Author: Todd Gilbert

The surge in electric vehicle (EV) popularity in the United States experienced a notable setback during the final two quarters of 2023, with even California, a stronghold for EVs, witnessing a decline in sales. Despite a 5% growth in new EV market share throughout 2023 compared to the previous year, the last quarter revealed a concerning trend as 10% fewer new EVs were registered than in the preceding quarter. California, often regarded as a key indicator of EV adoption trends in the nation, saw EVs comprising 21.4% of the new vehicle market by the end of the year. Concurrently, internal…

Tesla has broadened its Application Programming Interface (API) support, encompassing Powerwall, solar products, and its Wall Connector (level 2 home or commercial charger). This addition to the API, launched by Tesla late last year, offers developers an avenue to integrate these energy products into their solutions. Tesla’s move to officially introduce an API follows years of developers relying on an unofficial API without clear documentation or established protocols. While the company had initially considered creating a full third-party app ecosystem for its vehicles, featuring giant touchscreens and connectivity, it ultimately shifted its focus to app mirroring from phones to the…

General Motors (GM) has initiated a safety recall for 265 units of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox, 2024 Chevrolet Blazer, 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, and 2024 GMC Terrain. The recall stems from defective door strikers that were improperly installed due to a heat treatment flaw during assembly at the San Luis Potosi plant in Mexico. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is cooperating with GM in addressing this issue, which came to light after an internal investigation prompted by customer complaints. While there have been no reported accidents related to the defect, the faulty door strikers raise concerns about potential door…

In recent years, gravel bikes have become a prominent force in the cycling community, transforming from a source of skepticism to a widely embraced trend. Electric gravel bikes, in particular, are gaining significant traction, bridging the gap between practical commuting and recreational cycling. A notable contender in this evolving landscape is the Gravital AXS from the Spanish bike manufacturer Crow, exemplifying the fusion of lightweight design, versatility, and cutting-edge technology. The Gravital AXS features a Sram Rival AXS wireless drivetrain, representing premium componentry that enhances its overall performance. Notably, the bike offers a unique flexibility with its Fazua 50 street…

Fisker has chosen to depart from the prevalent direct-to-consumer sales model, opting instead for a dealer partnership approach. CEO Henrik Fisker outlined the shift, citing significant changes in the EV market throughout 2023 and the imperative to cater to the burgeoning demand for the Fisker Ocean and future models. Under this new strategy, Fisker aims to collaborate with up to 50 dealer partners in the U.S. and Canada. In Europe, the company plans to adopt a hybrid model, leveraging both dealerships and a direct-to-consumer channel. This move aligns with Fisker’s broader “asset light strategy,” designed to expedite the expansion of…

CES 2024, set to take place in Las Vegas from January 9 to 12, remains a crucial platform for showcasing developments in automotive technology and autonomous driving. While a more restrained and realistic outlook is expected compared to previous years, the event continues to attract major players in the industry. Although fewer major automakers are expected to attend, prominent names like Japan’s Honda, Korea’s Kia, and Hyundai will showcase their latest innovations. Honda is anticipated to unveil a new “global EV series,” with potential implications for autonomous driving. Questions may arise regarding Honda’s plans to develop self-driving taxis in collaboration…

Los Angeles-based e-bike manufacturer, Mihogo, known for its commitment to compact urban mobility solutions, has introduced its latest model, the One. Following the success of its Mini E-Bike priced at $799 USD, Mihogo aims to elevate its offerings by not only expanding its model range but also enhancing capability. The Mihogo One adheres to the characteristics of urban-focused folding bikes, combining compactness, agility, and practicality for city living. With folding points on the frame and handlebars, the bike is conveniently small enough to be transported in the back of a crossover or compact SUV. Additionally, its portability extends to public…

Stellantis and Archer Aviation have provided an update on their partnership, announcing that their joint venture to produce electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft has progressed from the concept phase to the execution phase. The companies are constructing a high-volume eVTOL production facility in Covington, Georgia, as part of their ambitious plan to achieve Urban Air Mobility (UAM) commercialization. Archer Aviation, founded in 2018, has already established partnerships with major players in the aviation industry, including United Airlines, Stellantis, and the United States Air Force. The company unveiled its eVTOL aircraft called “Midnight” last December, which caught the attention…

Kia, the South Korean automaker, is set to expand its range of all-electric vehicles in the coming years as part of its commitment to becoming a leader in sustainable mobility. While already making a mark in the EV market with the successful release of its first dedicated electric car, the EV6, Kia has announced plans to further accelerate its electric strategy. One of the key additions to Kia’s lineup is the EV6 crossover, which garnered praise from both consumers and auto journalists following its debut in May. Built on the Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP architecture, which is also used for…

Under the leadership of the Technical University of Graz (TU Graz), a consortium comprised of universities, energy providers, companies, and start-ups has recently introduced the prototype of a groundbreaking flywheel storage system known as FlyGrid. This innovative technology, integrated into a fast-charging station, aims to optimize the utilization of renewable energy sources that are inherently variable in nature. The initial buffer storage system prototype boasts a capacity of 5 kWh and can achieve a charging power of up to 100 kW. TU Graz has expressed confidence that the prototype’s modular design will facilitate the development of larger storage capacities in…

Volkswagen recently shared the first insights into its highly popular Tiguan model, which is currently in its final test drives. The third generation of the Tiguan boasts several notable features, including a newly developed active suspension control system and HD Matrix headlights. The vehicle is built on the new MQB evo platform, which is part of Volkswagen’s modular transverse matrix generation. Additionally, the new Tiguan will offer a plug-in hybrid drive, enabling it to achieve electric ranges of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) in the future. The global premiere is scheduled for autumn, with the market launch planned for…

In a stunning reveal, Mercedes-Benz has introduced the world to the Vision One-Eleven, an innovative concept that embodies the future of all-electric sports cars. This groundbreaking vehicle showcases impressive technological advancements, including a pioneering battery concept and state-of-the-art axial-flow electric motors. While concrete technical specifications were not disclosed during the presentation, the emphasis of the Vision One-Eleven lies in its captivating design and cutting-edge connectivity features. Paying homage to Mercedes’ iconic C 111 experimental cars from the 1960s and 1970s, which played a pivotal role in testing revolutionary Wankel and turbo diesel engines, the Vision One-Eleven encapsulates the essence of…