The Volkswagen ID.Buzz, a modern take on the iconic VW Microbus, is getting a camper-van conversion from Peace Vans, a Seattle-based company specializing in camper-van builds. This conversion will transform the ID.Buzz into a complete mobile home with a lounge area that converts into a bed, cabinets, a cooktop, a sink, and onboard water storage. The company is offering three different conversion options, with deliveries set to begin in November of this year. However, it's…
Acura is set to unveil an electric SUV concept at the 2024 Monterey Car Week, showcasing a new direction for the luxury automaker. The unveiling comes as part of Acura's broader plan to accelerate its electric vehicle offerings in the U.S. market. In a teaser photo released by Acura, the upcoming EV is based on an in-house-developed dedicated EV platform, signaling a shift towards producing their own electric vehicles. A Bold New Direction The electric…
In July, electric cars and plug-in hybrids outsold non-hybrid internal combustion cars in China, the world's largest new-car market. According to Reuters, sales of plug-in cars increased by 37% last month compared to the same period a year earlier, reaching a record 50.7% market share. This surge in sales can be attributed to the growth of new energy vehicles (NEVs) in the Chinese industry over the past decade, as well as heavy investments in EV…
Introduction: Nissan is on the cutting edge of automotive technology with their development of a new type of paint that could potentially revolutionize the way we think about vehicle cabin temperatures. This innovative paint contains a composite called "metamaterial" that is designed to reflect near-infrared rays from the sun and redirect energy away from the surface, thereby reducing heat transfer into the painted surfaces. The result is a significant reduction in both exterior surface temperatures…
With the rise in popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), automakers and charging networks are making strides towards standardizing charging infrastructure. In particular, the Tesla North American Charging Standard (NACS) for fast charging is being adopted by various companies. One of these companies, ChargePoint, is introducing a new hardware solution called the ChargePoint Omni Port, which combines Tesla and non-Tesla connector types for easy and convenient charging. As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, the need…
Introduction: Tesla Energy and SunRun have partnered to enroll customers in a program that will use Tesla Powerwall battery packs to support the Texas power grid during times of high demand. This initiative comes after recent severe weather events in Texas highlighted the need for reliable backup power solutions. The program offers incentives for customers to participate in the pilot program run by Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), ultimately benefiting both the participants and…
Ford introduced a standard hybrid powertrain in its Explorer-derived police car, the 2025 Ford Police Interceptor Utility. This move comes after Ford discontinued the civilian Explorer Hybrid after the 2024 model year. While a return of the Explorer Hybrid for consumers is still being considered, the Police Interceptor Utility now comes standard with a hybrid powertrain. The hybrid powertrain combines a 3.3-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor integrated with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering…
The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona models, the R/T and Scat Pack, mark Dodge's entry into the world of electric vehicles. These vehicles, due to arrive at dealerships later in the year, embody the muscle car heritage of the brand while incorporating electric powertrain technology. The Charger Daytona models offer a unique take on electric vehicles, focusing more on performance than range and efficiency. The Charger Daytona R/T carries a starting price of $61,590, while the…
The 2025 Lucid Air Pure: Setting a New Standard in Efficiency In the world of electric vehicles, efficiency is a key factor that can make or break a company's success. Lucid Group CEO Peter Rawlinson is confident that his company has established a significant lead in this area with the 2025 Lucid Air Pure. This vehicle has achieved an impressive 146 MPGe in EPA testing and 5.0 miles per kWh based on its 420-mile range…
Solar company SunPower has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US after previously being set to be GM's installer for home energy storage systems. A decade ago, SunPower was the go-to choice for big companies seeking solar installations, but in recent years, it has struggled to keep up with competition on cost. The company's assets and liabilities are reported to be between $1 billion and $10 billion, and parts of its business are set…