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2025 JEEP RECON EV PROTOTYPE APPROACHES PRODUCTION

The 2025 Jeep Recon EV is close to production. A prototype was seen in public without cover. It looks a lot like the first design. It has big tires for rough ground, short ends, and doors you can take off. We got a peek inside too.

Jeep hasn’t said much new about it. The Recon should be out next year. It might cost about $60,000 to start. The prototype doesn’t have the usual seven-slot front or other Jeep marks. But its boxy shape shows it’s the Recon EV. We don’t know exactly when it will come out or how much it will cost.

The Recon is an electric Wrangler. It will be heavier because of a big battery under the car. This powers two electric motors. The all-wheel-drive Recon will likely be stronger than gas or hybrid Wranglers. For example, the Jeep Wagoneer S with two motors has 600 horsepower.

The price might start around $60,000.

Source: via Car and Driver

https://evne.ws/3BpJDIO

AMAZON EXPANDS CAR SHOPPING TO 48 CITIES

Amazon is bringing car shopping to 48 U.S. cities. The service, Amazon Autos, lets people buy new Hyundai cars online. Big cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, and New York are part of this launch.

Customers can browse, order, and finance cars using Amazon’s website. They can also set up car pickups. Amazon plans to add more car brands later. Dealers will still handle the actual sales.

Fan Jin, who leads Amazon Autos, said, “Dealers are the sellers of record, so this is a new sales channel for them.” He added that dealers can show their cars to millions of Amazon users.

The news came out on December 10, 2024. Buying cars online isn’t new, but it got more popular during COVID-19. Companies like CarMax, Carvana, and Autotrader already sell cars online.

Hyundai dealers who tested the service earlier are part of this launch. These tests led to faster sales. Now, more people can try it out. About 80% of Hyundai’s 841 dealers want to join.

Amazon will add more Hyundai dealers and cities soon. They’ll also add test drives. More banks will offer financing options.

Dealers will pay to list cars on Amazon, but early joiners won’t have to pay. Amazon’s trust with customers is a big plus for car buying.

Buyers can search for cars, get financing, and sign papers quickly. Prices won’t change once a buyer applies for credit or pays a deposit. Trade-ins will be valued online but finalized at the dealership.

Source: via Automotive News

https://evne.ws/41wVwaG

AUSTRALIA HITS 100,000 EV SALES IN 2024

EV sales in Australia hit 100,000 in 2024, up from 98,400 last year. The Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) shared this data. Sales may grow more as the year isn’t over yet.

Aman Gaur from the EVC said 2024 was big for EVs in Australia. He said, “Reaching this annual milestone of 100,000 EV sales is a clear signal that Australians want modern, sustainable cars that are fun to drive.” EV sales stayed strong despite money worries. Gaur said this was due to cheaper models, more car types, and government help.

Gaur noted that EVs can save money. He said, “One of the easiest ways to save money right now is by driving an electric car – Australians can save thousands of dollars a year by avoiding high petrol prices and expensive mechanics costs from petrol cars.”

Gaur thinks EV sales will keep growing in 2025. The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will help. It will bring more cheap options and better access to low and zero-emission cars. Gaur wants the government to offer more help to make EVs cheaper, add more charging spots, and update rules to grow the industry and make local jobs.

https://evne.ws/4iyIZcB

AUSTRALIAN EV CHARGING NETWORK LAUNCHES WITH UK FIRM

Gridserve, a big UK EV charging company, is coming to Australia. They’re teaming up with Flow Power, an Aussie energy firm, to build the “Flow Power Highway.” This will be a network of fast EV chargers across the country.

In the UK, Gridserve’s chargers power about 250,000 EVs each month, that’s 6 million kWh of clean electricity.

Flow Power is new to EV charging. They usually sell renewable energy to businesses and homes. Their CEO, Matthew van der Linden, said, “EV charging is a natural extension of Flow Power’s mission to empower Australians to actively participate in and benefit from the energy transition.” They want to make it easier for people to own EVs by fixing charging and range worries.

Toddington Harper from Gridserve Global wants to build a “world-class sun-to-wheel electric vehicle charging network” for cars and trucks in Australia. This is Gridserve’s first step outside the UK.

Source: via The Driven

https://evne.ws/3ZM88JE

BYD TO START EUROPEAN PRODUCTION IN 2025

BYD, the Chinese automaker, is set to start making compact cars in Europe by late 2025. Stella Li, BYD’s Europe head, said the first cars from their Hungary plant will be the Dolphin and Atto 3.

The Dolphin, similar to VW’s ID.3, has a 60 kWh battery with a 427 km WLTP range. In Germany, it starts at €32,900. A cheaper 45 kWh version (€30,990) isn’t available yet. The Atto 3 SUV, with a 60 kWh LFP battery, starts at €37,990 and has a 420 km WLTP range.

BYD’s Hungary factory should start within three years, now aiming for late 2025. This is faster than planned, as they’re making known models first. Their small electric car will come later.

The company plans to make up to twelve models at the Hungary plant. BYD wants to only sell Europe-made cars there, stopping imports from China. Other Asian brands like Hyundai and Toyota mix local and imported models.

After a slow European start, BYD cut ties with Hedin in Germany. They’re now selling directly, aiming for 120 German locations by next year. They’ve also launched the Sealion 7, a fast-charging electric SUV.

BYD will focus more on plug-in hybrids in Europe. Li said, “Once they get used to charging and the advantages of electric driving, we can win them over more easily.” So far, only the Seal U DM-i plug-in hybrid is confirmed for Europe.

The €25,000 EV market is growing, with new models like the Fiat Grande Panda and Hyundai Inster. VW plans to launch the ID.2 in 2026.

Source: via electrive.com

https://evne.ws/3VCENPj

CES HIGHLIGHTS SOFTWARE-DEFINED VEHICLES AMID CONCERNS

CES 2024 is set to showcase advancements in automotive software, but industry experts warn that many innovations may be superficial[1]. The event will feature in-car chatbots and improved infotainment systems, yet these flashy digital features often overshadow critical industry issues[2].

Moritz Neukirchner from Elektrobit emphasizes the need for a change in software development practices rather than just new technologies[3]. Software-defined vehicles, which can receive over-the-air updates, are crucial for automakers aiming to boost post-sale revenue[4]. However, organizational habits, not technical challenges, are the main hurdle in achieving true software-defined vehicles[5].

Paul Thomas of Bosch North America points out integration issues with various hardware and software platforms from diverse suppliers[6]. The CES platform, rooted in consumer electronics, tends to prioritize viral marketing over genuine innovation[7].

Some insiders worry about companies focusing on superficial AI applications instead of practical solutions[8]. Mike Quinn from Boston Consulting Group stresses the need for specific AI use cases that improve collaboration and integration among suppliers[9].

A software-defined vehicle is characterized by flexible, updatable software enabling immediate feature activation[10]. While Tesla leads in this technology, managing different software versions across various models is challenging. Successful implementation requires fundamental changes in software development methods and vehicle lifecycle management.

Automakers are recognizing the need for a development strategy using fewer, more adaptable hardware components for greater software flexibility. Rivian’s second-generation R1 vehicle demonstrates this approach, with reduced wiring, weight, and material costs.

Despite understanding the necessary steps, traditional automakers struggle due to established legacy systems. While CES will feature some genuine problem-solving innovations from companies like Nvidia and Qualcomm, much of the focus may remain on spectacle rather than substantial advancements.

Quinn suggests that significant solutions are often developed away from the public eye, implying that real industry progress may not be prominently displayed at CES.

Source: via Automotive News

https://evne.ws/4fkF3cB

GEELY FARIZON SV ELECTRIC VAN LAUNCH IN UK

Geely’s Farizon is set to launch its SV (Supervan) in the UK, aiming to rival the Ford E-Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro Electric. The SV is built on a platform with batteries under the cargo area.

The Farizon SV comes in three sizes:

– Small: 4.99m long, 1.98m high

– Medium: 5.49m long, 2.18m high

– Large: 5.95m long, 2.5m high

The SV can carry 1,100 to 1,300 kg and has 6.9 to 13 cubic meters of cargo space. At launch, buyers can pick from two batteries, either 67 kWh or 83 kWh (225 miles range).

A bigger 106 kWh battery is planned for later.

Inside, the SV seats three and has two screens – a small one for key info and a larger touchscreen for entertainment.

While UK models aren’t confirmed yet, China gets more options like seven- and nine-seat minibuses and a camper van. We don’t know the price, but it should cost less than the E-Transit Custom (£44,899) and Vivaro Electric (£51,715).

Farizon is part of the Geely Group, which also owns Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. This is Geely’s first step into UK work vans.

The timing is good as more UK firms want electric vans. But lately, fewer electric work vans have been sold. The Farizon SV might help boost electric van sales in the UK.

Source: via Autocar RSS Feed

https://evne.ws/4gv3AwS

GENESIS GV60 MAGMA EV SET FOR 2025 LAUNCH

Genesis will launch the GV60 Magma, its first high-performance electric car, in 2025. This follows the announcement of its new performance-focused subbrand in March.

The GV60 Magma is based on Genesis’s original luxury EV, the GV60, which debuted in 2021. While the GV60 has had small updates over the years, the Magma will bring major upgrades. It will have a better battery and motor, improved design, and sharper handling.

The car has a lower stance for better stability, a wider front, more air intakes, and updated tires. Inside, it features Magma branding, orange bucket seats, and materials like Nappa and suede leather.

Recently spotted in public, the GV60 Magma showed off a new look. It has two-line headlights, a front bumper similar to the concept version, black wheels, orange brake calipers, and likely a rear spoiler (though it was hidden by camouflage).

The GV60 Magma will launch first in South Korea next year before coming to Europe and other markets. Production is set to start in late 2025. Genesis says the production model will look much like the concept version. After the GV60 Magma, Genesis plans more high-performance models like the G80 EV Magma to compete with cars such as the Tesla Model S Plaid.

For U.S. consumers, the 2025 Genesis GV60 now offers a new all-wheel-drive variant priced $5,000 lower than the previous model.

Source: via Electrek

https://evne.ws/3ZEOjTs

HYUNDAI LAUNCHES INSTER ELECTRIC CAR ORDERS IN GERMANY

Hyundai Germany has begun accepting orders for the Inster, a compact electric vehicle. The starting price for the base model is 23,900 euros, while the version with a larger battery starts at 25,400 euros.

The Inster will be available in four trims: Select, Trend, Cross, and Prime. The Select and Trend trims come with a 42 kWh battery and a 71 kW electric motor. All trims can also be equipped with a 49 kWh battery, offering a range of up to 370 kilometers based on WLTP standards. Deliveries for the Select, Trend, and Prime trims are anticipated to start in early 2025, with the Cross model following later due to production starting at year-end.

With a length of 3.83 meters and a width of 1.61 meters, the Inster’s cargo space ranges from 280 to 351 liters. The WLTP range for the larger battery is up to 370 kilometers, while the 42 kWh version achieves up to 327 kilometers. Fast-charging stations that provide up to 85 kW can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, which Hyundai claims is better than many competitors. All models come with an 11 kW three-phase charger for AC charging.

However, the Inster does not come with a factory-installed battery heater, which may impact performance and range in cold conditions. An optional battery heating system and heat pump are available for lower trims, while the Prime model includes both features as standard. This helps keep the vehicle’s price competitive.

Hyundai states that the Inster includes various safety features such as Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Alert, and a rearview camera. It also has a traffic sign recognition system that complies with EU regulations, which can be manually disabled using the mute button on the steering wheel.

Pricing for the different battery options is as follows:

– Select: 42 kWh for 23,900 euros, 49 kWh for 25,400 euros

– Trend: 42 kWh for 25,900 euros, 49 kWh for 27,400 euros

– Cross: 49 kWh only for 29,100 euros

– Prime: 49 kWh only for 30,100 euros

In Norway, the Inster starts at around 21,100 euros, benefiting from the VAT exemptions for electric vehicles. The Norwegian market offers five trim levels, four of which feature the larger battery.

In Germany, the base Select trim includes a digital cockpit with a 10.3-inch display, a touchscreen navigation system, heated and folding side mirrors, automatic air conditioning, and more. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Trend trim adds heated front seats, parking assistance, and vehicle-to-load capability.

The Cross trim, which comes exclusively with the 49 kWh battery, features an off-road design with upgraded bumpers and larger wheels, plus unique paint choices. The top-tier Prime model includes advanced safety features, a complete assistance package, and the efficiency package with battery heating and heat pump.

Source: via electrive.com

https://evne.ws/3ZQWHQI

LOTUS EVIJA DELIVERIES START AFTER LONG DELAY

Lotus has started delivering its Evija electric hypercar. The car packs a punch with 2,011 hp, but it’s about four years late. Lotus showed the Evija in mid-2019 and planned to deliver it by late 2020. They pushed this to mid-2021 due to COVID-19 delays.

The first Evija went to its owner in January 2023. We don’t know how many they’ve made so far. Lotus builds the Evija at their Hethel plant, where they also make the Emira. The Evija is so fast they don’t even focus on 0-62mph times.  It can go from 0 to 190 mph in just 9.1 seconds. Its top speed is 218 mph.

At first, Lotus said the Evija would be the “most powerful production car in the world” with 1,973 hp. They’ve now upped this to 2,011 hp. This beats rivals like the Rimac Nevera and Pininfarina Battista, which has 1,877 hp.

Dan Balmer, Lotus’s new European CEO, said COVID-19 caused the delays. It stopped global testing and affected their suppliers and tech partners. Lotus will keep making the Evija for the next two years to meet customer demand. Balmer didn’t say if they’ll still cap production at 130 cars.

Autocar, which first evaluated an Evija prototype in April 2021, expects to drive a production version in spring 2025.

Source: via Autocar

https://evne.ws/3BmgApF

AUSTRALIAN TAX BREAK FOR PHEV UTES ENDING SOON

The fringe benefits tax (FBT) exemption for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in Australia is set to end on April 1, 202. This exemption, which applies to vehicles priced under the luxury car tax threshold purchased through a novated lease, has boosted PHEV sales significantly.

With more PHEVs entering the Australian market, buyers should act quickly to take advantage of the tax break. Several new models are driving interest, including:

– BYD Shark 6

– GWM Cannon Alpha Hi4T

– Ford Ranger PHEV

– BYD Sealion 6 (sold over 5,000 units since June, accounting for 25% of all PHEVs sold in Australia this year)

Industry groups and manufacturers like BYD, Ford, and Mitsubishi have lobbied to extend the exemption. However, it’s unlikely to continue past the April 2025 deadline, while fully electric vehicles will retain the benefit indefinitely.

Matthew Hobbs, CEO of the Motor Trades Association of Australia, criticized the timing of the exemption’s end, stating it could slow progress in adopting low-emission vehicles, especially in rural and trade-heavy industries.

The sunset clause for PHEVs was a condition for passing the Electric Car Discount Bill in 2022. Despite the exemption’s removal, PHEVs are expected to continue entering the Australian market to help manufacturers meet the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, effective January 1.

For those considering a PHEV, it’s crucial to act before April 1, 2025, to benefit from the FBT exemption. After this date, only fully electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will qualify for the tax break.

Source: via evcentral.com.au

https://evne.ws/49xADhu

TESLA’S AFFORDABLE MODEL PLANS UNDER SCRUTINY

Tesla’s “We, Robot” event on October 10, 2024, showcased the Robotaxi, a fully autonomous vehicle without pedals or a steering wheel. This reveal sparked discussions about Tesla’s long-promised affordable model.

Before Tesla’s Q3 earnings report, investors asked about a budget-friendly vehicle priced around $25,000. On December 9, Deutsche Bank analysts reported that Tesla’s Head of Investor Relations, Travis Axelrod, revealed plans for a “Model Q”. This affordable car is set to launch in the first half of 2025, priced under $30,000 with subsidies. A long-wheelbase, three-row Model Y for China was also mentioned, potentially boosting production by 20-30% in 2025.

During the earnings call, Elon Musk confirmed plans for more affordable models but dismissed the idea of a conventional $25,000 car, calling it “pointless” and “silly”. This statement has led to skepticism among some investors and critics.

Tesla faces growing competition in the electric vehicle market. Its U.S. market share has dropped to 48.2% in Q3 2024. Competitors like General Motors and Honda are gaining ground with competitively priced models. The Chevrolet Equinox EV starts at $33,600, while the Honda Prologue has received positive reviews for its pricing and incentives.

The rumored Model Q is expected to be:

– 15% smaller and 30% lighter than the Model 3

– Approximately 157 inches long (similar to the electric Mini)

– Available in two variants:

  1. Single-motor RWD with a 53 kWh battery and 230-mile range
  2. Dual-motor AWD with a 75 kWh battery and 310-mile range

Source: via thestreet.com

https://evne.ws/4gazpv4

UK ELECTRIC CAR INCENTIVES SUGGESTED FUNDED BY FUEL TAXES

William Brown, who runs International Motors, wants the UK government to bring back rewards for people buying electric cars. He thinks the money should come from taxes on petrol and diesel cars. The old reward system, which gave up to £1,500 for electric or plug-in hybrid cars, ended in 2022.

The government wants 28% of new cars sold to be zero-emission by 2025. But only 18.7% of new cars sold so far in 2024 are fully electric. Most of these go to companies, not regular buyers.

Brown said, “What I’d like them to do is incentivise consumers to buy electric vehicles.” He thinks simple grants can help sell more cars, like in Norway.

The car industry group SMMT wants to cut VAT on new electric cars and public charging. But Brown thinks grants would work better.

He also wants the government to look at the zero-emission vehicle targets again. He says they’re too hard for car makers and could lead to job losses. “The targets and the fines are very heavy for the industry to take on,” he said.

To pay for these rewards, Brown suggests adding an extra tax on petrol and diesel cars. This would make people less likely to buy them and fund electric car rewards.

Brown is worried about how foreign car makers see the UK market under these rules. This is true for smaller companies like Subaru and Isuzu. He warns against putting taxes on imports from new Chinese brands. This could make it harder to offer more electric cars to buyers. He notes the government seems unwilling to add these taxes, as they might clash with the zero-emission vehicle goals.

Source: via independent.co.uk

https://evne.ws/4gv3zcd

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