Author: Christopher Harrison

Hyundai, in collaboration with its Chinese partner BAIC, is allegedly in the process of establishing a new electric car brand exclusively for the Chinese market, as per insights shared by sources with the Korea Economic Daily. The brand, internally codenamed OE RE, is expected to be jointly owned, with Hyundai and BAIC each holding a 50% stake. The brand’s focus is on providing electric vehicles equipped with cost-effective LFP batteries tailored to meet the specific demands of the Chinese market. See also: Hyundai Introduces N Line Trim for Kona Electric, Blending Performance Styling with EV Appeal Earlier plans for Hyundai…

Daimler Truck North America, Navistar, Inc., and Volvo Group North America have announced the creation of Powering America’s Commercial Transportation (PACT), a collaborative initiative focused on advancing zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in the United States. The partnership aims to address the challenge posed by limited charging infrastructure hindering the widespread adoption of battery-electric vehicles in the commercial sector. John O’Leary, president and CEO of Daimler Truck North America, emphasized the importance of PACT in accelerating the infrastructure buildout to enable the large-scale adoption of zero-emission vehicles, stating, “Decarbonizing the commercial transportation sector – the fleets…

Luxury electric vehicle manufacturer Lucid Motors is set to expand its vehicle lineup with the introduction of a specialized security vehicle, initially designated for service with the Saudi Arabian police force. Lucid has established substantial connections with Saudi Arabia, as the kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund holds a majority stake of over 60% in the automaker. Recently, Lucid inaugurated a new manufacturing facility, AMP-2, in Saudi Arabia, where Air sedans are re-assembled after pre-construction at AMP-1 in Casa Grande, Arizona. The strong ties between Lucid and Saudi Arabia extend to a significant purchase agreement, with the Saudi Arabian government committing to…

Polestar officially launched its highly anticipated Polestar 4 SUV Coupe in Europe and Australia, boasting an impressive WLTP range of up to 379 miles (610 km). Introduced last April as a “new breed of SUV coupe,” the Polestar 4 marks the brand’s second foray into an all-electric SUV, succeeding the Polestar 3. Positioned between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 in size and pricing, the vehicle emphasizes maximum efficiency with distinctive features such as a low nose, retractable door handles, frameless windows, and rear aero blades. See also: Renault Reportedly Considering Production of Polestar Electric Cars in Spain Having commenced…

In a minor setback, the eagerly awaited Volvo EX30 EV is experiencing delivery delays attributed to a software glitch. Despite the hiccup, buyers of the brand’s most affordable electric vehicle can breathe a sigh of relief, as the postponement is expected to be brief. While specific details about the software issue remain limited, an undisclosed insider has revealed that the rectification process requires in-dealership intervention and cannot be conducted remotely. Upon completion of the software update at dealership lots, the EX30 units will be promptly prepared for delivery. See also: Volvo Cars CEO Remains Confident in Electric Vehicle Growth Amid…

In a second letter to President Joe Biden within a span of two months, a substantial coalition comprising around 4,700 dealerships across all 50 states is urging the President to exercise caution regarding the proposed Electric Vehicle Mandate. The dealers argue that the infrastructure is not adequately prepared for a fully electric future. The initial letter, signed by 3,882 dealerships in November 2023, went unanswered by the Biden administration. In response, an expanded group of dealers, totaling nearly 5,000, has now expressed their opposition to what they deem a “completely unrealistic” mandate. The primary concern of the coalition revolves around…

Swedish electric car manufacturer Polestar has revealed plans to trim approximately 15% of its global workforce, totaling around 450 jobs, citing “challenging market conditions.” This move comes in response to the sluggish growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market over the past year, marked by subdued demand, significant price reductions, reduced subsidies, and supply chain challenges. In an effort to navigate these challenges, Polestar adjusted its delivery forecasts in November, unveiling a revised business plan with the goal of achieving cash flow break-even by 2025. The company aims to decrease its reliance on external funding from major stakeholders Volvo Cars…

Tesla is recalling approximately 200,000 Model S, X, and Y vehicles in the United States due to a software malfunction affecting rearview visibility during reversing, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Friday. This recall follows a recent comprehensive recall by the company, where nearly all its U.S. vehicles were called back for the installation of new safety measures in the Autopilot advanced driver-assistance system. The NHTSA highlighted that the rearview malfunction, attributed to software instability, has the potential to impair driver visibility and escalate the risk of collisions. The affected models are the S, Y,…

Ford revealed on Friday its decision to scale back production of its F-150 Lightning pickup truck due to lower-than-expected demand for electric vehicles (EVs). The No. 2 U.S. automaker stated that it would implement a reduction in production at its Michigan Rouge Electric Vehicle Center to one shift, starting April 1. This move follows Ford’s earlier announcement in October, signaling a temporary cut in one of the three shifts at the Michigan plant dedicated to manufacturing the electric F-150 Lightning pickup truck. In a statement, Ford CEO Jim Farley highlighted the company’s commitment to offering customers choices while maintaining a…

The United States Departments of Transportation and Energy have announced a joint investment of $325 million spread across three initiatives aimed at accelerating electric vehicle (EV) technologies, repairing chargers, and minimizing battery costs, according to a statement from the White House released on Friday. The allocated funds for EV chargers will specifically target the repair and replacement of non-operational charging stations nationwide. Additionally, the initiative aims to reduce costs associated with deploying charging infrastructure in underserved communities and contribute to the overall reduction in battery costs, as highlighted in the official statement. In a related development on Thursday, the U.S.…

In the aftermath of multiple delays, the Tesla Cybertruck entered production last year, marking a significant milestone for the electric vehicle manufacturer. While initial deliveries were primarily limited to Tesla employees and a select group of buyers, a non-employee has now shared a firsthand account of his experience with the Cybertruck, revealing notable quality issues, particularly given its premium price point. The Cybertruck, initially met with high expectations, has faced criticism for not meeting the initially quoted range, limited configuration options, and a higher-than-promised price tag. However, a closer examination of its technological features unveils an intriguing electric pickup truck.…

Japanese automaker Nissan has opted to postpone the commencement of electric vehicle (EV) production at its American plant, marking the second time it has adjusted its plans in response to perceived challenges in the EV market. This move follows similar decisions by other major automakers like GM, Ford, and Audi, indicating an industry-wide reassessment of electric vehicle strategies. While 2023 witnessed record-breaking U.S. EV sales, the growth rate in the fourth quarter was reported to be lower than the previous year, and dealers are reporting extended periods that EVs spend on their lots. Nissan attributes the delay in production at…