Sanctions by Trump prompted Chinese smartphone manufacturer to venture into EV production
In early 2021, Xiaomi, a Chinese tech company primarily known for its smartphones, found itself on the receiving end of sanctions from the Trump administration. This unexpected turn of events led Xiaomi's CEO, Lei Jun, to pivot the company's focus towards building electric vehicles (EVs). The company launched its first EV, the Xiaomi SU7, at the end of 2023. This decision was driven by the need to diversify amidst the challenging business environment created by…
All Minivans Moving Towards Hybrid Models Except Honda Odyssey
Minivans are a popular choice for families due to their spacious interiors and versatility. In recent years, automakers have been focusing on making these vehicles more fuel-efficient by offering hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options. The redesigned Kia Carnival, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Pacifica are leading the way in terms of efficiency, providing a greener alternative for consumers. ### Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is currently the only plug-in hybrid minivan available in…
The Porsche Taycan’s EPA range increases to 318 miles by 2025
The 2025 Porsche Taycan has been delivered to U.S. dealerships, and the automaker has confirmed impressive EPA range numbers for this engineering-focused refresh. The revamped Taycan boasts a new Performance Battery Plus with a capacity of 105 kwh gross and 97 kwh usable, resulting in an increase in range of up to 318 miles. Even the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach package achieves a range of 269 miles. The Taycan Cross Turismo models offer ranges…
Looking Forward by Looking Back: The Cadillac Sollei EV Convertible Concept
Cadillac's latest EV concept, the Sollei, was unveiled recently and has sparked speculation about the potential for a convertible flagship in the brand's future. The concept appears to be a convertible version of the Celestiq, Cadillac's current flagship hatch. With a sleek design inspired by Cadillac convertibles of the 1950s, the Sollei features a 2+2 layout and references Sol, the Roman god of the sun, in its name. The Sollei concept was revealed at Cadillac's…
The Cadillac Sollei concept delves into the world of electric convertibles
Cadillac has recently unveiled the Sollei concept, a potential electric convertible that hints at a futuristic direction for the luxury automaker. The concept car takes inspiration from Cadillac convertibles of the 1950s but incorporates modern design elements from the current Celestiq flagship hatch. The reveal of the Sollei took place at Cadillac's personalization center in Warren, Michigan, close to the production line for the Celestiq, suggesting that the two vehicles may share the same Ultium…
Musk warns Tesla 4680 battery team: “Fix them or face consequences”
Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is facing challenges with its large-format 4680 battery cells, and CEO Elon Musk has set a deadline for resolving them. According to sources familiar with the matter, Musk instructed the team in May to address issues preventing production from being scaled up by the end of the year, or risk the project being abandoned. These 4680 cells are crucial for Tesla's future plans, as they are expected to drive down costs…
Chrysler issues recall for 24,000 Pacifica PHEVs, advises to cease charging and park outdoors
Introduction: Chrysler announced a recall for approximately 24,000 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans due to a fire risk associated with a battery-cell abnormality. The issue has prompted the automaker to advise owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures, as well as to cease charging until a software update is provided to address the problem. This recall affects Pacifica Hybrids from model years 2017 to 2021, with the majority of vehicles being…
Ford to shift focus from EV production to building Super Duty HD trucks
Ford's latest announcement to shift production of their Super Duty heavy-duty pickup trucks to their factory in Oakville, Ontario came as a surprise to many, as the factory was originally intended to produce electric vehicles (EVs). This move has sparked speculation that Ford may be gearing up to introduce an electrified version of their Super Duty HD pickup truck in the near future. The decision to repurpose the Oakville Assembly Complex to manufacture Super Duty…
Former Gas Station in Yosemite Converted into Rivian’s EV Charging Station
Rivian's Yosemite Outpost: A Sustainable EV Charging Hub Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has recently opened a unique EV charging station called Yosemite Outpost, located near the popular Yosemite National Park. This outpost not only serves as a logistical stop for adventurers entering or exiting the park but also aims to educate visitors about EV charging. The location, a former blacksmith shop and gas station, has been transformed into a hub for EV charging, complete with…
Is in-wheel motor technology set to revolutionize electric pickups?
In recent years, the concept of in-wheel motors, also known as wheel-hub motors, has been gaining attention in the electric vehicle industry. The technology promises to offer benefits such as improved efficiency, enhanced performance, and more flexibility in vehicle design. Despite some early setbacks, the potential of in-wheel motors is being explored by automakers like Ford as they seek to develop electric trucks with innovative propulsion systems. ### Ford's Exploration of In-Wheel Motors for Electric…