Author: David Smith

In an exclusive report by Reuters, five anonymous sources familiar with Tesla’s plans have revealed potential groundbreaking production techniques that could significantly reduce production costs and bring Elon Musk’s dream of an affordable, entry-level electric vehicle (EV) priced around $25,000 closer to reality. Tesla has already made notable strides in cost-effective production methods with the Model Y, utilizing “gigacasting,” which involves the use of massive presses with clamping pressures of up to 9,000 tons to mold front and rear structures. This innovation has helped the automaker streamline production processes and reduce complexity. Now, Tesla is exploring the possibility of die-casting…

The United States Department of Transportation has unveiled a Notice of Funding Opportunity, making $100 million in public funds available for the repair or replacement of existing non-operational electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. This initiative, which is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed by Congress in 2021, aims to address the growing concerns of American drivers regarding the reliability and functionality of EV charging stations. One of the primary objectives of this funding allocation is to improve the accessibility of EV charging for American motorists. The move comes in response to widespread complaints about malfunctioning charging stations, emphasizing the…

Slovenia may not be the first name that comes to mind, but Aljoša Tušek is determined to change that perception. The former racecar driver and his company, Tushek, have recently unveiled the Aeon, a pair of electrified hypercars designed to not just compete but to “dominate” the hypercar market. Tushek’s ambitious project offers two distinct powertrain options, both boasting impressive power-to-weight ratios. The Aeon E represents the all-electric variant, with a staggering power output exceeding 2,500 horsepower (1,864 kW/2,535 PS). What’s equally impressive is its relatively lightweight construction, tipping the scales at 3,527 pounds (1,600 kg), resulting in a remarkable…

Rivian, the American electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is making significant strides in the US EV market, outpacing its competitors like Lucid and VinFast. Recent data from Experian, as reported by Automotive News, reveals that Rivian secured the eighth spot in US EV registrations from January through July, capturing 2.8% of the overall EV market. In July alone, Rivian recorded 2,750 registrations for its R1T electric truck and R1S electric SUV, a modest improvement compared to its monthly average of 2,596 in the first half of the year. From January to July, Rivian amassed a total of 18,359 new registrations, excluding…

In an unexpected move, Tesla has discreetly removed its Texas-built, entry-level Model Y variant from its official website. This adjustment has resulted in an increase in the base price of a new Model Y, now starting at a minimum of $52,130, up from the previous $49,130. Industry experts speculate that this strategic pricing shift may be part of a broader plan to expedite the production of Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck. The alteration was first noticed by Teslarati, and while it may appear as a minor pricing adjustment, it is unlikely to ruffle many feathers among potential buyers. The new base…

In a recent interview with CNBC Overtime, Ford CEO Jim Farley voiced his concerns over the ongoing negotiations with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, cautioning that the union’s demands could potentially drive the company into bankruptcy. The UAW’s demands, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, encompass a range of requests including the reinstatement of defined benefit pensions for all workers, a four-day workweek, and a substantial raise of around 30%. Initially, the UAW had sought a 40% wage increase to align with the salary hikes received by Detroit automotive executives in recent years. https://twitter.com/UAW/status/1702432016304931029 Farley clarified that negotiations…

California-based electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has announced a substantial software update, version 2023.34.0, for its R1S SUV and R1T pickup truck models. The update brings notable improvements to ride quality, handling, and user experience, further underscoring Rivian’s commitment to refining its offerings over time. One of the standout enhancements in this update is the significant improvement in ride quality across various drive modes and ride heights. According to Rivian’s release notes, Sport Mode now offers a more balanced blend of ride comfort and handling, while the All-Purpose Soft Ride Mode delivers enhanced comfort. See also: Rivian Rolls Out OTA Updates…

Verkor, a French start-up backed by Renault, has successfully secured more than €2 billion in financing for its groundbreaking gigafactory project in Dunkirk, France. This remarkable achievement comes after the recent signing of a minimum €850 million Series C funding round, the approval of European Investment Bank debt support, and substantial subsidies from the French government. Verkor’s ambitious endeavor aims to accelerate the manufacturing of high-performance, low-carbon battery cells and construct its first gigafactory in the Port of Dunkirk. With an initial production capacity of 16 GWh/year, the gigafactory is anticipated to become operational by 2025, generating approximately 1,200 direct…

Gotion High-tech Co Ltd, a prominent Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer, is set to establish a state-of-the-art lithium battery manufacturing plant in Manteno, Illinois, with a substantial investment of $2 billion. This significant development is poised to generate approximately 2,600 new job opportunities, as confirmed by the office of the Illinois state governor on Friday. In recent times, global EV battery manufacturers and automakers have been actively exploring opportunities within the North American market. This expansion drive aims to diversify supply chains while capitalizing on incentives provided under the Inflation Reduction Act. See also: Vingroup, Gotion start construction of…

Stellantis, one of the world’s leading car manufacturers, is setting its sights on crafting lighter electric vehicle (EV) batteries to significantly enhance sustainability. The company’s Chief Technology Officer, Ned Curic, emphasized the urgency of this endeavor during the inauguration of Stellantis’ Battery Technology Center in Turin, Italy. Curic expressed concerns about the weight of current EV batteries, stating that they are “just too heavy” and render vehicles “not compatible” with sustainability objectives. To address this issue, he outlined an ambitious goal for his team, aiming to achieve a 50% reduction in battery weight by 2030. However, Curic admitted that the…

Hyundai Mobis, a player in the automotive industry and a subsidiary of the Hyundai Motor Group, has unveiled its comprehensive European expansion strategy, titled ‘Mobis Mobility Move 2.0,’ at the IAA Mobility event. The company is poised to make significant inroads into the European market with an ambitious growth plan, aiming for a 50% increase in 2023, followed by sustained annual growth rates exceeding 30% in the coming years. Hyundai Mobis’ confidence in its European expansion is bolstered by recent strategic agreements, including a noteworthy contract with Volkswagen. Axel Maschka, Executive Vice President and Head of Business Division at Hyundai…

Tesla has recently increased the price of its Yoke steering wheel option for the Model S and Model X by $1,000, as indicated by the company’s online configurator. This move comes as part of Tesla’s ongoing adjustments to its pricing and options availability. The Yoke steering wheel first garnered attention when it was introduced in 2021 as part of the refresh for Tesla’s two flagship electric vehicles. Initially, it was the sole choice for newly configured cars, with the traditional round steering wheel conspicuously absent from the options list. See also: Tesla Cybertruck May Offer Optional Round Steering Wheel Alongside…