Author: Floyd Hawkins

Fiat is breathing new life into its iconic Fiat 500 by reviving the name Topolino, but this time as an all-electric mini car. Expected to be the smallest electric vehicle in the Fiat lineup, the Topolino is set to incorporate technology from two older models within the Stellantis group. In recently released press photos, the Fiat Topolino showcases a retro design that draws inspiration from the Citroën Ami, Opel Rocks-e, and the Fiat 500e. While the exact specifications are yet to be announced, it is anticipated that the Topolino will share similar technology with the Ami and Rocks-e. Both of…

In a captivating YouTube video, Steve, an experienced Tesla owner, provides an in-depth assessment of his ownership experience with the Lucid Air Grand Touring. Having acquired the luxurious electric sedan in late 2022, Steve has now spent six months with this remarkable vehicle. Through his review, he sheds light on the car’s remarkable features, while also addressing a few concerns he encountered along the way. Steve’s Lucid Air Grand Touring boasts an impressive 819-horsepower and rolls on sleek 20-inch wheels. This extraordinary luxury barge achieves the seemingly impossible feat of accelerating from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just…

In a significant development for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Freewire, a unique charging network, has announced its support for the integration of Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug on its own chargers. This comes shortly after the partnership announcement between American automotive giants Tesla and Ford, where Ford committed to incorporating NACS charging plugs in their future EVs. The NACS plug, although considered by many as a superior design compared to the current Combined Charging System (CCS) standard, had primarily been exclusive to Tesla vehicles. While Tesla recently opened up its Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs, it still…

In a fascinating turn of events, the long-forgotten tale of three brand-new Tesla Roadsters has resurfaced, captivating automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Back in 2010, these sleek electric vehicles were shipped to China, but fate had different plans, as they remained trapped within their containers, untouched and hidden from the world. However, the time has come for these automotive treasures to find a new home, and the latest bid has skyrocketed to a staggering $2 million, revealing the enduring allure of these automotive time capsules. Gruber Motors, a company dedicated to aiding the sellers in their quest to find a buyer, disclosed…

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus and Hino Motors, two prominent Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturers, have announced their plans to merge and collaborate on various aspects of commercial vehicle development, procurement, production, and electrification. The respective parent companies, Daimler Truck and Toyota, also intend to make equal investments in the listed holding company of Fuso and Hino. Over the next 18 months, the details regarding the collaboration, such as the name, location, shareholding, and corporate structure of the new holding company, will be determined. The final agreement between Daimler Truck and Toyota is expected to be signed in the first quarter…

In an unexpected move, Ford has taken a significant step towards revolutionizing the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience by partnering with Tesla. This groundbreaking collaboration has the potential to inspire other car manufacturers to follow suit, as Ford aims to leverage Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network across the United States, setting a new standard for EV charging infrastructure. Loren McDonald, CEO of consulting firm EVAdoption, expressed his astonishment at Ford’s decision, stating, “We’re all shocked that Ford has announced this.” He also highlighted the broader implications, suggesting that Ford’s partnership with Tesla could pave the way for other brands to join…

In a recent development, Mercedes-Benz has announced a recall of 7,558 vehicles in the United States, including various 2022-2023 models of the Mercedes EQS and S-Class. The recall is prompted by a flaw in the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) software, which has the potential to cause the speedometer to display 0 mph regardless of the vehicle’s actual speed. This software issue poses a safety concern, necessitating the recall. The affected vehicles comprise the 2022 Mercedes EQS 450 and EQS 580, as well as the 2023 Mercedes S 580e, and the 2023 Mercedes-Maybach S580 and S680. The problem initially came to…

The entry-level Kia EV6 Light, equipped with a 58-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery (Standard Range), has made a comeback in the United States. After missing out on the 2023 model year lineup, the South Korean automaker has confirmed that the Light trim is once again available, albeit on a limited scale in the Western Region. The states where the Kia EV6 Light will be offered include Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. This reintroduction provides an opportunity for consumers in these regions to experience the rear-wheel drive Kia EV6 Light, which was previously available in the 2022…

According to a recent survey conducted by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, an overwhelming 70% of van drivers believe that electric vehicles (EVs) are well-suited for their business operations. This groundbreaking research highlights a significant shift in perception, with only 13% of van drivers expressing skepticism about the ability of zero-emission powertrains to meet their daily business needs. The study, which surveyed 1,000 UK van drivers, also revealed a remarkable 40% increase in the consideration of EVs since the onset of the pandemic. In 2019, half of the van drivers (50%) recognized the suitability of electric vehicles for their businesses, while the…

Econ Engineering, a provider of winter maintenance vehicle solutions, has recently unveiled an impressive addition to their lineup – a highly adaptable electric gritter truck. This groundbreaking vehicle offers year-round operation, thanks to its range of demountable body options, allowing for seamless switching between different fleet roles while maintaining zero-tailpipe emissions. At the heart of the truck’s versatility lies Econ’s revolutionary Electric Quick Change Body (E-QCB) system. In addition to the standard gritter body, this innovative system enables the truck to be equipped with a tipper body for efficient highway maintenance or a cage tipper for refuse collection and recycling…

Electreon, a startup dedicated to developing technology for charging electric vehicles while they are in motion, has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new world record for the longest electric journey completed without requiring a recharge. During a closed test loop, Electreon successfully drove a modified Toyota RAV4 PHEV for over 100 hours, utilizing their groundbreaking wireless charging technology. The vehicle traveled an impressive distance of 1,207.05 miles (1,924.56 km) solely on electric power. Despite the duration of the journey, the vehicle did come to a stop several times, with 55 different drivers taking part in the record attempt.…

Atlas, an emerging electric vehicle (EV) startup headquartered in London, UK, has made a significant announcement regarding its ambitious endeavor to create Africa’s very first EV. The company plans to design, engineer, and manufacture this groundbreaking vehicle in Africa, with production set to commence in 2026 and a global market debut slated for 2027. Atlas aims to leverage existing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components to minimize research and development (R&D) costs effectively. Describing its upcoming model as an “affordable, superior-engineered all-electric vehicle inspired by Moroccan design and identity,” Atlas has given a glimpse of its silhouette through a single teaser…

Founded in 2022, Italian-American EV startup Aehra is providing more details about its first products after signing a deal with Austrian battery manufacturer Miba. Thanks to the supplier’s bespoke battery packs, Aehra expects its first SUV to offer up to 497 miles (800 km) of range. “Miba is particularly well suited to provide the type of features we wish to have in our batteries to provide optimum range and efficiency and integration with the body structure of our SUV and Sedan,” said Stefano Mazzetti, Aehra’s head of purchasing and procurement. “Miba is at the forefront of battery technology and production.”…

The US Department of Energy (DOE) has recently announced a significant boost in funding for electric vehicle (EV) programs, with an additional $99.5 million allocated towards advancing the development and adoption of next-generation EV technologies. This funding is in addition to the $87 million already granted to support 45 electric vehicle projects across the country. The primary objective of these funding initiatives is to promote the production of advanced EV technologies, facilitate the training of a future workforce skilled in electrified transportation, and ensure the equitable deployment of clean mobility options in underserved communities. The recently announced funding opportunity is…

In a recent announcement, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has revealed that the highly anticipated second-generation Roadster will experience additional delays, pushing its production timeline to the end of 2024. Musk, speaking on Twitter Spaces, acknowledged the frustration of Roadster reservation holders, as Tesla tests their patience with the prolonged wait. Initially unveiled in 2017, the Roadster was originally slated to enter production in 2020. Boasting impressive performance metrics, such as a remarkable 0-60 mph acceleration in just 1.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 mph, the Roadster also promises a remarkable range of 620 miles, thanks to its 200…

In response to recent legislation introduced by lawmakers, Ford CEO Jim Farley announced on Tuesday that the company will not remove AM broadcast radio as a feature in its new vehicles. Farley took to Twitter to confirm that all 2024 Ford vehicles will include AM broadcast capability, and existing Ford electric vehicles without this feature will receive a software update. Farley expressed gratitude towards the product development and manufacturing teams for promptly addressing the concerns raised by customers. The bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Senator Ed Markey, introduced the legislation last week to prevent automakers from eliminating AM broadcast radio…

A group of 27 Senate Republicans has called on the Biden administration to abandon its ambitious plan to significantly reduce vehicle emissions by 2032 and promote the sale of electric vehicles (EVs). Led by Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the lawmakers argue that the administration’s proposal would effectively force a costly transition to EVs without proper congressional direction. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had previously issued a proposal in April, estimating that such emissions cuts would result in 67% of new light-duty vehicle sales being electric by 2032. The EPA’s proposal, which includes a 56% reduction in projected emissions from the…

Texas-based electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Ayro has recently announced that its all-electric Vanish mini truck is now available for pre-order in the United States and Canada. Customers can secure their orders by visiting the company’s website and paying a refundable fee of $250. The Ayro Vanish is categorized as a low-speed electric vehicle (LSEV) and is designed to accommodate two passengers. The non-street-legal variant of the Vanish boasts a maximum payload capacity of 1,800 pounds (816 kilograms). While the vehicle is primarily marketed as an ideal option for campuses, last-mile deliveries, and micro distribution, its pricing has raised some eyebrows.…

In a significant development regarding California’s Clean Cars II Act, which aims to ban the sale of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles from 2035, the responsibility now lies with the Biden-Harris administration to make a decision. According to a report by Automotive News, the state of California has formally approached the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), seeking approval for a waiver that would enable them to implement the regulations approved by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) last year. The CARB, in August 2022, sanctioned a series of regulations pertaining to ICE vehicles that will be phased in over time. By…

In an unprecedented turn of events, the Tesla Model Y has secured the title of the world’s best-selling car in the first quarter of 2023, surpassing all expectations for electric vehicles (EVs). This significant achievement was confirmed by industry analyst JATO Dynamics, solidifying the Model Y’s remarkable rise to prominence in the automotive market. Over the past few years, sales of the Model Y have witnessed substantial growth across the globe, positioning the car on a trajectory to claim the top spot as the world’s best-selling vehicle. Tesla had foreseen this accomplishment even before the car’s launch, with expectations of…