Electric Vehicles

Volkswagen and ORNL Break New Ground with 270 kW Wireless Charging for EVs

Volkswagen, in collaboration with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), has taken a significant step forward in the evolution of electric vehicle (EV) technology by achieving the first-ever 270 kW wireless power transfer. This landmark development represents a leap in wireless charging capabilities, setting the stage for faster and more efficient EV charging without the need for cumbersome plug-in systems. For drivers and the industry alike, this advancement could be a game-changer in how electric vehicles are charged, bringing us closer to a future where EVs can charge rapidly and seamlessly. The Breakthrough in Wireless Charging The 270 kW wireless charging system developed by Volkswagen and ORNL employs high-frequency magnetic fields to transfer energy between a transmitter and a receiver.

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Electric DeLorean Conversion Brings Icon Back to the Future

The DeLorean DMC-12, immortalized by the “Back to the Future” trilogy, is making a dramatic return—not through time travel, but with a state-of-the-art electric conversion. UK-based Electrogenic, a company celebrated for its adept conversions of classic cars, has revitalized the DeLorean, seamlessly blending its iconic design with contemporary electric vehicle technology. From 1981 to Present Day The DeLorean DMC-12, brainchild of automotive executive John DeLorean, is a car steeped in history and intrigue. Introduced in 1981, the DMC-12 was the only model ever produced by the DeLorean Motor Company (DMC). Its development was ambitious, marked by DeLorean’s vision to create a car that would break the mold of contemporary automotive design. The car’s stainless steel body panels, designed by Italian

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Rivian Unveils Second-Generation R1S and R1T: Elevating Electric Adventure

In a significant stride forward for the electric vehicle industry, Rivian has announced the release of its highly anticipated second-generation R1S SUV and R1T pickup truck. This bold move underscores Rivian‘s commitment to innovation and excellence in the EV market, as it continues to challenge traditional automakers with its unique blend of adventure-ready capability and sustainable technology. Enhanced Performance and Cutting-Edge Technology The new R1S and R1T models are set to deliver improved performance, greater efficiency, and enhanced technology. Rivian‘s second-generation vehicles boast upgraded powertrains and advanced battery systems, promising not only increased range but also superior power and torque. This leap in performance is expected to solidify Rivian’s position as a leader in the electric off-road vehicle segment. Both

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2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6: worthy EV underdog

The Hyundai Ioniq debuted in 2016 as a newcomer sedan with an odd name. The all-electric variant, the Ioniq 6, arrived last year. It joined an impressive lineup answering to the fusion of the words ion and unique. It’s also given the floundering sedan segment hope. Offered in SE Standard Range, SE, SEL and Limited trims, the 2024 Ioniq 6 throughout its lineup is the same as the vehicles’ debut models. The SE Standard Range is the value leader, with a 53-kWh battery pack and a single motor (149 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque) driving the rear wheels. At its top end, the reviewed Limited edition is far less known, but the strongest challenger for a Tesla Model 3. It

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All-Electric 2024 Porsche Macan SUV Takes On Bold New Direction

A decade after its initial launch, Porsche‘s Macan is taking a bold leap into the future with its 2024 all-electric model. This new chapter in the Macan’s story is marked by a blend of progressive design, Porsche‘s signature performance, and everyday practicality. The Macan 4 and Macan Turbo are set to meet and exceed the expectations of SUV enthusiasts, according to Jörg Kerner, Vice President of the Macan Product Line. The 2024 Macan models are powered by the latest generation of permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM) on both axles, a move that ensures high efficiency and consistent power delivery. The Macan 4, with its 300 kW (402 hp) output, and the Macan Turbo, boasting 470 kW (630 hp), set new

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Electric Vehicle Winter Survival Guide

As winter’s chill grips the roads, electric vehicle (EV) owners face unique challenges. The impact of cold weather on EV performance and maintenance is of increasing importance for drivers. This electric vehicle winter survival guide delves into the crucial aspects of maintaining and optimizing EV performance during the colder months. From the recent surge in reports of range reduction and charging difficulties in frigid areas like Chicago and Texas, this guide is tailored to equip EV enthusiasts with essential tips and strategies for navigating the winter season. Stay ahead in the cold weather game with your EV by following expert advice and insights. The primary challenge for EVs in wintry weather is battery efficiency. In low temperatures, the movement of

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2024 Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar inspired by upcoming rally-raid

The start of the 2024 Dakar Rally is just about upon us and Audi spotlighted its participation Wednesday by unveiling an electric SUV inspired by the desert race. The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar features plenty of horsepower, heightened off road capabilities, and a limited decal package. The Dakar Rally kicks off January 5 2024. Originally run from Paris, France to Dakar, Senegal, the Dakar Rally as of 2020 is held as a 3,100-mile, two-week race entirely within Saudi Arabia. Audi has participated in the fastest class, T1 Car Class, of this physical, mental, and mechanical endurance test since 2022. Each Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is based upon the Q8 55 e-tron and is propelled by a 402-horsepower, 490

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Hello, Goodbye: Next-generation Porsche Panamera Unveiled

Porsche’s unveiling of the new, third-generation Panamera says hello to a new appearance and engineering and goodbye to the Sport Turismo wagon models. The new sedan’s online debut saw the release of a redesigned Panamera and Panamera 4, as well as the current flagship Turbo E-Hybrid. No Sport Turismo models were present as poor sales and a only marginal increase in practicality over its sedan counterpart forced the automaker to cease production. Upon first glance, the Panamera’s most significant change is its appearance. A new front end utilizes enlarged intakes and a sharpened profile but otherwise maintains the original slick styling of the previous generation. Center-lock wheels, a first for four-door Porsches, and a full-length lightbar punctuate the rear end.

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Lucid Motors announces first SUV, defines Gravity

Lucid Motors, the upstart electric vehicle manufacturer headquartered in Northern California, has unveiled the Lucid Gravity, a full-sized, luxury sport utility vehicle with a projected range of 440 miles. The third-year company’s first SUV was announced on the eve of the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show. It’s scheduled for production in late 2024 with an expected starting MSRP of less than $80,000. According to the carmaker, “Lucid’s commitment to design excellence, spacious interiors and versatility further sets Gravity apart from the competition.” The exterior design is a combination of aesthetics and utility. A focus on efficiency has led to a target coefficient of drag of less than 0.243. The Gravity’s presence is supported by a substantial frunk, sleek profile, elongated

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#271, Industry expert John Vincent talks lingering UAW strike, updates EVs

John Vincent, senior editor and automotive correspondent for U.S. News & World Report, has more than 25 years of experience covering the auto industry. In addition to reviewing vehicles, he has vast expertise in auto financing, leasing and buying. He’s also an expert observer and commentator regarding the current United Auto World strike. As the strike approaches its one-month duration, Vincent is our guest on this episode of The Weekly Driver Podcast. Co-hosts Bruce Aldrich and James Raia discuss with the veteran writer the current status of the strike and what it means to the automakers and union members. How have the communities throughout the Detroit area been affected? Has the strike changed the industry for consumers? Does Vincent see

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2023 BMW i7 xDrive60 defines EV performance sedan luxury

The 2023 BMW i7 xDrive60 is among a small group of luxury electric sedans with good intentions and still trying to appeal to a not-yet-convinced consumer majority. Matched primarily against the Lucid Air, Mercedes-Benz EQS and Tesla Model S, the i7, like its competitors, is a compelling choice for many reasons. It’s electric, fast off the line and further impressive accelerating at highway speeds. It’s plush and spacious and built with top-line material and innovative features. The 7-Series has long been BMW‘s full-sized flagship. The i7 was introduced in April 2022 as a 2023 model to coincide with the nameplate’s 45th anniversary. The i7 xDrive60 and M70 have dual electronic motors and all-wheel drive. The i7 has a single-speed transmission,

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Tesla Gets Approval For Diner and Drive-in Movie Supercharger in Los Angeles

In a groundbreaking move that underscores Tesla‘s commitment to enhancing the EV charging experience, the company has secured the necessary permits to establish a unique Diner and Drive-In Supercharger in Los Angeles. This development, as confirmed by documents from the LA Department of Building and Safety, is a testament to Tesla‘s innovative approach to the EV infrastructure. Tesla‘s Supercharger Network, already the most comprehensive of any global automaker, is set to be further revolutionized. While advancements in charging technology have reduced wait times, the allure of a multifaceted experience at these stations remains. Enter Tesla’s latest venture: a combination of a diner and a drive-in movie theater, poised to redefine the charging stopover. For years, the electric vehicle giant has

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GM’s Vision for a Bidirectional Electric Future: Powering Homes, Vehicles, and Beyond

In a groundbreaking announcement, General Motors (GM) has declared that by the model year 2026, all its electric vehicles (EVs) will be equipped with bidirectional vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging capabilities. This transformative move is set to redefine the relationship between vehicles and homes, turning cars into potential power sources during grid outages and peak demand periods. The Dawn of Bidirectional Charging Bidirectional charging, as the name suggests, allows for a two-way flow of electricity. Traditional unidirectional EV chargers draw power from the grid to charge the vehicle. In contrast, bidirectional chargers enable not just the charging of the EV but also the potential to feed electricity back into the home or even the grid. This essentially transforms high-capacity lithium-ion batteries in

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2023 Toyota Prius Prime: Older Hybrid Good, New Better, No Stereotype

During the past two decades, the Toyota Prius has been as polarizing as any car in the United States. Many consumers associate the vehicle with liberalism and chastise its appearance. Sometimes lost is the significance of the carmaker’s advancement in the hybrid and electric marketplace. The Prius debuted in the United States in 2020, three years after it was unveiled in Japan. It arrived a few months after the Honda Insight, which had limited availability and in only a few states. Toyota’s innovative lineup had mainstream distribution. Approaching its mid-20s, it has surpassed 15 million in global sales. Key Takeaways Fifth-generation redesign silences critics: Gone are the polarizing looks, sluggish acceleration, and blocked rear window. The 2023 Prius Prime looks

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EV Cost Per Mile vs Gas: A Comprehensive Comparison for 2023

The debate over EV Cost Per Mile vs Gas continues to be a hot topic as the automotive landscape witnesses a pivotal shift. A recent study by Anderson Economic Group has shed light on the ongoing debate between electric vehicles (EVs) and their gas-powered counterparts. The findings reveal the cost of charging many electric cars is still not cheaper than fueling traditional gas vehicles. The automotive world is in a state of flux, with EVs gaining traction and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles facing new challenges. Anderson Economic Group’s latest report, released in July 2023, provides a detailed analysis of the real-world costs of fueling different types of vehicles. “A driver might pay 64% more to charge their entry-level

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Overcoming range anxiety for EV DRIVERs

The increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) has also prompted an increasing concern for drivers — range anxiety. It’s the fear or worry of running out of battery power while driving an electric vehicle. It can leave the driver and their passengers stranded with no charging station nearby. The apprehension stems naturally from the apparently limited driving range of EVs compared to traditional fossil-fuel-powered, internal combustion engine vehicles. While EV batteries have improved considerably since their first launch, range anxiety remains a concern for potential buyers. However, with careful planning and adopting some essential practices, EV drivers can effectively manage their vehicle’s range and enjoy the benefits of eco-friendly transportation. How limited range, range anxiety can lead to car accidents

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