerable popularity. One such newcomer in the electric dirtbike realm is the Rawrr Mantis, a machine that blends the worlds of mountain biking and motocross while delivering impressive technology and performance at an affordable price point. Priced at just $4,999 in the US, the Rawrr Mantis has already made waves in the off-road community, garnering attention for its…

Lexus is set to unveil a new concept car at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, scheduled from October 26th to November 5th. This concept car is poised to offer a sneak peek into the automaker’s first next-generation Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), slated for production in 2026. While specific details remain under wraps, Lexus has tantalised enthusiasts with a solitary teaser image that showcases the car’s distinctive lighting signature and aerodynamically designed silhouette. It remains unclear whether the enigmatic vehicle featured in the cryptic teaser is connected to the Lexus-branded sketch unveiled by Toyota in April 2023. Nevertheless, discerning observers have…

Renowned racing icon Keiichi Tsuchiya, often referred to as the “Drift King,” recently took the wheel of Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N to put its drifting capabilities to the test. The drifting maestro, famous for his ability to make any vehicle go sideways with style, was pleasantly surprised by the high-performance electric crossover’s performance. Tsuchiya’s skilled hands expertly maneuvered the Ioniq 5 N through corners with precision and panache, sending plumes of smoke billowing from the screeching tires, drowning out any artificial engine noise. “This is my first time driving an EV that can drift,” remarked Tsuchiya with a grin, “It’s…

Moustache Bikes, a burgeoning French e-bike manufacturer, is making waves with its latest creation, simply named the “J” series. This innovative e-bike series challenges conventions by offering a versatile electric bicycle designed to excel in a range of riding scenarios. Moustache has further fine-tuned the “J” series into three distinct models, each catering to specific riding preferences. Let’s delve into the details. Moustache describes the “J” series as an endeavour to “push the limits of gravity casting,” and this ambition is evident in the bike’s unique frame design. It’s a rare sight to encounter a mountain bike with a step-through…

Smart, the automaker jointly owned by German giant Mercedes and China’s Geely, is set to collaborate with Mobileye to integrate its SuperVision driver assistance system into the upcoming special edition of the Smart #1 electric vehicle (EV). The Smart #1 is a small crossover designed to compete with popular EVs like the Volkswagen ID.3 and Kia Niro EV. Mobileye’s SuperVision system, known for its high energy efficiency, will power the “Smart Pilot Assist 2.0” feature, which enables various automated functions. These functions include point-to-point automatic navigation on highways and urban expressways, automated lane changes, automated on/off-ramp assistance, and intelligent traffic…

Images of the forthcoming Chevrolet Equinox EV have surfaced online, courtesy of China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), providing a sneak peek at the battery-powered vehicle set to make its debut in China. These revelations shed light on what awaits U.S. consumers as the Equinox EV is poised to arrive from its manufacturing hub in Mexico later this fall. The MIIT-released images showcase an RS-badged model, strikingly similar in appearance to its U.S.-bound counterpart. The vehicle boasts a sleek, closed front grille with integrated main beam lights, a rear diffuser, and an array of video cameras, presumably designed…