synd-nexstar
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Phone-based key features scored high, while fingerprint readers did not in this annual look at advanced-tech features in new cars.
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US-based Honda-LG battery venture will power future EVs from 2026 onThe battery joint venture will make lithium-ion pouch cells in the U.S., with timing coordinated with the 2026 arrival of EVs built on a new Honda platform.
Bengt Halvorson -
Toyota and DOE look at how hydrogen fuel-cell tech could help smooth the gridIs hydrogen fuel-cell tech better than big batteries, or practical on a large scale where it could help buffer renewable energy? A test power plant from Toyota and the SOE seeks to examine that.
Bengt Halvorson -
Geely’s Zeekr will deliver EVs with 600+ mile range, CATL battery tech in Q1 2023The CATL tech—with its impressive claims for energy density, cooling, and range—will first go into the Chinese premium EV brand.
Bengt Halvorson -
California puts 2035 end date for new ICE vehicle sales into policyStates that follow California emissions rules represent about a third of the U.S. auto market, and they each may also adopt the new targets.
Stephen Edelstein -
BMW, Ford, GM will help incentivize California EV drivers to charge off-peakCharging EVs at off-peak times makes use of otherwise excess capacity, keeping the level of demand more considerate.
Stephen Edelstein -
The two automakers announced deals that should move more of the battery supply chain to North America, potentially satisfying EV tax credit stipulations.
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Every US EV costs less than $1,000 a year to fuel, according to federal estimatesGasoline models cost much more to fuel, while hybrids and plug-in hybrids were in the middle with estimated annual fueling costs of $1,000 to $2,000.
Stephen Edelstein -
Toyota stops fighting California, recognizes state's vehicle emissions authorityCalifornia sets more aggressive emissions standards and electric vehicle targets, and it's joined in doing so by a growing group of states.
Stephen Edelstein -
Polestar agrees to supply batteries and charging tech to boat company CandelaCandela's tech uses 80% less energy at high speeds versus traditional motorboats; as with electric cars, greater efficiency translates to more range.
Stephen Edelstein -
Report: EV tax credit rules might accelerate Hyundai timeline for US-built EVsThe revamped EV tax credit requires American assembly and more American-sourced material—and it might accelerate plans for Hyundai, among other automakers.
Stephen Edelstein -
Tesla hikes price of Full Self-Driving to $15,000 on September 5, expands beta testThe price has been $12,000 since October 2020, and this latest price hike corresponds with a broader rollout of beta testing.
Bengt Halvorson -
Inflation and supply chain issues have claimed another victim, the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning.
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EV buyers have far better credit than ICE shoppersEVs on average cost more, but buyers have much higher credit scores and are making down payments for a larger piece of the cost.
Bengt Halvorson -
Will EV tax credit price caps add urgency to arrival of affordable electric cars?Legislation would add price caps of $55,000 for electric cars and $80,000 for electric pickup trucks and SUVs—cutting out some of the U.S. built EVs and American supply chain lawmakers are attempting to foster.
Stephen Edelstein -
Toyota offering buyback of BZ4X EV as potential remedy for wheel recallIt's an alternate solution to a package of make-good perks that includes a $5,000 credit, an extended warranty, bonus fast-charging, and a free loaner vehicle with reimbursed fuel costs.
Stephen Edelstein -
2023 Volkswagen ID.4: US-made EV starts at $38,790 for 208-mile versionStandard/Pro, S, and S Plus models now span a wider price range than before, with the addition of a smaller 62-kwh battery pack in the entry version.
Bengt Halvorson -
Lucid halves 2022 production estimate, citing continued supply-chain issuesThe company did continue to bolster its sales and service network in the quarter, however—something that may put it in a better position once things ramp up.
Bengt Halvorson -
At the center of the controversy are 2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ram 1500 models with the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6, badged EcoDiesel.
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One of the cheapest US-market EVs now starts $4,325 higher due to supply-chain woesThe base-model $30,750 Mini Cooper SE is on an indefinite hiatus due to supply-chain issues, but you can still order one of the upper-trim versions.
Bengt Halvorson -
Plug-in hybrid sales stumble in Europe: Do they have a better chance in the US?Recent sales data shows plug-in hybrids trending downward as EVs trend upward—although that's not a trend that extends to the U.S.
Stephen Edelstein -
Review: 2023 BMW iX is charmingly offbeat, delivers on range ratingsAll the other electric SUVs might seem a little bland after driving the BMW iX, which can feel equal parts charming and off-putting. Just make sure you’re at peace with the styling.
Bengt Halvorson -
Study: EV startup brands aren't doing well in connecting with prospective customersTesla might be failing to keep pace with its growing sales volumes. It scored above average in previous versions of this study, but it no longer offers adequate levels of customer support either in-person or online.
Stephen Edelstein -
US assembly of ID.4 brings VW closer to "EV for millions" mantraVolkswagen says that 190,000 units of the ID.4 have been delivered globally, but only a small fraction of that has been to the U.S.
Bengt Halvorson