|
Both the R1T and R1S already have the hardware needed for bi-directional charging, now they company has confirmed the capability should be unlocked in a future software update.   Modern vehicles, especially EVs, come equipped with more and more features that make them seem like rolling computers more than vehicles. Automakers are seemingly at war over who can deliver the most quirky features or computer games (I'm looking at you Tesla...). These features are entertaining for sure, but usually don't serve any practical purpose. However, some EVs have one very significant capability that is often overlooked by your "average Joe", and that's the ability for bi-directional charging, or Vehicle-To-Load capability. This feature allows your electric car to not only charge itself like you would usually, but also supply power to another vehicle or even your home... especially your home. This is something that seems to be somewhat of a standard requirement for any EV trucks, and now Rivian has confirmed that they will unlock this useful function in all of its electric vehicles. In a weekly "Rivian Responds" Reddit post, Rivian officials claimed: "Yes, we can confirm that all R1T and R1S (including vehicles in customer possession today) will be capable of Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) charging. We’ll share more details on this bidirectional charging capability in the future but, for now, can confirm it relies on the CCS standard."  Rivian vehicles come equipped with 110V AC outlets... but they can only handle so much power. The R1T and R1S already come equipped with standard 110 volt electrical outlets, however these outlets are limited by the amount of power they can deliver. Sure, they can power a wide range of household appliances and devices, from power tools to lighting fixtures, but don't bother trying to power anything significant in your house. For that, you need to use the CCS charging port. While normally used to input significant amounts of power into the large battery, the CCS port can also handle output of power. We see this already in use in a number of electric vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford F-150 Lightning.
While there isn't any timeline mentioned, it is a realistic expectation that this will be available... eventually, and when they do I'm sure Rivian owners will rejoice.   New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Thursday that Uber and Lyft will need to transition their fleets to zero emission vehicles by the year 2030. This decision, which affects roughly 100,000 for-hire cars in one of the world's major ride hailing markets, will set a precedent for other cities around the US to follow. The move, which builds on ongoing efforts to electrify the thousands of city fleet vehicles, also includes plans to increase EV charging points across all five boroughs. Adams is expected to task the city’s Taxi and Limousine Commission to implement the plan, as that department already regulates the for-hire vehicle industry for the city. While usually resistant to any outside mandates, Uber and Lyft previously made their own announcements to have fully electric fleets and have responded positively to the Mayor's announcement. Paul Augustine, Lyft’s director of sustainability, said in a statement: “We are excited to partner with New York City on our journey. New York’s commitment will accelerate an equitable city-wide transition to electric, and we’re eager to collaborate with the TLC on an ambitious plan for a ride share clean mile standard.” Josh Gold, senior director of policy at Uber, also added: “We applaud the Mayor’s ambition for reducing emissions, an important goal we share. Uber has been making real progress to become the first zero-emissions mobility platform in North America, and there’s much more to do.” The transition to electric vehicles for ride hail drivers won't happen overnight - it poses a unique challenge, given that many of them are independent contractors who use their own cars and have limited financial resources. Despite the promising potential savings in fuel costs and maintenance over time, EVs often come with a steep initial investment; something cash-strapped gig economy operators may not be able to afford. The City of New York isn't the first major market to make such an announcement. In 2021 California adopted new rules requiring ride-sharing companies to electrify their fleets by 2030 as well. While some people are lauding the move as ambitious and much needed in order to combat climate change, others are skeptical of how such a large-scale transition will take place.
What do you think about this? Is this plan feasible? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts.   This week, a revised definition of vehicle classification from the U.S. Treasury Department means that consumers now have even more electric vehicle options to choose from when taking advantage of federal tax credits available under The Inflation Reduction Act. Exciting additions include: GM's Cadillac Lyric, Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y – giving drivers increased access to these vehicles provided they stay below the price cap up to $80K for SUV models (with car/sedan/wagon price cap at $55K). In August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was signed into law and ushered in a new era for electric vehicles - The Clean Vehicle Credit. This credit replaces IRC 30D to offer up to $4,000 in tax credits on used EVs as well as introducing other clean vehicle options such as fuel cell vehicles onto the market with a maximum rebate of $7,500. The EV tax credit can provide a great opportunity for certain buyers to save money - but there's more to the equation than just that. Income, price and production origin all play into eligibility for this incentive - with electric SUVs falling under the $80K cap. With consumers in mind, the U.S. Treasury recently upgraded standards for determining eligibility of vehicles under price caps. By leveraging EPA Fuel Economy Labeling rather than CAFE standard, crossover models with similar features will now be treated consistently and align classifications on vehicle labels with those seen at consumer-facing sites like FuelEconomy.gov Drivers now have the opportunity to reduce their cost of entry on several well-known and highly sought after electric vehicle models. The Cadillac Lyric starts at $62,990 while Ford Mustang Mach-E trims range from $45,995 up to $63k. Tesla's five seater Model Y will also now be eligible to take advantage of the Federal Tax Credit. Previously it was classified as a car and was not eligible. With these new definitions in place, an even wider range of people will now be able to reap the benefits of federal tax credits when choosing to purchase an electric vehicle. The options have increased for consumers, giving them more leeway when it comes to finding a car that meets their needs. What do you think? Leave a comment below! Source: US Department of the Treasury
 Artificial Intelligence is expanding from logic and analysis to the realm of the creative mind. Naturally, we couldn't let the opportunity go to waste. We present you with a work of poetry created by Artificial Intelligence: A Machine DreamElectric vehicles, modern machines The future is here, or so it seems. Driving along silently, with no sound Electricity is what powers the wheels around. The road is a blur as they speed through the night Powering through our dreams with their silent might. Futuristic machines that feel like a dream come true Are the perfect way to travel for me and you. What do you think? We're a little biased, but we think it's pretty good! Want more? Let us know!
2/4/2023 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6 Showcases Brand Leading Aerodynamic Efficiency, Up To 361 Miles of RangeRead Now 
 The exterior of the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6 has brought mixed reactions from potential buyers. Some think it's rather good looking, while others have strong feelings against. Hyundai likely knew this during the design phases of development, but chose to move ahead with the car as you see it for one very good reason: aerodynamic efficiency. Hyundai's focus on efficiency and range has resulted in the "single-curved aerodynamic profile" and makes the IONIQ 6 the slipperiest vehicle from the brand ever. “Continually improving the efficiency of our vehicles is always a top priority for our development teams,” said Olabisi Boyle, vice president, product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America. “Instead of just adding a larger battery to increase the range, we chose to optimize IONIQ 6’s aerodynamic performance and its Electric-Global Modular Platform for efficiency to produce these long driving ranges.” The IONIQ 6’s ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.22 is achieved through a number of factors including a low nose, active air flaps, wheel gap reducers, elliptical wing-inspired spoiler with winglet, slight boattail structure, separation traps on both sides of the rear bumper, full underbody cover, and deflectors and reduced wheel-arch gaps. In their home market of Korea where cameras are allowed instead of side mirrors, Hyundai says they are able to achieve a CoD .21 however, here in the US side view mirrors are required.  Image Credit: Hyundai USA You may ask, "why make a car that is so focused on aerodynamic efficiency? What difference does it make?" The big reason: range. As a result of being so aerodynamically efficient, the IONIQ 6 maximizes the use of the 77.4-kWh battery pack to achieve a range of up to 361 miles (EPA-estimated). That's enough for the sedan to just beat the Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD, which has a 358 mile EPA-estimated range, and much more than it's sibling the IONIQ 5 SUV which tops out at 303 miles. It is worth pointing out how much of a difference wheel choice makes in the official range and efficiency ratings. While the 361 miles is achieved with the 18-inch wheels, choosing the larger 20-inch wheels drops the rated range by 56 to 305 miles. That's still pretty good, but 56 miles lost isn't insignificant. It's also worth noting that the IONIQ 6’s 140 combined MPGe rating matches two Lucid Air models that are at the top of Fueleconomy.gov’s 2023 Top Ten Vehicles list. That's quite an accomplishment. Hyundai IONIQ 6 EPA-estimated Range Figures
It would seem that regardless of which trim level is chosen, the IONIQ 6 is going to drive quite a long way before needing to be plugged in, something that non-EV owners have claimed has been a roadblock in their decision-making process. Perhaps these range figures will have more people considering an EV for their next vehicle. Source: Hyundai USA
 Image Credit: Ford Motor Co.  On the heels of massive price cuts across the board by Tesla, Ford today cut prices of its Mustang Mach-E by as much as $5,900 in some cases. In a tweet this morning, Ford's CEO Jim Farley mentioned the price cuts along with an increase in production for the brand's best selling electric vehicle. "At Ford, we want to make EVs more accessible, so we’re increasing Mustang Mach-E production & reducing prices across the Mach-E lineup," Farley said, "Scaling will shorten customer wait times. And with higher production, we’re reducing costs, which allows us share these savings with customers." Ford ended 2022 with a production rate of roughly 78,000 Mach-E vehicles and plans to ramp production up to a rate of more than 130,000 units annually by the end of 2023. However, not every Mach-E model will bring profits for the company. During a media briefing, Ford's Chief Customer Officer for electric vehicle business, Marin Gjaja, explained that the price cuts will mean that some Mach-E trim levels will fall below a profitable point on a per-unit basis. However, cutting prices was a move that Ford needed to take if they want the Mustang Mach-E to stay competitive. "We are responding to changes in the marketplace,” Gjaja said during a media briefing, “As we look and want to stay competitive in the marketplace, we’re having to respond.”  Ford's CEO Jim Farley took to twitter to talk about the changes to the Mustang Mach-E pricing. The company expects to make up for the loss of profits through the scaling of production and reduction of supply costs for materials. As production increases, the cost per-unit should drop. The 2023 Mach-E prices now start at roughly $46,000 to $64,000, placing it firmly in the midst of the competition from Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, and others. 2023 Mustang Mach-E Updated Pricing
Source: Ford Motor Co., *MSRP: Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price While these price changes affect future customers, existing customers who recently purchased (after Jan. 1, 2023) a Mach-E won't be left out to dry. According to the company, representatives will reach out to these customers with a "private offer" to quell any ill will. Customers currently awaiting delivery will automatically receive the adjusted prices.
There was no indication from Ford about which specific trim levels would or would not be profitable after these price cuts. The company had previously reported last year that they were struggling to produce the Mach-E profitably. “We actually had a positive bottom line profit when we launched the Mach-E, commodity costs have wiped that out,” Chief Financial Officer John Lawler said in June 2022. Before the end of last year, Ford even raised prices for the Mach-E to offset the rising cost of materials. “We want to make money. Don’t get me wrong, we absolutely want to make money,” Gjaja said. “Believe you me, I know that we need to be trying to get more profitable because we will be publicly accountable for that number.”  Image Credit: Volvo Cars  More range, faster charging, and rear-wheel drive for fully electric Volvo C40 and XC40 models. As a part of their new package of product updates, they have now improved the range and charging speeds for the XC40 and C40 vehicles compared to the outgoing model year, increasing range by as much as 37 miles (60 km) on some variants. Furthermore, three new powertrain options are going to be offered on both vehicles including two RWD options, the first time that Volvo has gone RWD in 25 years, and a revised AWD performance model. Another first for the brand is the electric motors used for the C40 and XC40 models have now been developed in-house. In a press release from the company, COO and deputy chief executive Javier Varela said, "These updates are another big step in our work towards becoming a fully electric car maker by 2030. Range and charging times are new key factors for more and more of our customers, and these improvements make our fully electric models even more attractive than they already were.” The return of rear-wheel power The single motor with standard range is driven by a 175 kW permanent magnet electric motor, which provides a 3% increase in power output over the outgoing 170 kW single-motor front-wheel drive variant. In the XC40 Recharge single motor, the same 69 kWh battery capacity is carried over, but enhancements in cooling efficiency mean it can now deliver increased range and driving up to 240 miles according to the EPA test cycle. The range of the C40 Recharge single motor meanwhile improves up to 245 miles (EPA). A 10-80 per cent charge takes approximately 34 minutes using a 130 kW DC public charger. If you feel the need for more power and range, you can also opt for a larger battery coupled with a more powerful, 185 kW permanent magnet motor on the rear axle. This second new variant comes with an 82 kWh battery pack which boosts range up to 270 miles (EPA) for the XC40 Recharge single motor extended range and up to 275 miles (EPA) for the C40 Recharge single motor extended range. Here too, charging power has improved as the larger battery pack allows for charging at an updated top rate of 200 kW DC (previously 150 kW DC maximum), while a 10-80 per cent charge takes approximately 28 minutes. An updated all-wheel drive variant The all-wheel drive variants also benefit from these updates, realising even more impressive range improvements. The previous set-up of two 150 kW motors on the front and rear axles has been replaced by our in-house developed 183 kW permanent magnet motor on the rear axle and a new 117 kW asynchronous electric motor on the front axle. This new configuration, paired with an 82 kWh battery pack and overall efficiency improvements in battery cooling, means the XC40 Recharge Twin Motor AWD can now drive up to 310 miles (WLTP) on a single charge, a 38 mile boost over the previous iteration. The range of the C40 Recharge Twin Motor AWD has improved up to 315 miles (WLTP) from 280 miles (WLTP). No EPA estimates were released for this configuration. Exterior updates also help to improve efficiency where possible. For example, a new 19-inch alloy wheel for both XC40 and C40 Recharge not only boosts the overall look of the models, but it also helps to reduce drag through its aerodynamic design. Source: Volvo Cars
 Image Credit: Statista  Tesla published their 2022 results showing record production and deliveries... sales growth that any other automaker would dream of having. In 2022, vehicle deliveries grew 40% YoY to 1.31 million while production grew 47% YoY to 1.37 million. Here's how it was broken down:
These results should come as no surprise to anyone who has been following the activities of the company. In 2022, Tesla opened two new factories, one in Berlin and the other in Texas, and has started to show significant production numbers from both locations.
The growth was so strong last year that the number of deliveries nearly surpassed the total number of deliveries the company had from 2012-2020. And, we can expect to see further growth from the company this year as well. During the recent Q4 earnings call Tesla CEO Elon Musk shared that he expects Tesla to be able to produce 1.8 million vehicles or more. “We’re saying 1.8 because there always seems to be some friggin’ force majeure thing that happens somewhere on Earth." Musk said, "We don’t control if there’s earthquakes, tsunamis, wars, pandemics, etc. If it’s a smooth year, without some big supply chain interruption or massive problem we have the potential to do 2 million cars this year. I think there would be demand for that, too.” While Cybertruck production won't likely contribute significantly to the overall number, it is expected that production will start this year at the factory in Austin, Texas. The larger expectation will be that Tesla continues to ramp production of the Model Y, already selling so many that it has become the 4th best selling vehicle in 2022, trailing only behind the Toyota Corolla, Toyota RAV4, and the Ford F-Series.  Photo Credit: Steve Jurvetson  During their fourth quarter earnings call this past Wednesday, Tesla had a number of good things to celebrate: Record production and deliveries, an increase in profits, and a significant increase in revenue. However, if you are a Cybertruck reservation holder, not everything was sunshine and rainbows. Since the unveiling of the Cybertruck in 2019, Tesla has given a significant number of updates to the expected start of production, delaying the original expectation by years. More recently, the company has guided that production will start this year, likely in the summer or early fall. During the earnings call, when asked directly about the Cybertruck’s expected start of production, Tesla CEO Elon Musk responded: “We do expect production to start, I don't know, maybe sometime this summer. But I always like to try to downplay the start of production because the start of production is always very slow. It increases exponentially, but it's always very slow at first. So I wouldn't put too much thought in start of production. It’s kind of when does volume production actually happen, and that’s next year.” So the name of the game for those in line for their cybertruck is waiting… but that isn’t something new. While we expect to see record overall production numbers in 2023 (like we saw in 2022), there likely won’t be more than a few thousand Cybertrucks produced. On to 2024 it would seem…
1/29/2023 Tesla's 'Magic Dock' Leaked In Advance of Supercharger Network Adding CCS CompatibilityRead Now  Tesla might be close to opening up access of the North American Supercharger Network to non-Tesla vehicles. With the launch of their non-Tesla Supercharger Pilot program in Europe, Tesla also added a filter to it’s ‘Find Us’ webpage map to display superchargers that were open to non-Tesla Vehicles. Earlier this month, Tesla also added the same filter to the US map… however only one supercharger was displayed, the one in Hawthorne, CA, which is conveniently located close to their design studio. In addition to adding the filter to the map on the website, Tesla also added the Hawthorne location as an option under the ‘charge your non-tesla’ menu in the mobile app. Selecting the stall revealed a rendering of a supercharger with Tesla’s Magic Dock. The ‘Magic Dock’ is a special CCS adapter that will be built into the existing Supercharger equipment and will unlock (but lock to the charging cable) for use with non-Tesla vehicles. At this time, both the filter and the image have been removed from the website and the mobile app, but thanks to twitter users Hayden Sawyer (@haydensawyer14) and Branden Flasch (@brandenflash) we have the images saved.  Screenshot of 'CCS Compatibility' posted to Twitter by @haydensawyer14  Screenshot posted to Twitter by @brandenflasch. Edited by EV Resource to emphasize 'Magic Dock' feature. So while we can’t see them now, it does appear that these accidental reveals indicated that Tesla is getting closer to opening up the Supercharger network here in North America and it’s likely that they first location will be the Hawthorne, CA site.
Unfortunately, like many things regarding Tesla’s future plans, we don’t have further details. However, the change to allow non-Tesla vehicles to use the Supercharger Network is likely to start this year and it will shake up the EV charging experience for owners of CCS equipped vehicles. With only one manufacturer (Aptera) currently planning to adopt Tesla’s NACS plug, it will be important for CCS equipped vehicles to be able to use the Supercharger units even if they haven’t invested in an adapter themselves… and it looks like the ‘Magic Dock’ might just be the answer to that problem. In order to roll out this change, Tesla will need to retrofit the ‘Magic Dock’ to the existing Supercharger equipment, so it should be fairly easy to recognize when access to the network is imminent. I, for one, am super excited about this. I look forward to seeing the charging experience for CCS equipped vehicles improve. And, one of the best ways to do that is giving them access to Tesla’s network because it is one of the most reliable charging networks here in North America.   In a video update today, Co-Founders and Co-CEOs Steve Fambro and Chris Anthony shared the news that many Aptera reservation holders were waiting for: DC Fast Charging WILL be standard on Aptera vehicles. In the video, the pair explains the process of designing and choosing the hardware on which they will eventually settle for the final production vehicle design. The current intention for fast charging capability is the 40 kW - 60 kW range. "At a minimum, the heating from all of the busbars we have, 40kW is below the limit" Fambro explained, but as current goes up, the sizes of the busbars and cables need to be increased, but that "through validation we'll see how higher we can get above 40 kW. But I believe it's a 40 kW minimum up to 60 kW after validation." "It's really exciting that every Launch Edition Aptera will already have the technologies incorporated in them to be compatible with the supercharger network," Anthony added, hinting at the possibility of using the Tesla's network of high-powered charging stations. There is no news yet on if Tesla will open up their Supercharger network to non-Tesla vehicles, although that wouldn't be a surprise considering that they have already started doing so in Europe. This exciting news comes on the heels of a major backlash from the Aptera community following the recent presentation of the Launch Edition vehicle. While development of the DCFC capability for the Aptera vehicles had previously been paused, it seems now that the company will focus on it's final development. When the people ask... they shall receive. See the full video here:   During the Launch Edition online presentation, Aptera Co-Founders and Co-CEOs Chris Anthony and Steve Fambro shared that the initial production of Aptera vehicles will not have DC fast charging capability. As you might imagine, this caused a lot of reservation holders to speak up about their displeasure with that decision. Many taking to Aptera's community forum to share their thoughts and feelings on the matter... some even threatening to cancel their reservation.  Reservation holders express their disappointment However, there is good news on the horizon for those, like myself, wanting to have the ability to recharge quickly while on the road. Chris McCammon, Content Specialist for Aptera, responded to the forum post saying, "Even though we will not have DC fast charging to start in the Launch Edition vehicles, we plan to offer a DC fast-charge capability at a rate of 100 miles in 10 minutes – eventually and as an upgrade to the Launch vehicles at a later date." During the Launch Edition presentation, this was not clear. However, his comment may come be reassuring to many who were looking forward to having their Aptera vehicle capable of fast charging. Previously the company discussed having charging speeds up to 60 kW (100 miles of range in 10 min.)  Chris McCammon, Content Specialist with Aptera, clarifies the situation with DCFC Want to order your own Aptera? Consider using my referral link for 30% off your deposit ($30).
 Yesterday, Jan. 20th, Aptera showed their Launch Edition vehicle to the world in an online presentation. Steve Fambro, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, explained: “We’ve solved the equation for a more efficient way to travel by harnessing the power of the sun, and we’re excited to introduce our Launch Edition vehicle to the world. Our tireless efforts have resulted in the Aptera vehicle, that can take you where you want to go using the creative energy directly from our sun and efficiently converted into free movement.” Aptera’s Launch Edition was created with one purpose in mind — energy efficiency. Its unique shape, ultra-lightweight, and ultra-strong materials allow Aptera to slip through the air using a quarter of the energy compared to other electric and hybrid vehicles on the road today. Equipped with roughly 700 watts of proprietary solar technology, Aptera drives up to 40 miles per day directly from the sun’s rays, making it possible to never plug in to charge again. Stellar Charging InfrastructureWith Aptera’s solar technology, consistent access to a charging station or even a plug and socket isn’t necessary. Aptera’s Launch Edition comes integrated with a solar charging package allowing most people to drive for weeks, even months, without ever having to plug in to charge. In a location with very high sun exposure like Southern California, the average American driver would never have to plug in, based on the daily average of 29 miles. In a location with medium sun exposure such as New York or Chicago, you will only need to plug in roughly three times per year. Plus, with Aptera’s efficient vehicle platform, any standard power outlet in the world becomes a place to charge your vehicle. When plugged into a 120V outlet, Aptera’s Launch Edition can still charge over 13 miles per hour or roughly 150 miles overnight. Revolutionary AssemblyIn partnership with CPC Group, Aptera has developed an efficient and streamlined process for manufacturing their Launch Edition vehicles. These methods allow for quicker vehicle deliveries and a better use of raw materials. One of the most important aspects of this process is Aptera’s specialized composite body, or Body in Carbon – BinC. The resulting BinC takes much less time to assemble and yields quality and repeatability that is truly a new paradigm for manufacturing composite vehicle bodies and closures, especially when compared to other steel or aluminum vehicles. This process is only just the beginning of Aptera’s plans to move solar mobility forward. After the company’s Launch Edition production line is up and running, Aptera expects eight different assembly plants to be in operation around the globe by 2028. Specifications:
Aptera is finalizing the fourth and final phase of its product development, Delta. As part of this phase, Aptera will complete crash testing and validation. Once completed, Aptera plans to scale quickly into full-scale single shift production of 10,000 vehicles per year. From there, Aptera will expand its output to dual shift 20,000 vehicles per year out of its Carlsbad, California facility.
“While our delivery timeline is funding dependent, our goal is to begin production by the end of 2023,” Chris Anthony, Co-Founder and Co-CEO said. “Once we meet our fundraising objectives, we will be able to provide a more accurate delivery timeline.” With over 40,000 reservations, the production of Aptera’s Launch Edition vehicle symbolizes the dawn of a new era for the company as it shifts toward manufacturing. For more information on Aptera’s Launch Edition, download the full spec sheet here. “Our Launch Edition is our chance to show the world something that’s never existed before,” says Anthony. “Our identity at Aptera is about transformation, reinvention, and surprises. The Launch Edition is our chance to lead a movement that’s for everyone. We are solar mobility, and we are the future.”   The future of Arcimoto, the Oregon-based maker of fun, three-wheeled electric vehicles, is unclear. Earlier this week in an SEC filing the company disclosed that they "have halted [their] production of vehicles and will require substantial additional funding to resume production, which may not be available to [them] on acceptable terms, or at all, and, if not so available, [they] will be required to cease [their] operations and/or seek bankruptcy protection." The company has faced many recent challenges that included supply chain issues, a change in leadership, and the hemorrhaging of cash reserves as they work to ramp up production of their FUV and other similar vehicles. On January 19th, the company successfully closed a $12 Million public stock offering which may help hold off bankruptcy in the short term, but if the balance sheet doesn't significantly improve, it may be an inevitability. In their Q3 Financial update, the company reported: Total revenues for the third quarter of 2022 increased 35% to $2 million as compared to $1.5 million in the third quarter of 2021. YTD September 30, 2022 revenue increased 16% to $4.2 million as compared to $3.6 million in 2021. The Company incurred a net loss of approximately $17 million or ($0.38) per share, in the third quarter of 2022 compared with a net loss of $11.5 million or ($0.31) per share, for the same prior-year period. The Company had $65.6 million in total assets, $4.2 million in cash and cash equivalents, and $27.6 million in total liabilities as of September 30, 2022. About Arcimoto, Inc.Arcimoto is a pioneer in the design and manufacture of rightsized, ultra-efficient, incredibly fun electric vehicles for everyday mobility. Built on the revolutionary three-wheel Arcimoto Platform, their vehicles are purpose-built for daily driving and local delivery, all at a fraction of the cost and environmental impact of traditional gas-powered vehicles. Based in Eugene, Oregon, the Arcimoto team is dedicated to creating world-class EVs that make the world a better place. For more information, please visit Arcimoto.com.
The E-Ray is the most powerful, best handling Corvette ever made...  This past Tuesday, Jan. 17th, Chevy celebrated the 70th birthday of the Corvette by giving it an electric motor. I’d say that’s a good way to celebrate, right? This revolutionary shift in propulsion design comes from the desire to make the Corvette better: faster, better handling, and in some cases almost silent. Because the rear of the car still has the 495hp 6.2L V8 taking up space, Chevy positioned the electric motor in the front of the car. The motor puts out 160 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a 1.9 kWh li-ion battery that is positioned down the center of the car between the driver and passenger. The addition of this electric powertrain means that the E-Ray is now the best performing Corvette from the company ever. 0-60 mph comes in only 2.5 seconds and it’ll run down the 1/4 mile in 10.5 seconds at 130mph. One new feature of the E-Ray that was never available on any other Corvette model is what the company is calling “stealth mode” that drives the car only with the electric motor on the front wheels… for about 3 miles or so. Remember, it’s still a very small battery. Pricing for the E-ray jumps considerably from the base model Corvette Stingray at $64,500 to $104,295. Given that the performance of the base model is still 2.9 seconds 0-60 with a 194 mph top speed, I’m really curious to see how many E-Ray models sell over the other configurations. It’ll also be interesting to see how traditional buyers of the Corvette respond to the electrification of the brand. Only time will tell, but I’m starting to get excited and can’t wait to see what Chevy does when the Corvette ditches the gas engine entirely.
Performance:
Electrification System:
Source: Chevrolet
 Pictured: 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro, Credit Ford Motor Co.  August 2022 saw a brief drop in demand for electric vehicles. Consumer desire may fluctuate from month to month, but the overall trend is clear: More people want EVs in 2023 than ever before. What caused the short decline in demand, and why do electric car commercials seem to be popping up constantly? The answer is multifaceted. What Caused The Dip? According to the car-buying trends website Edmunds, 34% of vehicle shoppers last year cited gas prices as a very important factor in their purchasing decisions. A full 12% said it was the most important. Consistent with this data, Edmunds reported that one-quarter of site visitors shopped for an EV in March 2022 while gas prices were high. As gas prices fell in August, however, only 17% of shoppers wanted an electric vehicle. Why Are EVs Taking Off Overall? Fuel prices will always fluctuate. Although there may be a slight dip in EV demand while gas prices are low, the larger trend is that electric vehicle sales are climbing. More people are buying EVs than ever due to tax incentives to go electric, increased public awareness of climate change and the desire to charge their cars from the comfort of their homes. Consumers got a preview of what life would be like without tailpipe emissions in March 2020. Air quality vastly improved in some areas as transportation ground to a halt, to the point that buildings previously shrouded in smog were unveiled to the public’s eye. This firsthand lesson in air pollution prompted people to rethink their vehicle choices. People already car shopping decided to cut ties with internal-combustion engines forever, vowing to reduce their ecological footprint and save money on gas in the process. The choice to go electric made a lot of sense, especially in cities, where charging stations are easier to come by. Simultaneously, improved battery technology and charging station infrastructure eased consumers’ range anxiety. Fewer people today are worried that they won’t make it to a charging station in time. Furthermore, electric vehicles are no longer synonymous with dinky little European cars, a hurdle manufacturers had to overcome to appeal to an American audience. There are electric SUVs and pickups as well. The trend of relegating electric batteries to clown cars seems to have lost momentum since larger families want room for their kids, ranchers need trucks that can haul hay and — let’s face it — most people want a normal-looking ride. As EVs expand to a broader audience, the market is no longer just edgy early adopters looking to make an environmental statement. Making EVs blend in with city traffic is an important step toward normalizing their use. Why Demand Outweighs Supply Many shoppers want to buy EVs in the U.S., but there aren’t enough electric cars for sale right now. In some cases, waiting lists stretch years into the future, and electric vehicle owners are selling their used cars for a premium — sometimes fetching a higher price than they paid at the dealership. Why? Soaring global lithium prices, a dearth of EV battery recycling technology, chip shortages and unevenly distributed subsidies all contribute to the problem. However, as kinks in the supply chain work themselves out, manufacturers will almost certainly be able to match the EV demand. It’s only a matter of time. Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act will start giving tax credits for certain EV models, bolstering the electric vehicle market. 2023 is set to be a fantastic year for EV sales. A Hopeful Sign The fact that so many people want to buy an EV is good news. Society can’t run on gas guzzlers forever, especially as the population grows and people are forced closer together. Electric vehicles emit no air pollution, reduce dependence on foreign oil and gas, allow people to charge their cars overnight, and make the roads quieter. If we’re lucky, they might even look good in the process. About the Author: Jane Marsh works as an environmental writer, covering topics such as sustainability and green living. She is also the founder of Environment.co. Jane Marsh is an opinion columnist for the CEOWORLD magazine. Connect with her through LinkedIn. 
One of the biggest benefits to electric vehicle ownership is having the ability to "refuel" at home. Waking up every morning with a full "tank" (battery) is one of the advantages EVs have over other vehicles, and charging at home is significantly less expensive than using public fast chargers. That being said, it's really important to make sure that you have the appropriate equipment that has been designed for your and your vehicle's needs.
Finding a charger that fits your budget but also gets the job done is one of the first steps to take before or just after bringing your EV home. Things To Consider Before Purchase...
While having the ability to fill up overnight while you're sleeping has its advantages, you want to consider a few things before choosing an EV charger.
For more EV Charging Tips we have provided a few EV 101 Articles:
Choosing the Best EV Charger for You
EV chargers come in many different varieties designed to work on 110v, 240v, or sometimes both. The higher the voltage, the higher the charge rate (generally). Most EV owners choose to go with 240v chargers, but if you have a vehicle that doesn't charge quickly -or- you don't need to recharge very much daily, choosing to use a charger only on 110v could save you money. Regardless of what you choose, it is our recommendation to contact a licensed electrician to make sure that your house wiring is capable of handling your needs. We also recommend that your EV charges on either a dedicated circuit or that you use a smart splitter to share the power with an existing appliance (usually the clothes dryer).
We've put together a list of six EV chargers that we believe are the best choices on the market for 2023, three wall-mounted choices and three portable choices as well:
ChargePoint Home Flex
Product Description:
Charge Point Home Flex is the newest, fastest and most advanced Level 2 home charger offered by Charge Point, charging up to 50 amps and adding up to 37 miles of driving range per hour of charging. Flex can be installed to charge upto 50 amps, allowing drivers to pick the speed that's right for them and their home’s electrical supply. Charge Point Home Flex is a Wi-Fi-enabled charging station and offers smart charging features using the Charge Point app, including the ability to set a charging schedule, get reminders to plug in, see all of your charging history in one place, connect with Alexa, and more. Flex is UL Listed for electrical safety, ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency and comes with a 3-year and 24/7 customer support. Charge Point Home Flex can be installed by any electrician, indoor or outdoor, to charge at 16A to 50A, and comes with a 23-foot charging cable and either a NEMA 14-50 or 6-50 plug. Plug-in installation with a NEMA 6-50 or 14-50 outlet requires circuits/breakers rated 40A or 50A. For other circuit ratings, the plug is easily removed for hardwired installation. Flex can be installed outdoors using either a hardwired installation or a weatherproof NEMA receptacle. JuiceBox 40
Product Description:
JuiceBox 40, the best-selling smart home electric vehicle charger, combines performance and value. Enjoyed by thousands of satisfied EV drivers, JuiceBox delivers all the safety and smart charging features you need to make home charging convenient, reliable, and cost-effective. Built on the universal J1772 charging standard, JuiceBox is a Level 2 charging station that can power all electric vehicles on the market today, including Teslas via a Tesla-provided adapter. The Juice Box comes with a built-in cable rack and security lock for versatile use, indoors and out. Grizzl-E Duo
Product Description:
Lectron Portable
Product Description:
Splitvolt Portable
Product Description:
Lectron Portable (110 volt)
Product Description:
 Hyundai put a lot of thought and attention to detail into the design of the 2023 IONIQ 6. While the exterior appearance seems to polarize opinions into either "Love It" or "Hate It" camps with little middle ground, what's underneath the skin of this streamliner sedan is inarguably brilliant. The all-new Hyundai 2023 IONIQ 6, inspired by Hyundai’s Prophecy EV concept, debuted at the AutoMobility Los Angeles show and is the next vehicle from Hyundai built on their E-GMP dedicated electric vehicle platform. It comes packed full of technology and best-in-class ultra-fast charging that can charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes. IONIQ 6 is part of Hyundai Motor Company’s plan to introduce 17 BEV models and sell more than 1.8 million BEV units worldwide by 2030. IONIQ 6 goes on sale spring 2023. IONIQ 6 Design Characteristics At Hyundai, each IONIQ vehicle has different design characteristics. This is based on Hyundai's belief that a vehicle should be an embodiment of lifestyle. “We want our cars to always connect with customers on an emotional level,” said SangYup Lee, executive vice president and head of Hyundai Design Center. “Depending on the owner's lifestyle, the way of using a vehicle will be different, resulting in a different look – much like chess pieces on a board, each one with a distinct look and functionality, but part of the same family. Hyundai designs with diverse lifestyles in mind rather than with a one-style-fits-all approach.” Using this approach is why IONIQ 6’s design is different from IONIQ 5’s, but there are still common threads connecting the models: Living Space, Parametric Pixels and Sustainability. The Living Space is built on E-GMP’s long wheelbase, not only providing unparalleled passenger and cargo room, but also optimizing driving dynamics. The Parametric Pixel is IONIQ’s key differentiator just like the radiator grille was for many brands in the internal combustion engine era. Sustainability is seen in the materials (interior and exterior), establishing a unique position as an unrivaled sustainable volume brand. Sleek-curved Streamliner Design with Perfect Harmony Between Functionality and Aesthetics IONIQ 6 is an electrified streamliner that realizes the idea of “Emotional Efficiency” by simultaneously satisfying the customer’s aesthetic and functional needs. The aerodynamically sculpted silhouette with simple yet sensuous curves offers a new typology for the EV mobility era:
 A Mindful Personal Space on Wheels IONIQ 6’s interior serves as both a comfortable hideaway and personal space, replete with practical features and sustainable materials to facilitate a mindful, eco-friendly mobility experience and lifestyle. Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP enabled the designers to stretch the interior, front and rear, to create optimized legroom and spaciousness that lets passengers stay comfortable. The platform also allows for a completely flat floor, giving an expansive feeling. The user-centric interior architecture is exemplified by an ergonomically designed control unit that is centrally located to reduce distraction and help spur safe, intuitive driving. The modular touchscreen dashboard integrates a 12.3-inch full-touch infotainment display and 12.3-inch digital cluster under one piece of glass. A bridge-type center console provides convenient and generous in-car storage. Dual-Color Ambient Lighting provides overall illumination for IONIQ 6’s interior. Users can choose from a spectrum of 64 colors and six-dual color themes developed by color experts to help drivers and passengers feel relaxed. The four-dot Interactive Pixel Lights on the steering wheel light up when the voice recognition is activated and indicate charging status. These lights also use different colors and motions for other vehicle functions like a smart speaker does. The removal of buttons from the front doors provides more storage. Translucent accents on the crash pad garnish, door map pocket and console lower cover further accentuate the sense of spaciousness. Setups to Suit Every Customer IONIQ 6 is available with a range of drive motors to fit the needs of every customer. Customers can mate the 77.4 kWh battery pack with two electric motor layouts, either with a rear motor only or with both front and rear motors. The top-of-the-line dual motor setup is an all-wheel drive (AWD) option producing a combined power output of 320 horsepower (74 kW front + 165 kW rear) and 446 ft.-lbs. of torque. An IONIQ 6 with this configuration can go from 0 to 60 MPH in less than 5 seconds. The single-rear-motor layout offers 225 horsepower (168 kW) and 258 ft.-lbs. of torque. When equipped with a single-rear-motor (RWD) and the 77.4 kWh battery, IONIQ 6’s maximum driving range on a single charge is an EPA-estimated 361 miles. Fast Charging IONIQ 6’s E-GMP can support both 400-V and 800-V charging infrastructures. The platform offers 800-V charging capability as standard, and it can accommodate 400-V charging without the need for additional components or adapters. The multi-charging system is a world’s first patented technology that operates the motor and inverter to boost 400-V to 800-V for stable charging compatibility. With a 350-kW charger, IONIQ 6’s charge can go from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 18 minutes. If the owner only has five minutes to spare, the IONIQ 6 can recoup approximately 65 miles of range using a 350-kW fast charger. The standard 10.9 kW on-board charger completes a full charge in 7 hours and 10 minutes using Level 2 charging. Battery Conditioning To reduce charging time even further, IONIQ 6 can use its battery heater to preheat the battery pack to the optimal temperature when it is cold outside. When the battery pack is at the optimal temperature, IONIQ 6 can be charged from 10 percent to 80 percent in 18 minutes. This function activates automatically when a charging point is entered into the IONIQ 6’s connected routing navigation system. The battery heater turns on at the ideal time when IONIQ 6 gets close to the charger. The battery pack also can be heated up before leaving a destination if the IONIQ 6 is plugged in using the MyHyundai app. Over-The-Air Updates IONIQ 6 is the first Hyundai model to have Over-The-Air (OTA) firmware update technology. OTA will allow the owner to improve their IONIQ 6’s performance or experience new features using wireless communication. The IONIQ 6 can improve overall vehicle performance and functions by itself by updating the firmware of the EV Control Unit (VCU), Integrated Electronic Brake (IEB) or Motor Driver Electronic Power Steering (MDPS). For example, an OTA could adjust acceleration characteristics by improving the response setting of the accelerator pedal, change the settings of the steering sensitivity or resolve a recall. OTA wireless updates also can be used for maps and multimedia software. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Function IONIQ 6 also provides an innovative V2L function, which allows customers to freely use or charge any electric devices, such as electric bicycles, scooters or camping equipment. It serves as a charger on wheels. This function can even be used to charge a stranded EV. It is ideal for powering necessities during a power outage, tailgate parties, camping or outdoor projects (1.9 kW peak power using a standard 120-volt outlet). The V2L function is enabled using an available accessory adaptor and goes into the outside charging port. In addition to the outside power outlet, there is a second outlet underneath the back row seat for charging laptops, phones and other devices on the Limited trim. Electric-Active Sound Design IONIQ 6 offers up a fun EV driving experience using a virtual propulsion sound called electric-Active Sound Design or e-ASD. e-ASD is a Hyundai first on the IONIQ 6 and uses an acoustic design processor to provide unique driving sounds inside the cabin and the ability to set the volume. Infotainment System IONIQ 6 introduces a new navigation function that generates connected routes that include EV charging stations when it is difficult to reach the destination on the current level of charge. If the charging station is out of order or in use, the system will automatically search for other EV charging stations and provide updates. Digital Key 2.0 Touch The 2023 IONIQ 6 supports the latest version of Hyundai Digital Key. Digital Key 2 Touch allows owners to leave their car key at home and use an iPhone, Apple Watch, or Samsung Galaxy smartphone to lock, unlock, and start their vehicle. After the car key has been added to Apple Wallet or Samsung Pass, users can simply hold the supported device near the door handle to lock or unlock the car. Touching an Apple Watch near or placing the phone in the wireless charger and then pressing the start button allows the driver to start the IONIQ 6. Apple Wallet or Samsung Pass also allow secure sharing of keys with family and friends. Source: Hyundai USA
 Virginia Governor, Glenn Younkin, spoke to a full room during breakfast on Friday, October 21st.  October 20th and 21st, the 2022 Virginia Clean Energy Summit (VCES) saw clean energy leaders from across the state connect in Richmond to discuss current clean energy policy, innovations, and strategies to reduce Virginia's carbon footprint and support Virginia businesses. The event this year highlighted the many different technologies that are creating opportunities for Virginia business while building a more reliable, responsive, and environmentally-friendly energy system. More than a dozen panel discussions and keynote presentations were held on topics that included solar power, energy efficiency, energy storage, electric vehicles, micro-grids, wind power, smart buildings, clean energy policy, and more. The goal of the VCES is to focus on the synergies among these technologies and businesses as well as the consumer, environmental, and business opportunities that are emerging from their deployment. Conference attendees included representatives from state and local governments, businesses, academia, and NGOs. “This annual event was excellent with a wide range of participants from Senator Kaine to Governor Youngkin to local officials all working on affordable reliable clean energy and innovation." Said Alleyn Harned, director of Virginia Clean Cities. “Virginia Clean Cities was glad to be there with the Virginia Department of Energy and several booths of electric vehicle charging information. And it was an honor that the conference had an EV emphasis on the 21st." Several electric vehicles were on display Friday for event attendees, including models from Chevy, Hyundai, VW, Tesla, and GEM.  A VW ID.4, provided by the Virginia Auto Dealers Association, was one of many electric vehicles on display. About VCES:The Virginia Clean Energy Summit is a Unique Collaboration of Prominent Renewable Energy Groups Across the Commonwealth. Co-Hosts include:
For more information about VCES: https://www.vacleanenergysummit.org/
  Arcimoto, makers of rightsized, outrageously fun, ultra-efficient electric vehicles, announced in an email, October 20th that they are opening up six new states for sales of the FUV: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, and Washington D.C.
Once ordered, deliveries are expected to arrive within 120 days. This Spark EV and I have been through a lot...   This Chevy Spark EV and I have been through what feels like hell and back. Purchased at the end of May 2019 used, this 2016 Spark was still early in its life and only had roughly 28,000 miles on the odometer. It was the perfect urban EV and used primarily for running errands, food delivery, and of course the occasional YouTube video. Even though it was rated with an 82 mile EPA range, that didn't stop me from taking several longer trips with it, the longest being a 550 mile road trip with my daughter, just to prove that it could be done.
For a couple of years, everything was great...almost. In early 2021, I started to notice that the range wasn't as good as it used to be. This is normal for most EVs, but I was noticing some significant loss. In fact, its usable battery capacity had dropped from 18.4 kWh to around 13 kWh. That being said, while driving more efficiently I could still hit the 82 mile range... but then I started to notice that it was having problems when the battery state of charge was very low. The problems started...Twice while still displaying mileage remaining (usually around 2 miles or so), the car would lose all propulsion power and would leave me on the side of the road waiting to be towed home (I was always less than a mile from home). However, because the diagnostic light wasn't illuminated, Chevy dealerships told me they wouldn't touch it. Frustrated, knowing there was a problem, I would continue to drive the car for a few months until one day the light came on and I was able to pull the diagnostic codes and verify that there was, in fact, an issue with the battery system.
P0A7F refers to the high voltage battery and indicates the ECU has determined the HV battery has deteriorated. I arranged to have a local dealership diagnose the problem, confirm my findings, and service the car as needed. After an exchange that lasted multiple weeks (I won't get into details, but I was VERY upset with the lack of professionalism), the dealership assigned the problem to the 12 volt battery (not the HV battery) and said that the 12 volt battery needed to be replaced. I had just done this a month before. Of course, it is possible that I had received a bad battery so I went ahead and, again, replaced the 12 volt battery. The dealership cleared the diagnostic codes and said that my problem was solved. I was very confident that my problem had in fact NOT been solved, but without an illuminated diagnostic light, I once again resolved to driving the car until it failed again. I did not have to wait long, just over 2,000 miles in fact. Dead. Like, DEAD dead.In April 2022, it finally happened. With 17 miles left on the range meter, I lost all power and pulled to the side of the road. This time was different. The car reset the range to showing 3 miles remaining, BUT also that the battery was nearly full. I knew that this time my problem was different. I had the car towed to the nearest charger, but it would not charge. So, I knew that I'd have to take it in to the dealership. This time however, I chose a different dealership (CMA's Colonial Chevrolet in Chester, VA), because their organization has said they want to be the leaders in EVs in Virginia. So of course, I gave them the challenge of figuring out what to do about my car.  The battery battle...I won't go into details in this post, but there was quite a fight with GM about what to do next. Initially, the company said that there were no high voltage battery packs available for the Spark EV, the part had been discontinued, and my only course of action was to go through a buy-back process. I wrote an extensive article about that here. After speaking with the company further, they committed to repairing the car (and other Spark EVs as well) and that I didn't have long to wait. I waited four months. During this time, the service staff at the dealership provided me with a loaner vehicle and stayed in constant contact with me, even if there was no update to the situation. I have to say that I have never had a more pleasant experience with any car dealership ever and I would recommend CMA's Colonial Chevy to anyone in the central Virginia area. After four months I finally got the phone call I was waiting for. My car was fixed and ready to be picked up! The funny thing though is that my battery pack hadn't been replaced. Just the battery cells, and one of the control modules. GM actually shipped all new battery cells to the dealership and the technician assembled the pack in his bay. This, as I'm told, is the first time this has been done with a Chevy Spark EV in North America. Here are a few photos of the pack when removed from the car: So what happened?While the technician who worked on my car couldn't say for sure, we think that one of the cells of the high voltage pack had gone bad and as a result caused the entire system to fail. Considering that the car wasn't even 8 years old and had less than 100,000 miles on it, all of the work was covered under warranty and I didn't have to pay for anything (except for the gas for the loaner vehicle). Since then...Everything is great. In fact, the car is doing better than it ever was when I had it before. I have checked my battery capacity and it is restored to like new condition of 18.4 kWhs. The car has been achieving 4.4 miles/kWh in efficiency even with my (very inefficient) aftermarket and wheel combo, and after 2,500 miles it doesn't seem to have any problem at all anymore. What does this mean for other Spark EVs?This is harder to say. I have exchanged emails with GM and asked a lot of questions... to which I get generic empty answers that don't share any information at all. This is not surprising. There have been reports of other Spark EV owners here in the US that are starting to get their vehicles serviced, but owners in Canada are reporting that they are only being offered a buy-back. The situation for Spark EVs with failed battery packs is hazy at best and I have been telling potential buyers of used Spark EVs to stay far away from the car if it is close to being out of warranty. In fact, I wouldn't recommend anyone own one out of warranty because of what I think is going on... Now, this is all speculation. I want to make sure that this part I'm about to say is very clear in that way. I have no proof and have gotten no information from GM that supports this theory... I think GM didn't have any battery packs for the Spark EV, as was what the company originally said to me. I don't think they have any battery packs now. I think they are getting the cells made on-demand as failed, under warranty, cars get brought into dealerships. I also think that this means that the company is likely waiting out the warranty period on the battery packs, and once there is no coverage, that Spark EV owners will (as I had written in my original article) be left out to dry. There will be no option except to find a different Spark EV, remove the pack, and frankenstein together a working pack... assuming you have the equipment to program all the modules AND assuming you assemble everything in the correct order (the tech told me about that part after he was on the phone with his GM support for quite a while trying to figure it out). While GMs parts system does show that the pack is available for backorder (if you're willing to pay the $30k for a new one or $18k for refurbished), I don't believe that they will actually be supplying these packs at all at that time. What will I do with my Spark EV when the battery dies again?Naturally, it's hard to predict what I'll do. Hopefully, this updated pack will last at least 4 years. But, eventually it will fail. At that point, I'd love to tear apart the car, replace the battery pack, and a few other parts and basically do an EV conversion (to a custom system) on the car... but who knows if that will ever happen. For now, I'm just going to be happy that I've made it through this experience, fought to get my car fixed (even though nobody should ever have to do that) and can drive on EV power yet again. And hopefully, this is the last time I'll have to write about this experience! 8/24/2022 The Electric Vehicle Fall Festival Returns to Dominion Raceway to Celebrate the Excitement of Electric VehiclesRead Now  Where Fast and Fun Meet...You’ve probably heard the chatter around electric vehicles. Good, bad, or otherwise…
everybody seems to be talking about them these days. It’s a new technology that promises to change the way we live and think about transportation. For the early adopters, EVs have been a way to save money, “go green”, and not worry about the hassle of constant vehicle maintenance. While those are great reasons to consider an electric vehicle, Zack Hurst with EV Resource says there’s a reason that most people overlook, and it’s the very reason he started the Electric Vehicle Fall Festival. “I’m a car guy at heart. I just want to go fast and have fun, and that’s why the Electric Vehicle Fall Festival exists.” Hurst said, “I can’t think of a better way to have fun in a car than driving around a racetrack.” Taking place September 18th from 10am-5pm, the EV owner supported Electric Vehicle Fall Festival returns to Dominion Raceway to give EV owners and non-owners alike the opportunity to have the most fun with these cars in a safe and legal environment. Members of the public who haven't made the shift to being an EV owner yet will experience a variety of different EV makes and models. These attendees will be able to take rides around the track in owner-provided vehicles, and speak with our many vendors and EV owners to get a more rounded understanding of EV ownership. The goal is simple, affect change in the mind and encourage EV adoption to those who haven't made the shift. EV owners who attend the EV Fall Fest will have a different experience. For these VIPs they will have the opportunity to enter their EV in a car show judged by members of the public, drive at speed around the DR 2-mile Road Course, and launch down the 1/8th mile drag strip. For EV owners, we want a day packed with the thrill and excitement of EV performance. EV owners will also be encouraged to sign up to be an EV Ambassador and share their experience of EV ownership with non-owner attendees. Attractions:
“If you’re curious about EVs, haven’t experienced an EV yet, or are a long-time owner, we’re going to have something for everyone.” Hurst continued, “What we want more than anything is for the people who attend to leave with a smile on their face that is hard to wipe off… and I’m pretty sure that’s exactly what’s going to happen.” General Admission for the event is just $15, with separate pricing for track activities. For tickets and more information go to ElectricVehicleFest.com   Keeping the lights on just got easier!When the lights go out, what do most people do? Probably suffer miserably, OR figure out some way to keep the power on. This naturally requires some sort of power backup; either a generator that burns diesel or propane, or a large battery pack. In the case of this video shared by the Technically Jeff YouTube channel, he is using a large battery pack... from his Kia EV6.
Granted, even if you have an EV sitting in the driveway that doesn't mean you can simply plug it into the house and keep the lights on. As Jeff explains, he was able to purchase a Nature's Generator Power Transfer Kit that will allow him to disconnect grid power (to prevent his Kia EV6 from powering the neighborhood or cause potential harm to line workers), and run household appliances off of the power from his car. Not every EV has bi-directional capability, as he explains, but vehicles on the E-GMP platform from Hyundai Motor Group, and a few others (ie. Ford Lighting, etc.) as well have built in capability to power other things... including your home! What do you think? Is this something that we will be seeing more of in the future? Solving the Apartment Charging Problem May Be Easier Than You Think  Charging an electric vehicle is easy for most owners. When you get home, you plug your EV in and walk away. The vehicle will charge overnight while you are sleeping and in the morning, you awake to a "full tank" to start your commute. Charging, with the exception of road trips, is almost an afterthought. Which, if you think about it, seems crazy and maybe too good to be true. For 75 million of Americans who live in an apartment or condo, however, the experience of filling up isn't nearly as thoughtless or easy. In fact, for many potential EV owners with these living arrangements, not being able to charge overnight is an obstacle to EV adoption with no obvious solution. Joseph Nagle, Project Manager and Strategist at Orange, is convinced that they have the solution for EV charging at multi-unit buildings. Why not DCFC?While DC Fast Charging may seem like an easy, already established solution to the problem for those who cannot charge overnight, there are a number of problems with this method. First, let's not forget that modern EV batteries prefer to be charged (and discharged) at a slow rate. Fast charging on a regular basis has been shown to cause excessive and sometimes premature degradation of the battery pack and should generally be avoided. Additionally, owners have to go out of their way to find chargers (which may not be near their work or home) and spend potentially as much as an hour of their time waiting for the car to charge, assuming they find a charger that is operational and not waiting on repairs. Not to mention that this method of charging is by far the most expensive option available to owners. Additionally, these stations are extremely expensive to install and maintain, so adopting this method of charging EVs is not something that will be as common as other options. DCFC is definitely not the ideal solution, even though it is one that works for some EV owners currently. However, as EV adoption increases at a much faster rate than the charging infrastructure is being built, waiting in lines at DCFC stations will become more commonplace. As a long-term solution, DCFC is out. Public Level 2 Stations?Public LVL 2 (slower) charging stations seem like the next best bet, right? Slower charging, lower cost, and much less expensive to install and maintain. While all of that is true, there are still problems that exist when installing a small number of these charging stations at multi-unit buildings. Generally, it comes down to charging equity. With a small number of chargers installed, a first-come-first-serve process takes place and while that may be acceptable for owners who are able to plug in, it doesn't solve the problem for everybody. It also doesn't provide the lowest cost to property owners or give them a reasonable return on their investment (if any return at all), which dampens motivation to install. The Solution:For the cost of a single DCFC, Orange can install around 100 of the Level 1 (110v) and/or Level 2 (240v) smart charging receptacles in a parking deck or lot. The Orange outlet (below) is tied into the Orange app and payment platform to allow anybody with the Orange App to scan the QR code and start a charging session. For EV owners, they would plug into the outlet using their mobile charger (included with most EVs) and charge overnight just like EV owners at single-family homes. Cost is determined by the property owner but Orange limits how much above the base electric rate a property owner can go so as to limit price gouging. This means that EV owners in apartments and condos can have a parking garage with hundreds of these "chargers" installed to choose from. And because it's all slower charging, it's practically free from regular maintenance and is extremely reliable. For property owners looking to provide an EV charging option for their tenants, Orange outlets are an option that will allow them to record data on electrical usage, set pricing so that they have a return on the investment, and attract EV owners to live at their property. With any luck, and millions of Orange outlets installed, the problem of EV charging at apartments and condos will be a thing of the past. EV owners in these multi-unit buildings will also be able to simply plug-in and walk away. It may seem crazy, but it isn't too good to be true. It's Orange. 8/12/2022 BREAKING NEWS: Arcimoto’s Mark Frohnmayer Transitions To New Role, Jesse Fittipaldi Named Interim CEORead NowIn a SEC filing on Thursday, Arcimoto announced that as of August 5th, 2022, Mark Frohnmayer would be departing from the role of CEO and instead transition from the role to a new position as Chief Vision Officer. Frohnmayer has been leading Arcimoto since the beginning in late 2007. Also on August 5th, Jesse Fittipaldi, formerly Arcimoto’s Chief Strategy Officer, was appointed as interim CEO. Mr. Fittipaldi jointed the company in May of 2015 as the company’s business development lead and had also taken time as the vice-president of the company. “It’s an honor to lead this amazing organization, and I believe Arcimoto has the team in place to effectively lead the way in the manufacturing of rightsized EVs,” said Fittipaldi in a press release by the company. “We endeavor to continue the vision set forth by our founder Mark Frohnmayer, who built Arcimoto from the ground up, starting with a napkin sketch and a dream to build the right tool for the job of daily driving. I will do my best to enable the entire team to fulfill its desire to make a difference in the world.” As Chief Vision Officer, Frohnmayer will turn his attention to long-term strategic initiatives and key technology development programs for the company. He will also continue in his role as Chairman of the Board. “The top-notch management team Arcimoto has assembled, including seasoned veterans we have cultivated within for many years, as well as the serious rockstar talent we’ve recently brought on board, has allowed me to focus directly on what I do best: articulating the long-term vision of the company through key partnerships and future product and technology initiatives,” said Frohnmayer. “I couldn’t be more thrilled that Jesse Fittipaldi, who has been helping me build the company hand-in-hand these last seven years, from a team of five to more than 300, is now stepping up to take on the daily leadership of Arcimoto’s plan to bring clean mobility solutions to the world.” Sources:
|
