Author: David Smith

As drivers across America increasingly adopt electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids, and more fuel-efficient gas-powered vehicles, states are grappling with a significant problem. While this shift saves drivers money in terms of running costs, it poses a substantial financial challenge for states due to the declining fuel tax revenue. To bridge this gap, states are now contemplating the implementation of a mileage-based road tax. For decades, gas taxes have served as a vital source of revenue for the construction and maintenance of U.S. roads. However, the financial strain on states is projected to worsen if no action is taken. According to…

In the realm of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, lithium-ion cells have reigned as the gold standard. However, researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy have been exploring alternative chemistries that offer even greater energy density, and recent findings on lithium metal technology could mark a significant breakthrough. Compared to lithium-ion batteries currently powering the longest-range EVs, alternative chemistries like lithium metal have the potential to provide up to twice the energy density. This advancement holds the promise of smaller, lighter battery packs, resulting in enhanced efficiency and increased travel distances for EVs. See also: How Long Can Electric Vehicle Batteries…

Tesla seems to be making strides towards officially supporting third-party apps. In a recent update to its user settings on its website, Tesla has introduced a new section dedicated to “manage third-party apps.” This development has sparked speculation among enthusiasts about the possibility of Tesla finally launching its own app store. The concept of a Tesla App Store, which would enable the use of third-party applications on Tesla vehicles, has been a topic of discussion since the introduction of the Model S back in 2012. While Tesla has offered an unofficial API (Application Programming Interface) that allows limited functionality for…

In a move towards promoting standardization and ease of adoption for electric construction machines, Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has announced the publication of its brand-independent software protocol and connector specifications for 48-volt DC chargers. This initiative allows other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers to utilize Volvo’s charging technology while developing their own charging solutions for compact electric construction equipment. The absence of an industry-wide standard for 48-volt DC charging solutions has resulted in customers needing to acquire multiple chargers from different manufacturers, each offering their own proprietary systems, when operating a fleet comprising various brands. Volvo CE aims…

Great Wall Motor, a prominent Chinese car manufacturer, unveiled its latest offering in the electric vehicle (EV) segment, the Tank 500 Hi4-T. This move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to transition towards electrification, as it seeks to close the gap with leading competitors, such as BYD. The Tank 500 Hi4-T represents Great Wall Motor’s inaugural entry into the realm of new energy vehicles (NEVs), and it comes with a price tag starting at RMB 335,000 ($46,290). The Tank 500 Hi4-T is a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) variant derived from the fuel-powered Tank 500 model, which is currently available…

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV is set to make its debut this summer, and it brings exciting upgrades in terms of range, towing capabilities, and performance compared to the initially announced specifications. However, potential buyers may find themselves reevaluating their purchasing decisions due to the accompanying higher price tag. When General Motors first introduced the Silverado EV in early 2022, they promised an attractive starting price of $39,900 (~C$52,400) with a range of 400 miles (644 km). Yet, during a recent “first drive” press tour, the automaker revealed new details about this forthcoming electric pickup truck. The base model, known…

Kia has recently unveiled the pricing details for its highly anticipated EV9 electric SUV in the European market, specifically in Belgium. This comes on the heels of the vehicle’s successful debut in South Korea last week. With a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology, Kia aims to make a strong entry into the electric vehicle segment. The European market will initially have two variants of the EV9 equipped with a large battery pack. The Earth Launch Edition, featuring a rear-wheel drive and a 150 kW powertrain, comes with a price tag starting at €74,990. This version boasts a battery capacity…

China’s lithium market is experiencing a revival due to increasing sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and the growing demand for batteries used in energy storage. However, analysts caution that despite this recovery, the supply of lithium is expected to surpass the improving demand. Over the past two months, spot lithium carbonate prices in China have nearly doubled, reaching 317,500 yuan ($44,146.27) per metric ton last week, according to Fastmarkets. This surge in prices can be attributed to the surge in EV sales in the world’s largest market for electric cars. Earlier this year, the demand for lithium had declined as…

Tesla, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has revealed a groundbreaking management tool to enhance its Supercharging network and optimize the user experience. The tool provides a comprehensive overview of the entire charging infrastructure, enabling Tesla operators to monitor and maintain the network efficiently. In a captivating video demonstration, Tesla showcased the innovative solution, which incorporates a sophisticated color-coded system to visualize the status of charging stations across North America, and potentially other regions worldwide. This real-time monitoring mechanism allows operators to quickly identify operational charging points, overloaded stations, or those in need of repair. With just a simple zoom-in and a…

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) company NIO has secured a significant investment of more than $1 billion from an Abu Dhabi government fund, aimed at fortifying its financial position and supporting its growth trajectory. In a momentous move, NIO entered into a share subscription agreement with CYVN Holdings, an Abu Dhabi investment firm, on June 20. As per the agreement, CYVN Holdings will make an investment totaling approximately $1.1 billion in NIO through a combination of new share issuance and a share transfer from an existing shareholder. CYVN Holdings, which primarily focuses on strategic investments in the advanced smart mobility sector…

A recent report by BloombergNEF’s Electric Vehicle Outlook (EVO) reveals that electric buses are rapidly gaining ground in the global transportation sector. The report predicts that by 2032, close to 50% of the world’s buses will be fully battery-powered, with approximately three out of four buses sold being electric. This surge in electric buses outpaces the adoption rate of electric passenger vehicles, highlighting the significant progress in the public transportation sector. Even though commercial trucking and scooters are progressing at a slower pace, the growth of electric buses is setting an encouraging example for the wider electrification of transportation. In…

In a recent interview on CNN’s “Fareed Zakaria GPS” Sunday program, Ford’s executive chairman, Bill Ford, expressed concerns over the United States’ readiness to compete with China in the realm of electric vehicle (EV) production. Ford acknowledged China’s rapid development and large-scale manufacturing capabilities, emphasizing that they have not only established a strong domestic EV market but are also exporting their vehicles. While discussing the need for preparation, Ford stated, “They’re not here, but they’ll come here we think, at some point. We need to be ready, and we’re getting ready.” This sentiment aligns with the viewpoint expressed by Ford’s…